406 Woman May June 2025

Experience The Flathead’s

Jessica is the Assistant Fire Chief for the City of Kalispell. Read her story in our Business & Health side on page 12.

Jessica Kinzer

Photo by: amanda Wilson PhotograPhy

Publisher's Note

Hello 406 Woman readers!

the start of a new season in Montana!

The anticipation of farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and sun-drenched adventures fills the air as warmer days are beckoning us outdoors. Our incredible communities are preparing to share our beauty with the many who come to experience our Montana spirit.

From all of us at 406 Woman Magazine, we hope this May/ June issue inspires you to embrace the energy of this time and discover something new, whether supporting local businesses in our communities or finding inspiration within the pages of our magazine.

Wishing you a joyful and inspiring May and June!

With Gratitude, Cindy and Amanda

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 aCe photography

view current and past issues of 406 woman at woman

www.406 w oman.com

Published by Skirts Publishing six times a year

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

Copyright©2025 Skirts Publishing

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Farmers Markets 2025

By Mary Wallace

Do you wish there were a place to buy products that have a local flair? That weren’t shipped weeks ago? That weren’t subject to higher pricing due to tariffs? THERE IS! Look no further than your local Farmer’s Market!

There you will find seasonal produce: picked at peak freshness, meaning tastier and more nutritious, and it hasn’t traveled across the country (or world) to get to you. The food is often organic or grown with fewer chemicals. You can speak directly with the people who grow or produce your food and ask about their practices. Many markets prioritize sustainably grown and locally sourced food, supporting Montana's agricultural economy and connecting consumers with their food sources.

You will also find locally made products, art, and crafts. Many market vendors offer specialty items you won’t find in local stores. Not only that, but when you shop your local markets,

your money goes directly to small-scale farmers, bakers, and artisans.

Farmers markets have a rich Montana history. Many started as simple ways for farmers to gather to sell excess crops and produce in the 1930-40s. For instance, the Kalispell Farmers Market has been continuously running for over 50 years - their first market was May 20, 1974. Missoula, Great Falls, and Gallatin Valley Farmers markets all originated in the 1970’s, as well.

Farmers markets have evolved over time, mirroring the state's agricultural history and community development. They have grown from simple roadside stands of farmers to serving as important social spaces, allowing rural and urban residents to join together. Flathead Area Farmers Markets are a great way to connect with your neighbors. There is often live music, kids’ activities, or local events—it’s a fun outing, not just a shopping trip. Here is a guide to this season’s local markets.

BADROCK FARMERS MARKET

Sundays 10 am to 2 pm320 Nucleus Ave, Columbia Falls

Badrock Farmers Market is dedicated to connecting and supporting farmers and their communities in the East Flathead Valley to Glacier National Park Corridor. Visitors will find a variety of locally grown and harvested veggies, fruits, and floral arrangements. Sundays - June 1st through October 12th. More info at www.facebook.com/people/ Badrock-Farmers-Market/61558280754539/

BIGFORK FARMER’S MARKET

Wednesdays 3 - 6:30 pm - 22 Swan Way, Bigfork (Next to the Liquor Barn)

The Bigfork Farmer’s Market is a Not-for-Profit Organization (owned by members) dedicated to providing a low-cost venue for Local Artists & Craftsmen and Local Farmers. They work with other Non-Profit Organizations. Check their website for opening date. More info at bigforkfarmersmarket.com

BIGFORK MONDAY MARKET

Mondays 5 - 7:30 pm-

At Lake Baked, Bigfork (downtown)

Live music, full bar, farmers, bakers, artists, and food services.

The BMM runs every Monday from Memorial Day (May 26) to Labor Day (Sept 1). More info at www.facebook.com/ bigforkvillagemarket

COLUMBIA FALLS COMMUNITY MARKET

Thursdays 5 - 8 pm165 Veteran Drive, Columbia Falls

The Columbia Falls Community Market is a creative environment for as many as 80 local farmers, food producers, artists, and craftsmen to sell their products. Their weekly community event supports civic groups, promotes Flathead Valley businesses, and offers a gathering place for live music & entertainment. Every week a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization will be featured. The Market’s mission is to continue building community and connection through local food, music, art, and service. Runs May 15th-Sept 25th. More info at cfcommunitymarket.com

EUREKA LOCAL FARMERS MARKET

Wednesdays 3:30 - 6 pm - 4 Dewey Ave, Eureka (at the historic village)

Eureka's local Farmers Market features locally grown fresh produce as well as Made-in-Montana handicrafts! Park setting with live music. They honor Snap and do Double SNAP to customers having an EBT card. Runs from June 4th to Sept 3rd. More into at www.facebook.com/ EurekaFarmersMarket

EVERGREEN FARMERS MARKET

Wednesdays 5 - 8 pm - Calvary Lutheran Church Parking Lot, 2200 US-2, Kalispell Local market featuring produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Runs May 14th through MidSeptember. Find more info at www.facebook.com/ groups/1035531244590560

KALISPELL FARMERS MARKET - FVCC

Saturdays 9 am - 12:30 pm - FVCC Parking Lot, 777 Grandview Dr, Kalispell

Kalispell Market goers will enjoy the full market experience! Fresh, crisp morning air, the smell of coffee, breads, and baked goods, colorful booths featuring homemade, hand crafted and home grown products. Best of all is the camaraderie among the vendors and the community. The market is a great place to visit neighbors on a Saturday morning while enjoying getting fresh produce, plants, unique gifts, furniture, coffee, sweet treats, and delicious hot and cold food. Money realized from the Kalispell market commissions (after all expenses are paid) is used to provide 4-H awards, Northwest Montana Fair awards, and awards for the Forestry Expo and Science Fair. Runs from May 3rd through October 11th. More info available at kalispellfarmersmarket.org/

LAKESIDE’S ONLY SUMMER MARKET

Saturdays 9 am - 1 pm - 7188 U.S. 93 South, Lakeside (Across from Volunteer Parknear Treasure State Coffee)

Lakeside’s Only Summer Market includes art, jewelry, candles, soaps, fresh baked sourdough breads, cakes, chocolates and more from local artisans, and locally grown produce, plant starts, Flathead Lake cherries & apples, farm fresh eggs and locally raised meats. Free parking available at Volunteer Park. Runs from June 7th through Sept 27th. More info at lakesidefarmersmarketmt.com/

Farmers markets have evolved over time, mirroring the state's agricultural history and community development. They have grown from simple roadside stands of farmers to serving as important social spaces.

POLSON FARMERS MARKET

Fridays 9 am – 1 pm - Downtown Polson -3rd Avenue West (in front of the Cove Deli)

The Polson Farmers Market Co-op is the oldest running farmers market in Lake County. The market is the heartbeat of Polson and surrounding communities with over 50 vendors, providing a variety of local grown, hand crafted, and baked goods. Operating annually from May to midOctober. More info at polsonfarmersmarket.com/

RANCHER’S DAUGHTER FARMER’S MARKET

Wednesdays 5 - 8 pm -

135 E Idaho Street, Kalispell

Weekly Farmer's Market hosted near downtown Kalispell featuring a specially curated variety of produce and product from local producers and makers, as well as retail products at the Rancher's Daughter and Glacier Grinds. Food Trucks on site too!

Runs from May 28th through September 10th. More info at www.facebook.com/even ts/521072344139383/521105717469379/

WHITEFISH DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET

Tuesdays 5 - 7:30 pm -

Central Avenue at Depot Park, Whitefish

Local farmers and craftsmen showcase their home-grown, home-baked, and hand-crafted products at the North end of Central Avenue. Live music, prepared food, and the season's freshest products are featured. Market goers will find a variety of produce, meats, eggs, starter plants, mushrooms, Flathead Cherries and wild Huckleberries (in-season). Arts & crafts vendors feature their jewelry, prints, art, skincare products, woodwork, pottery, leatherwork, toys, home decor, sewing, knitting or crocheting, candles, and more. Runs from June 3 through September 30. More info at whitefishfarmersmarket.org/

Farmers Markets By Day Of Week

sunday

Badrock Farmers market

320 nucleaus

tuesday Whitefish Downtown Farmers Market

End of Central Ave, Whitefish 5 pm - 7:30 pm - June 3 - sept 30

Wednesday

Bigfork Farmers market

22 Swan Hwy, bigfork 3 pm - 6:30 pm - summer

evergreen Farmers market

Calvary luth parking lot, 2200 uS Hwy 2, kalispell 5 pm - 8 pm - may 28 - mid sept

rancher's daughter Farmers market 135 idaho St, kalispell 5 pm - 8 pm - may 28 - sept 10

eureka local Farmers market

4 dewey ave, eureka 3:30 pm - 6 pm - June 4 - sept 3

thursday

columbia Falls community market

165 veteran drive, Columbia Falls 5 pm - 8 pm - may 15 - sept 25

Friday

Polson Farmers market

Cove deli, 3rd ave w, polson 9 am - 1 pm - may - mid oct

saturday

Kalispell Farmers market

FvCC 777 grandview dr, kalispell

9 am - 12:30 pm - may 3 - oct 11

lakeside summer market

7188 u.S. 93 S, lakeside 9 am - 1 pm - June 7 - sept 27

Know Your Farmer Raven Ridge Farms

By Kristen Hamilton

Raven Ridge Farm’s land is rich with history of producing delicious organic vegetables for over 20 years.

