This Week’s Missoula News Highlights- Week of Feb.11th

By TOM DIDDEL

The Trial of Ex-Grizzly Quarterback Jordan Johnson Continues

The courtroom heard testimony from the woman accusing former University of Montana quarterback with rape. Jordan’s accuser was asked about several text messages surrounding the alleged crime and the firing of former Griz Football Head Coach Robin Pflugrad and former Athletic Director Jim O’Day. (read more)

Missoula School Board Finalizes Apostle’s Pay Raise Amidst Parent and Student Protest

Missoula’s school board heard from hundreds of upset residents at this week’s meeting. The board meeting was moved to Sentinel High School in order to accommodate the expectedly large turnout. Hundreds of Missoulians gathered at the meeting to let the board know their feelings concerning the Superintendant of Missoula County Public Schools Alex Apostle’s substantial pay increase. (read more)

Board of Regents Member Pat Williams Denounces UM Football Program For Recruiting “Thugs”

A petition is circulating to terminate or censure Board of Regents member Pat Williams for his comments concerning the legal troubles plaguing UM’s football program. Williams stated in a New York Times article that the program has recruited, “thug” to play at the school. (read more)

Emergency Alert System is Hacked, Warning Great Falls Residents of Zombie Attack

A cyber attack on the Emergency Alert System is being investigated after hackers sent a message of a zombie like attack through the system. Utah and California were also affected by the attack. (read more)

University of Montana Celebrates 120th Birthday

On Wednesday the University of Montana marked its 120th anniversary of the school’s founding. The institution honored the occasion with music, food and lessons by professors and students. Ten recipients were also recognized for their service to the campus and Missoula community. (read more)

Speed Limit is Reduced on Busy Missoula Roadway

In order to increase safety and reduce traffic accidents, Missoula has reduced the speed limit on a busy stretch of Brooks street. Drivers will have to slow down to 35 mph on the roadway from 39th Street to Dore Lane. The previous speed limit was 45 mph. (read more)

Griz Basketball Team’s Record Breaking Comes Ends After Loss to Weber State

The University of Montana’s impressive 28 game conference victory streak came to an end Thursday night when the team lost to rival Weber State’s team. The team came up short, losing to the Wildcats by a score of 87-63. (read more)

Each week, Tom Diddel recaps the week’s most talked-about stories in Missoula. Visit the Make it Missoula News & Opinion section for more talk of the town.

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Tom Diddel has lived in Missoula on and off for nearly thirty-eight years. He enjoys skiing, hiking, and many other outdoor activities. He holds a B.A. in English Literature from the University of Montana and is currently working as a Freelance Writer and a Para-Educator.