406 Woman Business VOL.16 No2

Accidental Artist

Renee Martine

Written

At midlife, Renee Martine discovered a hidden talent and deep passion for creating artwork. Luckily for us, she’s perfecting her craft and sharing it with the world.

Ten years ago this May, Martine’s brother and sister-in-law were killed within a month of each other followed by their son two years later. The loses were tragic, all-consuming and left her reeling for years trying to find answers. On the 6-year anniversary of her brother’s death, she wanted … needed to do something different to deal with the pain.

She saw a “Sip-N-Paint” class offered and felt compelled to give it a try.

“Sip-N-Paint” has become popular in recent years and is literally how it sounds; you sip on your favorite drink while painting. The class follows the lead of an instructor, and everyone paints the same image with very different results.

Martine says, “I loved it, and I was doing two classes a week.”

She admits she wasn’t very good at the beginning, but it offered some muchneeded healing so she kept at it.

Taking a couple classes a week started to get expensive so Martine opted to branch out on her own, and try her hand at some different styles of painting. She invested in a folding table, paint, and some canvas. “Essentially turning my garage into a place to experiment with art,” she said.

She gravitated towards abstract images and decided to give Acrylic Pour Painting a try after seeing some videos on YouTube.

by Kristen Hamilton

Photos provided by Renee Martine

“I was really bad at first, but I stayed with it,” Martine said. “I couldn’t wait to create my next piece.”

New Beginnings, string and acrylic paint on canvas

Copper Sky, glue and acrylic paint on canvas

“I was really bad at first, but I stayed with it,” Martine said. “I couldn’t wait to create my next piece.”

In addition to enjoying the process, she realized she stopped thinking as often about the tragedy of the past. She started really living again.

As she continued to hone her pour painting technique, friends and family began requesting a piece of their own. Her pieces have made their way into local museums, people’s homes and businesses, and she’s even been commissioned to create pieces.

The process involves layering and mixing then she started to add glue to some of her abstract images which added depth to her pieces. The results are simply beautiful.

Martine went to high school in Kalispell then left the area for many years. She tripped around the country searching for a career then returned a few years ago. She explains, “I came back to Montana to start again and to be with my family that stayed after we all arrived in Kalispell in 1984.”

She’s missed Montana and is glad to be back home. She works full time for a local tile company in sales and is grateful to have a career in the valley. In her free time, to pursues her passion…her artwork.

I asked Martine if she had any advice to share with our readers.

“It’s ok to be afraid but my advice is to venture outside your bubble. Just do it. I did and have had success. Don’t give up---especially if you love it.”

She’s currently looking to find a local gallery to display her work, but in the meantime, you can visit her website at https://reneemartine.com/random-art-by-renee

From top to bottom: Sunflower Power, acrylic pour and other techniques on canvas - Rodgers Tree, glue and acrylic paint on canvas - The Angel, string and acrylic paint on canvas - Crescendo Tree, glue and acrylic paint on canvas

In addition to enjoying the process, she realized she stopped thinking as often about the tragedy of the past. She started really living again.

Just for the Halibut

Written by Mary Wallace

Let’s talk about halibut. This weird-looking but popular fish is shipped in fresh to Flathead Fish & Seafood Company daily between March to November (which are the only months halibut is available fresh). Most of the halibut range between 20 - 40 lbs and are skinned and cut off the frame and put in the Flathead Fish truck to be delivered in full sides to local area restaurants and select grocery stores. Retail halibut is cut into ½ to 1 lb portions and packaged for sale to retail customers in Flathead Fish & Seafood’s retail store. The store is open six days a week, but they close at 4 pm on Mondays, so we were lucky to score an afterhours tour and photo session on a recent Monday. There we met Tom Meade and Max Pugh and got to witness how to butcher and portion a halibut, fresh from the airport.

What makes Flathead Fish & Seafood unique is that, rather than having their products trucked in like other area stores, they fly their fresh fish in up to three or four times a day during the busy season. Much of their fresh fish comes in on Alaska Airlines from Washington, Oregon, and Alaska such as Pacific King Salmon, halibut, rockfish, and sockeye salmon. Their lobster tails, crab legs, shellfish, and scallops come from the east coast. They also carry fish & seafood products from all over the world - seabass from Turkey, Mahi from Costa Rica, and tuna from Hawaii. Flathead Fish staff prides themselves that most of their fish is wild-caught, although, their sushi-grade king salmon is farmed and shipped frozen from New Zealand since it is often consumed raw and must meet strict regulations.

Max and two other employees (Daniel & Josh) cut and package all the fish shipped in for the store and for wholesale delivery. Flathead Fish & Seafood Co. services wholesale customers throughout western Montana, from Eureka to Hamilton. They also provide their fish to retail locations in Whitefish including Third Street Market, Alpine Market, Markus Foods, the Westside Market, and the Chopp Shoppe; in Kalispell at Mountain Valley Foods and Withey Health Foods; as well as the Good Food Store in Missoula.

Owner Tom Meade purchased Flathead Fish six years ago. The previous owner had run the company from his home; he had a good company history and had recently added retail product sales to his wholesale business but he was ready to retire. Meade, who

had previously lived in Bozeman, had grown weary of the corporate world in Seattle and moved back to Montana, hoping to pursue a different lifestyle. When the opportunity to become the new owner came along, he was ready. He leased the new building suitable for a retail business, and since he didn’t know much about the business of seafood, soon discovered that he had a huge learning curve ahead.

He worked with the previous owner and strategically hired an existing employee, Max Pugh, to come aboard. The business had found its niche and the rest is history.

They move well over 1000 lbs of fresh fish weekly during the summer months. The wholesale volume helps them to keep their

Photos by ACE Photography & Design

Tom Meade and Max Pugh

retail prices affordable. Their retail volume has grown yearly since 2016, and they really like their location (centrally located and only seven miles from the airport). They are pleased with the size of their business now.

The retail store also carries some unique nonseafood products. There are local eggs from Colonial Sunrise Farms, Flathead Lake trout and whitefish, and local wagyu beef from the Lazy K Ranch. Shoppers can also pick up seasonings, Genesis Kitchen oils and vinegar, and their own popular house-made salmon dip, among other things.

Because seafood seems a little more expensive, some fledgling seafood cooks may be a little uncertain about how to cook or prepare fresh seafood. Meade and Pugh say they don’t often give much cooking advice, instead they send customers to Google (which admittedly DOES have a wealth of good cooking tips). However, if one asks about how to prepare a specific dish, they will share some tips - particularly on what NOT to do. Their favorites for their own dining pleasure are black cod (Max) and jumbo Boston scallops (Tom) - both of which they carry in-store.

Even though seafood may seem expensive, Tom recommends trying to buy the best cuts and freshest fish you can. A good deal may not end up being a good deal if the fish is not fresh. Seriously, the fresher the better - It is so worth it!

Besides the extraordinary culinary and dining experience, the health benefits of fish and seafood are great. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least two times per week as part of a healthy diet. Fish is filled with omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients that keep our hearts and brains healthy. Fish is also rich in vitamins such as D and B2 (riboflavin), as well as calcium and phosphorus, as well as a great source of minerals, such as iron, zinc, iodine, magnesium, and potassium. And it tastes SO good!

Customers can visit flatheadfishandseafood.com to sign up for their weekly Friday email listing their sales specials and then pre-order via email to flatheadfish10@gmail.com or calling (406) 892-3474. Better yet, visit the store at 3820 MT Hwy 40, Columbia Falls, Montana - across from the North Forty Resort. And don’t forget to pick up a container of the salmon dip!

They move well over 1000 lbs of fresh fish weekly during the summer months.

Living Life Her Way Bess Sopuchova

By Callie Reagan

Bess Sopuchova may be relatively new to the Flathead Valley; however, she is not new to what makes the people here and the communities we live in so great and an ideal place to raise a family. Hard work, love of the outdoors, and living in a community with similar values.

Bess is from a ranching community in Colorado where she spent her childhood working on job sites with her father who is a home builder. Bess took this experience and earned a degree in business and interior design and also obtained her realtor's license. Starting out during the pandemic might have been daunting for another, but Bess thrives in challenging herself. Prior to moving to the Flathead Valley, she sold over 300 homes in the Denver area in just 10 years.

You would think that this would take up all her time, but this young entrepreneur didn’t stop there. Bess wanted her sellers to get the best price for their investment and combining her talents and years of education with her father and school, she started her own home staging and remodeling business. Through this time she also had time to meet her now husband and realty partner with Kelly Right Real Estate, who happens to be from our great state of Montana. Knowing that they wanted to start a family out of the city life, they wanted to be specific about the life they wanted to give their family, they selected the Flathead Valley.

Bess and her husband Mike were married in September 2020. At this time, they noticed a trend and gap in wedding planning services. This is where they decided to embark on another entrepreneurial journey and developed their new business, Hitched Party. A wedding or pop-up party option for those looking for a unique and simple way to choose a

location with flexibility. Imagine being able to take your party anywhere and have everything included in one trailer that doubles as a serving bar. Your trailer can be pulled to a location of your choice with tables, chairs, a wedding arch, bar, and decorations. Planning services are also available with Hitched Party. Bess says that she loves to plan these events for people. They may cause sleepless nights, but she enjoys the challenge of getting everything perfect for this memorable day. For her, a wedding, there is no room for error, she says that this challenge is what makes life interesting. Bess told me, “I always want the couple to be the happiest on their wedding day. I don’t want there to be a memory of a mess up.” I asked about wedding trends that she is seeing in the valley, she said that brides are selecting beautiful pastels and wildflowers that are native to the valley being used. Less formal banquet-style food and more charcuterie boards and heavy hors d'oeuvres. Less traditional desserts like frosted custom cookies are being

chosen rather than traditional cakes. Bess says, “Weddings are a big deal, and we can make it beautiful, no matter the budget.”

As an event planner in my past life, I know that we typically have a favorite aspect of planning. It could be invitations, flowers, lighting, themes, etc. When I asked Bess, she said that she is currently obsessed with table arrangements. Large budgets aren’t always necessary to have a stunning table. It takes some imagination and creativity and sometimes an ability to deviate from tradition. She created a Viking theme table on Flathead Lake that she said was to date her favorite to design.

While talking with Bess I could see a trend for her. There is this desire to help others and help create positive experiences in big moments in life. I commented that if she could just deliver babies, she would be there for some of the biggest life moments for people, their weddings, and the purchase of their homes. It takes a special person to take on these milestone events for people.

Not only does Bess help others with the businesses that she creates but she also is an advocate for foster care. She spent much of her time in Colorado volunteering and advocating for programs benefiting children needing homes. Helping children to be raised in a safe and encouraging environment is extremely important for her.

Bess has goals for her family both current and future as well as her community. Creating a lifestyle that allows her freedom of working hours, location of work, and the ability for her to earn a living without a ceiling. Creating a life that is de pendent on her work ethic. She wants the freedom to travel and explore opportuni ties that interest her and allow her to help others and learn new skills. She wants to be able to explore her favorite things and enjoy the simple things of life that people often overlook. Mainly she wants to cre ate a holistic lifestyle that is within her control. Cooking out of a garden, enjoy ing nature through recreation, and being able to take part in helping friends and her community grow. We have a great addition to our community and a “Jill of all trades” with Bess Sopuchova. I can’t wait to see what more she will do in the years to come.