Cassady Daley and Nathan Christianson had managed the farm for two seasons while exploring the opportunity of owning the farm. After the summer of 2016, a season of long days and nights balancing the farm with off-the-farm-jobs and the addition of Willa, the farm puppy, Raven Ridge Farm became their own beginning in 2017.

Cassady was drawn to Montana in 2011 by the illusive charm of endless adventure that the state held. She earned her BS in Sustainable Foods and Bioenergy Systems (SFBS) at Montana State University and studied abroad in Peru and Ghana during her third year. Her studies abroad had an emphasis on agriculture and traditional methods as well as agriculture in the developing world. She is part of the Kalispell Farmers Market Board of Directors and is in her third, three-year term.

Nathan attended the University of Texas at Austin and graduated with a degree in cartography and a resume that speaks for his passion in sustainability. He spent his final summer of college interning on a small, organic vegetable farm in Eureka, Montana. His eyes were set on learning more about small scale agriculture in Montana. After two more years as an employee on area farms, he met Cassady and their opportunity to run a farm of their own became a possibility.

“Our goal is to work hard, grow food, and continue learning so that our community can enhance their connection with their food. We’re focused on a high-quality product by putting forth a high-

quality effort. We take pride in what we do for our community and farm-ily.”

Visit the Kalispell Farmers Market on Saturdays at Flathead Valley Community College to pick up some of Raven Ridge Farm’s delicious produce. Their most popular items are lettuce mix, carrots, and tomatoes. “Part of being a market gardener is growing food that you love to eat and growing some unique things too. Our cherry tomato pints are made up of pink, orange, red, purple, and yellow tomatoes that are a really pretty and flavorful mix. People are usually curious about items that are not mainstream and it's fun to give tips of how we like to cook with them. I love when people come back to let me know how they used a vegetable that they had previously not known about.”

Cassady shared that Raven Ridge Farm also offers a 20-week CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program. CSA’s have becoming popular in the past few years and she shared what the advantages are for consumers.

“A CSA is a cool way for people to learn about the seasonality of food where we live. I try to create each box based on what's in peak season and how things could go together. A few years ago, we had a graduate student spend the summer at the farm and she took all of the recipes that we had sent to CSA over the years and compiled that information into a database that also included storage tips. It's a nice way to get some inspiration and also figure out what to do with the vegetables that are unknown and less common.”

And what is the advantage for Raven Ridge Farm? “For us, the CSA allows us to have a better picture of what our crop plan needs to look like. We grow on such a small space that every bed grown in has a really specific goal and the CSA is the building blocks of the crop plan. On the social side of things, it's the easiest way for us to share information to the public about local food and what goes on at a market garden.”

Why should we Know Our Farmer?

“Knowing your farmer allows you to experiment with food from someone that you trust. It can be hard for all of us to try new things but it's also so fun to find something that you love that you've never seen before. In a way knowing your farmer is like having a guide for local food.”

In closing Cassady shared “Being a part of a local farm or market garden is a way to build connections. There is space to learn, experiment, challenge your beliefs and be a part of something that is unifying to our community. It's amazing to see and listen to people connect over something as simple as local food.”

Raven Ridge Farm 435 Anderson Lane, Kalispell –Stop by the Self-Serve Farm Stand! www.growravenridge.com

A Y EAR ' S W ORTH O F R EASONS T O C ELEBRATE !

Bigfork Liquor Barn

By Mary Wallace

If you enjoy national and international funny and wacky holidays, you’ve probably heard of National Pi Day (March 14), National Hot Dog Day (July 16), or Talk Like a Pirate Day (Sept 19).

Here is an excuse to celebrate in the months of May and June! The party folks at Bigfork Liquor Barn have discovered that there are actually several holidays that celebrate different spirits and wines throughout the year!

For instance, June 4th is World Cognac Day. Cognac? Many usually drink it neat. Or as an aperitif. But the Bigfork Liquor Barn crew also likes it in a refreshing iced cocktail starring Rémy Martin VSOP:

How To Make The RÉMY GINGER

1 1/2 oz.

Pour 1 3/4 oz Rémy Martin VSOP over ice cubes in a highball or Collins glass

Top with ginger ale

Add two drops of Angostura bitters

Garnish with a lemon wedge

Ask the Butcher

Fig Shortbread Bars

By CT Morris

FIG FILLING DIRECTIONS

11 figs, fresh, not dried

1 cup granulated sugar

1/4 c lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Wash and dry the figs then cut each fig into quarters. Add the figs and the remaining ingredients to a non-stick saucepan and bring to medium heat. Cook, stirring continuously (to avoid the jam burning), preserve amount will be reduced to half.

Shortbread Crust

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup butter

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup flour

DIRECTIONS FOR BARS

Topping

1/4 cup flour

1/4 cup brown sugar (dark)

1/4 cup quick cooking oats

1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

Heat oven to 350°F. Spray a 9 x 9-inch square pan with cooking spray. Set aside.

Combine the softened 1/2 cup of butter, granulated sugar, and the vanilla extract. Mix until well blended. Add the cup all-purpose flour. Mix until a soft dough ball forms.

Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan and even out the layer. Bake 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool for 20 minutes.

Once cooled, spread the fresh fig preserves over the cookie crust. Use a rubber spatula to smooth the layer out and evenly spread.

Mix ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ brown sugar, and 3 tablespoons softened butter until crumbly. Add ¼ cup oats and the ½ cup chopped walnuts and mix. Use your hands to sprinkle over the fig filling making sure to break up any large chunks.

Bake 15 to 20 minutes longer or until the edges are bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Remove from the oven to a wire rack and cool completely, about 1 hour. Cut into 4 rows by 4 rows yielding 16 perfectly bite-sized cookie bars.

Fresh Spring Harvest! Ultra High Biophenol Chetoui

this extraordinarily intense eVoo registers the highest biophenol count of the season. at 828.6 PPm it displays a spectacularly aromatic nose with savory notes of wheatgrass, artichoke heart and ample bitterness. Biophenols are potent anti-inflammatory compounds that can be found in carefully produced fresh olive oil. Although extremely robust this medicinal grade oil is suitable for cooking, ingestion, and topical use.

Nucleus Avenue,

406-897-2667 - www.genesis-kitchen.com Big Biophenols not your thing? This new delightful rosé balsamic is sweet, tart, tangy, and has a bright tropical note from the kiwi infusion. Perfect for a vinaigrette with any of our citrus oils, delightful for mocktails/cocktails or drizzle over cut melon or seasonal fruit.

Falls,

Monica Kaden &

July 27, 2024 - Photos by Amber Siderius

When did you realize you wanted to get married to Monica? It was a combination of laughs and long days spent on the lake and river during our first summer together.

Tell us about you…

We were both fortunate to grow up here in the Flathead Valley! Kaden went to Glacier High School and graduated in 2014 and Monica went to Flathead High School and graduated in 2015! Kaden owns a roofing company and Monica is a pharmacist!

Monica – What is the trait that you most admire in Kaden? The trait I admire the most about Kaden is his giving nature and kind heart. Kaden is always the first one there to lend a helping hand. He’s the type of person who will drop everything to be there for someone in need. He would do anything for the people he loves.

Kaden – When did you realize you wanted to get married to Monica?

I realized I wanted to marry my best friend not long after we started dating. To be honest there wasn’t a specific day I realized I wanted to marry her, it was a combination of laughs and long days spent on the lake and river during our first summer together. I knew very quickly that I wanted to be by her side forever.

Why did you choose the venue where you got married?

We chose to get married on our property where we built our forever home and where we will get to continue to grow and spend our lives together. We also got engaged there!

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

The thing I enjoyed the most on our wedding day was getting to celebrate our love with our friends and family in the place we love the most and get to call home. It was so special to share this place and our love with all of the most

important people in our lives. Each day I drive down our driveway home, I get to remember our beautiful day and the vows we made to one another in the presence of our favorite people!

My favorite moment of our big day was our private vows. We took a moment before the ceremony to have a first-look and to share our written vows to one another in privacy. We loved having a moment alone together to cherish the day with one another. It was such a special moment that I will cherish forever.

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

It's hard to pick one single activity because we enjoy everything we do together. It can be as simple as going on a dinner date or going on an adventurous honeymoon to Belize. As long as we are together, we are happy. But to answer the question, our favorite activities to do together revolve around summer and the outdoors. From being out on the lake to floating the river, to going to concerts or rodeos, the list is endless. But no matter what, if she is with me my life is for the better and I’ll be having fun.

We chose to get married on our property we will get to continue to grow and spend our

Wedding Details…

Venue our property

rentals barndoor

caterer desoto

cake/dessert

ephemera Confection

music destination dJ

dress

Honest in ivory bridal Shop (Spokane)

tuxes/suits

J Scott Couture

rings Coins and Carats

Inlay Duck, $795

Small Quartz Crystal Geode, $185

XL Amethyst Geode, $3,000

Wanda Mumm, Big Bend Lookout, Oil Painting, $675

Carico Lake Turquoise Necklace, $13,000

Resin Moose Antler, $2,100

Zuni Cuff, $795

12. JeSSiCa kinzer a ssistant Fire Chief

20. atana H a e vent Center

24. m ar C i m angold k alispell obgyn

30. Jamie tatum Cabello vida Salon

37. angie tenniSon and tana mCl ellan l ogan Health

28. Collagen e n H an C ing m edi C al Spa t reatment S g lacier m ed Spa

32. em S C ulpt n eo d e n ovo wellness

34. tHe power oF movement Functional medicine associates

38.Swing Fore a Si S ter l ogan Health

42. d r m iller Smile m ontana

Sisters Around the World The Next Chapter Habari, marafiki! Hello, friends!

By Lucy Smith

Sarah Rolfing and I have returned home from Kenya, our hearts filled with gratitude. The goodwill, prayers, and generosity of family, friends, and fellow Rotarians made this outreach possible, and the impact of our journey will resonate for years.

From March 5-13, Sarah and I embarked on an ambitious “outreach marathon,” determined to educate 500 girls and women about reproductive health, train 30 government nurses and public health promoters, provide essential clinical supplies, and teaching materials in Swahili, Maasai, and English. But our mission didn’t end there— we were invited to help shape the vision for a new medical clinic in Maasai country, a beacon of hope for a region long underserved.

Our journey to provide training was the beginning of something transformative.

A Road of Purpose

After 36 hours of travel, we landed in Nairobi late at night and were welcomed warmly by our dedicated project team: Andrew, Hope, Lydia, and our driver, Hiram. Though jet-lagged, we were eager to begin. At sunrise, we set off in our van for what locals call the "Kenya massage"—a bumpy ride along open roads toward Magadi. Our first stop was to train government nurses, community health promoters and local volunteers, and to discuss the region’s pressing health priorities. Teen pregnancy and maternal and infant health were at the top of their list.

Sarah introduced her reproductive health curriculum, showcasing simple and effective tools designed to help women and girls understand fertility and family planning, especially where medical resources are scarce. Though her audience included several men, all listened with unwavering attention. Next, I led discussions assessing regional health needs and resources, and guided community health promoters through strategic visioning for improving

healthcare delivery while Sarah conducted advanced medical training for nurses.

An Unforgettable Day with Resilient Young Women

The next morning, we traveled deeper into the country to a girls’ school where we would deliver education tailored to a teen audience. The local community had clearly rallied behind our mission, music blared joyfully from a boombox, a parade of motorbikes arrived with handlebars impossibly stacked with plastic chairs, and men constructed a sprawling tent for shade. Teachers and school faculty welcomed us with thanks for the program we had prepared.

Then, the girls arrived – 221 altogether, wearing school uniforms and walking in 104-degree sunshine. Many had walked 12 miles one way to attend. They sang, danced, and took our hands, saying, “Let’s go,” leading us in rhythmic moves that I attempted with great enthusiasm, if not much grace. Sarah’s approach was invitingly reassuring and accessible for the girls. Using large

Top left: Ice breaker’s common language: laughter! Lower left: Sarah and Lucy join the audience

Then, the girls arrived – 221 altogether, wearing school uniforms and walking in 104-degree sunshine. Many had walked 12 miles one way to attend.

paper taped to an outer school wall, she sketched diagrams of the reproductive system and explained “our female body’s superpower” in clear and simple terms that were translated into Swahili and Maasai by Hope and Lily. I watched the girls respond with shy smiles and growing confidence to Sarah’s messages that: “ Fertility is not a disease. Ovulation is a sign of health. Women have the capacity to understand and use their knowledge to make healthy personal and medical decisions. ”

On this trip, Sarah was the lead and I was her assistant. A departure from most of my work, but a marvelous adventure! And fun! I facilitated icebreaker activities to relax everyone and offer laughter and lighthearted moments between lessons. I also introduced the importance of personal hygiene for health, teaching hand-washing methods and a song to reinforce the message. The Kenyan sun was relentless, but the connection we forged with these young women made us forget the heat.

CycleBeads and Dignity Kits:

Small Items, Profound Impact

Friends in Montana crafted CycleBead bracelets for 500 girls and women. CycleBeads are a simple tool for tracking one’s menstrual cycle and identifying fertile days using the Standard Days Method. Sarah’s ex-

planation for using them always generated enthusiastic nods and thoughtful questions.

Thanks to generous donors, our partner organization, Children’s Future Foundation, sourced 600 reusable menstrual kits which we named “dignity kits.” Each contained two pairs of panties, a bar of soap, disposable pads, eight reusable menstrual pads and instructions, all wrapped in a beautiful bag hand-sewn by Rotary friends in Washington.

The moment Hope and Lydia unveiled the kits to the girls was unforgettable. The teens roared with delight at the sight of the soap, and erupted into applause when the panties were revealed! Hope and Lydia beamed, their smiles mirroring the girls’ excitement. Small items so ordinary to us are life-changing for these young women.

In underserved communities, menstruation often means missed school. Missed school translates to lost opportunity. By gifting dignity kits and Cycle Beads, we aim to empower girls with newfound confidence and allow them to fully participate in their education.

Empowerment Beyond the Classroom

Our next workshop took place at a Maasai community center and church, where over

120 stunningly adorned Maasai women gathered, their intricate beaded jewelry capturing our attention while they captured our hearts. Many young mothers were there cradling their babies, anxious to learn more about their own reproductive and maternal health.

The women welcomed us with traditional songs of thanks in voices rich with pride. They laughed in delight as Sarah and I attempted to follow their dances, and then gamely joined the fun when I led them in an icebreaker that was half dance, half calisthenics. As we handed out dignity kits and CycleBeads at the end of our seminar, each woman grasped our hands firmly, her eyes shining with gratitude. Those moments will stay with us forever.

A New Chapter: The Clinic That Will Change Lives

On our final day, we conducted our workshop for 125 Maasai women and teens at a site that holds profound significance. For years, Sarah and I have worked in different Kenyan communities to address pressing public health needs. This trip brought us to the region where Sarah and her team have worked for years, and this year to the opening of a Rotary-funded brick-and-mortar clinic that will serve communities long in need of essential medical care.

Top: Lydia translates for Sarah Left: Grateful smiles from participants Lower middle left: Sarah and Lucy with community health promoter and nurse Lower middle right: School girls relax before their long walk home Right: Project Manager Andrew Sungai and Sarah

The new clinic will support the existing Jeepline mobile clinic and stand as a per manent pillar of hope. Building renovations were completed just in time for our last day of training, and we taught from the steps of the freshly painted clinic—our new project!

A skilled nurse with extensive experience and a gift for education, has already been hired to lead the clinic. Our outreach was just the beginning of a cam paign to support women and girls’ health in the Ma gadi region, and we are confident this clinic will save lives and advance health care for generations.

A Journey That Changes Lives—and Ourselves

Every experience Sarah and I have had in Africa has changed us. This journey deepened every lesson, ev ery impact, and every bond.

We planted seeds of empowerment through health education for girls and women, and equipped local health professionals to continue this vital outreach. The creation of a sustainable clinic will ensure that thousands of Kenyans receive critical medical care and public health education for years to come.

And we left Kenya with a thousand memories and endless appreciation for those who made this pos sible. None of this happy story would have unfolded without the love, support, and generosity of friends, family, and Rotary organizations.

When we come together in a spirit of service, any thing is possible.

Maybe that’s how we change the world. Surely it is how we change ourselves.

When we come together in a spirit of service, anything is possible.

Top L-R: Young Maasai mothers with babies eager to learn; Sarah prepares her teaching charts; Maasai mother and child Middle: Lydia, Sarah, Hope and Andrew at the new Rotary Medical Clinic Lower L-R: Lucy and girls at Oloiborsoit High School; Lucy, Lydia and Hope at the new clinic

Jessica has been a firefighter for most of her life, helping those in need. She’s also the first female firefighter in the Kalispell fire department. She has led a complicated life, a fascinating life. One that others should get to know.

Jessica grew up in Arizona, believing only the sky was her limit. She was taught by her parents that with hard work and pushing oneself will always help achieve your goals. Growing up, she saw the firefighters on TV and became drawn to the adrenaline and the excitement. It dawned on her in those moments, this was her calling. And she wanted to start right away. Of course, being a young woman at the tender age of 18, this was no easy task. But she was up for it; she set her goals and pushed herself and met the physical requirements to enter the training. The next few years were a whirlwind. After graduating high school, she moved out to Texas, joined a volunteer department to gain experience, and attended paramedic school. Even though it’s a firefighter’s job to, well, fight fire, it was crucial for her to learn how to perform emergency medicine when needed.

Following Her Passion Meet Jessica Kinzer, Assistant Fire Chief

Written by Rachael Seymour

Jessica Kinzer was a little apprehensive when we reached out to her, asking for her story. According to her, there “wasn’t much to tell.” But everyone has a story worth telling, and with the encouragement of family, her friends and her therapist, she decided to open up to us. When we first met, she’s a softer-spoken woman that radiates a calm, self-assurance and her uniform as assistant fire chief is a smart look on her.

She finished the school at age 19 and moved back to Phoenix while working to get her degree in fire science. By 21 she was married, and by 22 she had a baby. But by then her marriage had become dangerous, so she and her son escaped to the mountains of Montana where her parents had moved prior. There, she was hired at the Kalispell fire department, and as the first woman firefighter in their crew.

It was a little smaller than she was used to, and the technology was a bit older than what she was used to in Phoenix, but Jessica was home.

Firefighters, like most first responders, have a pretty intense schedule: work 24-hour shifts followed by 48 off. Taxing for anyone, but especially for a young mother. But Jess, with the support of her parents, embraced the life. So from the time her son was toddler to him being in 6th grade, he spent every third day with his grandparents and the other two with his mom.

“All his friends wanted to hang out in the fire department, but him growing up there, it wasn't too special and he was always like “ugh, do we have to?” Jessica laughs.

At times it can be tough working as a female in a male dominated career.

“At times I would feel frustrated, full of selfdoubt, left out, like I had to constantly prove myself. I used all of that for fuel. If I felt like I was not as good as I should be, I would push to be better, I would learn everything about that topic, until I could master it. I would push myself hard mentally, and physically.”

She's extremely grateful for her parents and how they were able to help her balance her time with her son and work the career she loves. During this time she married again, had another boy, and helped foster five children!

Though having the career and title of a firefighter, most of her daily calls revolved around helping in medical emergencies. But as with the case of most first responders, it can be extremely demanding and even jading. Disaster happens every day, and poverty is still very prevalent in Kalispell. A lot of her calls were to those in need in impoverished areas. It’s a lot to help people on their worst days, day in and day out.

Photo by Amanda Wilson Photography

But Jessica knows this was what she was meant to do, and approaches it with grace.

“It’s my job just to love them. Because we don’t know what happened to them prior to them getting to this spot. It could be any one of us had we had a different upbringing or been exposed to something different…I tried to use every call as an opportunity to show somebody that they’re loved. Treat them with all the skills that I have, but if those skills don’t apply then I’m just going to show them that they’re respected and loved.”

Even with love, however, life can still catch up with you; and in 2019, Jess hit her breaking point. Years of unresolved trauma and sudden life changes left her mental health in a bad state. She couldn't push herself anymore and needed to step away. She spent months recuperating and trying to heal, but it became evident this was something that needed more time than she had. And so, after 17 years of service, Jessica medically retired. “It was like a slap in the face to have the career I had put my heart and soul into be taken away, I didn't understand how this could happen.”

With faith, support from loved ones and time, Jessica began to heal and set out to regain the confidence she had lost with the sudden change in direction of her life.

Devastated, she did everything she could to try and get healthy, learn why it happened and how to prevent it from happening again. She went to therapy and researched everything she could get her hands on to see what went wrong. During that time she spent a lot of time clinging to the hope that she would heal. Relying on the promise of what has now become her favorite verse in the bible-Jeremiah 29.11. With faith, support from loved ones and time, Jessica began to heal and set out to regain the confidence she had lost with the sudden change in direction of her life. Later in 2021, a position opened at the fire department: this time, it was for assistant fire chief. And a nervous Jess was encouraged to apply. After much thinking and praying, she went for it and was accepted with open arms. After 18 long months, she was back at the station, ready to work.

Jess no longer rides out on daily calls, but she’s still kept very busy with expanding and maintaining the department’s quality. Just last year the citizens of Kalispell passed a levy that would help not only expand the staff but also provide funding for a new fire station! And, during the time of this article, she’s currently interviewing candidates for some new firefighters. She’s also bringing a mental health approach to the station, making sure her crew has access to

therapy and utilize the resources available to them, so they don’t have to suffer and burn out like she did.

Her eldest son is grown and in college, the other will be starting high school, and she keeps in contact with the children she helped foster.

In her words, Jessica’s life is no Cinderella story. There were many hard times, only getting through by perseverance and heart. She is forever grateful for the love of her family, friends and fellow firefighters.

She also knows how lucky she was that she found her passion at such a young age and is able to work in it for so long. While all of that is true, it’s also true that her story is nothing short of remarkable. And inspiring for anyone who hears it. She wants to tell it in hopes that she inspires others, particularly women and young girls.

“I don’t want people to give up, because they’re told 'you’re too small, you’re a girl you can’t do it.' I believe if you have passion for something, if you have a dream, you put into the effort and you work hard and find people that support you…you can do whatever you want.” And when asked if she would do it all over again, she smiled and said “Well I’d get a therapist earlier in my life, but yes. Absolutely.”

Photo by Amanda Wilson Photography

By Jessa Ash

Smart Financial Moves How to Make Your Money Work for You

In the world of personal finance, financial freedom isn’t just about saving money—it’s about making smart money moves that allow your wealth to grow, evolve, and work for you. While managing finances can sometimes feel overwhelming, understanding the strategies of successful investors can help anyone take control of their financial future.

fers to the ability of your money to grow exponentially over time—generating earnings on both your original investment and previous gains.

Consider this: If you invested $10,000 in a high-growth portfolio earning an average 8% annual return , in 20 years , you wouldn't just have double your money— you’d have over $46,600 , without adding another dollar! This is why starting early and staying consistent is crucial for longterm financial success.

F INANCIAL F REEDOM : More Than Just Retirement

People often associate financial planning with retirement savings, but true financial freedom means having the ability to make choices that align with your goals. Whether it’s traveling, starting a business, or pursuing hobbies, your money should enable your dreams.

Smart Investment Strategies That Work

How Can You Maximize Compounding?

Whether you’re building your retirement nest egg, starting your investment journey, or simply wanting more confidence in your financial decisions, now is the perfect time to create a plan that ensures your money is working for you—not the other way around.

T HE P OWER OF C OMPOUNDING : Your Money’s Best Friend

If there’s one financial principle to embrace, it’s compounding. This simple concept re-

• Invest regularly (even small amounts contribute over time).

• Reinvest dividends instead of cashing them out.

• Use tax-efficient investment accounts to minimize losses from taxes.

• Let your money grow— the longer it stays invested, the greater the impact.

To take control of your financial future, focus on three essential investment strategies:

1. Diversification: Don't Put All Your Eggs in One Basket

A well-balanced investment portfolio should minimize risk.

Diversification ensures that if one sector struggles, others may compensate, keeping your financial stability intact.

Photo by

Rusty Cash

Women are leading the way in financial independence more than ever before—but there’s still a financial confidence gap where many feel hesitant about investing.

2. Tax Efficiency: Keep More of What You Earn

Understanding how to minimize tax liabilities is key to growing wealth. Use tax-advantaged accounts like:

• Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k)s (tax-free growth)

• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) (triple tax benefits)

• Municipal Bonds (tax-free income)

3. Passive Income: Let Your Money Work for You

Creating passive income streams , such as rental properties, dividend stocks, or business investments, allows wealth to grow without requiring daily effort

W OMEN & W EALTH : The Power of Financial Confidence

Women are leading the way in financial independence more than ever before— but there’s still a financial confidence gap where many feel hesitant about in-

vesting. Studies show that when women invest, they often outperform men due to long-term focus, lower-risk decisionmaking, and strategic financial planning.

How to Build Financial Confidence

1. Know Your Numbers: Understanding net worth, expenses, and income flow creates clarity.

2. Get Educated: Take advantage of resources, financial courses, and professional advice.

3. Take Action: Even small investments build momentum.

At Fischer Investment Strategies, we believe that financial education and empowerment should be accessible to everyone. If you're ready to make your money work for you, there’s no better time than now to take control.

Jessa Ash, Registered Investment Advisor Fischer Investment Strategies 406-212-1983 - jessa@fisfp.com

Montana Wedding Enchantment

Atanaha Event Center

Best Party Ever - Guaranteed!

Here is some good news! For anyone looking to hold a wedding or gathering of any kind - Everything old is new again at Atanaha Event Center in Bigfork! AND they still have a handful of open dates for the 2025 season!

During the pandemic, Atanaha owners, Guy & Vianna Stibal, like so many businesses, took the opportunity to pivot and reinvent themselves. They started a renovation project at the 4,000-square-foot Lodge and also added outdoor features with weddings in mind. The Lodge has a fresh new look and now features a 20-foot rock fireplace backdrop, a full-service cocktail bar, and the stunning waterfall feature at the outdoor ceremony site.

Atanaha Event Center is unique in that it embodies the very essence of Montana. The atmosphere throughout the entire 12-acre property is both vibrant and peaceful. Nestled at the base of the nearby Swan Mountain Range, the property features a beautiful lodge, a bridal suite, a groom’s barn, a

Written by Mary Wallace

waterfall, and numerous naturally photogenic locations, making it a favorite among the best local wedding photographers.

From the minute one arrives at the Atanaha property, they find both a sense of calm energy and of pure Montana enchantment that is unrivaled. Jeremy Richardson, Atanaha’s new Wedding Coordinator, exhibits a calm yet playful demeanor. His level of knowledge and his expertise on what brides want (even if they don’t yet know themselves) are immediately reassuring. “Let’s face it,” said Jeremy, “Wedding planning can be stressful.”

Weddings can be stressful due to the numerous decisions, logistical complexities, high expectations, and the emotional weight involved in planning a significant life event. The pressure to make everything perfect, the impact of family and friends' opinions, and financial considerations further contribute to the stress.

For wedding planning purposes, the staff will go to any length to ensure their client's vision is met. The lodge at Atanaha delightfully accommodates everything from themed events to elegant receptions to casual gatherings in classic Montana style.

What’s more, couples can choose to be very hands-on, planning every last detail, right down to the table settings. But busier couples can simply pencil things out and count on Jeremy and his crew to implement their design, knowing that their celebration will meet or exceed their dreams and expectations. Regardless, the bride & groom (and their families) can rest assured that they only need to call to connect directly to Jeremy at any given time. They can count on him to have the connections and expertise to anticipate every need and orchestrate every detail, from the moment the couple chooses to have their celebration at Atanaha until the last wedding guest has departed.

The facility can accommodate any size event, from a small, intimate gathering to one featuring as many as 150 indoor guests

The lodge at Atanaha delightfully accommodates everything from themed events to elegant receptions to casual gatherings in classic Montana

or nearly unlimited outdoor guests. There is plenty of parking on-site. For out-oftown guests, Atanaha partners with Experience Montana Cabins for lodging that is only 6 miles away.

Atanaha also offers a level of flexibility that is refreshing in the local wedding industry. The ceremony and reception can be held indoors or outdoors, OR a combination of both.

Atanaha features a full commercial kitchen with an unrivaled culinary team that makes it their priority to provide a memorable dining experience for any celebration - many couples choose this option. However, they may also hire an outside caterer. They can even bring a commercial food truck on-site.

From decor to menu to music to photography, the staff at Atanaha can provide a one-stop solution for any event, including having the close connections and resources to reach out to an outside source for an event that requires a specialty of some kind.

Keeping with the one-stop shop theory, Atanaha Event Center's wedding and reception rental fees include nearly everything needed for a lovely wedding: Use of the entire property for the day, wedding coordination, use of the Bridal Suite and

style.

the Grooms Barn, basic tables, chairs, and standard linens (including setup and configuration), as well as the bartender.

Because Atanaha hosts training conferences and other internal events, such as specialty dining experiences and wine tastings during the week, wedding dates are reserved for weekends only. According to Jeremy, the 2025 wedding weekends are filling fast, but there are still a handful of dates available.

The goal of the owners and staff at Atanaha is to become the premier wedding and event center in the northwest. If someone asks about a good wedding venue on social media, they would love to see 50 people chime in and name Atanaha Event Center as the perfect place.

With several years of beach resort event and wedding planning under his belt, Jeremy is uniquely qualified to facilitate the wedding or event of anyone’s dreams. He coordinated not only weddings, but also other entertainment and events for the wine bar he owned. He had just sold the wine bar when the pandemic hit, and that is when he and his partner decided that home was back in Montana. Jeremy joined the staff at Atanaha shortly thereafter, taking on a variety of roles until the venue was ready to reopen for weddings this Spring.

One thing that not many people know is that Jeremy and his partner, Price, also own and operate the Whitefish Lake Triathlon, which is slated for June 28, 2025. The 0.8K Swim/20K Bike/5 K Run is a USA Triathlon-sanctioned event, and they anticipate 200 or more athletes this year. More info is available at WFLakeTri.com.

Jeremy offers the following advice for wedding couples:

1. Lock in the date

2. Know and agree on what is flexible and what is not

3. Make a ‘Must Have’ list

4. Stick to a budget

5. Don’t settle

Meanwhile, there may be those who are wondering what to do next… anyone planning a wedding or event with a special theme or quirky request in mind. They should totally call Jeremy! Never say ‘No’! That’s Jeremy’s mantra.

Visit www.atanahaeventcenter.com or call 406-837-2231 to schedule an appointment and begin planning your event at Atanaha!

Jeremy Richardson Photo by Amanda Wilson Photography

Meet Marci Mangold, PA-C

Written by Mary Wallace

Meet Marci Mangold, Physician Assistant. With over 20 years experience, Marci joined Kalispell OBGYN in 2022. When a position opened at the clinic, she was drawn to the opportunity to provide comprehensive care to women by joining Dr. Gwenda Jonas and the team of mid-level practitioners including Austin Rusher, Shawn Shanahan, and Kaycee McIntosh.

“We are an all-women team of medical providers - “ Women caring for women, ” said Marci, “I love how everyone works together to make women’s care a priority. It’s a great place to work!”

Marci grew up in Sheridan, Wyoming and fondly remembers hiking, camping, and biking in the mountains with friends. She credits the influence of a local eye doctor for inspiring her career in medicine. She had always excelled in her math and science studies and initially considered becoming a veterinarian but felt that she was too softhearted to be very effective in that career.

Once she realized that her true fascination was with the human body, she set her sights on a pre-med track at the University of Montana. During her junior year at university, she had the opportunity to intern and shadow a Physician Assistant (PA), which clinched her career plans. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from the University of Montana in 1999 and then at-

tended graduate school at Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania, where she received her Master of Health Sciences degree in Physician Assistant studies in 2002.

She returned to Missoula and gained valuable experience managing complicated patients in general, cardiothoracic, and trauma surgery. She found direct patient care to be the most rewarding, so she transitioned to primary and emergency care for several years.

As part of the patient care team at Kalispell OBGYN, she enjoys providing a more comprehensive range of care, including contraception, STD screening and treatment, menopause management, cancer screening, the management of chronic medical conditions and regular wellness exams. “We’re a one-stop shop for all things in women’s medical care,” she said.

After her personal difficulties with infertility, she discovered that she had also developed an interest in providing distinctive gynecologic and reproductive care. Kalispell OBGYN is unique in that they can provide IUI (in-utero insemination) here in their office. From her own experience, Marci understands that infertility is not only a medical challenge; it also brings emotional obstacles. Marci hopes to support patients through every step in the process.

The team of professionals at Kalispell ObGyn appreciates that many female medical issues can be difficult for women to discuss, so being both knowledgeable and approachable is essential. They also recognize that many women are so busy caring for their families that they often put themselves last, which is why they routinely screen for various female issues during their patients’ annual exams.

