Good morning, Missoula.

Missoula’s first ever Big Game Days, hosted by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, runs this weekend — featuring archery, elk calling and volunteer projects at Lolo Creek and Bearmouth.

Volunteers will update fencing and clear invasive plants to support wildlife and public access.

The National Museum of Forest Service History had its grand opening Friday (the museum is a 27,000 sqft space dedicated to conservation history).

It is located down the road from the airport on Highway 10 and is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily excluding major holidays.

Cirque Italia will bring its Water Circus Metropolis to Southgate Mall from July 24 to 27, featuring acrobatic water displays (with surprising water dances) that promise a refreshing summer event.

Tickets are now available on the company website.

Winter Kissed Farm near Stevensville hosts a free party on Sunday that offers guided farm tours (live jazz, Indian cuisine, free beer, and family friendly games) and invites locals to join the fun.

Lolo Pass Visitor Center invites community members to create 10,000 handmade ornaments (sourced from Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest) during a Christmas in July celebration on Saturday, July 25.

Volunteers who miss the Saturday event can help with decoration until August 31.

The University of Montana earned an A+ from the National Council on Teacher Quality for evidence-based programs that prepare future teachers to build early reading skills.

The recognition comes as many fourth graders struggle to read, showing the need for strong classroom instruction.

Federal officials are proposing changes to oil and gas lease rules that would cut clean-up bonds & shorten the public input period from three months to 10 days for leases on federal lands in Montana and North Dakota.

Environmental groups say the proposals risk harming sensitive wildlife habitat, and the public can submit comments until Aug. 24.

UM scientists are studying a high-altitude mouse that lives in low-oxygen conditions to help develop improved cancer treatments.

The research may pave the way for new drug and chemotherapy methods to assist patients.

Hope Hospice Center in Missoula celebrated one year of providing care to 130+ patients with over 2,500 days of service while hosting regular community events; the center plans to expand its outreach through local partnerships.

Griz linebacker Peyton Wing was named preseason All-American by Stats Perform and stressed his focus on winning a championship despite playing under four defensive coordinators in four collegiate seasons.

He said he adapts quickly to new playbooks (a key to his success) and aims to lead his team to victory.

Out to Lunch

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Caras Park — Free entry — Enjoy live music by Big Sky Mudflaps, local food trucks, and family-friendly activities in downtown Missoula.

Golf Tournament

1-4 p.m. — University of Montana Golf Course — $200 per team — Participate in a 9 Hole Scramble with prizes and a silent auction to benefit local charities.

Downtown ToNight

5-9 p.m. — Caras Park — Free entry — Enjoy live music, food trucks, and children's activities during this vibrant summer market.