They may cause sleepless nights, but she enjoys the challenge of getting everything perfect for this memorable day.

G I v ING Back

To Those Who Have Given The Most Understanding va Home Loans

By Tony Reynolds of Mann Mortgage

As a United States Marine and 20-year home loan originator, I understand the unique challenges and aspirations that veterans face when it comes to securing VA (Veterans Affairs) home loans. This personal experience allows me to empathize with my clients on a deeper level, addressing their concerns and guiding them through the intricacies of the process with firsthand knowledge. This connection not only fosters trust but also allows me to tailor my assistance to their specific needs, ultimately ensuring a smoother and more supportive experience.

Mann Mortgage is proud supporter of our local Veterans organizations. We have donated dozens of laptop computers to our local Veteran’s Food Pantry for them to give out to those who have served our country. We donate proceeds from every VA loan we close to Camp Patriot

in Libby Montana. Camp Patriot is an organization that takes disabled veterans on outdoor adventures like fishing, rafting, ATV rides and a whole lot more. To date, Mann Mortgage has donated $101,835 to organizations that support our veterans. We think it is essential to give back to those who have given.

There are many advantages of VA Home Loans for military personnel. Becoming a homeowner is a cherished goal for many, signifying stability and personal growth. For active-duty military members, veterans, and certain members of the National Guard and Reserves, this dream is made attainable and rewarding through the exceptional benefits offered by VA home loans. These loans, tailored to honor and support military service, offer a host of advantages that distinguish them from traditional mortgage options.

No Down Payment Required

One of the most striking features of a VA home loan is the absence of a down payment requirement. Unlike conventional mortgages that often

demand a substantial upfront payment, VA loans allow eligible borrowers to finance up to 100% of the home's purchase price. This empowers them to conserve their savings for other crucial needs and makes homeownership a reality without the burden of a substantial down payment.

c ompetitive Interest Rates and No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)

VA home loans come with competitive interest rates, often more favorable than those attached to Conventional loans. VA loans also spare borrowers from Private Mortgage Insurance (a common additional cost for Conventional loans with a down payment of less than 20%). This translates to considerably lower monthly mortgage payments, the potential for significant long-term savings, and more manageable overall cost of homeownership.

Flexible c redit Requirements

While a strong credit score remains advantageous, VA loans offer flexibility when it comes to credit requirements. This is particularly advantageous for military personnel who may have faced financial challenges during their service. Lenders consider a broader spectrum of factors, such as payment history and overall financial stability, when evaluating loan applications.

VA home loans stand as a tribute to the commitment and sacrifice of military personnel, making the path to homeownership smoother and more attainable. Through advantages such as no down payment, competitive interest rates, and flexible credit requirements, these loans empower eligible individuals and families to fulfill their homeownership aspirations. By focusing on providing financial security and stability, the VA home loan program continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of those who have served their nation. Mann Mortgage is proud to be a top, local VA lender and look forward to continuing to give back to the various organizations that support our Veterans.

To date, Mann Mortgage has donated $101,835 to organizations that support our veterans. We think it is essential to give back to those who have given.

Q&A WitH Tony Reynolds Mann Mortgage

What’s one thing on your bucket list you have to do?

A hunting/fishing trip to Alaska followed by time in Fiji.

What’s your favorite way to spend a day off? Spending time with my wife and kids, hunting, fishing, or anything outdoors.

What are your hobbies and how did you get into them?

My hobbies include hunting, fishing, and boating. Growing up in Montana has made me enjoy anything outdoors.

What is the last thing you read?

A news article on the fires in Maui.

What is one thing that can instantly make your day better?

A good laugh with my family and friends.

What song instantly gets you on the dance floor?

If you know me, you know I don’t dance and there really isn’t a song that changes this. Every now and then my wife can get me to slow dance with her.

What is your prized possession and why?

I don’t really have any prized possessions; most things can be replaced. I put the most value on things with meaning like photos of my family and the memories we have created.

What is an essential part of your daily routine? Coffee!!! I must have my coffee every morning. Once I have had my coffee, I can tackle anything life wants to throw at me.

What would your perfect meal look like?

A good steak, asparagus, some potatoes, great company, and whisky!

Top 5 Ways ThaT Yoga Empowers Women

Written by Yoga Hive Montana

Yoga has proven to be a powerful practice that empowers people, including women, in various ways. Here are the top 5 ways women can be empowered through yoga:

1. Physical Strength and c onfidence:

Yoga involves a wide range of physical postures (asanas) that help improve strength, flexibility, and balance. As women develop physical strength and flexibility through regular yoga practice, they often experience an increase in body confidence and self-esteem.

2. Emotional Well-being:

Yoga emphasizes mindfulness, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques. These practices can help women manage stress, anxiety, and mood fluctuations, promoting emotional stability and a sense of inner calm. By connecting with their emotions and learning to manage them, women can feel more empowered and in control of their lives.

3. Self- a cceptance and Body Positivity:

Yoga encourages self-acceptance and body positivity by fostering a non-judgmental attitude towards

oneself. Through mindful movement and breath awareness, women can develop a healthier relationship with their bodies, appreciating their bodies for what they can do rather than how they look.

4. Empowerment through c ommunity:

Many women find a sense of community and support within yoga classes or groups. Sharing experiences and challenges with other women can create a supportive environment that fosters personal growth and empowerment. Women can also find inspiration from female yoga instructors and role models who have embraced yoga's empowering benefits.

5. Mind-Body c onnection and Self- a wareness:

Yoga encourages the cultivation of a strong mindbody connection. As women become more attuned to their bodies, sensations, and emotions, they can

make more informed decisions about their overall well-being. This self-awareness extends beyond the mat, helping women to prioritize their needs and make choices that align with their values.

It's important to note that the benefits of yoga are not limited to these five points and can vary based on individual experiences. Yoga is a versatile practice that can empower women in diverse ways, both physically and mentally. As women engage in regular yoga practice, they can tap into its transformative potential and experience a greater sense of empowerment and overall well-being. Find your yoga family at Yoga Hive Montana. What are you waiting for?

Discover your path to Wellness and Growth With Yoga Hive Montana This Fall

As the vibrant hues of autumn begin to paint the landscape, so does the promise of rejuvenation and self-discovery. This fall, Yoga Hive Montana presents an array of opportunities to embark on a journey towards holistic well-being and personal evolution. From transformative programs to invigorating challenges, the coming months hold the key to unlocking your inner potential.

Revive to Thrive: a 21-Day Transformation

Step into September with a commitment to your well-being through Yoga Hive Montana's upcoming "Revive to Thrive" program. Over 21 days, dive deep into topics ranging from meditation and mindfulness to nutritional health, exercise, and the art of yoga for both inner and outer balance. United by a shared purpose, participants will hold each other accountable, fostering a supportive community dedicated to growth.

30-Day c lass c hallenge: Elevate Your Practice

For those seeking to invigorate their yoga journey, mark September 15 on your calendar. Embark on a 30-day class challenge, where the goal is to complete 20 classes for a mere $69. This challenge promises to push your limits, strengthen your practice, and cultivate a stronger mind-body connection. It's an opportunity to redefine what's possible and experience the transformative power of consistency.

Yoga Teacher Training: Embrace Your Greatness

If your aspirations reach beyond the mat, now is the perfect moment to immerse yourself in Yoga Teacher Training. Delve into the yoga lifestyle, absorb timeless teachings, and find your place within a nurturing community. Whether you're drawn to the standard 5-month YTT or the immersive 2-week Intensive Montana YTT, the path to becoming a certified yoga teacher and realizing your own greatness awaits.

New c lasses, Fresh Possibilities

Yoga Hive Montana is proud to introduce a range of new classes and class times, ensuring that there's something for every body. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just starting your yoga journey, these offerings provide the space and guidance to explore and flourish.

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, let Yoga Hive Montana be your companion in embracing change, pursuing growth, and discovering the boundless potential that lies within. The fall season is more than just a transition; it's an opportunity to evolve and thrive in mind, body, and spirit.

Registration for these transformative experiences is now open at YogaHiveMontana.com

Photo by Amanda Wilson Photography

Q&A WitH Lauren cox, MD

Obstetrics & Gynecology

Physician - Logan Health

What brought you to the Flathead v alley?

During my third year of residency, I was supposed to go to Peru for a medical rotation. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on how you look at it), this was canceled due to another surge of COVID-19. I was allowed to travel within the U.S, so I reached out to prior mentors to see if they had any contacts in rural areas. Dr. Ollendorff, one of my peers at Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) in Asheville, North Carolina, had worked with Dr. Thomas deHoop in Ohio. Long story short, I got connected with Thom and worked out here with him. I fell in love with the partners, the practice, the patients, and the valley. I knew I wanted to come back here after finishing residency.

What’s your specialty of practice?

I am an obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) provider, specifically for women’s health. I help with pregnancy and delivery care as well as gynecologic care. For gynecologic care, I often help with heavy menstrual bleeding, endometriosis, pelvic pain, and many other conditions.

Tell us about your medical education and experience.

I am a first-generation college student and physician. My educational path had a lot of twists and turns, but I completed my undergraduate degree at University of North Carolina, Asheville, with a double major in Cellular and Molecular Biology and Spanish. During this time, I also got my CNA license and volunteered at Mount Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) hospital. As an undergrad, I was a part of the MAHEC Rural Scholar Program, a program that helped streamline students from undergrad into medical school and set them up in rural medicine opportunities. In 2014, I started medical school at UNC Chapel Hill, and during my time I did many rural rotations. I completed my degree in 2018 and then went to VCU for my OB/GYN residency through 2022. During residency, I was fortunate to travel to Kalispell, and that inspired me to work here after my training.

What is the best part of your job?

I love being able to be a part of our women’s lives, helping them during some of their most vulnerable periods. In the OB/GYN specialty, we get to provide such unique care - whether that is seeing them during pregnancy and helping empower them while they bring their child into this world or doing a hysterectomy to help alleviate the heavy menstrual bleeding that they have been dealing with for years.

What are some of your professional interests?

I have many! Some include international medicine, rural medicine, and minimally-invasive gynecologic surgery.

How do you like to spend your free time?

I love spending time with my loved ones and being active. Once I finished residency, I rode my bicycle all the way from Richmond, Virginia to Kalispell. I absolutely love adventure – meeting new people and seeing new places - and I love traveling both internationally and locally. Here in Montana, I enjoy hiking, trail running, backpacking, and camping.

HOW GENETIc TESTING Brought confidence amid cancer Risks

By Amanda Sheppard

Attending a genetic counseling appointment is not on the agenda of the average college student, but for Brooke Stewart, it was the most important item on her calendar. With a family history of breast cancer, she knew that her risk was higher than most, and that the key to the battle is to know what you’re facing.

Brooke’s mother Alycia was on her side. Alycia’s father tested positive for a BRCA1 mutation, and after Alycia battled breast cancer twice, she fully supported her daughter’s choice to get tested. Brooke herself was confident despite her fear. “It didn’t really scare me that much. My friends at school will say, ‘I don’t want to get tested - I don’t want to live in fear.’ But I tell them the opposite. I want to know, because then I can take action sooner than when it’s too late.”