Marci is a single mom of four kids: daughter Katelyn, age 17; son Max, age 16; son Tyler,

Photo by Amanda Wilson Photography

age 14; and daughter Annabelle, age 12 - three are adopted. Their days are full! The kids are all busy with sports and school activities, but it helps that the oldest two are driving now. There is always a lot going on, but when they can, they all enjoy being outdoors, kayaking and paddleboarding at the lake. Two dogs and a cat (Marci’s favorite ‘children’) round out their family. She just loves spending time with her kids…her family is what makes her heart sing!

It seems that the busiest people are always, well… the busiest! They are the ones consistently going the extra mile. In Marci’s case, faith and family are top priorities. Outside of her work, she is active in her church and also in the Tres Dias community. She is also a Certified Christian Mental Health Coach who counsels others through difficult times. Even her bucket list includes traveling for missionary work.

“It is so important that women feel empowered to be part of decisions regarding their own healthcare. When providers really listen to their patients, it is easier for them to walk their wellness journey,” is her philosophy.

Contact Marci at KALISPELL OB/GYN, which is located in the Falls Building at 165 Commons Loop, Suite E, in Kalispell. Visit www.kalispellobgyn.com or call (406)752-5252 with any questions or health concerns.

Enhancing

Minimally Invasive Options for Radiant Skin Collagen

Collagen, the protein responsible for skin's firmness and elasticity, naturally declines with age, leading to wrinkles and sagging. Collagen production naturally declines starting in your 20s, decreasing by about 1 to 1.5 % per year. By age 40, collagen levels can be significantly reduced, causing age-related skin changes.

Medical Spa Treatments

Written by Dr. Courtney Austin, MD

Using a patient's own cells to create new, healthier cells is a safe and effective way of improving skin texture, elasticity and to prevent progression of age-related skin changes. Fortunately, there are numerous treatments that help to boost collagen production, delivering youthful, radiant skin without any extensive downtime.

Several examples of minimally invasive treatments include microneedling, platelet rich plasma therapy, laser resurfacing, with laser such as Fraxel, Clear and Brilliant, and BBL, platelet rich fibrin, and Ultherapy. Depending on your skin type, texture and the areas that you wish to im prove, one or a combination of these mo dalities may be helpful in improving your body's ability to create natural collagen and improve skin quality.

All these therapies are readily available in a good-quality medical spa like Glacier Med Spa. It is essential to be sure your treat ments are being administered by a qualified professional to ensure safe, personalized care for the best possible outcome.

Always remember that while medical spa treatments are helpful in rejuvenating collagen levels, avoidance of excessive UV exposure, quitting smoking, improving your diet and limiting exposure to environmental and oxidative stress are critical in maintaining glowing, healthy skin. A diet rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, bone broth for bioavailable collagen and amino acids, and high-protein foods help with natural collagen synthesis.

Patient concerns were active acne, acne scarring and overall skin texture. Leslie treated her with one round of PRF injections and results showed as quick as one week post treatment.

Dr. Courtney Austin, MD

The Natural Way to Rejuvenate Skin

PRP, PRF, and PRF EZ Gel

What are PRP and PRF, and how do they differ?

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) are regenerative therapies created from a patient’s own blood. PRP is spun at high speeds and remains in liquid form, offering an immediate boost of growth factors. PRF, spun slower and without additives, forms a fibrin matrix that delivers a slower, steady release of healing properties, resulting in longer-lasting rejuvenation.

What aesthetic benefits do PRP and PRF offer?

Both PRP and PRF naturally stimulate collagen and elastin production, helping to smooth fine lines, even out skin tone, and refresh overall skin quality. PRP is popular for improving skin radiance, while PRF is highly effective in treating delicate areas like under the eyes by delivering prolonged regenerative effects.

How are PRP and PRF used in cosmetic treatments?

PRP and PRF are utilized to rejuvenate facial skin, reduce wrinkles, enhance skin texture, restore under-eye volume, and reduce scarring. They are often combined with microneedling or laser treatments to maximize results.

How long do PRP and PRF results last?

PRP typically delivers results within a few weeks that can last several months whereas PRF offers a more gradual transformation, with effects that can persist for 6 to 12 months due to ongoing collagen stimulation. Both usually require a series of 2-3 treatments for best outcomes depending on indication being treated.

Are PRP and PRF safe treatments?

Yes. Because they are made from your own blood, PRP and PRF are extremely safe, with minimal risk of adverse reac-

tions. Common side effects are mild and temporary, such as minor swelling, bruising, or redness at the injection site.

What

is PRF

EZ Gel,

and how long do the results last?

PRF EZ Gel is an enhanced form of PRF, processed through a heating and cooling technique to create a thick, smooth gel suitable for volumizing aesthetic treatments. It combines the regenerative properties of PRF with immediate, natural-looking volume, making it a popular fill er alternative for areas like cheeks, temples, and tear troughs especially for clients who are not a candidate for filler or who would like a safer alterna tive. Results typi cally last between 6 to 12 months, of fering both instant improvement and long-term collagen stimulation for a refreshed, youthful appearance.

Leslie

Glacier Med Spa 1111 Baker Ave, Whitefish MT

2302 US Hwy 2 E, Kalispell MT

Lovelady, Family Nurse Practitioner, FNP

Owner of Cabello Vida Salon Meet Jamie Tatum

Jamie’s knack for finding beauty doesn’t stop at the salon chair. She sees it everywhere: in the hues of a sunset, the buzz of her beehives, or the chaos of her garden. That perspective shapes her full life.

Nestled in downtown Kalispell, Cabello Vida Salon is a welcoming spot where skill meets heart. Jamie Tatum, a blonde specialist with a talent for custom color, runs the show. She first opened her doors in 2018, determined to build a place that’s all about quality and connection. Economic shifts in the Flathead Valley have made it tough for business owners like her—her original building was sold, a second location didn’t pan out despite her efforts to buy it, and she’s had to adapt again and again. Through it all, Jamie persisted, chasing her dream of running her own salon, reshaping each space with grit until landing in her current suite, a testament to her drive.

“I’ve had to pivot more than I’d like,” Jamie says, “but I’m tough. The Valley’s economics don’t make it easy, but I started with nothing, and I’m proud of what I’ve built.” At Cabello Vida, every color is tailored, every appointment unrushed—a laid-back vibe where the focus is on getting it right. For Jamie, it’s not just about hair, though. It’s about the connections she builds with friends, family, and clients. She’s there for them through their worst and best times, offering a listening ear and a safe space. “I love connecting with different types of people. That’s what fuels me.”

Jamie’s knack for finding beauty doesn’t stop at the salon chair. She sees it everywhere: in the hues of a sunset, the buzz of her beehives, or the chaos of her garden. That perspective shapes her full life. She’s a traveler, with South Africa, Namibia, Greece, and Turkey under her belt, and France, Italy, and Spain set for May. She also hits the road for work, sharpening her skills and styling weddings worldwide.

At home, she’s hands-on: tending bees, growing her own food, raising chickens, visiting with her five children and her husband, a Marine who’s been her steady anchor through it all. Whether she’s mixing a perfect shade, exploring new corners of the world, or harvesting from her backyard, Jamie’s energy is real, persistent, and strong.

Cabello Vida Salon isn’t just about the haircut—it’s about a woman who’s navigated loss, economic hurdles, and change to create a space that reflects her skill, care, and love for beauty in all its forms. More than that, it’s a hub for connection, where her curiosity and warmth turn clients into community, one conversation at a time.

www.facebook.com/Jamieshairlife

profile} Jamie tatum

Feel the Strength, See the Performance, Radiate Confidence EMSculpt Neo at De Novo Wellness

By Amanda Wilson

You're a force, Montana woman, conquering trails, nurturing families, and pursuing passions with fierce determination. Imagine a treatment that works just as hard, effortlessly sculpting your body, boosting strength and endurance, and enhancing mobility. At De Novo Wellness in Kalispell, Dr. Scott Jahnke and his team offers that revolutionary solution: EMSculpt Neo.

More Than Just Body Contouring:

The EMSculpt Neo Difference

What sets EMSculpt Neo apart from traditional body contouring is its ability to simultaneously address fat loss and muscle building. This cutting-edge technology uniquely combines Radiofrequency (RF) to melt fat with High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy, triggering thousands of powerful muscle contractions in just 30 minutes – far surpassing what you can achieve on your own – ultimately revealing a stronger, more capable you.

Imagine the Possibilities

• Sculpt and Define

Tone your abdomen for a stronger core, lift and shape your glutes, and define your arms and legs – all without surgery or downtime. Studies show an average of a 30% fat reduction and a 25% muscle gain in treated areas.

