🌱 Human Trafficking Concerns + SAR Underway For Missoula Woman

Hello, neighbors. I'm here right on time with your Saturday edition of the Missoula Patch newsletter, full of all the community information you need to know right now.

But first, today's weather:

Sunshine and patchy clouds. High: 81 Low: 45.

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Here are the top three stories today in Missoula:

1. Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen stated on a radio show that human trafficking is happening in Montana, referring to it as modern-day slavery and a multi-billion dollar industry in the US. He emphasized that it's not just happening in big cities or other states but is also a significant problem in Montana, particularly in Missoula. Additionally, Knudsen commented on the risk of a Chinese spy balloon that flew over Montana recently and expressed concern. (KGVO News Talk)
2. Missoula Representative Zooey Zephyr was banned from the Montana House floor for the remainder of the legislative session after a vote last week. However, she was seen working and voting on pieces of legislation from her laptop outside the House floor on Thursday. Although she is not allowed on the floor, Zephyr said she is determined to continue serving the people of Montana. (KULR 8 News)
3. The Missoula County Sheriff's Office and Search and Rescue have been searching for 18-year-old Joseph Thompson since Apr. 11, but have found no evidence suggesting foul play. Resources dedicated to the search have been reduced, but people are still asked to report any relevant information. Meanwhile, Search and Rescue is now assisting in the search for Nefataree Bartell, who went missing on Feb. 21, with the help of canine units in the Gold Creek area. (KGVO News Talk)

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Today in Missoula:

• Concealed Carry Class At Cabela's (10:00 AM)

This Weekend in Missoula:

• Sunday Brunch At The Brewery (10:00 AM)

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From my notebook:

• Missoula Children's Theatre is hiring tour actors and directors for a limited number of three-month contracts from June to August of this year, with the possibility of an extension. The position involves training and working with school-age children in different communities every week to develop life skills through participation in the performing arts. (Missoula Children's Theatre via Facebook)
• The Society of American Foresters and UM Woodsmen’s Team is hosting a Forestry Day this Saturday at the Montana Historic Equipment Area and the Garrett Grothen Memorial Arena in Missoula Valley. The event features a timber sports competition with various activities such as cross-cut sawing, wood chopping, pole climbing, axe throwing, and more. (Forestry Day)
• The Foundation for Missoula Public Library is preparing for a community-wide giving day to raise $5000 for children's literacy resources and programs at the local library. Any amount of donation and social media sharing will be helpful to achieve their goal. (Missoula Public Library via Facebook)

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You're all caught up for today. See you all after the weekend for another update!

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.