When it comes to genetic testing and the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, there are plenty of misconceptions. Tiana Pallister, Licensed Certified Genetic Counselor, is always quick to address them. “Everyone has the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. They’re what we call tumor suppressors and, in a very simplistic sense, they help suppress uncontrolled cell growth and act as built-in defenders against cancer. If someone is born with a genetic mutation in one of those genes, causing it not to work correctly, their bodies are left with fewer defenses against cancer, and they have a genetic condition called Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer syndrome (HBOC). Both males and females with HBOC have an increased chance to develop cancer, and the condition can be passed on from both males and females.” Tiana also clearly outlines what risks are present, “HBOC significantly increases the chances of developing a variety of cancers; including breast cancer (in males and females), as well as ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer, and a slightly elevated risk of melanoma (which is a skin cancer).”

Though the risks of this condition are intimidating, information from a genetic test can provide the opportunity to take proactive measures, which can be life-saving. Even for those who already have a diagnosis or history of cancer, genetic testing can still impact their healthcare decisions, such as what treatments they may be eligible for.

Brooke first attended a pre-test session with a genetic counselor where she reviewed her family history and received a blood draw, and within two weeks she had her answer. She tested positive for a mutation in the BRCA1 gene, a result consistent with a diagnosis of HBOC. However, she wouldn’t face the risks alone.

During her debrief session, the genetic counselor connected Brooke to all kinds of resources and programs for preventive care. “Now that she’s been tested, they’ve set her up on everything,” Alycia explained, “She does genetic counseling. She meets with a nutritionist twice a year. They taught her how to do self-exams every couple of months. They set her up for success.”

Brooke reacted to the news with courage. “It was scary but knowing that I have so many resources made me a little less scared. Knowing that I have it and that I’m doing what I can to prevent it - that’s the best thing I can do.” She has already made some lifestyle choices that will benefit her, such as changing her campus housing so that she can have her own kitchen

in which to cook healthy meals. She has also committed to exercising and taking advantage of the offered screening measures, such as mammograms, in the years to come.

For those like Brooke who have an increased risk of developing cancer, it is also very important to be followed closely by a provider. Dr. Carrie Thompson, board certified Nurse Practitioner, runs a high-risk breast cancer screening and surveillance clinic at Logan Health. “The ultimate goal of this type of clinic is to prevent cancer or to detect it at an early stage,” she says, “In this clinic, patients undergo a breast exam every six months. During visits, we also spend time reviewing their physical symptoms and any other concerns they may have. We order and review breast imaging, and we also set up breast biopsies when needed. If appropriate, we offer some patients riskreducing medications.” Patients at the high-risk clinic receive lifelong access to streamlined and comprehensive care, since the clinic works closely with the Logan Health Breast Center and the breast radiology department.

With this high-level monitoring, patients like Brooke can choose which risk-reducing measures they are comfortable with. “Person-centered care,” Carrie says, “that’s what the surveillance is all about.”

As she decides her own preventive measures, Brooke now advocates for genetic screening and is taking opportunities to help the breast cancer community. Coincidentally, she has also come full circle to her family’s story. For a school project, she collaborated with the Kalispell initiative Save a Sister, an organization that Brooke’s grandmother Susan helped start during Alycia’s cancer journey. Save a Sister has helped launch and sustain the high-risk screening program at Logan Health, with a mission to improve women’s access to screening mammography. They also educate the community and promote breast cancer awareness and prevention through outreach activities across Montana. Brooke’s project involved creating a marketing communications plan for the program, and her ideas have helped Save a Sister find new ways to reach women about cancer screening measures.

From school projects to campus conversations, Brooke is now sharing her story to help others find strength. After facing her fears, she encourages others to do the same: “Be brave and go get tested!”

“It was scary but knowing that I have so many resources made me a little less scared. k nowing that I have it and that I’m doing what I can to prevent it - that’s the best thing I can do.”

Tom Ficca and Janie Frazar

Beth Tkachyk and Anne Ericsson

Sometimes the vagina bulges outside its entrance so that a woman may feel a lot of pelvic pressure, even back pain. It may feel like she “has something between her legs.”

When the bladder presses into the vagina, the urethral tube that transports urine to the outside of the body may be kinked making it difficult to completely empty the bladder. When the bladder remains enlarged from the pressure of urinary retention over time, it can weaken and cause leakage. The woman may feel the need to urinate often with only a little urinary output.

Likewise, when the rectum protrudes into the vagina, a woman may experience constipation, rectal pressure and fecal urge, like she has to have a bowel movement. Chronic straining as with constipation or heavy lifting may worsen the prolapse, lead to hemorrhoids or painful anal fissures, which are splits in the skin from passing hard large stool. Avoiding chronic constipation to reduce the risk of prolapse can be accomplished by keeping stools soft and regular through regular exercise, routine intake of fiber and water, and the use of stool softeners.

How To Make Your Outie an Innie What is a Pessary?

Written by Shawn Shanahan, APRN-WHNP, Kalispell OB-GYN

I am often asked, “Why didn’t anyone ever tell me about pessaries?” One patient remarked, “They really are a game changer.” A pessary is typically a silicone rubber reusable device that is worn in the vagina. They come in many styles, shapes and sizes because women come in many styles, shapes and sizes. Pessaries are used to relieve symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse. Pelvic organ prolapse involves a loss of the support that holds the bladder, rectum, uterus and/or bowels in their proper anatomical spaces. Prolapse commonly occurs due to trauma to the pelvis from childbirth, a lifetime of heavy lifting or straining, or hard impact activities like weightlifting, gymnastics or sky diving. Pelvic surgery can also weaken the pelvic support.

The pessary pushes the vaginal walls back and can be helpful when these other organs, mentioned above, “fall” into the vagina. With a pessary in place the wearer should be able to urinate and pass stool more normally and should not feel the pessary, like wearing a tampon. A specially trained pelvic floor physical therapist may help women with pelvic organ prolapse improve bowel and bladder function and reduce discomfort from the bulging organs. Targeted exercises including Kegels and others can strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor allowing for more successful pessary use. Thus, physical therapy is often prescribed in conjunction with a pessary.

Having a pessary fitting is a lot like trying on shoes or clothing, though perhaps not as fun. It may take several fittings to get just the right one. Pessaries should not be worn during intercourse, so a sexually active woman would want a pessary she can insert, remove and care for on her own. If worn over 3 months continuously, the vagina should be inspected for possible abrasions from the pessary moving as the wearer moves throughout the day. Vaginal estrogen can decrease the risk of abrasions. This is typically a prescribed cream or suppository that is inserted into the vagina a couple of times a week to restore the elasticity and resilience of the vaginal walls and external genitalia to their

premenopausal state. If a pessary does not stay in its proper place, the wearer should have another fitting. An increase in vaginal discharge may occur with pessary use. Possible odor can be managed by simply washing the pessary with soap and water and soaking it in vinegar for 5 minutes periodically, or a vaginal gel can be prescribed to help. While odor and discharge are possible side effects of pessary use, these symptoms should be evaluated by a care provider to ensure there is no infection.

In conclusion, prolapse is extremely common. You do not have to suffer in silence. If you want your outie to be an innie again, please call us, Kalispell OB/GYN, at 406–752–5252 for a pelvic assessment. During your visit, you will be asked to describe any problems with urination or bowel movements as well as any pelvic pain, back pain or pressure including bulging in the genital area. You will then have a pelvic exam to determine whether the vaginal walls are falling inward from pressure from the bladder, rectum, intestines or uterus. All treatment options would be discussed, primarily pelvic floor therapy, pessaries or surgery and any combination of other treatments to help these work better, such as vaginal estrogen. If a pessary is an option that may work for you based on pelvic support and lifestyle, a pessary fitting would be scheduled. There is no age limit to prolapse or prolapse care. Kegels and other exercises can help to prevent prolapse as can learning to lift without stressing the pelvic floor. Talk to your provider about referring you to a physical therapist for specialized pelvic floor preventative care. Lastly, pessaries are generally covered well by insurances including Medicare and Medicaid. So, what is stopping you from starting the conversation?

APRN-WHNP-BC, RDMS, WHE, CGCP, NCMP

Shawn Shanahan, APRN-WHNP-BC joined Kalispell OB/GYN in March 2021, moving to Montana in 1986 to raise her two sons and to enjoy the great outdoors with her spouse. She earned her nursing degree from the University of Utah in 1986. She became a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner through Harbor-UCLA in 1987 and earned her Master of Science in Nursing through the University of Nevada – Reno in 1993.

Shawn received the Award for Innovations in Health while at the University of Utah and served many years in various board roles of professional organizations such as the Montana Nurses Association and the Montana Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Association and as a Montana State Family Planning Medical Advisory Committee member. She taught nursing at Northern Nevada Community College and Salish Kootenai College.

Shawn has 10 years of public health experience in addition to over 25 years of private practice. She is also a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS), certified Wholistic Health Educator (WHE), a Certified Geriatric Care Professional (CGCP) and North American Menopause Society Certified Menopause Practitioner (NCMP). Shawn enjoys providing a wide range of women’s care including contraception, fertility care, menopause management, prenatal and postnatal care, sexually transmitted disease management, bladder care, cancer screening, and management of sexual concerns.

Shawn seeks to empower patients and their families through education to pursue informed choices that promote well-being.

Shawn Shanahan

118 Years of Service

The Old Steel Bridge

By Eleanore Eberts

East of Kalispell resides “the New Old Steel Bridge” and a beautiful picnic area. Those that have lived here for a while know that this name comes from the iconic “Old Steel Bridge” that was replaced in 2008. The Old Steel Bridge was the first steel bridge to span the main fork of the Flathead River in 1894. Before the bridge several ferries were in operation to take goods and people from the east side of the valley to the west and vice versa. A wooden bridge existed in Columbia Falls prior to this but was known for washing out in high water and being rickety.

Much thought and planning went into securing the money for the steel bridge east of Kalispell and it was not without a little community drama. Other towns and communities were vying for this funding from Libby to Bigfork. Ultimately it was decided that $10,000 would be set aside for the bridge east of Kalispell by the county and an additional $7,000 would need to be raised. To put this amount in perspective, $17,000 in 1894 is nearly $580,000 today.

At this point there was much talk about whether the bridge should be steel or wood and who would

get the contract. From local newspapers it appears most people were in favor of steel since the wooden Columbia Falls bridge was such a problem and unreliable. It was imperative that the bridge be able to withstand high water in the spring. Hungry Horse Dam was not in place until 1953 and the water in the spring could be even more unreliable high and fast at times than it is now.

The first team of horses crossed over the newly completed bridge on October 13th, 1894, just a few months after work started. It was quickly hailed as a major success with wagon after wagon using the bridge to bring their fall grain harvest to town. Kalispell was touted as being “too progressive” for an old ferry and the old boat was retired and tied up. This new bridge provided the valley with increased trade and a much safer and expedient way to cross the river. Improvements and small additions were made during the winter to keep snow on the bridge for sleigh travel as snow melted in the spring. Just one of the many things that we don’t worry about with modern vehicles!

Just a few years after the valley was singing its praises to the new bridge there became an apparent problem. In the high water of 1899, a whirlpool developed near the easternmost pillar, making it possible that the bridge would need repairs and even an extension. In the fall, after high water, the

engineer who built the bridge came from Minnesota to inspect and give recommendations on mitigation work.

Local crews waited until the water went down to its lowest levels in December and January. They worked what must have been cold and long hours to replace the footing and adjust the channel of the Flathead River to flow straight beneath the bridge. They accomplished this by damming up the bank of the river to the northwest.

This dam failed in the next spring leading to further worries about the river creating a channel just to the west of the Steel Bridge leaving the bridge useless over dry ground. This brought about debate in the community. Work to dam the new channel was expensive and some people even went as far as to suggest that the bridge be abandoned in the coming years.

Even amid the concerns, moving hundreds of tons of rock, and levee building in the years 1900 to 1903, people still flocked to the bridge as a community hub for picnics and fishing. One newspaper article even cited that winter picnics (in February) were a glorious way to spend an afternoon. There was even a saloon on the east side in 1907 but it was shut down in 1908 for being rowdy and a nuisance.

for the Northwest Montana History Museum, the fifth generation in her family to live East of Kalispell

Above photos from left to right: Old Steel Bridge, from the Thain White Collection at the NWMT History Museum. - A photograph of Nell McCarthy and friend driving across the Old Steel Bridge circa 1910. Photo from the NWMT History Museum Archives. Photos on opposite page: The Old Steel Bridge as it appeared circa 1910. Likely taken by the McCarthy Family. From the NWMT History Museum Archives. - Crossing the Old Steel Bridge in the 1890s. From the NWMT History Museum Archives.

Anyone who grew up in the valley can probably remember the wooden planks on the Old Steel Bridge before they were replaced with extremely loud metal planks a handful of years before they were replaced. Back in 1906 the bridge was primarily used for pedestrian and horse traffic so when large machines, tractors and such, were driven across the bridge a second set of heavy-duty boards would be brought out to help bear the weight. A local farmer attempted the bridge without the additional boards and fell through the east side prompting the closure of the bridge for an entire day as repairs were hastily made.

The Old Steel Bridge (as it was referred to after about 1930) stood for 118 years until it was replaced in 2008, giving transportation across the Flathead River through hard winters, hot summers, and even floods. It is hard to imagine that just six years after the bridge was built there was talk of abandoning it rather than straightening the river channel. So, if you’ve ever wondered why that bridge east of Kalispell is called “The New Old Steel Bridge” you’ll know that it was because the previous bridge withstood the test of time and shall not be forgotten by locals. If you are interested in more stories about the valley landmarks or pioneering, please visit the NWMT History Museum in Kalispell, you never know what you’ll find.

Eleanore Eberts, Co-Administrator at Northwest Montana History Museum and avid packer, and her mare June Bug, in the Bob Marshall Wilderness.

Work to dam the new channel was expensive and some people even went as far as to suggest that the bridge be abandoned in the coming years.

Older, Happier, Healthier

By Dr. John F. Miller DDS - SMILE MONTANA

Can I tell you all a little dental industry secret? And I hope this isn’t a weird way to start this article but the month of September within the Dental industry is called “Sucktember.” Every dentist is familiar with this nickname. And for all the reasons you, the reader, can think of why it’s called this, it’s the least fun one. In short, the dental industry experiences the most cancellations and no-shows in the month of September. Our best theory as to why this happens is due to just how busy it can get as we transition from summer to fall with all the school and sports, etc.

I get emails in July with headings like: “5 steps you can take now to prevent ‘Sucktember.’” In my mind I’m like, “hell, summer was really busy and I could use a little slowdown.” Then I fall right in line and cancel all of my appointments too. Just kidding, I’m not cool enough to have appointments. Now in all honesty I haven’t had a “sucky” month that I can remember in the 12+ years I’ve been dentisting here in Montana. It has gone far better than I could have imagined back in my U-Haul headed up from San Francisco a mere 2 hours post graduation.

But it is indeed September and that means the kids are back in school. I happen to have a Senior in High School (shout out to Nayvee Lee, I love you Bean) and I find myself getting pretty sad thinking about it. By June I’ll be a blubbering mess on my drives to and from work. When you have a senior in high school in a small one elementary, one middle school, one high school town you can easily blow the minds of their past teachers. I ran into her kindergarten teacher recently and they can never believe it when one of their precious kindergartners has aged into a senior. I think the default response is, “Shut Up!! No She Isn’t!?!”

That also means that we are all 12 years older. I started dental school at 27 years of age and I had a little conversation with one of my instructors. I was a little older than most of the students in my class, and in addition to being married with two kids and I think I gave off the impression that I was impatient to get this career thing going. I remember he said, “you’re going to get out of here and your thirties are going to be hard. You need to work really hard to build your skills as a dentist, to build your business, to pay down your astronomical student debt load, to grow your family, to buy a house, etc.”

He continued, “but, if you work really hard to do all of those things, you’re going to really enjoy your forties and beyond.” This advice didn’t excite me. I already thought I had worked really hard to get to where I was at the time. Now I had to complete 3 more years of intense schooling followed by another decade of hard

work? I thought I deserved my comeuppance much sooner than the timeline he just laid out for me. I think about that conversation a lot and am really grateful for what he told me. It made me manage my expectations for how this career as a dentist was going to play out. It made me mentally prepared to push that checkered flag farther down the road. It made me focus and put in the work to lay the foundation that Smile Montana is built on today. He was right, my thirties were hard. I put in long hours and put on weight, but built a team around me that I consider to be my best friends in Montana.

Three years ago, I opened up our 3rd Smile Montana location in Whitefish at 39 years of age and probably 235 pounds. I knew that I had reached the limits of my capacity as the sole owner of Smile Montana and patriarch of my family. I then turned my focus to regaining a work-life balance that would ensure that I loved practicing dentistry for decades to come while being a present father and husband.

This meant getting really good help around me. I truly mean it when I say that when I bring on another doctor, I look for someone better than me or with the potential to be better than me. If a patient prefers another provider over myself that counts as a success in my books.

health} s M ile

I’m forty-two now and just like my instructor said, I’m really enjoying life. I’m healthier, happier, I love coming to work and love going home, I love the cutting-edge technology that I’ve invested in that makes fixing teeth easy, predictable, and fun, and my hair is much longer just for the hell of it, and I’m 30 pounds lighter. I was asked recently how I find time for a social life? I responded, I work with all of my favorite people and when I get home I find myself with my favoriter (it’s a word) people. Life IS social.

Alright let’s talk teeth and keeping them forever. I have patients who I know are going to keep their teeth FOREVER, and I have the flipside where I’m bailing water out of the titanic…It’s going down baby. Let’s talk about the top reasons humans lose teeth so you can avoid them.

1. Erosion

a. Erosion simply put is the break down of tooth structure, namely enamel and dentin, by acid. This acid is most commonly associated with diet and oral hygiene habits. Really good habits such as brushing and flossing the recommended amount and the recommended way can somewhat buffer against a poor diet high in sugar. Conversely, a really good diet will buffer somewhat against poor oral hygiene. Key word being “somewhat.” FOREVER teethers do both things well. Erosion is also seen in patients with acid reflux and/or GERD and can be diagnosed by the location of the erosion.

a. A parafunctional habit (PH) is any habit that causes tooth loss with or without the presence of erosive acid.

b . Attrition is likely the most common PH and is defined as the loss of enamel and dentin by tooth-on-tooth contact. Also known as grinding and clenching of teeth. This occurs most frequently during sleep and a professionally fabricated nightguard is the best prevention for attrition.

c. Abrasion is the loss of tooth structure caused by something other than teeth. Brushing to hard or with poor technique is a common example. Another type of abrasion is using teeth for tools such as ripping tape or fishing line.

3. Trauma

a. Just as it sounds. Traumatic tooth loss can result in broken teeth or the complete loss of a tooth root and all. It typically occurs during a car accident, a fist fight, or a high impact sport such as hockey or mountain biking. We also see it frequently with pets and toddlers that head butt their owners and parents. If you are involved in a high-risk activity known for dental trauma, please consider wearing a professionally made sports guard.

4. Periodontitis

a. This is a big fancy word for bone loss around teeth and is also known as gum disease. In short if food debris isn’t removed often and effectively it will become plaque that will calcify into what we call calculus. This calculus causes the tooth root below the gums to have a rough surface texture which in turn causes an inflammatory response in the surrounding gum tissue and supporting bone. Left untreated this inflamed environment will cause gums to bleed very easily and the bone to slowly recede from the teeth.

I want all of you to keep your teeth forever so let’s sum it all up. Have a balanced diet and brush and floss often with good technique. If you grind your teeth consider a nightguard. Be a good driver and avoid getting punched in the face. See your hygienist and dentist every six month at minimum and please KEEP SMILING!! This isn’t going to be Sucktember, it’s going to be KickAsstember followed by KickAsstober and so forth and so on year after year.

Happy to call myself a Montanan and to call y’all my friends and neighbors.

2. Parafunctional Habits

Meredith patterson

The valley shines a little brighter now that Meredith Patterson has made it her home. The cover shot features Patterson and her latest venture The Second Story Band. Read Rachel Seymour's story on page 16 featuring Patterson in this issue.

photo by aMBer siderius

@a.sideriusMtphotography makeup : MarceLa cLoud @cLoud_MarceLa

hair : BaiLey o’dey @BaiLeyodey

Cover Girls...

Bess sopuchov

Bess Sopuchov is living life her way and happy to be part of the Flathead Valley and its community. Read Callie Regan's story about her on page 18 in the business & health side.

photo by Lindsey Buettner creative @LindseyBuettnercreative

Publisher's

Note

As the leaves change color and the air gets crisp, we invite the arrival of fall with open arms.

This issue of 406 Woman is full of inspiration to help you make the most of the season. We hope that you discover something that ignites your interest and allows you to fully savor this beautiful time of year.

So, curl up with a cup of coffee and enjoy the pages of this issue.

With Gratitude, Cindy & Amanda

" autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower."

-Albert Camus

Editor’s Letter

publisher cindy gerrity cindy@montanasky.net

business manager daley Mcdaniel daley@montanasky.net

managing editor

kristen hamilton montanakristen@gmail.com

creative & social media director

Amanda Wilson afwphotography@me.com

design

sara Joy Pinnell sara@mrsandmrpublishing.com

photographers

daley Mcdaniel Photography

Amanda Wilson Photography

Marianne Wiest Photography

Ace Photography

Published by Skirts Publishing six times a year

704 C East 13th St. #138 Whitefish, MT 59937 info@406woman.com

Copyright©2023 Skirts Publishing

Want to know about great events, open houses, and more? Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/406 Woman

406 Woman is distributed in Bigfork, Columbia Falls, Kalispell, Missoula, Whitefish and every point in between. Check out www.406woman.com for our full distribution list. Have a great story idea or know someone that we should feature? Email us with your comments & suggestions.

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As a kid, I remember being excited about this time of year and heading back to school. I got to wear some new clothes, use my new school supplies, and see my friends again. Oh … and take classes and learn!

Throughout the years, I have continued to take classes for work (accounting), fun (cross-country skiing), and learning a new skill (soap-making). Sometimes it’s a chore but I always feel like I’ve accomplished something.

With that in mind, I am heading back to school again this fall. I’m inspired for a couple reasons. My granddaughter, Mia, is starting kindergarten at Muldown in Whitefish. My French daughter-in-law, Juliane (Mia’s maman) is opening La Petite French Academy where she will teach French lessons for kids of all ages every Saturday throughout the school year. She’s been teaching French online for years and opening the academy fulfills a long-term goal of hers and offers a great benefit to the community.

