Good morning, Missoula.

Lee Enterprises acquired the Great Falls Tribune, adding it to its portfolio that already includes the Billings Gazette, Helena Independent Record, The Montana Standard and Ravalli Republic.

The move further expands the company’s investment in local journalism.

Montana Knife Co. reached No. 508 on the Inc. 5000 list after posting 680% growth over three years— the local manufacturer employs 130 people at its 51,000 sqft facility near the Wye and supports American-made quality.

The U.S. Air Force Concert Band and Singing Sergeants will perform free concerts in Montana from Oct.

14 through Oct. 25, with Missoula shows on Oct. 20 at Dennison Theatre and Oct. 22 at Big Sky High School (tickets required due to limited seating).

GasBuddy data show Montana gas prices dropped 1.4 cents to $4.56 per gallon today; Missoula stations report modest declines—prices remain higher than a month ago while national averages fell slightly.

University of Montana's FireCenter is set to conduct prescribed burns in the Lubrecht Experimental Forest off U.S. Highway 200 near Greenough through late October — a routine forest management activity.

Wildlife managers (Montana FWP) said bear conflicts in Red Lodge reached unprecedented levels with over 400 incidents reported in Region 5 as bears were euthanized and intentional feeding was suspected.

Officials held meetings to advise residents on secure trash storage and attractants while bears search for food ahead of winter.

NOAA updated its seasonal outlook maps that point to a historic El Niño likely bringing above-average temperatures and light snow in North Central Montana while southern mountains may see heavy snowfall later this winter.

The forecast is developing and NOAA will release its comprehensive Winter Outlook in mid-Oct.

A Missoula judge ruled on Sept.

22 that the state must cancel a permit for a gravel pit near Clearwater River and Elbow Lake after finding a lack of proper review and public participation. The ruling means no work can start at the site until legal challenges are resolved.

Missoula Public Health will host countywide vaccine clinics, and no one will be turned away because of an inability to pay, the agency said Monday.

The Montana Grizzlies football team clinched a 62-22 win against UC Davis Saturday in Davis, California with Eli Gillman breaking school records by rushing 275 yards and scoring four touchdowns while special teams recovered key plays.

Grizzlies running back Eli Gillman was named FCS offensive player of the week by Stats Perform — his first honor of this kind — marking a milestone for his team.