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| November 1998 Missoulians show support for UM When donations from this year's drive were tallied hours before the Nov. 9 victory celebration, leaders learned that they had met their goal of $315,000 and then some, and UM supporters are continuing to give. At last count, the total for the drive, which continues throughout the year, was $319,804. Of that total, almost $100,000 was donated by UM employees. Annual fund director Kathy Schaub said the local community always has supported UM when volunteer fund-raisers come calling in the fall. "When peers make calls for the University and say what UM has done for their businesses, it's a great motivator for others to step forward with a show of their support," Schaub said. UM's economic impact on Missoula hit an all-time high last year, giving an estimated $195 million boost to local businesses and service providers. Recent figures from UM's Bureau of Business and Economic Research show that the University and its employees, students and visitors spent $10 million more in 1997 than in the previous year, when an estimated $185 million was pumped into the local economy. The new total does not include several ongoing construction projects at UM. Steve Seninger, director of economic analysis for BBER, attributed the increase to growing enrollment and increased student spending, more fans traveling from outside Missoula County for Grizzly sporting events and substantial spending by UM faculty and staff at Missoula businesses. UM students, employees and visitors spent more than $31 million at grocery, clothing and department stores; $17.3 million to buy, fuel and maintain vehicles; and $14.3 million eating out and drinking at local restaurants and taverns. Also included in spending totals were $2.8 million for business and professional services; $6.3 million for medical, dental and vision services; $34.4 million on home mortgages and off-campus rent; $3.1 million at movie theaters, golf courses and other entertainment and recreation services; and $8.9 million for water, gas, electricity and telephone services. Through their Excellence Fund contributions, Missoula businesspeople provide student scholarships, faculty and staff development, and special programs at the University.
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