Good morning, Missoula.

A Missoula nonprofit is asking for donations to fund holiday outings for group home and foster kids.

Plans include trips to a local skating rink, trampoline park, ski area (and hot springs) to brighten their festive season.

Gas prices in Missoula dropped 10 cents per gallon in the last week, with most stations now charging around $2.83 as refinery maintenance wraps up ahead of Christmas; GasBuddy experts say the downward trend may continue into the holiday season.

Climate Smart Missoula celebrated 10 years of local climate action with its Smarty Pants Awards today, honoring four community members whose work ranges from tree planting to energy advising for cleaner air.

The event underscores local efforts and community collaboration in fighting climate change.

Riverside Contracting Inc. responded to Missoula County’s delay in granting a zoning permit for a proposed gravel pit on the Blackfoot River (the company said the decision is crucial for moving the project forward) and now awaits further review.

During a trial this fall, juror Nora Ockler suffered a heart attack and Missoula police detective Ethan Smith quickly performed CPR, saving her life.

Both now urge locals to learn CPR with Fire Department classes held on the first and third Wednesday of each month at Station Three on 39th Street (registration required).

Montana's rural hospitals operating at a loss may soon receive part of a $1 billion federal boost to help keep critical care available.

The funds will support services in small communities.

Montana and Montana State will meet for the first time ever in the playoffs this Saturday during the 125th edition of the Brawl of the Wild, with Montana holding a 75—44—5 edge overall while Montana State leads in Bozeman and the trophy series.

University of Montana Athletics shared a photo set of the Grizzlies' first two playoff wins, capturing record-breaking plays and fan energy as the team builds momentum in the playoffs.

The images highlight key moments that have boosted local pride.

Missoula Hellgate's Elliotte Banziger signed to play college tennis at Vassar starting in fall.

She will join the team + represent her school on the court.

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.

KPOP Demon Hunters Dance Party

9 p.m. — Monk's Bar — $5 — Get ready to dance and sing the night away with beats from Big Lou and DJ Pan Dulce.