What class will I be taking? French of course! It can only help me connect more with my grandchildren … all three with a fourth on the way that are dual citizens (U.S. and French). Thanks to her mom, Mia at 5-years-old is already bi-lingual and her sister and cousin won’t be far behind. Parlez-vous français?

Have a wonderful fall, Kristen

What did i learn this issue?

VA home loans are available to those that have given so much to our country and offer some attractive benefits to help make home ownership a reality. Learn more and read Tony Reynolds, loan originator at Mann Mortgage, story on page 20 in our business and health section.

view current and past issues of 406 Woman at

www.406 w oman.com

Yogo sapphires are only mined in one place, and they are 10 times more valuable than Montana sapphires. We’re pleased to introduce Debbie Burke, local author and new contributor to 406 Woman magazine. Read her story about Yogo sapphires and her new book on page 22.

“Never stop learning; for when we stop learning, we stop growing.”

– Loyal ‘Jack’ Lewman

Mia and Grandma on a mini golf outing before school starts for both of them.

A Bright Shining Star Meredith Patterson

By rachel SeyMour

A town can only be as good as the community it creates. In its familiarity, people inevitably move about each other and become intertwined as an intricate and lovely tapestry of the area, as long as there are those to continue to reach out to one another and uphold its fabric. This is what Meredith Patterson believes. And it’s one of the things she loves the most about The Flathead. “It’s like what I had when I was child, or when I was a part of theater. I can be in Safeway buying groceries and someone can come up to me and say, ‘How are you’ or ‘I loved your show!” She also believes the best way she can uphold this tapestry is by being a performer.

She and I are sitting at a closing Coffee Traders, and it’s the middle of a rare August downpour. She has a cup of tea in hand, and I’m nervously fidgeting with my recording phone. You wouldn't expect a former Broadway Star to look so at home sitting amongst the rest of the coffee goers. In fact, the ease of her blending made you wonder about what other stories the regular people around you held. But there’s a solid hum about her, a magnetic energy she seems to radiate. I guess this comes from decades of performing in front of thousands of people.

Listening to Meredith’s childhood, it almost sounds like becoming an artist was her destiny. Meredith grew up in Pleasant Hill, California, amidst a family of artists. Her father, a jazz drummer, sister and brother drummers and her mother wanted to be a dancer. Her grandmother was an impressionist painter. Her first brush with dancing began when she was two and a half with tap dancing. Her mom would take her to the dance studio where her older siblings were learning. She would watch carefully, making sure she knew every move, before working on them when she was home. After her mother pleaded with the instructor to let her join, she quickly excelled, since she had already learned the tap dance moves from watching.

Left: Cover of Memoir Confessions Of An Actress “From Chorus Girl to Broadway Star” – Photo by @Brayley Photography -Above: Cover of Memoir Confessions Of An Actress “Sunday Letters From Moscow” – Photo by @Brayley Photography

Photo by Stephanie Girard Photography

Her love for the arts only grew from there on out; ballet came next, then hip hop. But tap was her great love, more than anything. Soon at 13, she was introduced to musical theater. “Growing up I would watch all the old MGM movies like singing in the rain, or Fred and Ginger and fell in love with it. I was always told I was very vintage, and I always felt like I was born in the wrong era.”

At 13 she decided, from there on out, she would go to Broadway. And go she did. By age 18, she was flying across the country on a scholarship to New York City to attend The American Musical and Dramatic Academy, now known as AMDA College & Conservatory for The Arts. She graduated and immediately started working. Before she knew it she was starring as Peggy Sawyer in the Tony Award winning revival of the Broadway musical 42nd Street, starring as one of the most iconic tap roles in one of the most iconic tap musicals. Unfortunately, she took over the lead role during the autumn of 2001.

When 9/11 occurred, suddenly the cast of Broadway’s 42nd Street was saddled with the monumental task of creating normalcy, with 25-year-old Meredith at the helm. The performances were a success, fortunately. So successful that she was brought on to bring the American show to Moscow, Russia. Around the same time of performance, however, one of the largest terrorist attacks in Russian history known

as the Moscow Theater Hostage Crisis occurred less than a mile away. “After that I decided to retire from that role,” Meredith laughed. “I used to joke ‘I’m never doing this role again; it seemed terrorist attacks followed me around!’”

From then on, Meredith continued to pursue acting on Broadway, as well as in feature films and on television. With starring roles in the Broadway musical White Christmas, and guest starring roles on ABC’s Boston Legal, Law and Order, recurring role on the soap opera All My Children and featured role in the hit movie Disney’s Princess Diaries 2.

It was when the Pandemic hit, however, that things began to shift. “Suddenly, everything stopped. There was no work to be found anywhere.” She and her husband, Dustin Brayley of Broadway and The Trans Siberian Orchestra, needed to take a step back. Fortunately for them, the step back was exactly what they needed. It led to Meredith’s longtime friend, and fellow 42nd Street Broadway cast mate Luke Walrath of the Alpine Theater Project, inviting them to the Flathead to assess what’s next.

And once again, go Meredith did.

After settling in during the Pandemic, she wasn’t idle for long. During lockdown, she wrote her first memoir, Confessions of an Actress: From Chorus Girl To Broadway Star, and has now finished her second memoir Confessions Of an Actress: Sunday Letters From Moscow. She started a podcast with the same name in 2018, and a production company, Merie Productions in 2023. Merie is her childhood

nickname, pronounced Mary, and what her late mother would call her. Merie reminds her to live her life and dream big like she did as a child. This production company and ambition to do what she loved also led her and her husband to partner with The Whitefish Theatre and create The Whitefish Summer Concert Series; a summer of tribute concerts dedicated to the greats.

In this inaugural summer of 2023, we just did two concerts: The Music Of Fleetwood Mac and The Music Of The Eagles. Both concerts sold out completely to the point where we were adding folding chairs and overselling the shows.

“It was so exciting to be welcomed into the community with such excitement. To sell out both concerts in our first year is just thrilling!”

“The community loved it so much The Bigfork Playhouse asked to have the tribute show for one night, October 25th and we are going to perform in Bozeman on October 20th!”

The Whitefish Summer Concert Series is another way for Meredith to invest in the community she loves so much. “I just love to support local artists and small businesses. My mission with The Whitefish Summer Concert Series will always be to employ local artists and musicians and will always be sponsored/partnered with small businesses of Whitefish and The Flathead.''

I used to joke ‘I’m never doing this role again; it seemed terrorist attacks followed me around!’

Guest Starring on ABC’s Boston Legal opposite Candace Bergen

Photo by Danny Feld

Production photo of Meredith starring on Broadway in White Christmas

Photo by Joan Marcus

The Whitefish Summer Concert Series is already slated for next summer 2024 with plans to expand their repertoire to 3 concerts, one in June, one in July, and one in August. The tribute concert choices will be announced this fall and tickets will be on sale through The Whitefish Theatre very soon after.

When Merie Productions was launched, Mike and Jamie Goguen contacted them about being part of Central 101 in Whitefish: three stories of high class fine-dining and entertainment. And on the second story, a stage where customers can enjoy fun and classy entertainment along with drinks. They wanted Meredith & Dustin to produce, run and manage the entertainment. It was the beginning of what is now The Second Story Band, an 8-piece house band full of local talent with a full calendar these next months; at this time, they’re performing a series of shows called “Vintage Pop” where they play jazz-based covers of popular songs. The band will provide a revolving door of music, featuring a country music show in October, a holiday show in December and a huge New Year’s Eve Party.

Meredith continues to work with ATP but now as a classical tap teacher during their Broadway Summer Camp.

“I love it when someone I’m teaching lights up! I love teaching something that’s going to expand their brain, passing down the knowledge I have but I also just love reminding myself of what I know.”

Meredith is also delighted to have been asked to teach “Broadway Tap” every Wednesday afternoon with Turning Pointe Dance in Kalispell.

When she isn't teaching or performing, she’s out, like any local, enjoying the outdoors, being with friends, reading (currently reading her friend David Blair’s Firebug) and learning games from her sons. “They're into Bakugan, Pokemon and Sonic the Hedgehog, and I'm so terrible at gaming, but I just love to try to do stuff with them.”

The life of a multi-tasking performer is a hard one, but it’s a life Meredith takes on gladly. From learning exhausting dance routines to the tediousness of gluing fake eyelashes on, to the uniquely raw connection that comes with performing in front of other human beings and connecting with her community. Since she was a child, she takes it all in and with fervor.

“I love the energy of it, I love the privilege to perform; I don’t know that I ever will not love it, but when I do I’ll stop!”

I thought about those words when I was invited to watch The Second Story Band perform the Vintage Pop Show later that week. The evening was several hours of high energy performing with beautiful singers and band members alike belting their notes from the rooftops, to soft, sultry crooning into the dark, where an enraptured audience sat. Amidst it all, Meredith shimmered, a glittering jewel on the already encrusted crown that was the band. During the more animated songs, she shimmied about the stage, breaking into bouts of her famous tap dancing while her co-singers, Halladay Quist and husband Dustin Brayley continued with hits from Britney Spears, Bruce Springsteen and Backstreet Boys. Her passion and delight to be on the stage with her fellow artists was palpable. If she plans to stop when she no longer loves the energy, then I don’t think that will be for a very long time.

Follow @merpatterson @merieproductions @thesecondstoryband

Where Is Blue Rock, Montana?

By Debbie Burke

You won’t find Blue Rock, Montana on any map. It was created from legends that swirl like the waters of Yogo Creek where, once upon a time, unexpected treasure was found.

In the late 1800s, gold lured many hopeful prospectors to Montana. They were so fixated on finding gold that they regularly tossed aside blue rocks that got in their way. They never realized what they were discarding.

Jake Hoover was a hunter and trapper with big dreams but little mining success. During his travels, he met a hungry 16-year-old adventure-seeker from St. Louis. They immediately hit it off and Jake nicknamed him “The Kid.” He taught the Kid about frontier life and showed him the grandeur of Montana, which the Kid sketched. They eventually went their separate ways but remained friends for life.

Years later, that Kid—Charles M. Russell—struck fortune with his art.

Meanwhile, success eluded Jake until a fateful day in 1894. Translucent blue rocks in lower Yogo Creek caught his eye. Perhaps at first, he thought they were bits of glass from broken whiskey bottles that miners had thrown into the stream. Then he looked closer.

One legend claims he was drinking from the stream when he spotted a pebble as large as his thumb, “bluer than even the sky above and glowing like a hot coal.” Another tale says he was walking along the creek when he tripped over a blue rock “bigger than a hen’s egg.”

Although the true circumstances are hazy, Jake suspected the blue rocks might have value. He filled a cigar box with them and sent the box to Tiffany & Company in New York City.

There, renowned gemologist Dr. George Frederick Kunz recognized them as sapphires. Yet they were different from ones previously found in Montana. These “sapphires of unusual quality” had cornflower blue coloring and exceptional clarity. He mailed back a check for $3750, likely more than Jake ever earned from gold mining.

The sapphires were named after Yogo Creek where they were discovered.

Yogo sapphires soon gained recognition in Europe by winning medals at gem exhibitions. They became prized enough to be included in the Crown Jewels of England. Commercial mining operations began in the early 1900s as demand for Yogos spread both overseas and in America.