• Empowering Athletes

For the active person, EMSculpt Neo offers a competitive edge. Strengthen core muscles for enhanced stability in hiking, skiing, and riding. Increase muscle power for improved performance and endurance. It's a game-changer for taking your athletic pursuits to the next level.

• Reclaiming Mobility and Strength

EMSculpt Neo offers functional wellness, representing a completely different treatment and effect on the body compared to aesthetics. EMS-

culpt Neo isn't just for aesthetics; its functional setting is a powerful tool for those:

• Recovering from injuries.

• Undergoing post-surgery rehab.

• Dealing with muscle atrophy.

• Seeking to improve their functional movement and reduce the risk of falls.

Imagine regaining the strength to en joy your favorite Montana activities with newfound ease and confidence.

• A Foundation for Wellness

Beyond the visible changes, EM Sculpt Neo contributes to overall functional wellness. It can help pre vent disuse muscle atrophy, improve blood circulation, and even reduce muscle spasms. It's about building a stronger foundation for an active and healthy life.

What to Expect: Powerful Results, Effortless Experience

A 30-minute EMSculpt Neo session at De Novo Wellness is comfortable and convenient. You'll feel intense muscle contractions, similar to a challenging workout, accompanied by a gentle warming sensation. There's no pain and absolutely no downtime – you can walk out feeling stronger. A typi

cal series involves four sessions, spaced a few days apart, with noticeable improvements appearing within weeks. EMSculpt Neo at De Novo Wellness is an investment in yourself – in your confidence, your strength, and your overall well-being. It's about aligning your physical presence with the powerful person you are inside.

The Power of Movement

Why Exercise is Your Body's Most Powerful Medicine

By Dr. Tom Flass and Brittany Coburn NP-C

In an era of increasing sedentary lifestyles and declining physical activity, understanding the critical role of exercise has never been more important. With skyrocketing rates of diabetes and obesity, neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s, and the top killer of Americans (heart disease) looming on the horizon, ignoring the role of exercise in our health is a mistake we can’t afford to make. The Aware Families Podcast, hosted by Dr. Tom Flass and Brittany Coburn NP-C, recently dove deep into the transformative power of movement, revealing why exercise is perhaps the most potent "medicine" available to us.

The statistics are sobering. Over 80% of Americans are considered metabolically unhealthy. A third of teens are prediabetic and will get type 2 diabetes unless they change course. 38 million adults have type 2 diabetes and over 40% are obese and the numbers continue to rise. Each year we lose almost ¾ of a million Americans to heart disease.

While our chemical laden, highly processed food supply certainly plays a large part in all this, lack of exercise is thought to be equally or more contributory to our decline. Turns out that “sitting is the new smoking” is no joke. There is a profound decrease in all-cause mortality (death from any cause) when moving from zero hours of exercise to just 2-3 hours of exercise per week. The biggest predictor of longevity in multiple recent studies has been found to be cardiovascular fitness (measured by something called VO2 max).

Why is exercise so important? Exercise is crucial because it benefits nearly every bodily system. Below are listed some of the key benefits of exercise.

1. Mitochondrial Health

Exercise directly benefits mitochondria, the cellular powerhouses responsible for energy production. Healthy mitochondria are linked to reduced risk of numerous diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune conditions, and brain issues including cognitive decline. Healthier and more mitochondria contribute to better health. There is no path to healthy mitochondria that doesn’t involve physical activity.

2. Metabolic Flexibility

Regular physical activity teaches your body to efficiently burn both sugar and fat, improving metabolic flexibility. This helps manage weight, reduce insulin resistance, and lower the risk of metabolic syndrome and diabetes. By training the body's systems to work more efficiently, exercise acts as powerful preventative medicine, protecting against chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cognitive decline.

3.

Cardiovascular Protection

Exercise improves vascular tone, making blood vessels more flexible, improving circulation and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. It also improves Vagal Tone, which is the part of your nervous system that sends rest and digest signals to the body. Low vagal tone is now thought to be a risk factor for multiple diseases.

4. Mental Health and Brain Function

Physical activity releases "happy hormones" and has profound effects on improving mental health and brain function. It can help combat depression, reduce stress, and improve blood flow to the brain, potentially slowing cognitive decline. There is a clear link between physical activity and improved attention including reduction of ADHD symptoms in kids.

5. Bone and Muscle Health

Weight-bearing exercises promote bone density and muscle growth, which becomes increasingly important as we age. For women, this is particularly crucial during perimenopause and menopause. It is crucial to understand that in essence, MUSCLE = METABOLISM. The more muscle you have, the higher your metabolism, and the more potential you have for metabolic flexibility and fuel burning rather than storage.

What are the current exercise and activity recommendations?

For Young Children (3-5 years):

• Active play throughout the day

• At least 15 minutes of movement every hour

• Focus on fun, unstructured physical activities

For Children and Teenagers (6-18 years):

• 60 minutes of daily aerobic activity

• Muscle-strengthening activities 3 days per week

• Bone-building exercises like jumping and climbing and age-appropriate strength training

For Adults:

• At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly

• Combine aerobic and strength training

Unfortunately, 75% of school-age children are not meeting recommended physical activity guidelines, with girls faring worse than boys. Physical education requirements in schools have dramatically decreased, with only 26% of high school students attending Physical Education classes five days a week. By 12th grade, only 43% of schools require physical education, compared to 97% in sixth grade. For adults, the situation is equally challenging. Less than 30% of males and 20% of females are meeting the basic exercise recommendations, and it is having severe consequences.

What are the most important types of training to maximize physical benefits?

“Zone 2” Aerobic Training Zone 2 refers to sustained exercise for 30 minutes or more where you can still hold a conversation. It is measured by a heartrate that is 6070% of your age-based maximum (220-age). This cardiovascular “sweet spot" trains mitochondria to burn fat efficiently and provides significant cardiovascular benefits. Target heartrate can be tracked by several wearable devices like Apple watch, Whoop, FitBit and others to help keep you in Zone 2. Brisk walking/hiking, jogging, biking, and swimming can all fill this bucket.

Strength Training

Strength training increases metabolism, boosts mitochondria, improves insulin sensitivity, and supports bone health. Contrary to common misconceptions, this doesn't require heavy weightlifting but must involve some type of resistance training that stimulates muscle growth. Don’t put all your eggs in the aerobic basket and ignore strength training. As we age it becomes even more important to maintain muscle. If you are new to weight training, consider a personal trainer or see if your local fitness center offers a women’s strength training/weightlifting class. Once the initial intimidation goes away, many women fall in love with strength training and how it makes them feel. Free weights, resistance machines and the right bodyweight exercises can all be effective muscle builders.

At any stage of fitness, it can be a good idea to work with someone to help you reach your fitness and health goals. Many people are also increasingly using wearables to help track their fitness levels using a vari ety of metrics.

Don’t focus on the scale as your mea sure of fitness! Body composition (as measured by a DEXA scan or Bio impedance scan) can be far superior to weight as a health metric, as these measurements tell you the ratio of bodyfat and lean mass (muscle). If you are losing bodyfat and gaining muscle weight, you are on the right track. A knowledgeable healthcare provider can also see if there are im provements in your blood tests mea suring insulin sensitivity and other markers of metabolic health.

Practical Tips for Incorporating Movement

• Start small: Even 8-10 minutes daily can make a significant difference

• Make exercise a non-negotiable part of your routine

• Find activities you enjoy. Schedule activities with friends or a partner

• Consider working with a trainer or group class to learn proper techniques

• Utilize home workout options

• Track your progress with fitness apps or wearable technology

A Call to Action. The message is clear. Movement is not optional; it's essential. Whether you're a parent concerned about your child's activity levels or an adult looking to improve your health, incorporating regular exercise can dramatically transform your physical and mental well-being. Start today. Your future self will thank you.

Disclaimer: Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.

Check out the exercise episode on The Aware Families Podcast, wherever podcasts are found.

Tom Flass and Brittany Coburn offer comprehensive personalized health assessments using a variety of metrics and labs at Functional

What inspired you to go into health care?

A NGIE : My inspiration came from my family. My father was a radiologic technologist, and my mother was a nursing assistant. I grew up in a home rooted in service to others and giving back to the community. Radiology fascinated me early on—the technology, the pace and the variety it offered. I was drawn to the idea of working in a field that not only impacts patients’ lives every day but also constantly challenges me to grow.

TANA : I chose radiology as a career because I'm drawn to the investigative, problem-solving nature of it. I love that it combines technical skill, attention to detail and meaningful patient interaction. I'm especially inspired by how imaging can uncover what's invisible to the naked eye, playing a critical role in diagnosis and care. My interest in mammography grew from witnessing its profound impact on early detection and women's health. It's incredibly fulfilling to be part of a specialty where timely, accurate imaging can truly save lives.

