Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 18th of December.
Good morning, Missoula.
🎭 Culture
Holiday-decorated trees have returned to Blue Mountain, continuing a cherished local tradition that brightens Missoula for the festive season as residents look forward to the Western Montana Santa Flyover on Friday.
Missoula on Main returns with free and ticketed events featuring live music, dance showcases, and teen performances at multiple downtown venues.
The event will run on Dec. 30 and Dec. 31 (with a midnight ball at the Elks Club closing the celebration).
🌲 Environment
University of Montana researchers found 74% of residents are tolerant of wolves, though support for wolf-hunting and trapping is lower with only 36% supporting trapping, and urban residents show more tolerance than rural ones.
The surveys, conducted in 2012, 2017, and 2023, highlight shifts in wildlife attitudes.
Scientists reported that the Northwest finished *its warmest fall on record* with record-low snowpack and increased drought pressure.
Western Montana saw near-normal snowpack and awaits cooler, wetter systems to ease the drought.
Yesterday morning, high winds battered Missoula as a giant tree toppled on West Broadway, pinning a van while emergency crews removed debris and utility companies worked to restore power amid memories of the 2024 storm.
🏥 Health
More than 77,000 Montanans bought insurance on HealthCare.gov in 2025 with most getting help from enhanced premium tax credits.
Those credits will expire on Jan. 1 so many could pay more for coverage & lawmakers continue debating changes amid no agreement yet.
🏈 Sports
The Montana Grizzlies are entering a semifinal rematch after outscoring two Missouri Valley teams 102-51 in their first playoff games.
The upcoming contest will test their strong performance as they build momentum for the championship.
🎉 Missoula Events
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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.
🏠 Missoula Real Estate
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💼 Missoula Job Board
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📣 Missoula Announcements
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