Leaving history behind, let’s circle back to Blue Rock, Montana, where my new book, Deep Fake Double Down , takes place.

MT Blue Mine Helenaphoto by Dianne Guenther

Sapphire Miningphoto by Dianne Guenther

Sapphire Sortingphoto by Dianne Guenther

I write contemporary mystery and suspense fiction. The eight books in my Tawny Lindholm Thriller series are set in actual places—Flathead Valley, Hungry Horse Dam, fire lookouts in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, the Rimrocks, and other landmarks familiar to Montanans. But sometimes a plot requires a fictional location.

In Deep Fake Double Down , a secret mother lode of Yogo sapphires is a treasure worth killing for.

The story is set at Blue Rock Corrections Center, a privately owned prison run by a corrupt warden. He takes advantage of cheap inmate labor to profitably extract gold from an old mine on the property.

Then he and a greedy guard unearth a surprise cache of Yogo sapphires. Unlike gold, gems are small and easy to smuggle out. The warden and guard begin pocketing a fortune.

When a young Native American inmate stumbles on their embezzlement, the guard kills him to preserve the secret. But another corrections officer, Lucille Ellwine, witnesses the crime. She barely escapes from the murderous guard who’s determined to silence her.

To cover their crimes and undermine Lucille’s credibility, the warden creates deep fake videos that show Lucille and the inmate are lovers and she helped him escape. The videos go viral on social media.

Soon the world is fixated on the convincing, but false, scenario of fugitive lovers on the lam, with law enforcement in hot pursuit.

Lucille begs for help from intrepid investigator Tawny Lindholm, the series main character. Because Tawny herself was once unjustly accused of crimes, she believes in Lucille’s innocence despite the damning video evidence.

Then Lucille disappears.

Tawny pursues her into a shadowy world of deep fakes where nothing is as it appears. Is finding the truth worth the price of Tawny’s life?

I created the mythical location of Blue Rock, Montana for two reasons.

First, I didn’t want to criticize actual policing agencies that generally do a good job.

Second, making stuff up is great fun.

In real life, Yogos are only found in Yogo Gulch near the Judith River. But who’s to say there isn’t an undiscovered treasure mine elsewhere in Montana?

Although I wrote Deep Fake Double Down as a fast-paced, entertaining beach read, the underlying theme is serious. Deep fake technology makes it nearly impossible to detect computer-generated fakes from real images. In today’s social media climate, deep fake “evidence” could conceivably “convict” an innocent person in the court of public opinion, making a fair trial impossible.

Deep fakes have already been used to create events that never happened yet could potentially change history. One recent example was a bogus news video where the Ukrainian president told his troops to surrender to the Russians. What if that deception hadn’t been discovered?

Deep Fake Double Down explores the sinister potential of this technology.

So…where is Blue Rock, Montana?

Sorry, but my lips are sealed. We fiction writers need to keep some secrets!

Source for historic details: Yogo the Great American Sapphire by Stephen M. Voynick, Mountain Press Publishing, © 1985.

What’s the difference between Montana sapphires and Yogo sapphires?

Montana sapphires come in a wide range of colors: green, light blue, pink, yellow, and orange. They are heat treated 98% of the time to improve color and clarity.

Yogos are typically brilliant cornflower blue. Two percent are violet-purple. They are never heat treated and do not change color under artificial light.

Value of a one carat Montana sapphire: $2000. Value of a one carat Yogo sapphire: $20,000.

Information courtesy of Stacey Franklin, owner of McGough & Company, Whitefish You can find Deep Fake Double Down at The BookShelf (Kalispell), Bad Rock Books (Columbia Falls), Northwest Montana History Museum (Central School, Kalispell), the gift shop in Glacier Park International

Fabulous f l owers fall

By Michael Connolly, General Manager Hooper’s Garden Center - hoopersgarden.com

After a long, hot smoky summer it’s time for gardeners to turn their attention to autumn planting. This year more than ever, refreshing your flower pots, containers, hanging baskets and window boxes with some choice fall plants is the perfect thing to improve the mood of a gardener with heat and water stressed summer flowers that have battled the elements of nature all summer long. Season extenders in the spring are expected. Season extenders in autumn can be revolutionary for your outside decor. Stepping out of the typical fall color planting options and digging in with some new autumn plant options is a great way to welcome autumn to Montana.

I love the typical fall plants as much as the next gardener. Nothing screams autumn like chrysanthemums. Add in some pansies/violas and then some fall blooming asters and you have a beautiful, albeit typical, assembly of autumn plants for your outdoor decor. Might I offer a few suggestions to expand your autumn plant palette that is certain to please and extend your autumn planting further than you might have possibly thought.

Besides the typical chrysanthemums, pansies/violas and asters, consider adding in snapdragons with their deer resistance and love of cool temperatures. Other great plants I favor because of their cold tolerance and plant appeal are dusty miller varieties for their color and texture, ornamental grasses for their height and texture, and heuchera for their amazing color options that blend perfectly with an autumn color scheme. Besides all these benefits, they are also perennial plants that can be planted into your landscape and beds for you to enjoy for many years to come.

So you have the classic autumn plants and some new plant options that you may not have considered before, but what if I were to tell you about an autumn plant that you can plant in September and will still look strong in your containers or beds into late November or December? Wow. Plants that could look great for over three months? Too good to be true? Not at all. Let me introduce you to my favorite autumn plants…Ornamental Cabbage & Kale.

Adding bright, unique colors, and textures during the fall makes ornamental cabbage & kale a great addition to your outdoor decor. They are edible like their vegetable garden cousins, but they are very bitter tasting so best left for ornamental use. Ornamental cabbage & kale are biennials that are grown as annuals. The colors and varieties are absolutely stunning. Beautiful colors ranging from deep greens, whites, purples, pinks, and even reds, the colors are a great focal point for fall displays and their leaf texture really stands out in the autumn landscape.

Ornamental cabbage & kale is my favorite for autumn for many reasons, but the fact that the colder it gets outside, the stronger the colors become, is my favorite feature of these plants. Preferring the cooler days and cooler nights of autumn, ornamental cabbage & kale plants

can handle temperatures as low as 5 ℉. Ornamental cabbage has flat, broad leaves with smooth edges and ornamental kale has frilly, serrated or fringed leaf edges. Plants typically grow from 12” - 24” tall and wide depending on variety, prefer full to partial sun, and require watering only when the top inch of soil is dry avoiding soggy soil. They are excellent in beds, but I find they really shine their best when planted in containers or decorative pots. Mixed with other autumn plants or by themselves, ornamental cabbage & kale are a standout for autumn color displays.

One unique feature of these plants I have found is that they grow to the size area they have available to them. For example, if you plant them 7” apart they will fill that area and stall in their growth. If you plant them 24” apart they will fill the 24” space. This fact leads to some design creativity as you can control the size of the heads of the plants to meet your preferences and you do not have to worry about overcrowding your containers or beds. Although many say these plants are slow growers, my experience with ornamental cabbage & kale is that they are moderate to fast growers when planted in early autumn such as September or early October.

This long, hot, smoky summer has certainly taken its toll on plants and gardeners alike, but I hope you find creating some beautiful outdoor autumn plantings will revive your spirit. Extending the flower gardening season with some creative outdoor decor with excit-

ing and different plant options is the perfect way to welcome the glorious season of autumn to the great 406. Enjoy!

Hooper’s Garden Center 2205 MT Highway 35 E in Kalispell 406-752-2770

www.hoopersgarden.com

Michael Connolly has been gardening, growing, landscaping, professionally designing and educating within horticulture for nearly 40 years, including being a member of the Hooper’s Garden Center family for over 30 years. A graduate from the University of Minnesota Agricultural Campus. He is a proud father of four amazing children and is passionate about educating and helping others in realizing the true beauty of plants in the outdoor and indoor landscape environment.

Beautiful colors ranging from deep greens, whites, purples, pinks, and even reds, the colors are a great focal point for fall displays and their leaf texture really stands out in the autumn landscape.

Ornamental kale

heuchera

snapdragons

Cooking with Coworkers Bar Brat Edition in tHE KitcHEn WitH LaNe

By Lane Smith - Sponsored by

As fall finally arrives after what started off as a scorcher, I find myself looking forward to flannel shirts, cold mornings and comfort food. Frenetic summers in the Flathead’s busy construction season finds me spending more time at work than I do at home. During the summer months my coworkers and I settle into a routine of good mornings, have a good evening and the miscellaneous meme exchange at night. Sprinkled into our retail routine are the inevitable questions about “what did you have for dinner?” Being a foodie these questions always pique my interest as they often give me insight into my coworkers that many miss. Let me explain.

It is my experience that there are four types of coworkers with regard to food. First up are the staples. These folks often answer the question of what was

for dinner with “Burgers.” No detail. An American classic. The veritable greasy spoon of food preparers. Don’t get the reference? At a greasy spoon you can order breakfast with the only option often being bacon or sausage. (Sausage guy here. Ya sacrilege.) There is no speak of over-easy, sunny side up or poached. The latter often meaning something nefarious at most rural greasy spoons. But to staples, food is food. A necessity for sustenance. With the rise of social media this a dying class of foodie, but they exist. Just not at my work. Although I suspect my warehouse manager is a closet staple. Just a hunch.

The vast majority of my coworkers fall into the next class: hobbyist. These folks won’t answer “burger.” They are far more evolved. When asked they will often refer to the implement they cooked on, the type of cheese used and their choice of beverage. The sports bar of foodies. “I made smash burgers with pepper jack and Walla Walla onions on the Blackstone. They were nummy. Have you tried the new Fife’n Irish Red from Bias (Brewing)? I got a growler of it and it goes great with smash burgers.” I so enjoy the hobbyist.

They get that cooking is as much an experience as it is a necessity. They also stick to tried and true methods while going out on a limb—within reason—with ingredients. But their joy in the process is incredibly evident in their response to “what did you make for dinner” question.

Then there is the third type of foodie. If you made it this far into my rambling diatribe, the logical answer is “aspiring chef.” Although logical, logic rarely plays into how I think. Just ask anyone, but I digress—again. The third type is the bar brat. Not to be confused with the sausage stuffed, onion and cheese infused, finished in cheap beer holy grail of barbeque goodness know as the beer brat. No these are people that have been there done that on the frontlines of food service. People that at some point in their lives have had to clean a 10 top left by an overly intoxicated softball team, or had to ask a newly minted 21-year-old the age old question “are you sure you want to start with a shot?” Hardened by their time “on the line” over inferno hot deep fat fryers or exhausted from spending all of their Friday nights behind the bar listening to all manner tales of

Photos by ACE Photography & Design - Location Direct Source Cabinets, 160 Kelly Road, Kalispell

Josh Amundsen, Braelin Settle & Lane Smith

woe while dreading having to muck the always sticky back bar floor. Bar brats often leave the food service industry with a new respect for personal experience with regard to food. This is where the bar brat becomes the food enthusiast. No longer restricted to rarely changed menu or the ubiquitous “rum and coke,” bar brats yearn, and learn the art that is meal prep—and I am blessed to work with a couple of them.