How do breast imaging technologies differ, and how do patients know which one is right for them?

A NGIE : Breast imaging technologies serve different purposes, but mammograms remain the gold standard for annual screening and early detection. Annual mammography, starting at

Q&A WitH Logan Health’s Angie Tennison and Tana McLellan

Featuring Angie Tennison, Manager of Mammography, MRI, and MRI Safety, and Tana McLellan, Lead Imaging Technologist of Mammography

age 40, has been proven to save the most lives. Other imaging tools, such as MRI or ultrasound, are used when additional evaluation is needed—often for women with dense breast tissue, a high-risk status, or specific concerns. However, for most women, a mammogram is the only imaging necessary for routine screening. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, talk to your provider. But don’t skip your annual mammogram—it’s the most effective way to detect breast cancer early.

What advancements have you seen in breast imaging, and how are they improving patient care at Logan Health?

A NGIE : Thanks to philanthropic support, we have acquired an innovative new tool: The Lateral Arm Biopsy accessory, which allows for direct access to lesions in challenging locations, improving biopsy precision and patient comfort. We are also the only breast center in northwest Montana currently offering Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM). CEM enhances a standard mammogram with contrast, making it easier to highlight lesions that might not be visible on a traditional screening mammogram.

TANA : With new technologies like CEM and advanced biopsy options, radiologists are better equipped to detect breast cancers even earlier, leading to more treatment options and better outcomes. Taking care of your breast health is essential. Getting regular mammograms can

help detect breast cancer early, when treatment is typically most effective and outcomes are more favorable.

What do you like to do in your free time?

A NGIE : Outside of work, my world revolves around family. We’re avid outdoors enthusiasts—hunting, fishing, hiking, skiing, boating and camping—basically anything that lets us soak up the beauty of Montana. It’s where we recharge, reconnect and create our best memories. Sharing these experiences with my family has been one of the greatest joys of my life.

TANA : I'm all about taking full advantage of everything Montana has to offer, especially when I get to share those unforgettable moments with my family and friends. Whether it's hiking through the mountains, rafting on the river or heading out on spontaneous camping and four-wheeling trips, there's nothing better than sharing those adventures with my husband and our two German Shepherds by my side.

Schedule Your Mammogram Today Call: (406) 751-9729

Learn More: logan.org/breasthealth

Brought to you by

Tana and Angie at Logan Health’s Women’s Imaging Center

Swing Fore a Sister

Driving Progress in Breast Cancer Care

By Dena Tomlinson

Each July, the women of the Eagle Bend Ladies Golf Association gather not just for the love of the game, but to make a meaningful difference in the lives of local women. Through their annual Swing Fore a Sister tournament, these golfers have raised more than $350,000 over the past decade to support Logan Health’s Save a Sister program, which helps women across the Flathead Valley access and afford lifesaving breast cancer screenings and coordinated care.

The 2024 tournament was a testament to their continued impact. With 120 golfers and 30 teams, the event funded the purchase of a Lateral Arm Upright Biopsy Accessory, which is a tool that improves access to hard-to-reach areas of the breast and reduces the need for surgical intervention. Thanks to this addition, more patients are receiving quicker, more comfortable diagnoses using a minimally invasive approach.

This summer, the tradition continues. The 2025 Swing Fore a Sister tournament, scheduled for July 22, will help raise funds to add Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM) capabilities to a second mammography machine at the Women’s Imaging Center at Logan Health Medical Center, expanding access to this vital service for more women. CEM is an advanced imaging technique that combines traditional mammography with a contrast dye to highlight areas of increased blood flow, which can be a sign of cancer. This enhanced imaging provides clearer, more detailed views of breast tissue, making it easier to detect

abnormalities that may not be visible with standard mammography.

Logan Health is the only health system in northwest Montana offering CEM, which supports earlier detection and offers an alternative for women who can’t undergo MRI due to pacemakers, health conditions or cost barriers.

“As we learn more and more about the impact of having dense breasts in addition to better identifying women with significantly elevated risks for getting breast cancer over their lifetime, having tools to actually do something about it matters,” said Dr. Scott Alexander, Vice President of Northwest Imaging and Logan Health Mammography’s lead interpreting physician. “Contrast Enhanced Mammography is a tool which can help us identify breast cancer in patients at an earlier stage, regardless of their breast density, which can be a limiting factor if only standard mammography was performed. Earlier diagnosis saves

lives and contrast enhanced mammography plays a vital role in this.”

The Swing Fore a Sister tournament has grown into a cherished tradition, fueled by the dedication of the women who organize and play, as well as the generosity of local businesses, corporate sponsors and community donors. For many participants, this annual tournament is quite personal. “We’ve been hitting the fairways for 15 years, dedicated to raising funds that support breast diagnosis and treatment options in our community,” said Bernadette King, this year’s Swing Fore A Sister tournament chair. “I want to give back to our community and make a significant impact for all women.”

Over the years, it has supported critical advancements in breast cancer care, from helping fund a second breast MRI coil to most recently adding the lateral arm biopsy accessory. Beyond the technology, the tournament fosters awareness and encourages women across the Flathead Valley to prioritize preventive care.

Players embraced the year's festive theme while supporting breast cancer care in our community—joined by Logan Health Foundation President, Michael Barth.

This mission is at the heart of Save a Sister, a program established in 2008 through a partnership between Logan Health and the Flathead City-County Health Department. Since its founding, Save a Sister has helped remove financial barriers to care by providing more than 1,000 mammograms and ultrasounds, hundreds of biopsies and lymphedema garments, and by raising over $850,000 in community support. By expanding access to early detection and timely treatment, the program continues to improve outcomes for women across northwest Montana.

Dr. Scott Alexander and the breast imaging team at Logan Health show Bernadette King and Donna Lawson of the EBLGA the new lateral arm biopsy accessory—made possible through funds raised at the Swing Fore a Sister Tournament.

As the 2025 tournament approaches, its impact is poised to grow once again. Proceeds will help bring Contrast-Enhanced Mammography to more patients, furthering the event’s long-standing legacy of advancing breast health care in the region.

For more information about Save a Sister, to make a gift to the fund or to discuss opportunities to support health care in our community, please contact Dena Tomlinson at the Logan Health Foundation at dtomlinson@logan.org.

Dr. Scott Alexander and the breast imaging team at Logan Health are committed to early detection and compassionate care.

Slow is Smooth

By Dr. John F. Miller DDS - SMILE MONTANA

“Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast.” At first glance, that might sound like nonsense. But if you sit with it for a moment, it starts to make perfect sense. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to mentor many young dentists at Smile Montana—some straight out of dental school. My message to them was always the same: no quotas, no daily production goals. Just focus on doing your best work. I encouraged them to go as slowly as needed to ensure their quality was at the highest level possible. Slow is smooth, and smooth is high quality.

I’d often say, “Slow it down and get really good. Then get faster at being really good.” That’s how I still approach my own work. I schedule each day with enough time to do the kind of dentistry that impresses me—and my standards keep rising.

There’s a well-known Venn diagram with three circles labeled FAST, CHEAP, and GOOD. The caption says, “Pick two.” If it’s fast and cheap, it’s not good. If it’s good and cheap, you’ll wait for it. And if it’s fast and good, it’ll cost you.

When I think about this framework and my advice to younger dentists, I realize I was guiding them toward becoming “good” first, then gradually becoming “fast” while maintaining that quality. According to the diagram, that combo should be expensive. But here’s the thing: we

“Slow it down and get really good. Then get faster at being really good.” That’s how I still approach my own work. I schedule each day with enough time to do the kind of dentistry that impresses me—and my standards keep rising.

don’t charge based on speed or quality—we charge per procedure. So when a dentist becomes both good and fast, the cost per visit doesn’t increase, but their earning potential does. A dentist who used to complete one excellent filling an hour can now do two. Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast, and fast gets paid.

I do a lot of oral exams—about 20 a day. One of the small joys in my routine is spotting great dentistry in a patient’s mouth. I’ll often compliment the previous dentist. It inspires me to leave behind work that future dentists will admire. Sometimes I’ll see a fantastic crown or filling and ask my hygienist, “Was that done here? Which dentist?” Occasionally, they’ll say, “You did it.” I have to admit, it’s strange realizing I’ve been at this long enough to forget some of my own work. But it’s also gratifying—because it means the quality held up. Slow is smooth, and smooth still looks good in the future.

Summer is around the corner, and the days are getting longer. That means more daylight—and more time to slow things down. Which is good, because by now we all know the mantra. Say it with me: Slow is smooth, baby.