Good morning, Missoula.

Famous Dave's on Reserve Street closed after nearly 20 years of service without fanfare.

The sudden shutdown follows Applebee's recent closure by the same franchise owners, marking a notable change in the local dining scene.

Downtown Missoula businesses will soon receive new financial help to manage disruptions from the SAM project — a major street construction effort.

Applications run from Sept. 1 to Nov. 1 for eligible shops and restaurants, with grants awarded in January.

Local vendors may sign up for a booth at the Missoula Wedding Fair 2027 with a $100 early bird discount offered from Sept.

1 to Oct. 1, 2026. The fair will run on Jan. 10 at the Hilton Garden Inn + Reserve Street, connecting wedding experts with engaged couples.

The Montana AI Summit at the University of Montana is underway today to explore how artificial intelligence is shaping daily life through discussions on data centers, cybersecurity, and education.

The free event continues Thursday with sessions that include hands-on workshops.

Governor Gianforte issued an order on Aug.

31 (to ease hay delivery) that suspends trucking rules so farmers and ranchers can move more hay during a drought, and the measure remains in effect (through Sept. 13) as they prepare for winter.

Mountain Line will apply for a federal grant to fund about $4 million in bus stop improvements that add seating, 50 shelters, 40 benches, and 148 SimmieSeats; Missoula County supported the plan Tuesday, and the board will review the project this fall — aiming to boost rider comfort.

Outdoor enthusiasts in Missoula are reminded to pack essential backup gear, including bear spray, headlamps, and water filter straws as hiking season gains momentum.

Richard Lapierre of The Trail Head in downtown Missoula stresses that carrying a satellite device will boost safety in remote areas.

Landon Ransom-Goelz performed strongly at fall camp, showing improvement after an injury that shortened his 2025 season.

The Montana Grizzly receiver, who redshirted 2024, is now turning heads with his tough work on the field.

Montana’s updated upland game bird forecasts following Senate Bill 514 give residents a 10-day head start over nonresidents and show mixed conditions across all seven regions—from below-normal numbers in the northwest to more favorable counts in the west and northeast—to help hunters plan the upcoming season.

Five former Montana Grizzlies were named to the 2027 Montana Pro Football Hall of Fame to honor their professional football careers.

The induction ceremony is set for June 26 at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort and features players with NFL + CFL experience.