Good morning, Missoula.

At Rosaures on Wednesday, the KPAX crew volunteered for the Salvation Army Red Kettle campaign, ringing the bells to help offset a 9% drop in donations from last year—supporting programs scheduled through October next year as generous community members contributed.

Missoula Police officers volunteered at a local animal shelter on their monthly training day to help with kennel duties and boost holiday pet adoptions.

They cleaned kennels and fed the animals to help connect pets in need with new homes.

Drum Coffee will change its tune this winter when the South Avenue shop closes in January as founder John Wicks steps aside while longtime employees (Ben Gaude, Matilda Guille, Thomas Elsen) take over the Broadway location to keep the familiar vibe alive.

Montana musician Jim Kinsey used the Suno AI tool to craft a metal track for Griz playoff games that sparked mixed opinions (some praise its energy while others call it AI slop).

It was released today as fans gear up for Saturday's game against South Dakota.

State higher education officials changed Montana’s American Indian Tuition Waiver rules — starting next fall, blood quantum will no longer count while Montana residency, tribal enrollment or certification and financial need remain required.

Existing waiver recipients will keep their benefits.

Missoula announced plans to build two large solar projects that will reduce long-term electricity costs and help the city meet its municipal climate goals.

The renewable energy systems will be installed soon to boost sustainability for local residents.

Montana skies will host the peak of the Geminid meteor shower overnight on December 13 and 14, with the waning moon helping clear views; weather may improve statewide, and the 3I/Atlas comet (visible with binoculars) will be closest on December 19.

The inter-agency committee for grizzly bear recovery postponed its executive meeting and fall subcommittee sessions due to the government shutdown, delaying updates on bear mortality in recovery areas such as Bitterroot & NCDE.

Officials will share some details in a winter newsletter and schedule spring subcommittee sessions.

Montana State Hospital at Warm Springs is nearly finished remodeling after more than a year of safety renovations prompted by lost federal certification.

The hospital is expected to be ready for recertification (Dec. 22).

The 406 MT Sports panel predicts that Montana Grizzlies and Montana State Bobcats will earn quarterfinal spots this weekend.

Fans are invited to submit their score predictions (the panel focuses on local teams) as the playoffs approach.

Tommy Martino, University of Montana's Associate Director of Visual Media, has captured iconic Griz football images over a 13-year career that shape game day.

He manages a student photography internship — a program that gives local young journalists hands-on experience.

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!

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.