I recruited Braelin Settle to come work with me while she was still bartending. A former owner, now employee she needed a bit of convincing—but not much. It is my experience that bar brats make great salespeople. Students of body language, crisis management and the ability to juggle 5 things at once are interchangeable with sales and food service. Add in thick skin to round out the must have talents and the transition from logoed beer shirts to wearing a polo with “Product Advisor” is fairly straight forward. When Josh Amundson was recommended to work with us, a shared acquaintance appropriately pointed out that he was a “bar brat just like you.” Both of these amazing individuals are seen here in these pages because of our common interest in finding comfort in making comfort food.

There are subcultures in bar brats. We leave our time in the food industry with the goal of freedom in one facet of our previous lives. I am on the quest to make everything once. As in I am not a fan of making something over and over, tweaking it, perfecting it. Often seeing something on-line, on someone’s plate or on the conveyer belt at the grocery store—I say to myself “I think I can make that.” It’s a journey of discovery. Probably why I chose pinwheels (grocery store meat counter) and butternut squash soup (recipe blog that included at least 30 different variations, that I—well—blended).

Braelin had the unique experience of being the proprietor of her own bar and restaurant. Her eye for repeatability, profitability and presentation were mired in food costs, line cook shortages and frenetic Friday nights with a bar full of hungry people didn’t lend itself to her passion for creativity. Armed with a glass of wine and open evenings Braelin’s eye for the creative use of layering flavors is evidenced in her exquisite salad shown here.

Not surprisingly, Josh agreed to accompany me on our cooking with coworkers journey as our mixologist. A beer bar only bartender at some point in his foodservice indenture Josh developed an acute palate for all things cocktail. We often talk notes, nose, finish and bite. His incredible palate also extends to hidden spices in food. He was the only one in the room to pick on the fact that I had tossed the butternut squash in Genesis Kitchen’s chipotle oil prior to applying a cinnamon and smoked paprika dusting. Impressive. Just like his simple, but elegant Brown Derby that he made this day. It’s a must try.

At the end of the day, our cooking with coworkers journey was more than just a comfort food meal. It was comfortable. Being in a kitchen with people that say “behind you” and “how can I help” or my favorite “what do you think of this” is a symphony that I miss…sans the sticky floors. Next time you listen to your friends, family or coworkers talk about the way they make a meal, see if you can pick out the different types of foodies. You might just bump into a bar brat.

I would be remiss if I didn’t call out the 4th type of foodie... it’s the door dasher. Sigh. My Mom’s lessons on patience and temperance prohibit me from much more than just mentioning them. A person has to eat I guess. Maybe someday they will aspire to becoming a staple and finding a greasy spoon.

Brown Derby c ocktail

Ingredients

2 oz Fireweed

Bourbon (or bourbon of your choice)

1 oz fresh Grapefruit Juice

1 oz Honey Syrup

Directions

Shake over ice and garnish with a lemon slice or grapefruit twist.

Josh Amundson

Fall Harvest Salad with Dijon vinaigrette

Dijon Vinaigrette Ingredients

• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1 Tbsp minced garlic

• 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard

• ½ cup Genesis Kitchen Estate Reserve

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• ½ tsp of that black garlic salt

• ½ tsp coarse black pepper

• 1 Tbsp goat cheese

Directions

Add the apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard to a large bowl, whisk until incorporated. SLOWLY add the olive oil while whisking constantly until emulsified. Add goat cheese, salt, and pepper and whisk again. Add more salt and pepper to taste, if desired.

Salad Ingredients

• One bag of fresh spinach

• Two Lady Crisp apples, sliced thin

• 1/3 cup dried cranberries

• 1/3 cup toasted walnuts

• As much goat cheese as your heart desires

Directions

Toss everything together and dress.

Tasting Notes

GeneSIS

estate Reserve - A single estate crush made from Barnea, Arbequina, Coratina, and Kalamata olives. It has a creamy mouth feel, green apple notes and displays both floral and leafy green vegetal flavors.

Flank Steak Pinwheels

Ingredients

• 3-4 Pound Tenderized Flank Steak (Tell Sonny at the Chop Shoppe we sent you!)

• 2 Tbsp of Genesis Kitchens Organic Herbs de Provence Oil

• 2 cups of Baby Spinach

• 1 Pound of thin sliced provolone

• 1 12 oz Container of Feta (Garnish)

• 1 7 oz Jar of Sundried Tomatoes

(Use as many or as few as you prefer)

• 1 7 oz Jar of sliced pepperoncini peppers (Use as many or as few as you prefer)

• 1 lemon (for Zest)

• 2 Tbsp of your favorite dry rub (I used SPGSalt, Pepper, Garlic w/Smoked Paprika added)

• Baker's Twine

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Pat flank steak dry and apply olive oil and spices (both sides).

Start with the baby spinach and overlap each row, leaving a 1-inch perimeter all the way around. Using the same overlapping method and perimeter cover the spinach with the provolone.

Randomly place your desired amount of Sundried Tomatoes and pepperoncinis on top of the cheese.

Zest the Lemon over all.

Using 2 hands roll the flank steak tightly making sure to keep the stuffing back from the edges.

When finished leave the seam end down against the cutting board.

Using the baker's twine tie up the flank steak every 1.5-2" making sure to remove excess twine.

Place a Cast Iron pan over high heat and preheat until smoking.

Using Tongs take the tied-up flank steak and brown each side (approx 1 min per side).

Once browned, place on cooking sheet and roast until the internal temp reads 135 degrees (approx 8-12 min).

Remove from oven and Rest for 10-15 minutes.

Slice halfway between the gusseted sections and garnish with feta.

ReCIP e S PO n SOR ed BY

Smoked Butternut Squash Soup

Ingredients

• 1 Large Butternut squash quartered (1" by 1" squares)

• 2 Tbsp Genesis Kitchen Chipotle Oil

• 2 tsp Ground Cinnamon

• 1 Tbsp of Smoked Paprika

• 1 large yellow onion rough diced

• 3 Tbsp of Butter

• 6 cups Chicken Broth

• 1 16 oz Container of heavy whipping cream (if desired)

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1 Mint sprig (garnish)

Directions

Preheat Smoker to 275 degrees (I used Apple pellets).

Peel, Clean and cube the squash and place in a large Ziploc Bag.

Add Oil, ground cinnamon and smoked paprika to bag.

Shake vigorously.

Place now seasoned butternut squash on bakers racks on the smoker.

Smoke until fork tender (about an hour). Remove and set aside.

In a heavy bottomed pan or enameled Dutch oven over medium heat, melt butter and cook onion until translucent.

Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add squash and combine.

Let mixture simmer until all flavors are combined (approx 10-15 minutes). Remove from heat.

For a more rustic butternut squash soup use an immersion blender or for smoother soup use a blender (I used the former.)

Blend until all of the chunks are gone using pulses and frequent stirring.

Serve immediately. Add a couple tablespoons of cream to the center (if desired).

Grate the cinnamon stick over and place mint in the center for garnish.

a sk the Butcher

Did you know that sake has a higher alcohol content than either beer or wine? The ABV (alcohol by volume) of beer is typically between 3 and 9 percent, and wine is between 9 and 16 percent. Sake can be as much as 18 to 20 percent. Only hard liquors have a higher ABV, with 24 to 40 percent.

But I digress! So without further ado, let’s explore those secrets and traditions behind Japan’s making and drinking of this increasingly popular drink.

Sake is the oldest known spirit in the world. Origins of sake date back to 4800 BC China. It wasn't until 300 BC that sake came to Japan with wet rice cultivation. That is why Japan's development of the drink has made it synonymous with this nation.

ZOIKS! Are you queasy? Skip this next part! Spit used to be a key ingredient in sake! Today Koji is used to ferment the rice, but long-ago villagers would gather to chew on the polished rice and then spit its mashed remains into a communal tub. The enzymes of their saliva aided fermentation. Of the various tweaks sake brewing has seen over the years, this is probably the tradition least missed by even its most hardcore connoisseurs. Let me repeat that, SPIT IS NO LONGER PART OF THE SAKE PROCESS!

Brewing sake is a very arduous and somewhat intense process. Sake rice is first stripped of protein and oils in "polishing" in the first step then washed of its debris and air-dried on fabric attached to

Ancient Secrets of S A ke

By Mary Wallace

It might be hard to believe but sake is now less popular in Japan than it is in Western countriesJapanese drinkers have taken to beer, wine, whiskey, and shōchū, which has had a drastic impact on the sake industry. It is estimated that the Japanese public drinks only about a third of the sake today than they did 30 years ago. But while its popularity has shrunk in Japan, it has grown & spread around the world. The demand for sake in the U.S., Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China has been on the rise. not only has exporting to these nations been a major help to sake breweries, but some believe that America's growing interest in sake could spur a renewed interest in it back home.

wooden frames. After being steamed and dried, an enzyme called Koji is kneaded into the rice by hand or by machines. Although koji has been a culinary mainstay in Asia for centuries, it's only recently that Western chefs have started catching on to its transformative powers as a seasoning and a curing agent. It's not eaten on its own, but grown on partially or fully cooked grains, such as rice and barley. As the spores begin to flourish, enzymes convert the grain into sugar, then the enzyme-rich grain is added to a second product, such as soybeans. This secondary fermentation process causes a complete transformation in flavor and texture. It's how soybeans become miso, rice becomes sake, and how soybeans plus wheat become soy sauce. This resulting flavor you know and love? Umami. This second fermentation stage lasts 25 to 30 days, depending on the type of sake being made.

During this time the brewers must keep close watch on the batch day and night, adjusting temperature and ingredients as needed. Finally, in the Jo-So stage, the rice mash is pressed and the resulting sake is bottled.

Brewing sake can be a communal process. To accomplish this, all the brew workers spend the months of October through mid-April living onsite (and away from family and friends) to oversee the sake’s creation around the clock. They eat together, sleep together, work together, and live together.

The BIRTH OF SAKÉ, a 2015 documentary film, takes viewers behind the scenes of the 144-yearold Yoshida Brewery in Northern Japan, which still uses manpower over mechanization for several of the steps above. The film is a realistic overview of how the sake workers live for half of each year. Being away from family for 6 months is the biggest challenge.

At each brewery, there is a brewmaster whose official title in Japan is "Tōji." The Tōji is responsible for the intricate workings of the fermentation, as well as taste of the brew. He must also keep his or her team in harmony during the long winter months of work and communal living. The Tōji is like a parental figure to his or her team and will eventually mentor the next potential Tōji in an apprenticeship that can take decades. Traditionally, the skills of sake-making are passed down through oral tradition and hands-on-training instead of through schools or books. In the early 1900s, Japan boasted 4,600 sake breweries. Today, only around 1,000 remain. One reason for this decline is a 25-year-old tax agency's decision that denied breweries renewed licenses when their Tōjis retired without a successor.

Many Tojis compare sake making to raising a child - it’s a real living thing that matures into a fine young adult going by the name of Sake. Now a male-dominated industry, sake-making was once considered women's work. The origin of the word "Tōji" bears a deep similarity for a Japanese word

that translates to "an independent woman." Other clues to the feminine influence on the drink's history include how housewives were once called the "Toji of the house," and how a woman was listed as the Toji for the Imperial court. Men seemed to take over sake production in the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

It was the mid-1800’s industrial revolution that brought the machines that did the work once done by villager’s hands, but they found that without the Toji’s (the brewmaster’s) expertise each step of the way, the quality of the sake wasn’t very good. During the industrial revolution in 1904, Japan created a research institute to study the best means of fermenting rice for sake and thus replacing the manual processes in many breweries. However, there are still a few that follow the original processes.

