MISSOULA — Here's a look at Western Montana's top news stories for Thursday.
A former Flathead County youth hockey coach was sentenced to 300 years in prison on Wednesday, after being found guilty of sexually assaulting three boys under the age of 12. Jami Leslie James, 48, will not be eligible for parole for 60 years. (Read the full story)
With a new zoning code in place, the City of Missoula is now turning its attention to updating its housing policies, focusing on five key strategies, including affordable housing funding and building more homes. The updated plan will head to the city council for final approval in the coming weeks. (Read the full story)
After 25 years as president, Jane Karas will officially retire from Flathead Valley Community College at the end of 2026. During her tenure, the college saw unprecedented growth while expanding classroom opportunities. A search for Karas' successor is expected to begin soon. (Read the full story)
Thursday and Friday, gusty winds from the northwest will keep scattered snow in the forecast, primarily in the mountains across Northwest Montana. Occasionally, some of these showers may make it down into the valleys. West-central and southwest Montana remain dry with mostly to partly sunny skies. (Read the full story)
The train rolls on for Montana Grizzly football. After a whirlwind few days at the start of February that saw head coach Bobby Hauck leave, then Bobby Kennedy take over, the dust is settling as Montana nears spring football and puts the final pieces together this offseason. Kennedy and offensive coordinator Brent Pease met with the media to provide a program update, while previewing the spring session. (Read the full story)
