Good morning, Great Falls.

Students at Sunnyside Elementary School received new books today, thanks to community donations and a partnership with KRTV and the Scripps Howard Fund (supporting early literacy for young readers).

CDC data shows overall flu test positives declined from 32% to 25% nationally, but some areas such as Montana show rates as high as 40% (per official reports).

Health experts note that the new subclade K of influenza A may lower vaccine effectiveness and advise vaccination and frequent handwashing.

Realtors in Great Falls say rising interest rates and low inventory are making it hard for buyers and renters to secure homes in 2026—experts note that listings improved from pre-COVID lows yet affordability still poses challenges.

Realtors report that a scarce supply of homes and rising interest rates are making it harder for many Great Falls residents to afford housing.

Although available listings have grown from 16 to 183 a month, buyers and renters still face steep pressures in a recovering, pre-pandemic market.

Voters are invited to cast their vote for Tribune’s Prep Athlete of the Week contest running Jan.

13-16; nominees include Great Falls High swimmers Ella Kingsland and Seth Woldtvedt, and CMR’s Madelyn Bailey (swimming) and Miles Duda (basketball), with voting open until 11:59 p.m. Friday.

Armageddon Film Screening

7-10 p.m. — The Newberry — Tickets starting at $33 — Experience the iconic film Armageddon in a charming local venue.

Tina: The Tina Turner Musical

7:00-10:30 PM — Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts — Tickets from $185 — Experience the electrifying performance of TINA - The Tina Turner Musical in Great Falls, MT.