Sake has more in common with beer than wine. Sake is made from rice, but in a brewing process that converts starch to alcohol, similar to the way that beer is made.

Though many often refer to sake as "rice wine," that's a bit of a misnomer. Rice wine is made from the fermentation of rice (a grain), while Western wines are made of the fermentation of grapes (a fruit).

Yeast is a key flavor component. In THE BIRTH OF SAKÉ, Shirai shares that "Yeast plays a critical role in sake’s quality. Because each strain of yeast yields its own distinct characteristics of aroma and taste, brewers must test which yeast is best for their sake." This is a delicate taste test overseen not just by the Tōji, but also by brewery executives.

Sake can be served cold, at room temperature, or hot. Where you'd never dream of drinking a warm beer on purpose, heated sake has been enjoyed in Japan since the Heian era (794 to 1185). Temperature influences the taste; the warmer it is, the drier its flavor.

Pairing suggestions for hot sake (called joukan) are dishes with lots of oil or fat. Warm sake (nurukan) pairs well with cold foods, like sushi. And chilled sake (reishu) is recommended for lightly sweet or sour foods. But another major factor in choosing a temperature is the weather and the season.

Another little known fact is that it's kind of rude to pour your own glass of sake. Some say serving yourself suggests you don't trust your host to take care of you. But it's more about sake-drinking's focus on friendship. Loved ones like to use sake to toast weddings, the New Year, and other celebrations. So pouring for a friend—and letting them do the same for you—is meant to be an act of bonding.

Nowadays any kind of glassware will do, especially as sake finds its way across the world and into cocktails, but traditionally sake was served one of two ways: the first was in a choko, a small ceramic cup accompanied by a ceramic flask called a tokkuri. The other was a small wooden cup called a masu, which would either have a choko in it, or would sit on a saucer. Either way, the drink might be poured so that it spilled over the cup's rim, a sign of the host's generosity. Oddly, spilling sake is a custom that has not caught on in Western cultures.

Bigfork Liquor Barn has a respectable selection of sake on their shelves. They have cool titles on the bottle, in both english and Japanese, so the bottles are even pretty! - Titles like Tozai -Well of Wisdom and Kawatsuru-Crane of Paradise, Rihaku-Wandering Poet, and Konteki-Pearls of Simplicity. There is also a Joto daiginjo, which pairs well with salads, chicken, sushi, or sashimi, as well as divine droplets ginga shizuku. Outdoor enthusiasts will be glad to know they have Tozai Snow Maiden and night Swim craft sake products in a can and various other sake in smaller bottles. So many choices! My recommendation is to go see them at the Liquor Barn and ask for their good advice. The research might be fun.

Take the Scary Out of Design

By Callie Reagan and Alana Wright, Wright’s Furniture

As we enter Fall and head towards Halloween and the Holiday Season, people start to think about their interior spaces. It’s natural that as we start to spend more time indoors, we look to change things or make adaptations to what we see daily. Taking that step for people is not always the easiest thing to do, there are things that scare people a little bit about interior design. Here are a few of the top fears:

1. Pressure to match or go along with current trends. Current trends can be fun, but they are trends meaning that they might not always stay around for a long time. If you are afraid to commit to large makeover projects or change out all furniture for the newest look. An easy way to update looks is to get great timeless pieces that you can add accents to that can be easily switched out to give a whole new look that won't break the bank.

2. What if I choose the wrong color?

Not sure about color or a little nervous to go too far with color? What you can start with, is a neutral palette for your room, and then add one great statement piece or an accent wall to add some drama. Gain a little confidence with your color choices before committing to all the col ors in the rainbow at one time. If suggestions are needed, the design team at Wright’s can help tailor any project.

3. Unsure of the best way to arrange the room.

Not all rooms are easy to say this goes here and a desk goes there. There are times when the best thing to do, is get some furniture slides and move your pieces around the room. Get others involved in the process! Other people that will live in the space are great to consult so you can try a few options. Not only does this help you find what works for you and your family, but it may give you ideas of how to change the room later as you look for other pieces or layers to add to your design. Remember, you can use Wright’s Furniture design team for these questions, they offer complimentary space planning.

4. I don’t have a big budget and I don’t want to break the bank. You do not have to spend a lot to make big changes. Using a different layout in the room can really make a difference. You also don’t need to make all changes at the same time. Designing a home does not always happen overnight but through the years. As you grow, travel, and have life events, your style will mature and develop. What works for a family with small children may not work for empty nesters. Like you, your home will change over the years, you can use these times to adjust focal points, storage, colors, and fabrics. Take your design piece by piece. Like life, it's about the journey and not always the destination.

5. Have no idea where to start. This is where Wright’s Furniture can really help you. Wright’s has complimentary design assistance to help you make selections for statement pieces, color palettes, trending colors, and all items in between to add layers and dimension to any room in the home. Shopping for your home can also be overwhelming, there are a lot of choices out there. From fabrics, paint colors, leather, metals, wood, and other natural materials. This can cause design or decision paralysis. Having someone to work with you to guide and filter out the noise can be helpful in making your selections.

Like you, your home will change over the years, you can use these times to adjust focal points, storage, colors, and fabrics. Take your design piece by piece. Like life, it's about the journey and not always the destination.

The most important thing to remember is that the design should go with you and your personality. Design is a representation of you. Wright’s Furniture gives you options for your timeless and accent pieces. They have options for the best fabrics and other materials to give you durability, colors, and ease of care that match your lifestyle. They have great design experts on staff to help with piece-by-piece design or full room and home makeovers. Remember, you can’t go wrong when you’re shopping at Wright’s.

Wright’s Furniture is open 7 days a week, offering complimentary design services with free local delivery and install. visit the Wright’s Furniture showroom in Whitefish or learn more at wrightsfurniturestore.net

Jen Jesse&

Clydesdale Outpost - Whitefish, Montana

Photos by Carrie Ann Photography

Tell us about you…

We are Jen & Jesse Forcey, and we can say our love story is one good thing that came from the pandemic. We met online during COVID—our first date was coffee over zoom! Everything was shut down, so we really had to improvise, and I’d say that helped to bring us even closer. We currently live in Elizabeth, PA—just south of Pittsburgh. Jesse grew up in Clearfield, a small town located in Central Pennsylvania, where he worked for his dad’s coal mining company until he left for college. He now owns and operates Octane Customs, an automotive customization shop, where he does car wraps and graphics, and even hired me to work with him! I grew up right outside of Pittsburgh and after college I worked in healthcare sales for over 10 years. Now I am working with cars—who would have ever guessed, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world!

Jen – What is the trait that you most admire in Jesse?

Jesse’s drive inspires me. When he sets his mind on accomplishing something, he does whatever it takes to be successful. If there’s something he doesn’t know how to do, he will learn how to do it—he never gives up.

Jesse – When did you realize you wanted to get married to Jen?

I knew very early on that Jen had the most tender, caring and loving heart, and that she was exactly what I was looking for in a life partner.

Montana was a place that had brought me peace like no place I had ever been, and I couldn’t wait for Jesse to experience it.

Jen - Why did you choose the venue you did to getting married?

A few years ago, a girlfriend of mine and I visited Glacier National Park and had the best trip ever! Montana was a place that had brought me peace like no place I had ever been, and I couldn’t wait for Jesse to experience it. Also, as a girl who grew up riding, I had always dreamed my wedding day would involve horses. We found the Clydesdale Outpost, so we had horses for our ceremony and then were able to drive into GNP for photos—It was a dream come true.

What did you enjoy most during your wedding day?

The Clydesdale Outpost was magical. The horses, the staff, the property— everything about the day was picture perfect. But my absolute favorite moment was riding in the carriage down to Jesse and seeing him standing there waiting for me with tears in his eyes. My heart was beating outside my chest, and that is the happiest I have ever been.

Jesse – What is your favorite activity to do as a couple?

We love traveling and hiking. For our honeymoon we explored GNP, Mt Rainier and The Enchantments near Leavenworth, WA!

venue

clydesdale outpostWhitefish, MT

rentals

empress tents & event rentals

caterer

kopper kitchen

Flowers

Mum’s flowers

hair

Melanie hobus

photographer

carrie Ann Photography

Officiant raul from best Day Officiants

video

Joel Jost films

dress

one White lanePittsburgh, PA suit

nordstroms

rings

Jared

we make it easy for you to save money, and still have the wedding of your dreams!

now booking for 2024!

Bess has a background in real estate and interior design. She loves nothing more than entertaining and creating beautiful spaces and has had a lot of experience doing so. She looks forward to working with her clients to create the event of their dreams that leave their guests talking about it for years to come.

Madison Patrick&

St. Matthews Catholic Church & Snowline Acres

Photos by Elsa Schuldheiss with Elsa Eileen Photography

July 1, 2023

Tell us about yourselves:

We are both from Kalispell born and raised. We are high school sweethearts and have been together for 10 years now. I am a dental assistant and Patrick is playing with the Seattle Seahawks right now. We will be living in Seattle full time starting in September.

Madison – What is the trait that you most admire in Patrick?

The trait I most admire in Patrick is his perseverance. He is so dedicated in everything he does and works as hard as he can until he gets it done or reaches his goal. He never gives up and doesn’t stop until the end no matter how hard it is.

Patrick – When did you realize you wanted to get married to Madison?

I’ve always known I wanted to marry Madison because of the person she is, we are so perfect for each other. We complement each other in every aspect of life and agree on all of our life values, morals and we have been best friends for 10 years.

We complement each other in every aspect of life and agree on all of our life values, morals and we have been best friends for 10 years.

Why did you choose the venue you did to getting married?

We chose St. Matthews because we wanted to get married in the eyes of the Lord for all our guests to witness. Patrick grew up in the St. Matthew’s community, going to school there from Pre-K until 8th grade. It is a beautiful church and was the perfect setting for our classical wedding.

Madison – What did you enjoy most during your wedding day?

I loved every second about our perfect wedding day. The thing I enjoyed the most was being able to celebrate with those closest to us. It was amazing when we got to walk out of the church hand in hand with all our guests cheering for us, truly a dream come true to marry Patrick and fulfill my dreams with him.

Patrick – What is your favorite activity to do as a couple?

There are too many to choose just one. I love all these activities with Madison: golf, ski, take adventures, travel, hike, find new documentaries, nightly walks, and much more!

Wedding venue

st. Matthews catholic church

priest

kirby longo

Reception Venue

snowline Acres

caterer

the kopper kitchen

Bar Services

vfW Post 2252

cake/desserts

Myrna Maltby*

photographer

elsa schuldheiss

videographer

cJ spencer

hair stylist

Analise henjum

Makeup artist

demi Zinke

dJ

Peak Audio

Florist

Pure happiness

Wedding flowers

rentals

empress tents and events and celebrate event & Party rental

invitations

Minted

Wedding dress

velvet bride

Wedding dress designer

White one

grooms attire

Mimi’s bridal boutique

rings

Zoelle khameneh

* We were so happy that my Aunt Myrna made our wedding cake. She is very special lady and Patrick and I feel especially blessed to have her be a part of our special day.

I loved every second about our perfect wedding day. The thing I enjoyed the most was being able to celebrate with those closest to us.