Good morning, Missoula.

A community meeting at Kettlehouse Taproom on December 8 focused on opposing the proposed gravel pit near the Blackfoot River corridor as residents and experts voiced concerns about pollution and wildlife impact.

More than 3,000 people signed a petition while county commissioners placed a hold on the permit.

Jager is a 4-year-old social dog transferred from another shelter who looks for an active home at the Humane Society of Western Montana at 5930 Highway 93 South.

The shelter welcomes visitors 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm Wednesdays through Saturdays.

Missoula communities showed record holiday generosity this season with food drives and blood donations through events like the Guerrilla Turkey Drive and KYSSMas for Kids; free warm gear and Christmas trees are available at First Presbyterian Church on South 5th and 6th Streets.

Members of Adventure Cycling Association in Missoula say the board violated state law by voting to sell the group’s headquarters at 150 E.

Pine Street earlier this year. The board will announce vote results by Dec. 10 as members demand a chance to present alternative views.

Drum Coffee will shift its operations to the Broadway location and close its South Avenue shop in January 2026, as ownership transfers to longtime employees.

Co-owner Jenna Wicks said the change will keep the same coffee lineup (and community focus).

New WorldAtlas data shows Montana ranks 42nd with an average weekly grocery bill of $246.42.

Montanans say lower grocery costs do little to ease budget strains & many still face high overall living expenses.

Gov. Gianforte urged local residents to donate blood at American Red Cross drives as part of his ongoing 12 Days of Giving campaign, noting that every donation helps save lives.

Hannah Zuraff explained that donations usually dip during the holiday season, so the community is encouraged to give today.

Missoula was named one of America’s prettiest river towns by Love Exploring — praising its laid-back charm and abundant river activities.

The accolade highlights the city’s appeal for outdoor adventures such as rafting and fishing.

On Tuesday, Adventure Cycling Association held a member vote to sell its iconic headquarters (150 E.

Pine Street) after 94% of members supported the move. The board said it will sell the building and lease a smaller space for its few Missoula-based employees to address financial challenges.

Jim Bachand, who led Missoula Organization of Realtors since 2019, is set to resign by end January as he accepts the CEO role with the San Francisco Association of Realtors.

MOR’s Executive Committee is preparing a transition plan to maintain leadership continuity.

Missoula's Housing Impact Fund nears its $10M goal less than a year after launch, having helped build 89 affordable units and secure a 2-acre lot for the YWCA mixed-use project; the program offers low-interest loans to purchase land, build, or renovate local homes (supporting family housing for many).

Missoula Holiday MADE Fair

9 AM – 5 PM — Adams Center, University of Montana — Entry fee required — Celebrate local arts and crafts at this vibrant holiday fair.

Sip & Sketch: Create a Phenology Wheel

Phenology is the study of change in the natural world – when flowers bloom and go to seed, when birds migrate, when the snow falls, and so much more. Taking a few minutes each day to observe and record these changes can add up to something truly beautiful over time, and there’s no better time than just before the beginning of a new year!

Hellgate Venture Network Holiday Party

5-7 p.m. — Goodworks Ventures — Complimentary beverages — Celebrate the season with great company and festive treats.

Candlelight Concert: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons

8:30-9:29 p.m. — Missoula Children's Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience a magical candlelight concert featuring the music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons.