406 Woman Business August-Sept 2016 by 406 Woman

406 contents featured 10. Michelle Petrina High Flying Jet Pilot

406

Man

16. Everit A Sliter

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profile

non-profit

20. Studio 48 The Fountain of Youth Found

business

24. The Lighthouse A History of Hope 28. Changed Lives Meet the Cheff’s

32. Doing Good is Good Business Parkside Credit Union

30. Giving for Ever

34. Be Brave, Not Perfect

health

Legal

40. Breastfeeding and the Baby Friendly Experience

38. Assisting Aging Parents with Their Finances

44. Ask the Skin Coach Bump Awareness 46. 150 Minutes for your Health 48. Pilates for Moms to Be 52. Get the Energy Back in Your Life 54. Getting back in the Groove...of School 58. This is Real Life…So Floss

Published by Skirts Publishing six times a year

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View current and past issues of 406 Woman at w w w . 4 0 6 W o m a n . c o m

High Flying Jet Pilot Michelle Petrina By Kristen Hamilton

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It’s rare to meet someone who truly believes they are “living their dream” but Michelle Petrina is doing just that. When she was younger, she wanted to travel the world and thought if she earned her pilots license, she’d be able to do just that. It wasn’t always easy and she said, “I had to scrounge money at times to afford flight lessons and work towards my college degree.” But, she did and even took it to the next level and became a commercial pilot and flight instructor. In fact, Michelle has been the only female Federal Aviation Designated Pilot Examiner in the state of Montana. That was 27 years ago and she’s still flying high! We had the chance to chat recently and Michelle treated me to some delicious tea party treats that she was considering serving at her upcoming (at the time) wedding on July 22 to Dr. Mark Colonna. I’m certain they were a hit at the wedding – thanks for the treat Michelle! Michelle grew up in northern California (in the Indian Valley Greenville area), which ironically is within 30 minutes of my parents home. She commented that most people are not familiar with that area and I would definitely agree with that. Unlike many parts of California, it’s remote and not very populated.

After high school she went off to college (she was the first person in her family to get a college degree) while she continued to work on her flying and worked summers as a class five whitewater rafting guide in California and Oregon. Although it took her 10 years to graduate, she believed that she would do it and never gave up. That’s the same fighting spirit that got her where she is today. Eventually, she found herself a single mom and wanted to find a great place to raise her children. She wanted to give her kids an adventurous lifestyle-she wanted them to grow up dirt bike riding, horseback riding, skiing, and camping. That was 16 years ago when she headed to Montana and opened Glacier Flight Training. Michelle loves teaching and knows it can change people’s lives. “My job is to help

people discover their own greatness and finding something they love through flying,” she said. “It’s great to see people come out of their shell when flying,” she added. With hard work and commitment, you can solo at 16 years old and receive your license at 17 years old.

Many of her students have made a career in aviation. Michelle referenced that there is a shortage of pilots right now so the opportunities are great whether in the armed services or civilian route. She also referenced that flying is still really a “man’s” world and its great seeing more women interested aviation.

She feels a special connection with all of her students. And clearly her students feel the same way as the Federal Aviation Administration, at their Montana State Aviation Conference honored Michelle with the Flight Instructor of the Year Award for the year of 2015. Our very own business manager, Daley McDaniel, has been a student of Michelle’s and raves about her abilities. He said, “My experience, while working with Michelle either in the aircraft or ground school is her natural soothing, encouraging and professional instructor abilities that is extremely encouraging while building a students confidence, thank you Michelle.”

Michelle insisted that both of her children got their pilot’s license if they planned to get their driver’s license. She said “Being able to fly an aircraft on your own is a life accomplishment at any age and it teaches people a colossal amount of responsibility and accountability.”

She’s also taught a lady who was 72 years old! She said aviation is for the “young and old.”

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Michelle Petrina

Britney at her graduation from the Air Force Academy

Above photo by Rex Short

She encourages

anyone that

Martin during a dive

has an interest in flying to try it out with an introductory flight lesson. I was shocked to learn that an hour lesson (in the sky) is only $145. You get to bring a guest too! Of course she recommends a parent if it’s a young student. It’s actually a pretty popular gift she noted. “It’s a great way to give someone a taste of flying.” In addition to giving lessons, Michelle also works as a commercial jet pilot for hire. One of her favorite trips was getting hired to pick up a jet in Europe and fly across the Atlantic Ocean to the US. Her dream stop on that trip was Iceland. Her favorite companion in the air is her beagle, Daisy Mae. “She takes every trip with me,” she said.

To give back, Michelle donates her time and expertise in the cockpit to Angel Flight. Angel Flight West is a nonprofit, volunteer-driven organization that arranges free, non-emergency air travel for children and adults with serious medical conditions and other compelling needs. Her student and good friend, Bill Bayne (406 Man Dec 2014/Jan 2015 issue), got her involved and together they’ve helped a number of people in the area. She also referenced a “Chihuahua mission” in which she and Bill transported 20 (of 300) dogs back to Montana that were going to be euthanized in California. That sounds like a crazy (and noisy) trip!

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Her kids, Britney & Martin together

What does she do in her free time? Well she flies of course! Michelle has a Cessna 172 advanced instrument trainer with 180 horsepower and a Garmin 430. She also has a floatplane and she describes it as insane fun. “You can pack a lunch and go into the back country. It is so exciting.” Her kids are her pride and joy! Her daughter Britney recently graduated from the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Her son Martin is currently in Roatan, Honduras working on obtaining his instructor certification in diving. She is happy that they are pursuing their dreams and living life to its fullest.

What’s next for this newly married pilot? She’s working on getting her commercial license to fly a helicopter and would like to become an instructor as well. She’s also thinking about going back to school to work on her master’s in social work. I’m pretty confident she’ll succeed on all counts!

Glacier Flight Training

Based at Glacier International Airport in Kalispell 406-261-9386 www.glacierflighttraining.com

Angel Flight

www.angelflightwest.org 888-426-2643

Everit A Sliter

By Mary Wallace

Don’t let the mild mannered personality fool you. On first impression, this month’s 406 Man, Everit A Sliter, is somewhat quiet, a gentleman, a trusted CPA. But according to his wife, Nikki, he possesses a wicked sense of humor. He has been known to lead someone right down the garden path and then out of nowhere - hit an easy mark with a prank, practical joke, or leg pulling. Even so, it may take his victim a minute or two to decide if he was just messing with them or completely serious. I rather found him to be just so. I met the Sliter’s at their lovely home on the east side of Kalispell, delighted as I parked the car, that I was going to see inside one of those lovely eastside homes that I have always admired as I drove by. The house (just

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406 Man

as lovely as imagined) was built in 1910 by a lumberman named Barber. Mr. Barber was killed in an accident and his wife later died of influenza. Everit’s grandfather, a cashier at 1st National Bank, bought the home in 1918, and sadly, he died in 1929 leaving a widow with 5 children. Everit’s grandmother converted it to a boarding house and rented rooms to make ends meet. She put the house up for sale and left in 1945 to follow a romantic interest to California, but Everit’s mother bought the house and it remained in their family. Everit & Nikki bought the house in 1988 when his mother passed away. Long story short - no one ever really moved out. Amazingly, the original Barber family bible is still in the home. It may or may not have been by chance that Everit & Nikki Sliter are celebrating 51 years of wedded bliss. Nikki admitted that she walked by that house nearly every day at six years old, and told herself, “I am going to live in that house someday!” It was a spur of

the moment invitation to be the lookout for a waterski outing when she first met Everit and later went home and told her mother, “I am going to marry that man.” They had two sons, Paul and Justin, who brought them 5 wonderful grandchildren - Morgan, Ashlynn, Gage, Chase, and Raegen. Paul, who was Speaker of the Montana House of Representatives, was killed in an accident in 2001. Justin and his family live in the valley and (in the footsteps of his forefathers) he is also a CPA and involved in several community activities such as Kid Sports and the FVCC Foundation.

The Sliter’s family has always been steeped in a tradition of community service. Everit has been involved (most often in a financial management capacity) for a myriad of local community entities: City Council, Trinity Lutheran Church, Chamber of Commerce, Noon Rotary, President of the Montana Society of CPA’s, the Montana State Board of Public Accountants, Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts, the

406 man} Everit A Sliter Bigfork Community Development Foundation, the Flathead Booster Club, the Board of Glacier Bank, Glacier Bancorp and the Conrad Mansion Directors (see side bar). Even though retired, he is still active on most of these.

Has it ever occurred to him to say “no” when asked to volunteer? Everit explained that back in the 60’s, it was not appropriate for certain professions to advertise. As a CPA, volunteering in the community was one way to get in front of his would-be customers. He soon found he enjoyed giving back to the community. Still, he concedes that it may be time for others to take over some of these duties.

Growing up, Everit’s family lived in an apartment over the Sliter’s Store in Somers. Everit’s father purchased a store in Somers from Harry Horn in 1934. It was called the Peoples Mercantile, a general store that carried everything-groceries, meats, clothing, cow feed, clothing, presto logs, gasoline and fuel oil. Somers was a Company Town-the railroad owned its own general store, the sawmill, tie plant and most of the houses where the workers lived. The present Sliter’s Lumber and Building Materials Store in Somers is at the former Company Store site. Everit worked at the store as a youth, along with his older brother Neils (who was nicknamed Joe) and his younger brother Tom.

Upon his graduation from Flathead High School, his grandmother sent plane tickets for he and his cousin from Libby to visit them in California. His grandmother’s boyfriend told the boys they would never amount to anything in Montana and they should move to California. Everit promptly traded his plane ticket for a bus ticket home, and the minute the bus popped over the hill at Polson, Everit recalls thinking, “You can keep California … I am home!”

Everit recalls driving the tractor on the family farm from the time he was 6 years old. Their family still owns the farmland and leases it out to a grower of wheat, barley, alfalfa and canola. Everit always wanted to be a farmer, but his father suggested he should get a more lucrative job so he could afford to SAVE the family farm. He urged Everit to attend Valparaiso University in Indiana. How did Everit come to be a CPA? As per John Lennon, “Life is what happens when you are busy making other plans.” Between his freshman and sophomore year in college, anyone who had grades less than a C- had to speak with their counselor about their courses. His only A was in accounting, so his counselor suggested he stick with accounting. That is what he did. He started as an intern at Henry Jordahl, CPAs between his junior and senior year at the University of Montana (1960) and

earned his Montana CPA Certificate (#385) in 1963. He became a partner at Jordahl & Sliter CPAs in 1965 and remained until 2015 when he retired from all but his non-profit work, which he still does at 77 years old.

The Sliters enjoy travelling but they never could travel much in the winter (much too busy during tax season), so they are enjoying more opportunities to travel now that he is retired. They have been to Russia, Canada, Hawaii, Italy, France, England, Scotland, and Mexico. These days, when he is not attending board meetings or doing non-profit work, he likes to ski, spend time with family, and poke around on the farm. The Sliters divide their time between their home in Kalispell and their cabin in Bigfork during the summer months. When asked if he had any secrets to life to share, Everit responded, “Always stick to it – whatever needs to be done, get it done.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “The purpose of life is not only to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have made some difference, that you have lived and lived well.” Rest assured - Everit A Sliter is an excellent example of Emerson’s ‘life well lived’.

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Photo by Mystic Creek Studios - Patrick Booth

406 man} Everit A Sliter

One community treasure that is close to Everit Sliter’s heart is the Conrad Mansion. What many may not know is that is almost didn’t happen. Everit was on the City Council and was one of the first people Alicia Conrad Campbell spoke to when she inquired about donating the family mansion to the city in 1972. The Sliter’s were neighbors of the Campbell’s and when her husband passed away, Alicia felt like she couldn’t keep it any longer. The estate had to go through probate before any official transfer could happen, but in the meantime, the grounds were badly overgrown and furnishings were being pilfered and sold. The City Council assigned police to catch any trespassers and thieves. A bit of roof work was done to avoid further deterioration of the mansion. Surprisingly, an organized opposition rose up in the community . . . why was the City spending money on the Conrad Mansion when it should be fixing potholes instead? It was decided that it should be put to a vote, and sadly, the opposition got it voted down two-toone. Further, a lawsuit was filed on the City Council members for having spent city funds on private property that it didn’t even own yet. Things looked pretty bleak for the mansion.

Enter Sam Bibler, who took it upon himself to begin promoting the Conrad Mansion as a

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valuable asset to the community. He pledged to raise funds to match the dollars previously spent by the city to go toward the restoration. Local grade school children started collecting pennies to give to the Mansion. The Historical Society got involved. Alicia had basically used the mansion for storage for years, trying to preserve as much of the family history as she could. When one room was filled with boxes of things, she moved on to another. The Campbell’s grandson, Chris Vick, spent about a year going through the home cleaning and cataloging everything of either monetary or historical value. An eventual agreement, signed in 1974, to transfer the property to the city included a decree that the mansion had to be selfsupporting – no further municipal funds could be expended to restore, operate or maintain the property.

Sam Bibler not only supervised the mansion restoration project, he restored and maintained the yard and gardens for 20 years. The Soroptimist# Club did a great deal of the restoration work. Many local contractors donated all or part of their services, and actually, many

still do to this day. The mansion opened the doors for $1 tours during the restoration work so people could see the progress being made. One of the restoration volunteers, Arvid Kristofferson, recalled working alone in the house one day – he was painting in one of the bedrooms when he heard footsteps. He went out to check and saw the original Mrs. Conrad, (who died in 1923) standing there. She nodded her approval, smiled, and was gone.

The Conrad Mansion and Museum opened for official tours in 1976. Tours and fundraisers help the Conrad Mansion stay completely selfsupporting to this day.

Everit still serves on the Conrad Mansion Foundation Board of Directors. His favorite room is the laundry in the attic, because of the innovative equipment that was in place at the time the Conrad’s lived there. Thanks to people like Everit Sliter and Sam Bibler, the city of Kalispell hosts a treasured piece of Montana.

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The Fountain of Youth Found at Studio 48 Pilates and Fitness By Rachel Vandevoort Photo By Noah Couser Photography

Since the beginning of time man has searched for a fountain of youth. First documented thousands of years ago, with accounts from cultures across the globe, the notion of eternal youth transcends. What is it we are all seeking? Even the most rational person, understanding that no one can live forever, still desires to feel or look young for all of the days we do have in this life. Some look to nutrition and exercise, others cosmetic procedures; regardless, the end goal is to look and feel younger. One can argue that this is not just a desire for a youthful physical body but for a youthful spirit of mind as well. Find the mythical potion transforming mind and body and you can argue the fountain of youth has been found — enter Pilates. Joseph Pilates, born in 1883 in Germany, was a man well ahead of his time. As a child he was taunted for being smaller than his classmates and was sick with asthma, rickets, and rheumatic fever. He devoted his life to overcoming his physical limitations by educating himself in anatomy, bodybuilding, wrestling, yoga, gymnastics, and martial arts. He developed a fitness program that worked so well for him that by the age of 14 he was posing for anatomy charts. He believed that lifestyle choices, poor posture, and inefficient breathing patterns were the cause of poor health. Body Contrology, the original name of

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now what is known as Pilates, is what Joseph Pilates continued to develop for the rest of his life, with and without the use of his innovative equipment. The first piece of Pilates equipment, the Cadillac, originated from a hospital bed. The first barrel is said to be made out a beer keg and the metal hoops from the keg were used for the Magic Circle. The first Pilates Chair was an actual chair he designed for people to use in their living room as an accessible way to workout. To the casual observer, some of the classic Pilates exercises may appear simple. Once the observer tries for themselves, with the help of cues and corrections from a well-trained instructor, they feel how complex a simple movement pattern can be. Pilates allows for each individual exercise to be modified to accommodate a range of body and posture types, fitness levels, and even injuries. As the student’s body awareness increases so does the intensity. Pilates can be one of the most attainable yet challenging workouts of your life — and you will actually enjoy it. There are many methods of Pilates that all differ slightly from the original Contrology. STOTT PILATES® is a contemporary approach to the original exercise method pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates. It was developed by a collaboration of physical therapists and sports medicine and fitness professionals. The refined method resulted in the inclusion of modern principles of exercise science and rehabilitation – making it one of the safest and most effective methods available. STOTT PILATES® focuses on restoring the spine to a neutral alignment so students can move through life tension free. All 500 plus exercises in the Pilates repertoire incorporate the Five Basic Principles of the STOTT PILATES® Method: Breathing, Pelvic Placement, Rib Cage Placement, Scapular Movement &

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Studio 48

To the casual observer, some of

the classic Pilates exercises may appear simple. Once the observer tries for themselves, with the help of cues and corrections from a well-trained instructor, they feel how complex a simple movement pattern can be. Stabilization, and Head & Cervical Placement. It is used by professional athletes and everyday fitness enthusiasts of all ages and abilities, and has something to offer to those with the most lofty fitness goals and those with simple ones. Now that we have found our mythical potion, what about the fountain serving it up? Meet Gabrielle Cahoon, Pilates instructor and owner of Studio 48 Pilates and Fitness. Gabrielle began teaching group fitness in high school and continued the path of becoming a fitness professional in college at Appalachian State University. After college she continued helping clients achieve their fitness goals as a personal trainer and indoor cycling instructor but felt that there was a missing link in her professional training. In 2006 she was introduced to Pilates. Through STOTT PILATES® Gabrielle learned ways to cue her clients to use their bodies in more effective and efficient ways. With emphasis on proper breathing and muscular engagement she started to incorporate Pilates principles into all of her client’s sessions. Gabrielle continued her Pilates training and education after moving to Whitefish in 2008 from North Carolina with numerous Pilates courses and workshops with some of the best fitness educators in the industry. Gabrielle is an instructor trainer for STOTT PILATES®, a premier brand of Merrithew Health and Fitness, as well as Total Barre and CORE Athletic Conditioning. Gabrielle was chosen for the elite invitation-only instructor program and has since joined the ranks of fewer than 300 instructor trainers worldwide for Merrithew Health and Fitness. With her passion for fitness and the help of her handy husband, Studio 48 Pilates and Fitness opened February 2013. The studio's mission is to help people Find Their Center by focusing on strengthening the body from the inside out. This mission translates into

the everyday activities of avid fitness enthusiasts to the grandmother who wants to pick up her grandkids with ease. With a variety of services including private and semi-private Pilates instruction, barre, Matwork, TRX, and equipment classes, as well as instructor certification courses and workshops there is something for everyone's fitness goals and budgets in mind at Studio 48 Pilates and Fitness. Through her studio, Gabrielle hosts instructor training courses and continuing education workshops for STOTT PILATES®, Total Barre and CORE Athletic Conditioning year round. Why do Pilates? Many people who are avid walkers, joggers, runners and bikers often feel that they are getting a sufficient workout. While these are wonderful for your cardiovascular health, you are only working your body in one plane of motion, says Gabrielle. These activities only work your sagittal plane, where everything is simply flexing and extending. The human body is capable of flexing, extending, rotating, and laterally flexing as well. A complete Pilates workout combines exercise that challenges balance and stability in all planes of motion. Joseph Pilates said "You are only as old as your spine is flexible." With the use of Pilates specialized equipment, like the reformer, chair, barrel, and cadillac, the body is easily guided to achieve exercises that both lengthen and strengthen muscles to keep them strong and stable. I can also speak to this question from personal experience. I began adding Pilates to my workout shortly after the birth of my second son. I wanted to add it to my routine to help bring my core back in shape after packing around two, slightly shy of 10 lb, healthy babies- Pilates certainly did the trick. But I did not realize Pilates true potential until the rupture of my Achilles tendon. 10 days post rupture, before the cast was even off, I realized that Pilates,

with accommodations for my decommissioned lower leg and use of all the specialized equipment, was truly the only full body work out available- so I doubled down, hitting the studio two to three times a week. At my 3 month doctor checkup the surgeon and physical therapists wanted to know what I was doing- they had never seen such a quick recovery. I had nearly imperceptible muscle mass loss and I was progressing more than twice the rate of an average person. At six months post-surgery I was well past where some would consider a full recovery; and at one year I was at 98% of pre-injury mobility and strength. This all thanks to stubbornness and Pilates. The real key to life-changing results for both body and mind with Pilates is your instructor. To have a well-trained instructor there guiding your every movement to its fullest potential exponentially increases benefit. Gabrielle's energy, enthusiasm and mastery of her trade are positively infectious. With a gifted skill set, quick adaptability and a neverending play book she offers all clients and students individually tailored workouts and training. And with Pilates it is your instructor who helps to foster the mental and physical fitness connection that is so hard to quantify. Long-time students of Pilates will tell you that Pilates doesn't just make them feel better or younger, it makes them FEEL, not like a new person, but the best version of themselves — inside and out. Pilates does not transform, it restores. And after all, isn’t that what we are all looking for? Ironically, the legends and myths surrounding the fountain of youth may live forever, though none of us will. But with the help of Gabrielle and instructors at Studio 48 Pilates and Fitness we can feel like new for the time we've got!

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Lighthouse

The Lighthouse A History of Hope By Kay Burt

Families of adult members with developmental disabilities face challenges few of us apprehend. How do you provide an appropriate social life for a loved one with special needs? Or meaningful work? How do you provide safety without suppressing joy? Perhaps most daunting of all, how do you assure security for a loved one whose years may stretch beyond your own? For families facing these and similar challenges, the Flathead Valley’s Lighthouse Christian Home has served as a beacon of hope for well over a decade. The structure, sprawling handsomely over its 8,000 square feet, is home to 12 adult residents. An adjacent, supported-living structure houses four more. And though its beams and timbers come from Montana’s Flathead Valley, the true foundation of the Lighthouse lies in Berkshire, England, in the lavender-rimmed cottages where the dream began.

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Peter Pelchen had planned only a brief visit when he passed through England in 1979. That visit, though, turned into an extended stay with a hard right towards destiny. During that time, Peter met and married his wife Denise, a native of northern England, and together they embarked on a life’s calling. Both had a passion to help others, and together they began to volunteer in England’s group homes. Peter, especially, felt drawn to developmentally disabled adults. For one, he had a brother with disabilities; for another, his degree work led in that direction. It was hardly a coincidence, then, that their paths should cross those of Dr. David Potter. Dr. Potter, founder of Britain’s Cause for Concern ministries, envisioned an alternative care model for developmentally disabled adults. In contrast to the dreary, crowded facilities of the day, Potter envisioned a warm home setting that met both physical and spiritual needs. Potter believed, too, that dignity was found in meaningful work, a concept that resonated especially with Peter. Peter applied and found work at one of Potter’s homes in Berkshire, a facility with Victorian bungalows, cottage gardens and lavender-lined yards. And as Peter and Denise lived and worked there, a dream began to form:

they envisioned one day establishing just such a home, themselves. The couple returned to the States in 1986, having by then added two daughters to their household. That same year, Peter secured a job in Kalispell at Flathead Industries, continuing to work with disabled adults. Still their dream blazed bright, and often Denise and Peter would share it with others. In time they had a following, and a nonprofit was formed and initial fundraising began. Then in 1990, through a series of “well-timed” events, Peter and Denise met Lowell Bartels. Bartels shared the couple’s empathy for the developmentally disabled. He had previously established a home in Helena, and through his Farm in the Dell ministries, he also owned property in the Flathead. After visiting with Peter and Denise and learning of their dream, he offered his Flathead property as a site for their home. It was to be one of many miracles. The going was slow, initially. Permits had to be secured and plans formulated—then reformulated—to meet government guidelines. Finally, in

“Through love, serve one another” ~ Gal. 5:13

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Lighthouse

1994, with a mere $3,000 in seed money and on a wing and a prayer, ground was broken for the Lighthouse.

As construction began, the provisions were little short of astonishing. A seasoned contractor volunteered his oversight; local companies donated concrete and lumber. Septic and electric were provided, almost magically. . . roofing materials, too. A local contractor stepped forward to offer his crew for a day’s work, and the community rallied, too. There were several “blitz builds,” similar to old-time barn raisings. Most amazing of all, when Pelchens moved into the Lighthouse in 1999 with their three daughters and its first two residents, there was not a penny of debt.

Residents were added; a few at a time and a waiting list grew. In 2004, to better accommodate the increasing numbers, the Lighthouse transitioned from a house-parent model to that of director and 24/7 staff. Shirley Willis ably took the reins at that time, and with the help of a board and dedicated staff, carried the vision forward to the present time.

The Lighthouse continues to flourish today, a model of self-sufficiency with its large garden and contingent of livestock. With the support of 12 staff members, residents tend the grounds and the animals, simultaneously working their jobs with a local coffee company. And were it needed, evidence of their full, rich lives is underscored by their accomplishments: Leanne’s

artwork was recently showcased at a Bigfork gallery; Jamey, Kristin and Sara are accomplished skiers, consistently medaling in the Winter Special Olympics; Ryan has brought home “The Gold” in basketball and can rattle off “stats” like a sportscaster. And their stars rise as part of an even greater constellation: Lighthouse residents volunteer at food banks, serve on staff at local Bible camps and volunteer for other community activities. Amie, who loves children, assists at a local daycare and has served as an aid at Somers School. Davey’s special mission each day is to hand-deliver the newspaper to a neighbor and help around his yard. Other residents babysit at MOPS meetings, assist with after-school care and minister at memorial services with food and kitchen help. Reciprocally, the Lighthouse offers its family an abundant life. There are opportunities each season to compete in the Special Olympics; there are excursions to ski hills, equestrian facilities and valley events. This past winter, residents participated in the Tebow Foundation-sponsored “Night to Shine,” a red carpet, “prom-night” event hosted by Canvas Church. It was a gala evening, replete with gowns, tuxedos and tiaras; one resident, Michelle, still wears her tiara. Finally, true to its mission, the Lighthouse offers spiritual enrichment, offering Bible studies, praise celebrations and transportation to local fellowships. The Lighthouse is supported partially by residents’ families. However, 40% of the critical operating budget must come from other fundraising, primarily through two major benefits. In the spring, there is an annual dance and live auction; in early autumn, the Harvest Festival.

At the moment, the Lighthouse is gearing up for its Harvest Festival. It’s a time for residents to not only show off their beautiful home, but also to offer the community some good, old-fashioned fun. There are pony rides, face painting and numerous family activities, and for the brave of heart there’s “Cow Chip Bingo.” Admission is a bargain—only a nominal donation for parking -- and festivities include toe-tapping music from local entertainers, raffles and a mouth-watering bake sale. This year, the Harvest Festival takes place on September 17th. Conceived as a dream, fleshed out in faith and carried forward by a loving staff and community, the Lighthouse Christian Home continues to beam its steady light. For adults with developmental disabilities and their families, it is a haven and safe harbor; for the rest of us it’s an opportunity to participate in a loving and generous and continuing miracle. Visit the Lighthouse website at: www.LighthouseChristianHome.org

For more information on the Lighthouse or Harvest Festival, contact Shirley Willis at (406) 857-3276.

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Child bridge

Changed lives

Meet the Cheff’s Ever thought about being a foster parent? Child Bridge has a simple and focused mission… to find and support foster and adoptive families for Montana children in need. There are a record number of children coming into foster care and over time, some of these children become in need of permanent families. Even when children need permanent families, the journey begins by the family fostering the children first. It’s here, that the simple mission of Child Bridge changes lives. The stories of transformation are powerful and inspiring…. like the Cheff family. This special Flathead Valley family embarked on the foster care journey with hopefulness of adopting a child who needed permanency. But their faith also guided them to be willing to provide short term care for those in need. They got both!

Tell us about your family:

Currently, there are seven of us in the house; Suny (dad), Sue (mom), Jed a senior at Flathead who plans to enlist in the army; Faith a 7th grader at Kalispell Middle School, Treven 3rd grader, Tristen 1st grade and Kiley who is 3. We have an older married son, Suny J, and he and his wife have our 1st grandson who is 7 months old. Suny is a contractor in the valley and Sue teaches business and technology at a local high school.

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By Mary Bryan

What activities do you enjoy as a family?

whining to another “foster sister” the weekend before about the lack of a placement. Right after that, the call came in for a 3-year-old and 6-year-old brother set. Making sure that the littlest could be placed into daycare, we said yes.

What intrigued you about adding to your family with adoption?

Two to three weeks later we found out that the boys had a 3-month old sister. We had the boys in our care for about 7 weeks and then all of the sudden we had 2 days’ notice that they were going back to their biological parents. Our hearts would ache and feel the void of their leaving, but we were very excited about their reunification and hopeful for this young family.

We enjoy hanging out as a family the most; it is what grounds us. We horseback ride, camp, help out at our family’s ranch, vacation, play games, and love to be outside.

Suny embarked on his first international mission about 6 years ago and came home feeling like God had told us to adopt; we checked into international, national, and state wide adoptions and felt like those choices were not exactly what God had in mind. The following Spring, Child Bridge made a presentation at our church. It was impactful, heartbreaking and educated us and our church to the need for foster and adoptive parents for Montana kids. It was an eye-opener…there are kids in need right here in the Flathead Valley. We could provide a home, love, security, and a family to someone in need – so why not? That May we signed up for foster classes and began our journey with some other couples from our church who I refer to as my “foster sisters” and family.

When did you decide that you wanted to pursue adopting through the foster care system?

We didn’t really feel that we wanted to just foster. We wanted to provide a child who needed it with a permanent home and family. But, knowing the system as we do now, even if a child comes into your home who is already legally separated from their birth parents, fostering for at least six months is part of the process, You always foster first. We waited for about 1 ½ years until we received what would change our lives forever… in the form of a placement call. It was a funny thing… I had just been

A couple of weeks later we got to see the boys for a few hours, and not long after, we got another call to take the boys back. Of course, we said yes. But this time I inquired about the baby girl. We learned she too, had needed better care, and that very night, she was placed in our youth pastor’s home! We had heavy hearts about the potential of these kids being split up, so I went to my department and to my principal to see if maternity leave would be an option for foster care and it was. So… ten days later we took her home as well. There is no win-win in this situation… we wanted to adopt selfishly because we didn’t want children returned to an uncertain situation, risk worry and broken hearts. Foster children lose out on fundamental rights of children; safety, security, their history, and suffer neglect, abuse and trauma that can impact the rest of their lives. Bio parents, due to their choices, miss out on raising their children, seeing them become adults, and all the other joys as well as hurts of being parents. I try to remind my kiddos as often as they need it that they are not at fault and how much they are loved and how blessed we are to have them as ours.

nonprofit}

Child bridge

The system for foster care is broken and as foster parents you have little to no voice. That was hard to deal with sometimes, when you just want what is best for kids in your care. How was the transition for your family?

Our older children would say harder than they expected. Suny J remembers the day we took the boys back to reunify with their bio parents and the family meeting that followed. He didn’t want to take in more kids; he felt the boys were just settling in and then, just like that, not a part of our family anymore. The older kids also lament that it was hard to naturally love these three new additions. They can’t pinpoint it, but after a time, they were their brothers and sisters and the love was there. For the first year, it was hard to balance a large family. There were times when Suny or I would walk out and forget the diaper bag! Typically, you have nine months to prepare, and we’d been out of the diaper mode for years! It was hard and emotionally draining to focus on the significant needs of the foster kiddos and not feel like our balance was off with our bio kids, and they sacrificed for the good of the foster kids. We did what we have always done; our marriage was a priority; date nights and weekends were planned and we recharged when we could. After a while, it became our norm and routines were so important; but you still have to have flexibility. Treven shares that these rules, routines and structure were “way different” from anything he’d ever experienced. But, after a time, we saw all the kids settle in and thrive within the framework of our family. God promises to not give you more than you can handle, but what He can handle through you. That was obvious in our case.

We spent that winter following our older boys around while they wrestled. There was a lot of gear and activities involved, and it was fun bonding time for all of us.

What is the most positive change that has occurred in your family dynamic?

That’s easy! Three wonderful and talented children that have personalities that are so unique yet similar to our family. It is uncanny that Trev is like Suny J; Trist is like Jed; and Kiley is a lot like Faith!

Can you describe any struggles that you may have had that would help other families looking to foster or adopt?

The system for foster care is broken and as foster parents you have little to no voice. That was hard to deal with sometimes, when you just want what is best for kids in your care. Bringing three new children into our home flipped our normal, their normal, and took a long time to establish a new normal. Balance was particularly hard for me as a fulltime mom, teacher, and wife. We still struggle but it is less. The hardest part is watching your kids struggle to handle their behavior and emotions without knowing why or where they are coming from and having to overcome things that they had no part in doing or deciding. They suffer because of the adults’ decisions and circumstances that they had no voice in; that is hard to deal with as a parent. But it is rewarding beyond words to see life come back into these children,

and watch them experience and express happiness and confidence.

Did you have a strong support system through family and Child Bridge? Absolutely, our families

were so supportive. I am not sure how people do this without the support of family and resources and prayers of Child Bridge. My mom and dad traveled with us all over the NW region of Montana that first winter. Our extended families helped us set up for the new kiddos, and just loved us with encouraging words, actions, and travelling all the time to support us in court or the little things of walking along this journey. Our church was a huge blessing, my department was amazing in assisting me with gear and lesson plans, our friends treated all our kids the same and with love. Child Bridge helped us anytime we asked and offered lots of good resources and training to assist us in this adventure. And, it was so great that many of who I now call my “foster sisters” came into foster care around the same time with the assistance of Child Bridge. It is so great to walk this path together!

Anything else you’d like to add?

God is so good – 19 years ago we lost a little girl… and to the day, 18 years later, we were able to add three beautiful, talented and wonderful children to our family. From ashes to beauty. For more information on Child Bridge visit www.childbridgemontana.org.

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Giving For Ever By Lucy Smith, Flathead Community Foundation

An oft-quoted Talmudic story tells of a traveler who once saw an old man planting a carob tree. He asked the man when he thought the tree would bear fruit. “After seventy years” was the reply. “And do you expect to live seventy years and eat the fruit of your labor?”

“I did not find the world desolate when I entered it,” said the old man, “and as my ancestors planted for me before I was born, so do I plant for those who will come after me.” We lead such busy lives, it seems we hardly have time to keep up with the day, let alone pause to reflect upon our legacy – the gifts we will leave to those who come after us. And after our children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren. But if more of us would take that time and make a plan, our gifts of any size could dramatically change the world. Imagine how many families the old man’s carob tree shaded and nourished for generations? How many people one man’s simple gift helped long after his lifetime? Americans give generously in the present tense. Statistics have remained fairly consistent for more than a decade, showing that roughly 80% of us contribute to nonprofit organizations of our choice

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throughout our lifetimes while only 8-9% of us leave a charitable bequest. What would the world look like if 80% of us planned and gave charitably in the future tense? Local community foundations and nonprofit organizations have been asking the question for years, and seeking to make planned giving as simple and rewarding as it is to give in real-time.

managing endowments, which will provide a growing stream of income through time. Beyond these commitments, your fund at the community foundation can support other charitable organizations that serve the broad fields of interest that you want to support.

It is interesting to note that “thinking too hard” is cited as one of the biggest obstacles to making a charitable plan. What if your favorite nonprofit closes its doors or goes in a different direction than you intended to support?

Why leave discretion to the community foundation's board? It's simple. What if your grandparents had left you a foundation and required you to give only to the charities that were around in the 1930's? Your favorite museum, park, orchestra, shelter for women, homeless shelter, food bank and humane society probably didn't exist back then. Do you think if they were alive today they would have been supporting some of the charitable organizations that you feel strongly about?

One simple solution is to leave your bequest to a charitable fund at your local community foundation. Robert Thalhimer of the Community Foundation Serving Richmond and Central Virginia explains in Bobby’s Blog (paraphrased)

It's the same principal when you consider your own bequest. After providing for those specific charities to which you feel a commitment, it's a good idea to give someone else the authority to make judgments -- just as you do -- within parameters that you set.

There are many ways to leave your legacy, including bequests to nonprofits you have supported during your lifetime. I think, however, there is a strong argument to leave your bequest to a charitable fund at a community foundation and to give some flexibility to the community foundation's board.

Why choose a community foundation board to make these decisions for you? While your children or grandchildren can serve in this capacity during their lifetimes, your descendants beyond then are not likely to know your charitable vision. A community foundation by definition has a board of leaders who are of your community and who are broadly representative of community interests. They know the community's needs. Their actions are audited and transparent. They have the fiduciary responsibility to adhere to your fund letter for all time, thus ensuring that your legacy performs in the manner you would hope and expect.

Your fund at the community foundation can designate a percentage of spendable income to go to the charitable organizations you have supported during your lifetime. This is an effective way to maintain commitment to these charities. Community foundations are in the business of

giving back} Montana is home to more than 70 local community foundations, each one dedicated to the permanent good of the hometown they serve – its values, vision, dreams and greatest needs. You serve your community today by your participation as a caring citizen, neighbor, leader, and friend – and by your generous support of the causes that matter most to you. With a simple plan, you can continue your service forever. Like the carob tree, providing for generations you will never meet, long into the future.

What is a Community Foundation? A community foundation is a charitable organization created by and for a community of people. It is supported by local donors and governed by a board of private citizens who work toward the greater good of the citizens in the community. Funds come from a variety of sources, including bequests and living trusts, and are invested in perpetuity. The investment earnings are then distributed to worthy organizations or causes.

The World’s First Community Foundation

Banker and lawyer Frederick H. Goff hatched the idea of a “community trust.” His vision was to pool the charitable resources of Cleveland’s philanthropists, living and dead, into a single, great, and permanent endowment for the betterment of the city. Community leaders would then forever distribute the interest that the trust’s resources would accrue to fund “such charitable purposes as will best make for the mental, moral, and physical improvement of the inhabitants of Cleveland.”

The Cleveland Foundation was born on Jan. 2, 1914. Within weeks, the foundation began reshaping the way community members care for one another not just in Greater Cleveland, but around the nation and the world. Within five years, community foundations had sprung up in Chicago, Boston, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, and Buffalo, N.Y.

Now, more than 750 community foundations in the United States collectively manage more than $48 billion in assets and distribute some $4.3 billion a year to community needs. Moreover, the idea has emigrated: Some 1,700 community foundations now exist worldwide.

Since its inception in 1914, Cleveland Community Foundation has distributed grants totaling $1,882,101,959 and touched millions of lives.

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business}

Carol Treadwell - Executive Director of the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation

Amy Dempster - Director of

Marketing for Glacier National Park Conservancy

Doing good is good business. Written by Noreen Cady Photo by Daley McDaniel

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Angie Meehan - Community Outreach Coordinator, Park Side Credit Union

Naomi Morrison - President of the Board of Directors for the Boys and Girls Club

What do you get when you combine business development with community relations as a strategy for business growth? Two very dedicated, hardworking women who are turning community involvement into real growth for a credit union. Angie Meehan is the Community Outreach Coordinator and Noreen Cady is the Business Development Manager. Together, they work with Park Side Credit Union’s marketing department. By helping to develop a “Cause Related” marketing strategy with their team, both promote the understanding that “Park Side Credit Union is able to invest in our communities by our communities investing in us.” Volunteering for nonprofits is a great way to help others. But it’s also a win-win, with real business benefits. Angie and Noreen have figured out how to live their values in every aspect of their business. The relationships they build are founded on a shared commitment to something larger than themselves. Once a year, Park Side choose three nonprofits to partner with in the Flathead Valley and three in Missoula, where Park Side now has branches. The idea is to focus resources and employee engagement for a year to help these organizations. In January, a volunteer team of Park Side employees, including entry level positions and upper management, listen to the nonprofits' story and decide who they are most passionate about. Park Side then commits to having paid employees help with fundraising events and gives financial support throughout the year to these organizations. This is only one of many ways Park Side finds to be out in the community, giving back.

Jennifer Young - Outreach Coordinator, Cancer Support Community

Noreen Cady - Business Development Manager, Park Side Credit Union

Park Side is a not-for-profit credit union that has always been a proud supporter of our community. But, these ladies have found a way to use that voice to develop business. There are plenty of options when it comes to banking in our area and Park Side Credit Union is just one option. But, by developing civic-mindedness as part of their culture, it has become a core part of the Park Side Credit Union brand. The continued growth of the credit union draws on many people that they have met through volunteering. Park Side is a not-for-profit credit union that has always been a proud supporter of our community. But, these ladies have found a way to use that voice to develop business. They understand that companies that support philanthropic causes by involving employees and management in volunteer projects see a direct

increase in engagement and productivity. Angie Meehan and Noreen Cady work together to help others demonstrate that Park Side isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just about making money, but about making a difference in the world. Being charitable is really part of the credit union's DNA. By focusing on the community where their members are, these ladies leverage their local presence to provide quality service to members. At the same time, they also understand that community and market development can be part of a virtuous circle that can help the local community and the credit union thrive. Building a strong reputation and brand around community leadership can be an important avenue for growth and can be the tangible competitive difference. Some business leaders feel that doing well in the community does not always require a direct ROI. Philanthropy can often be the most cost-effective way for a business to improve its competitive edge by also benefiting the local community.

Visit Park Side Credit Union's website to learn more. www.parksidefcu.com

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Be BRAVE, Not Perfect

3 Myths that Keep You Frustrated, Resentful, and Doing Too Much Written by CrisMarie Campbell

When I was at a top consulting firm, I was leading a project at a famous software client. My consulting firm boss came in one day and said, “This is your project strategy.” As he walked us through his approach, I thought, “That’s not going to solve the client’s problem.” Rather than saying that because I didn’t want to sound snotty, I asked, “Do you think that is going to solve the client’s problem?” He vehemently said, “Yes! Get to work.” I was catapulted back to sitting round my family dinner table with my Army Colonel father who was only happy when we obeyed. I immediately shut up and obediently got to work. Fast-forward six months to the end of the project. My boss asked the client VP at the software company how the various projects were going. The client VP turned and pointed to me across the room and said, “Well, you know that project CrisMarie led? That was a disaster – a complete disaster!” I was devastated and humiliated. I decided then and there that I was going to learn to speak up even in situations where I thought I couldn’t or shouldn’t and help other women find their voice and do the same! Now, I have a relationship where I can be 100% myself, a business that I love, and the freedom and courage to express myself. I feel relaxed, inspired, and yes FREE!

Being Good versus Being Brave

Let’s first look at some of the reasons this may be more of an issue for women than for men. Reshma Saijani, founder of Girls That Code, and a recovering perfectionist, gave a great TED talk: Teach girls bravery, not perfection.

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Her talk offers some great background on the difference between how girls are taught versus boys. She references a study in the 1980s, where psychologist Carol Dweck looked at how bright fifth graders handled an assignment that was too difficult. Bright girls when given something that was foreign or too difficult, were quick to give up and interestingly, the higher the IQ, the more likely they were to quit. Bright boys, saw the difficult material as a challenge and energizing. They were more likely to double their efforts! Here’s where it gets interesting. Girls routinely outperform boys in every subject, including math and science. So there is no difference that would explain this choice to give up other than bright girls believe their abilities are innate and unchangeable, and bright boys believe that they can develop through effort and practice.

These differences are explained through the feedback girls and boys receive. Girls who develop self-control earlier and follow directions, are praised for their “goodness.” Boys, on the other hand, are considered more of a handful. As a result they are given more feedback that emphasizes effort – “if you just try a little harder or pay more attention, you can do it.” When learning something new that is truly difficult, girls take it as a sign they aren’t good enough or smart enough. Boys, on the other hand, assume they are not paying enough attention and should try harder. This was just one of many examples Reshema sites in how, as a culture, we teach girls to be good and perfect, and we teach boys to be brave. Another good example is that a Hewlett Packard report shows that men will apply for a job if they meet 60% of the criteria. Woman will only apply if

Bravery: the quality that allows someone to do things that are dangerous and frightening they meet 100%. In diving deeper into why women did not apply unless they met 100% of the criteria, what came out was their fear of failure. There is more evidence that women remember failure much longer than men!

Danger, Danger, I Might Fail!

Bravery is defined in the Merriam-Webster dictionary as: the quality that allows someone to do things that are dangerous and frightening, meaning risking failure and not being good!! These days, I am focused on helping women Be Brave! For me, this means having the courage to speak up even when you think you can’t or shouldn’t. It is the number one skill that can transform relationships both at home and at work. Am I perfect at this? Heck no! It has been my Achilles heel, which is why I have dedicated so much of my time, energy and resources to learning to find my voice and speak up. I care passionately about this and am committed to helping other women do the same, which is why I designed and am offering Be BRAVE!

Three Myths That Keep You Good versus Brave Women suffer from three myths that keep them trying to be perfect and stop them from being brave and speaking up. I want to do some myth busting for you. If you are with me so far and can relate to being “good” versus “brave,” keep reading!

First Myth: I CAN’T BE HONEST. I’LL HURT THEIR FEELINGS.

Many women are worried about hurting other people’s feelings. It’s no wonder. Most of us grew up hearing some version of: “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” Plus, women are supposed to be good at building relationships, right? Of course, we don’t want to be known for hurting other’s feelings. However, the idea of not saying anything is better – is a myth! The truth is, as women we talk. Sadly, if we aren’t courageous enough to say something directly to the person, we are likely to complain about them to someone else! Of course, what usually happens is eventually the person we are talking about hears what we are saying anyway, albeit indirectly. OUCH!

That is usually much more painful!

It can be uncomfortable to share a negative comment that someone might be hurt hearing, but it is even more painful, and potentially more damaging, when they have to hear what you think from someone else.

Second Myth: A GOOD RELATIONSHIP IS ONE THAT IS ALWAYS SMOOTH.

I have to admit; I thought this one was true for the longest time. I worked so hard to meet the expectations of my partner, my boss, my clients and my peers. I was hyper-vigilant in listening to what they liked so that they wouldn’t even need to ask me. Let’s start with some myth-busting research offered by a marriage and couples therapist, John Gottman, who has been working with and studying couples for more than thirty years. “Some marital patterns that even professionals often take as a sign of a problem-- such as having intense fights or avoiding conflict altogether - I have found can signify highly successful adjustments that will keep a couple together. Fighting, when it airs grievances and complaints, can be one of the healthiest things a couple can do for their relationship.”1 Whenever two or more of us are together, there will be differences. We will step on each other’s toes and things will get messy! Yes, this is true at home. It is equally true at work!! On teams, you want smart, passionate people aligned around a vision. Yet, smart people who are passionate are going to disagree. It’s healthy and frankly, the source of creativity – and it is not smooth! So smooth may be more comfortable, but it’s not healthy or creative.

It is true, some things may not be done as well as you like, but if you just keep doing them, you’ll burn out, or worse, get sick. It is important to remember a “yes,” means a lot more when we can also say, “no”. Plus, sometimes others learn to shine when you are willing to let them! If you are doing it all, others don’t know to step up or when to step up.

Be BRAVE

It’s not easy to change, especially when you have been rewarded for your “goodness.” The questions I would ask are: Are you tired of feeling frustrated, resentful and doing too much? Do you want to do more of what you love and less of what everyone else wants you to do? Finally, deep down in your heart, do you know that there is more you could be doing to fully show up in your relationship? It is your time to connect to you, make what matters to you count, find your voice, speak up, and create what you want! It’s time for you to ease off from being perfect and try being good enough. I can promise you’ll start to feel revitalized, empowered, and yes, free! Want some help making the shift? Give us call. We are opening enrollment in August for our October Be BRAVE program. Want to check us out? Join us for a FREE webinar we’re offering in September. You can learn more if you Friend us on Facebook @ thriveincmt. Come on! What are you waiting for? Join us and get your life back! 1 What Makes Marriage Work? It's how you resolve conflict that matters most. By John Gottman, Nan Silver, published on March 1, 1994 - last reviewed on June 9, 2016

Personally, I think a ‘good’ relationship is one that can adapt and change, which means being cocreative at go!

Third Myth: I CAN’T SAY “NO.”

Most of the women leaders I have coached have told me something to the effect: “I can’t say no. I have to do it, or it won’t get done.” For these competent, bright, accomplished women, this is as true at home as it is at work. Professional women often feel tremendous pressure to make sure that their careers do not get in the way of getting everything done and keeping everyone happy at home and at work. However, sometimes this over-performing is doing much more harm than good. Learning to say no is as important as saying yes.

Susan Clarke and CrisMarie Campbell are Coaches, Consultants and Speakers. They work with women to help you be brave – speak up even when you think you can’t or shouldn’t. When you do, you feel revitalized, empowered and free! Watch their TEDx Talk: Conflict – Use It, Don’t Defuse It! on YouTube. Find them on Facebook @thriveincmt. Check out their next Be BRAVE program at www. thriveinc.com it’s under Services. Contact them at thrive@thriveinc.com.

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Assisting Aging Parents with Their Finances By Kelly O’Brien, Attorney at Law

Jennifer had been helping her mother since her father passed away. While Jennifer’s mother always lived independently, she was beginning to reach the age where she needed assistance caring for herself. Jennifer began to help her mother with cooking and cleaning around the house. After she starting cleaning her mother’s home, Jennifer began to notice unpaid bills and she became concerned that her mother may not always be keeping up with her finances. Finally it got to the point where Jennifer had to confront her mother to ask if she needed help. While her mother was always quite proud and did not want to admit she needed help, she was relieved when Jennifer stepped in to help her manage her finances. Jennifer learned that her mother had previously executed a financial power of attorney appointing Jennifer as her “agent in fact” to handle her financial matters, which helped to simplify the process of taking over her mother’s finances.

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her bank accounts. Jennifer set up a system of automatic payments for utilities so they didn’t have to worry about unpaid bills. Jennifer also kept track of her mother’s bank accounts and credit cards to make sure that there were not unauthorized transactions on the accounts. Once Jennifer had set up a system for helping her mother manage her finances they both had the piece of mind and assurances that bills were paid on time and that no one was taking advantage of her mother. While it may not be easy for an aging parent to admit they may need help managing their affairs, it is best to have the conversation before that parent’s capacity is diminished. In Jennifer’s case she was fortunate that her mother executed a financial power of attorney while she was still able to do so, but that does not always happen in time.

Options Are Different Depending on Capacity

The specific option you may take to assist a parent with his or her finances depends on their level of competency and understanding of his or her own financial matters. If your parent does not have memory or competency issues, and want to maintain some level of financial independence, then options such as a power of attorney or signatory authority on accounts may make sense. However, if you are concerned that a parent may be showing signs of dementia or has

significant memory problems, then you may need to seek appointment as his or her conservator through a court process.

Conservatorships in Montana

If your parent or parents already have significant memory or capacity problems, but do not already have a power of attorney in place, then you (or another trusted family member) would need to seek appointment as that parent’s conservator through a court order. A conservator is an individual appointed by a court with a duty to make financial decisions and manage finances for an incapacitated individual. The appointment of conservator in Montana requires the filing of a petition with district court. This includes a general statement of property owned by the alleged incapacitated person. A hearing in district court is required to determine the issue of incapacity, as well as to determine the appropriate individual to act as conservator. Notice of the hearing and petition must be served on all interested parties, which includes spouses, children and other family members. The process of seeking appointment as a conservator through the court system, can be time consuming and expensive. The process also can be confusing and overwhelming for an incapacitated individual, so it is not often a first choice. However, if a parent already

legal}

Finances

A power of attorney can be a useful tool for financial management and simplify the process for assisting a parent with his or her finances. They also let a parent choose the individual that they want to assist with their finances without the need for a public court process.

has significant memory or capacity problems and has not planned appropriately with a financial power of attorney, then a conservatorship is likely your only option for assisting a parent with his or her finances.

Financial Power of Attorney

If your parent has previously executed a financial power of attorney appointing you or another family member as an agent in fact for financial matters, then you may be able to avoid the conservatorship process. Similarly, if your parent has sufficient capacity to appoint an agent to make financial decisions for him or her through a power of attorney, your family may avoid the need for a conservatorship. A power of attorney is a document whereby you appoint another individual (called an “agent”) to make financial or heath care decisions for you or transact business on your behalf in the event you are unable to do so for yourself. A power of attorney can be an immediate grant of authority or only used in the event of incapacity or disability. Unless the powers are specifically limited in any way, an agent appointed under a general financial power of attorney can make all types of financial decisions and transact all business on your behalf. These general powers include authority for check writing and banking, real and personal property, taxes, stocks and bonds, business transactions, insurance, legal claims and all other general financial matters. A power of attorney can be a useful tool for financial management and simplify the process for assisting a parent with his or her finances. They also let a parent choose the individual that they want to assist with their finances without the need for a public court process.

Duties of an Agent

If you are appointed to act on behalf of one of your parents, whether through a power of attorney or conservatorship, you have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of that parent. This means that you have a legal duty to act solely in the best interests of your parent. You must manage and protect his or her property in an impartial manner. If you fail properly manage and account for your parent’s assets you may be subject to liability.

Organization is Essential

The best way to assist an aging parent with his or her finances, while protecting your parent’s best interests is through organization. Start by creating an inventory of your parent’s financial assets, accounts and ongoing expenses. Use the inventory to create a monthly budget. Once you have a clear idea of the budget and ongoing expenses then utilize options such as automatic payments for utilities and other regular expenses. Once you have determined a budget and set up payment systems, keep updated records of these payments.

Discuss with Your Siblings and Other Family Members

Discussing a parent’s financial matters may cause disagreements between siblings, but it is important that you keep your family involved from the beginning. It is critical that you discuss these issues together before you take any specific action on behalf of a parent . This allows you to address any potential objections and make sure everyone is on the same page. If you don’t inform or involve your family from the start you may be prone to potential challenges, or even legal action at a later date.

Seek Advice

Before you begin to assist an aging parent with his or her financial matters seek legal advice to make sure you are proceeding properly. If you have any question about your parent’s capacity to make decisions make sure you involve your family, health care providers and legal counsel in the process. By seeking the proper advice and involving key advisers and family members from the beginning you may be able to avoid disputes and will be assured that you are taking the right steps to protect your parent. With questions about assisting your parents with their financial matters, Montana powers of attorney, conservatorships in Montana, or general estate planning questions contact Kelly O’Brien at Measure, Sampsel, Sullivan & O’Brien, P.C. at (406) 752-6373/ www.measurelaw.com

Disclaimer- This article is intended for educational and information purposes only, it is not intended to act as legal advice.

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health}

Breastfeeding and the

Baby Friendly Experience

“Our job is to make mothers successful,” says Debbi Foss, RN and Lactation Consultant for the Birth Center at North Valley Hospital. Debbi is in the nursery at the Birth Center with other registered nurses Sandy Beale, Lactation Counselor, and Cindy Walp, Birth Center Director, talking about how to make breastfeeding easier for new moms. It’s hard to imagine walking into an “office,” (albeit a nontraditional one), and finding a group of professionals more passionate about what they do for work than this group of women.

Every August, which is National Breastfeeding Month, the Birth Center from North Valley Hospital joins with the Breastfeeding Coalition and other community organizations to put on the Breastfeeding Fair. Cindy Walp explains that the event is to bring together moms from the community with an abundance of resources that can offer support and education about breastfeeding. Walp is clearly committed to helping mothers learn to breastfeed. As an advocate for breastfeeding, she works on the Board of Directors with the Flathead Valley Breastfeeding Coalition and researches how breastfeeding can build healthy families and

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By Allison Linville

communities. “The CDC lists breastfeeding as a goal in the Healthy People 2020 project, which was created to establish health guidelines for the population to grow and improve overall wellness.” One goal of the project is to increase the nationwide percentage of infants who are breastfed from 74% to 81% by the year 2020. Walp continues, “The health benefits to the mother, baby, and entire family are numerous. Breastfeeding offers not only food and nutrients to your baby; it’s about nurturing, bonding, and building relationships. It can reduce the risk of diabetes and obesity in mom and baby, prevent against illnesses and infections, improve dental health, and even reduce the effects of postpartum depression.” Encouraging breastfeeding and offering educational resources also goes hand-in-hand with the Baby Friendly certification that the Birth Center is working toward. Baby Friendly USA has partnered with the World Health Organization and UNICEF on the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative, which encourages breastfeeding, skin-to-skin contact, and “rooming in,” or keeping the mother and baby together in the hospital. North Valley Hospital is about one year away from becoming a designated Baby Friendly Hospital. “We offer free classes and lactation consultations starting with prenatal education, in addition to support for moms-to-be. Birth Center registered nurses are trained in the same breastfeeding message and terminology, so we all give the same information to keep it from being confusing.” Walp says she always

recommends a Mother and Baby Support Group, which meets weekly in Whitefish, to new moms. In the event that the mother cannot breastfeed (usually due to medical complications), or chooses not to breastfeed, the couple are still offered full support and the same benefits of rooming in with their baby, in addition to education and support for formula preparation and feeding. The Birth Center has a 98% success rate for mothers who want to breastfeed and are able to with some assistance from the nurses. “Everyone needs a little help at first, even though it is a natural process. It requires some one-on-one time with lactation experts and nurses, and we’re able to do that here,” says Sandy Beale. Beale explains that the environment in the birth center promotes education and making individual, informed choices about breastfeeding. “We don’t push anything on anyone. We just offer education, help, resources, and support.” Beale and Foss also note what an accomplishment it feels like for mothers who want to breastfeed and need some assistance at first. “Ask for help!” says Foss. “It can make all the different in the world.” Beale chimes in, “Breastfeeding helps the mother to feel empowered, and that’s something we love. We want to empower all moms with education, assistance, and support.” For more information about the North Valley Hospital Birth Center, please visit: nvhosp.org and click on Services/ the Birth Center.

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Ask the Skin Coach - Bump Awareness

By Erin Blair, Licensed Esthetician and Certified Health Coach

I’ve noticed that I’ve got bumps under my skin. I can feel them when I wash and apply products, but unless I stretch my skin tight, they’re not really noticeable. Although it’s tempting, I try not to squeeze them because if I do, they usually flare up into a zit that takes forever to heal. I haven’t always had these. I really only noticed them in the past couple months. What are they, what causes them, and what should I do?

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A: It sounds like you’ve got non-inflamed acne. The bumps you’ve discovered are closed comedones (aka whiteheads), which is a form of deep congestion in your pores. Something you’re using is clogging or you need stronger exfoliation inside your pores, or both. Most people think of acne as red, inflamed bumps and pustules. It’s actually most common to have a mixture of both inflamed and non-inflamed breakouts, but it’s possible to have just one or the other. What I’ve found really interesting is that much of the time, people don’t notice these bumps until their skin is riddled with them. Occasionally, graduates of my Clear Skin program will decide to tempt fate and stop following my advice. Maybe they think because they’re now clear, they can get away with

skipping their homecare, experimenting with other products, etc. Of course that doesn’t work out too well... When they call me for help, they’ll say ‘I just started breaking out again.’ But what do I find? Almost without fail, they indeed have a few inflamed breakouts that are probably new. However, when I stretch their skin a little, I’ll find weeks, even months worth of non inflamed impactions that have been growing inside their pores...completely unnoticed! Nope, these did not just start. They have been brewing and building up over time, and it’s going to take some work to clear them. After seeing this pattern repeat itself, I de-

Most people think of acne as red, inflamed bumps and pustules. It’s actually most common to have a mixture of both inflamed and non-inflamed breakouts, but it’s possible to have just one or the other.

cided to start teaching what I call Bump Awareness. I ask people to pay attention to what’s going on below the surface. Observing the subtle changes in your skin can help prevent conditions from getting out of hand! It’s always easier to correct a problem in its early stages. For most people I see, those bumps are the telltale early stage of what will become much worse if left unattended. While non-inflamed closed comedones are of the less obvious variety of acne, they are deep in the tissue. This condition takes a considerable amount of diligence to clear. Home care products with active ingredients for exfoliation are necessary, as is a moisturizer that won’t make matters worse. Once the clogs are softened with proper daily products, extractions are then possible during a facial service. When done correctly, the impaction is removed quite easily, without much risk of the flareups you have experienced when attempting this at home. This is a process. Once all the adequately softened clogs are removed, new ones continue to surface. You’d be surprised how much is lurking, out of view! Eventually, the clearing is complete. As long as a non-clogging, gently exfoliating regimen is maintained, your skin should remain clear. Of course, all this is accomplished more quickly if it’s caught early. Unfortunately, I have found that people turn a blind eye to bumps and allow the situation to get pretty advanced before seeking help. My best advice is to take action, early on. Pay attention to changes in your skin, and seek professional help if you notice something amiss. A simple course correction may be all that’s required, if you catch it in time.

Erin Blair, LE CHC owns Skin Therapy Studio, where she embraces a creative method of treatments, products and coaching to get skin clear... and keep it that way. It's a 'whole person' approach to difficult skin concerns. Visit SkinTherapyStudio.com for more info, and to submit questions for Ask the Skin Coach.

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150

minutes

For Your Health! By Kimberley Forthofer, ARNP

According to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) position statement and the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans most healthy adults should engage in 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;150â&#x20AC;?

Approximately 35% of the United States population is considered obese with nearly 70% of the population being considered either overweight or obese. Obesity is on the rise as are the chronic medical problems associated with it. In the state of Montana heart disease is projected to impact more than 300,000 individuals by 2030. Though Montana's obesity rate is the 10th lowest in the United States, obesity rates are ever increasing; up over 15% since 2000 (2014 data) as obesity is growing in the younger population. Most people acknowledge the importance of exercise and the positive health effects associated with regular physical activity, though few are incorporating it into their weekly routine.

Alternatively, 30 minutes of exercise 5 days per week or better yet 50 minutes 3 days per week. If you exercise at a more vigorous intensity, which is defined as only being able to carry out short phrases of conversation versus moderate being able to carry out a conversation comfortably during activity, then exercise duration can be reduced to as little as 20 minutes 3 days per week. It is important to include strength and flexibility activities as well as this improves muscle tone, balance and reduces the risk of injury.

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150 is a daunting number. Who has an extra 150 minutes of time between all of the hustle and bustle of the typical daily demands to make time for added exercise? It is time to make time for you! The amount of exercise needed to meet the recommendations can be broken down into daily amounts as little as 21.4 minutes per day, to be exact, or approximately two 10 minute walks per day.

How? What? Why?

How do you start an exercise plan and what do you do for exercise? Depending on your initial state of health and your physical limitations having a conversation with your health care provider is an important place to start. Most individuals are capable of exercise, but it is important to know if you do have chronic health problems and if there are any recommended restrictions. It is common thought that more is better and when it comes to exercise often there is a preconceived notion that it has to be hard and intense to have benefit. This is not exceptionally the case. As we discussed above the importance of exercise is to reduce body fat and therefore reduce the risks of chronic medical

health} problems that come with this. It is important to understand some of the physiology of exercise and to understand that not just focusing on a number on the scale is a direct indicator of the benefits of physical activity. During different types of exercise different energy pathways are utilized. During exercise of low intensity and longer duration up to 1 hour fat is the primary fuel source, whereas, in contrast in brief exercise at extremely high intensity carbohydrates are relied upon. When exercise intensity is more vigorous a combination of carbohydrates and fat are burned, but with carbohydrates being the preferred fuel. For individuals starting an exercise program at an advised low intensity, it is reasonable to pair this with a low carbohydrate diet as fat will be utilized in the absence of added dietary carbohydrates and, therefore, stored carbohydrate and primarily fat stores will be used leading to the positive outcome of weight loss. This is all very scientific and probably boring, but the point is that a 30-minute walk is just as useful as a 20 minute run. Although you might not be huffing, puffing, and sweating profusely you are still using up energy stores also known as calories.

The benefits of exercise are invaluable, not only does it control weight, but it can improve your mood, boost energy, strengthen bones, help with restful sleep, and reduce the risks of disease.

Millions visit Montana each year to hit the slopes, hike the trails, and enjoy the rivers and lakes that the state has to offer. No matter what time of year it is there are so many activities to take advantage of in Montana. So get out, get moving, and make time for your health. **Kimberley Forthofer, ARNP Kimberley Forthofer, ARNP joined Kalispell OB/GYN in July of 2013. Kimberly earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Montana State University and worked as Physical Therapy Aide and Athletic Trainer before returning to school and earning her Master of Science in Nursing from Pacific Lutheran University. She offers a wide range of experience in primary care as well as womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health.

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Pilates

FOR MOMS-TO-BE By Delia Buckmaster, Pilates Teacher and CHHC

Many women find Pilates to be one of the best exercises, both during and after their pregnancy. One of the reasons Pilates and pregnancy go together so well is that it is great at building core strength. Strong abdominals, back, and pelvic floor muscles provide support through pregnancy and delivery. Pilates is also awesome for helping new moms get their figures back after baby. Another reason to do Pilates is that it is a low-impact workout with modification to adjust to your needs and limitations. It boosts flexibility and balance and prevents back pain by strengthening your core muscles. Pilates involves doing a series of controlled movements, on a mat, using small props, or on Pilates equipment. These exercises can be enjoyed throughout your pregnancy because the moves are very easy to modify around your belly. While most Pilates moves are very gentle and safe, you still have to be careful not to overdo it. The ligaments around your joints are much looser during pregnancy thanks to the increased production of the hormone relaxin. So don’t do any moves that feel uncomfortable or put pressure on your joints. When lying on your back, make sure your head is above your heart and as your belly gets bigger your balance may get thrown off. Here are a just few simple Pilates exercises using a fitness ball and hand weights. If you have never done Pilates before, first check with your doctor or midwife. If you are interested in a Pilates routine during pregnancy, it is important to find a pre-natal class or work with an instructor who can give you one-on-one attention. It's not recommended to begin any fitness routine during pregnancy if you’ve never done it before.

Spine Twist:

Targets Abdominal Obliques

Starting Position: Sit on ball with a comfortable distance between your legs, arms in a T position, palms facing up. Movement: Rotate trunk to one side, return to start position. Alternate sides. Tip: Keep pelvis and legs still, move head and arms together with trunk, initiate the movement from your waist not your shoulders.

Standing Leg Work: Targets Legs

Starting Position: Place the ball against a wall and stand with your lower back against it, holding it in place. Place your feet slightly forward, hip distance apart. Movement: Squat down to a 90-degree angle or less, rolling the ball down the wall. Extend your legs to stand.

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Tip: Engage your abs to relieve lower backpressure. Keep knees over the center of your foot.

Open Elbows Arms Sitting:

Targets Muscles around the Shoulder Blade, Opens the Chest Starting Position: Sit on ball with a comfortable distance between your legs holding 2 – 5lb dumbbells; bend the elbows at a 90-degree angle in front of the shoulder. Movement: Move from the shoulder blades to open your arms to the side Tip: Keep your shoulders down and elbows up

Side Kick Kneeling:

Targets Hip Abductors and Torso Stabilizers

Start Position: Kneeling on one knee, rest torso against ball, hander under shoulder, top leg lifted to hip height, free hand on ball. Movement: Swing leg forward and flex the ankle, swing leg back and point the toe Tip: Don’t sink in to the ball or shoulder, keep you pelvis and torso stable, keep height of the swinging leg consistent

Leg Lift: Targets Glutes and Hamstrings

Starting Position: Kneeling on the mat, chest resting on the ball, hands resting on the floor, hips aligned over knees, shoulders over hands, one-leg straight back.

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Mindful Mom: What to Eat When You’re Expecting By Exhale Wellness, Ryan Beeson, RDN, LN During pregnancy, you may feel like eating your entire refrigerator and then send your husband to the grocery store for gummy bears and ranch dressing, or you may get the mouth sweats just thinking about your favorite comfort food that’s never done you wrong. Wherever you are, your goal should be to eat what’s best for you and your baby. Here is a list of the top 5 superfoods to add to your diet to get the most from your meals. Avocados: High in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for the development of the baby’s brain, avocados can also ease mood and depression for the mom-to-be. Go get your guac on!

Movement: Lift leg, lower leg Tip: Keep abs engagement, keep spine long and aligned from top of head through tailbone. Keep your pelvis stable.

Child’s Pose & Round Back: Stretches the Back, Shoulder and Hip, Resting Pose Starting Position: Kneel on the floor. Touch your big toes together, and sit on your heels. Separate your knees and allow pregnant belly to rest in between legs. Movement: You can rest in this pose or add spinal movement by rounding the torso allowing the ball the move towards you with long arms. Tip: Don’t lift shoulders to your ears. Keep your hips low. Use your abs to round the spine, avoid pulling the ball with your arms.

Seaweed: Jealous of your friends going to your favorite sushi restaurant (aka Wasabi)? Well grab a seaweed salad with a cooked sushi roll next time and you’re set! Seaweed is nutrient dense to its core, full of iodine and folic acid to assist in fetal development, along with calcium, which can help with cramping in the legs. Eggs (organic free-range): Eggs are high in protein (8g per egg), but also are naturally enriched with choline, which aids in healthy nerve and muscle development. Stick with organic, pasture-raised to get the most nutritious egg possible! Dark Leafy Greens: Naturally high in calcium (move over milk), leafy greens are also high in vitamin A, potassium, iron and folic acid. Folic acid is a B-vitamin that helps to decrease risk for spina bifida, a neural tube defect. The darker the better when it comes to leafy greens, so leave that iceberg lettuce behind. Salmon: Coming back to the importance of Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA/EPA), salmon is chock full of it! Not just pretty in pink, but pregnancysafe and high in protein. DHA and EPA fatty acids have been linked to higher IQs and healthy brain development. Stick with wild-caught to optimize the nutrition. Now take these superfoods and make yourself a big bowl of yum for that bun in the oven! Remember you’re not really eating for 2, more like 1.2 so only increase your calories by 10-20% depending on how far along you are.

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health}

Get The Energy “Back”

In Your Life w

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By Dr. C. Claude Basler, DC Carlson Chiropractic Office

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When looking for natural health, one does not have to look too far. Natural health does not come in the form of pills, lotions, and potions. Everyone was designed to be healthy and perform at their potential. You have to trust your body to take care of you. Common foundations that we often neglect are regular exercise, healthy sustainable diet, and regular check-ups from your chiropractor. Now, for those of you who "get it" and perform these foundations on a regular basis, kudos to you! For others, head-scratching might be involved when speaking of regular chiropractic check-ups. This article is for you to understand how health and energy are directly related. Having a lot of energy every day is a commodity that often many take for granted. In our society nowadays younger people will neglect their health in order to obtain wealth, then as they get older they will spend their wealth in attempt to gain back their health. This trend is ever-growing and does not seem to have the capacity to change or alter ones perspective of what health actually is. Make a plan now to change your value and perspective of what health actually is for you. Health is, and will be your greatest wealth ever. Cherish it. Research tells us that many unwanted symptom that people suffer from today are related to the spine and nerve system. Now, when accessing energy levels and thinking how it relates to your day to day functions other variables do come into play. Having kids, being pregnant, working late, and many other factors can contribute to low

health} The nerve system, in times of crisis, will make the body work harder and faster than it should in order to return back to its normal state. This will deplete your body’s energy because it is focusing on the healing aspect. Usually when in times of need and healing your body requires essential rest and relaxation.

energy levels. What about the people that go through their normal routine every single day and just make it by. By the time 2:00 p.m. rolls around they are extremely fatigued and have no rationale for why that is. Guess what, next morning the same cycle has to begin again. Somewhat, like experiencing déjà vu and having to go through the same day over and over again. Having just enough energy and then some is directly related to how your spine is aligned. Healthy sustainable diet, check, regular exercise, double check, regular chiropractic check-ups…? The perception of chiropractic care is that if I do not have pain, then why do I need a chiropractor. Understand it this way, visiting your chiropractor only when you have pain is like only eating healthy when you are sick. Chiropractors are trained to access the most important entity within your entire body, the central nerve system. The function of the nervous system is to perceive the environment and coordinate the behavior of all other cells – Bruce Lipton, Ph.D. When a subluxation (what chiropractors are trained to find and adjust) occurs within the body it creates dysfunction in your day to day lives. It’s not just about a pinched nerve.

Have you ever been sick before? When your body is trying to overcome something your energy is not ideal. Your body is in protection mode and is fighting to survive and heal. The nerve system, in times of crisis, will make the body work harder and faster than it should in order to return back to its normal state. This will deplete your body’s energy because it is focusing on the healing aspect. Usually when in times of need and healing your body requires essential rest and relaxation. A subluxation is like an open wound on your flesh that is constantly re-opening and depleting your energy levels. It’s deep, nasty, and

is like a little monster that you have to live with unless you take the necessary actions. Just like being sick, a subluxation will make your body feel like it’s in overtime. Constantly struggling to just get by. With a subluxation present in your body every system will work harder and faster than it should, including your immune system. So, not only is your energy low but now you become even more susceptible to chronic sickness. Without proper nerve function your body has no way to defend itself, and the cycle continues to spin out of control. Now, enter gravity attacking your muscles. Every day you have to go through gravity and use intricate muscles, ligaments, and tendons to make sure your spine is straight so you have proper posture. With a subluxation present your musculoskeletal system will be in “overtime” making sure you are “compensating” correctly and walking around which you perceive as normal (but actually isn’t). Remember a subluxation creates an imbalance within the spine, basically like having a cracked foundation in your house. The muscles, over time, develop memory of what they perceive as normal and will lead to chronic muscle fatigue, tension, and constant knots up and down your back. Easy enough to say that this would drain your ability to have the energy to even exercise, due to your bodies muscles already working harder than they have to be. Drinking regular caffeinated beverages, taking energy pills and other solutions to solving your energy deficit is almost bordering on insanity. The presence of a healthy nerve system revitalizes your health and optimizes your energy levels. There are no shortcuts or magical solutions to taking care of you energy deficit. Basic foundations have survived the test of time and will continue to do so in the future. A specific chiropractic adjustment influences all aspects of human performance (diet, exercise) because it allows the nerve system to coordinate more efficiently and effectively. Have your nerves checked for better health, function and total energy.

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Getting back in the groove … of school By Nancy Kimball

Photos by Alisia Dawn Photography

Okay, you’ve had one fantastic summer. Now it’s time to set up your kids for having an amazing school year, avoiding the pitfalls of overdoing in activities and skirting the places where germs love to lurk. How do you do that?

If your child has a 105-degree fever, you call the doctor. You take him in for vaccinations before school starts. You fix a hot breakfast and send her off to school with a healthful lunch. And remember the intangibles.

“The emotional support of a mother for her kids in school,” is foremost on Michelle Van Allen’s mind. The Kalispell mother of four teams up with her husband Kenny in raising a happy, tight-knit crew. “Your kiddo has better success if you are in tune with their emotional wellbeing and you make yourself available.” So, what are you doing to give your children the tools for their best year ever? The caregivers at Sunny View Pediatrics in Kalispell – and their longtime patients in the Van Allen family – offer some tips:

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FEVER AND PINK EYE AND COLDS, OH MY!

“One of our most common phone calls is about fever,” said Lynn Dykstra, MD, veteran pediatrician at Sunny View Pediatrics. If your baby is under 3 months, definitely call when you detect a fever. But when children are over 3 months, temperatures between 100 and 104.5 degrees are normal with an illness. In fact, she said, it’s the body’s way of revving up the immune system to fight off an infection. “It’s very rare to see one over 105, and at 107 it can damage the brain,” Dr. Dykstra added. A reading of 105 degrees or higher should trigger a call to your doctor. Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is another big source of calls to Sunny View Pediatrics. In children under 2 years old it’s not uncommon for pink eye to be accompanied by an ear infection; if that appears, schedule a doctor visit.

“But if they’re over 2, a lot of times you can watch and wait for 24 hours,” Dr. Dykstra said. “If the eye is goopy you can call for a prescription for ointment or eye drops usually. It’s very contagious, so hand-washing is huge.” And then there’s the common cold – viralcaused, not treatable with antibiotics, and usually

something your young one just has to ride out. Fever, if one is coming, will show up in the first three or four days. Symptoms worsen the first five days; they improve the second five days. The runny, stuffy nose, the fatigue and general blahs come with the territory. “But a fever past the first five days, problems breathing, or if they’re just not getting better are symptoms to be cautious about,” she said.

IT’S JUST A LITTLE NEEDLE

There’s more controversy in the general population over immunizations than perhaps any other childhood health regimen. Doctors can be left scratching their heads as to why. “Vaccinations are safe and effective. There just is no controversy in the medical community over this,” said Sunny View Pediatrics’ John Cole, MD. Even though we see occasional outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, these are infinitesimal compared with pre-vaccine times.

In the 1920s, diphtheria claimed more than 10,000 lives annually in the United States, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ HealthyChildren.org. Polio paralyzed and even killed children by the thousands in the 1940s and 1950s. Then vaccines came along. In 1998,

health} only one case of diphtheria was reported. In 1991 polio officially was eliminated from the Western Hemisphere. Smallpox was declared eradicated globally in 1977.

has asthma, file an asthma action plan with your school and provide the supplies needed, such as an emergency inhaler. Visit your doctor at least every six months.

Sunny View Pediatrics follows the recommended immunization schedules from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, found at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules. Even if you homeschool your children, they’re in the public arena elsewhere; not getting immunized leaves them vulnerable to vaccinepreventable diseases.

“No matter what it is, parents need to set the example,” Val said.

“Over the past 50 years, vaccines have reduced the number of vaccine-preventable diseases by 90 percent,” Dr. Cole said. “But when fewer babies get vaccinated, more babies get sick.”

Healthy habits are no good if they’re not enforced, so be the guardian your child needs. Stick to a routine with sleep, chores and food. Create a daily launch pad with backpacks, jackets and other supplies in one place. Designate a homework space. Read with her daily. Look for ways to create learning experiences. Talk with your child, often. Be interested in your child’s teachers, friends and experiences. Expect success so he will be proud of doing his very best.

Side effects are not unheard of – a vaccine is a medicine and, even though the chance of a severe reaction statistically is one in a million, it can have complications. Look for any reaction within 15 to 60 minutes. A local reaction will show up as red and tender at the shot site, and it could bring a minor fever, irritability and sleepiness. Dr. Cole advised calling your pediatrician if a fever goes over 105 degrees or lasts more than three days, if there are seizures or if your child cries nonstop for three hours.

KEEP THEM CLOSE: A PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE

Better memory. Better test scores. Better attention span. Less irritability. What do these have in common? The American Academy of Pediatricians connects them all to a good breakfast.

It opens the gates to deeper talks at bedtime.

BREAKFAST IS BIG, AND OTHER TRUISMS

Val Beebe, Family Nurse Practitioner at Sunny View Pediatrics, advocates a healthful lunch, too. You can give your kids a leg up on lunch by packing fresh fruit and veggies, going with whole grains, minimizing processed foods and going light on the treats. Sleep is big, too, to the tune of eight to 10 hours a night. “Use good sleep hygiene,” Val said. “Keep electronics out of the bedroom, maybe have them take a bath before bed and don’t eat a big meal for three hours before sleep.” Teach and re-teach your kids safety habits – on their bikes, crossing streets, with strangers, near fire, in the water, and around firearms.

Emphasize exercise, she said, and cut total screen time on phones, tablets, TVs and computers to one or two hours a day, max. Get them outside for team activities, to play with the family dog, in an active get-together with other kids for at least an hour a day. Second-hand smoke, and even third-hand smoke from the chemicals settling into clothing and furniture, is trouble. If your child

Back to school

Michelle Van Allen adds her own touch for her family’s safe haven, starting with dinnertable conversations. “I don’t have the luxury of serving a family dinner every night, but when we can hit two or three times a week that we’re all at the table, it’s magical,” Michelle said. She and Kenny start the conversation so the kids get to talk about how the day went, what the week’s highs and lows were, how the teachers did that day. “All their thoughts and emotions come out then; they’re quiet and the issues really come up,” she said. Prayer, faith and fundamental beliefs on how to handle things are the substance of those bedtime talks.

Michelle has another tip: look at your child’s unique gifts and figure out how you can support them. “If we work in our gifts, we have the will to move forward,” she said. “Each of my kids had different gifts and I felt like an investigator trying to find them.”

Tuck a love note in your kid’s lunch each day, Michelle suggested. Get up at 5 a.m. with him to chat over breakfast and send him off to early-bird classes. “Every opportunity you have to connect with your kids,” she said, “take it.” Michelle’s bottom line: whether kids excel or mess up, they need Mom and Dad on their side. “They need to know ‘I’m there with you, you’re not alone,’” she said. “And having faith, that’s a key factor. It’s an anchor for your soul – for your kids to have an anchor outside themselves. Even when I’m not there, they have God.” For more ideas, give your pediatrician a call. Sunny View Pediatrics can help; reach them at (406) 752-8300.

Photos of Michelle Van Allen and her daughter

Look at your child’s unique gifts and figure out how you can support them. “If we work in our gifts, we have the will to move forward,” she said. “Each of my kids had different gifts and I felt like an investigator trying to find them.”

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This Is Real Life...

So Floss by Dr. John F. Miller DDS

In May of 2008 a young 7 year-old boy named David was taken to the Dentist to have a tooth removed under anesthesia. David’s mother could not be present so David’s father decided to record David on video following his procedure. The resulting video was uploaded to YouTube under the title “David After Dentist” and had an average of 1 Million views per day during the first week. David After Dentist had gone viral. The reason this video went viral is because of little David’s odd, yet humorous behavior resulting from the anesthesia. In other words, David was a little out of it. The most famous gem offered up by David that day was the line, “Is This Real Life?” Another significant reason for this video going viral is the fact that we are presently living in what has been dubbed the Information Age. Information, media, our friends and family, etc. are all rapidly and readily accessible via the interconnectivity of the Internet. Stuff can travel from peer to peer fast. That is kind of the definition of viral right?

I recall my first exposure to the “internet” during 6th grade at the Joseph City Elementary School in 58 406

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Northern Arizona. Each student was given 10 minutes on one of 2 computers that were “connected.” I immediately looked up information on the military jet called the SR71 Blackbird. I watched as it loaded whatever I would request and asked myself then, “Is this real life?” We all, like David did back in 2008, ask ourselves if what we are witnessing is real life on a routine basis. We can access and stream any song, video, document through the air on a little device that has an ultrahigh definition screen. We watch videos on our social media feeds of self-driving cars and private companies flying to space. In bigger cities I can push an app on my phone and have a guy named Jason show up in his own car to drive me wherever I request. It just keeps getting more and more complex and amazing and we keep asking ourselves, “Is this real life?” What about the political situation in this, the greatest country on earth? Please, somebody tell us that this is not real life. This is not the situation that we are really finding ourselves in, is it? C’mon, get to the punch line already...the joke’s over. I digress. Stuff is going viral all around us every day, and as a Dentist I tend to be tuned into viral topics related to my chosen profession. Some things only go viral

within the dental community if perhaps a new revolutionary technique is introduced or if major dental companies merge, whatever. Some stories go full viral and spill over the “dental” banks if you will to the masses. You all remember Cecil the Lion that was illegally hunted last year in Africa...by a Dentist. More recently another dental related story has gone viral, a news report through CBS on whether or not flossing is necessary. Upon hearing about this report I once again asked myself, “Is this real life?” Let me bring everyone (everyone who reads this column that is) back to reality with my professional opinion on why we all need to floss. If you are a regular reader of mine then you have heard all of these recommendations before and also, thanks for reading!

1. Effective Flossing Prevents Cavities.

I don’t know the actual numbers, but I would venture an educated guesstimate that 85% of all tooth decay that I remove originates between teeth at the point of tooth-on-tooth contact. Where someone would floss if they did indeed floss. Why would so many cavities be found there? Because that is the one part of your tooth that cannot be scrubbed and cleaned with your toothbrush. This is the reason that we take dental X-Rays, because the majority of these cavities cannot be seen otherwise. Food for Thought.

health}

floss

Living in Northwest Montana for me means having lots of visitors in the summer. I love seeing the reaction of those who are visiting for their first time. Whether it’s Glacier Park, Flathead Lake, or all the other amazing stuff in between. They soak it all in and turn to me and say, “This isn’t real life!” A big Montana

Smile is my only response to them.

2. Effective Flossing Prevents Build-Up Under Your Gums.

The number one (let that sink in) cause of Tooth-Loss is the gum disease called Periodontitis. An accumulation of plaque beneath your gums contributes to an infectious and also very inflammatory process that results in irreparable loss of jawbone. The surface area of your gums approximates the topside of your hand. Imagine how alarmed you would be if your whole hand was red and puffy and bled every time you touched it. Dentists have a lot of tools in their belt to restore and fix teeth, but if the bone is a mess our options and those of the patient become limited. Healthy Jaw Bone = Options.

3. Regular Flossing Keeps Your Breath Fresh.

I mentioned this in a previous article, but any dental professional will know if someone has gum disease within 5 seconds of meeting. You are finding yourself doubting me right now but it’s true. Have you ever heard of the phenomena of Nose-Blindness? Would you believe it if I told you that I don’t smell that unmistakable Dental-Office smell at work? Floss for the benefit of your friends, coworkers, and loved ones, but most importantly floss for yourself.

4. Flossing Saves You Money.

No cavities and no gum disease mean no expensive dental treatment. Simple enough. Also, I have chosen not to dig into the multitude of overall health benefits that come from great oral hygiene habits. Google it. Living in Northwest Montana for me means having lots of visitors in the summer. I love seeing the reaction of those who are visiting for their first time. Whether it’s Glacier Park, Flathead Lake, or all the other amazing stuff in between. They soak it all in and turn to me and say, “This isn’t real life!” A big Montana Smile is my only response to them. I’m here to remind you that we have it good in Montana and this is real life. We only have one life so floss for crying out loud, because we need more big, bright, and HEALTHY Montana Smiles out there. Enjoy the rest of your summer and smile like you’re a kid again.

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w w w. M c G o u g h a n d C o . c o m 1 3 1 C e n t r a l Av e n u e W h i t e f i s h 406-862-9199 800-862-9199

406contents Design 16. Bestow & Tablescaping The Summer House 20. Office Space Style that match you

406

love

28. Jenna & Craig

food & flavor 32. Wine 101 34. Olive Dip

...28

36. Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Pie

Family 44. OK the Fear

40. Berries, Breakfast & Bedtime

happenings 48. Renegade Runway

Music~Arts 52. Glacier Symphony

Cosmic Vibrations & The Very Best of John Denvert

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...16

Build a life

you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need a vacation from. Tanya Gersh, Realtor

Luxury and Vacation home specialist PureWest Christieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Real Estate

Sold over 50% of all sales over $1M for 2016 in Whitefish *based on MLS statistics through May 2016

tan ya gersh

r e a lto r

cell 406.261.4830 email Tanya@PureWestMT.com

401 Baker Ave, Whitefish, MT 59937 WWW.whitefishlakerealty.COM WWW.purewestrealestate.COM

Cover Girl

publisher

Cindy Gerrity

cindy@montanasky.net

business manager Daley McDaniel

daley@montanasky.net

executive editor

Kristen Hamilton

kristen@hamitupstrategies.com

director & design Rachel Deck

Rachel grew up in the Flathead Valley and moved back to the valley with her husband Arron in 2005. Rachel feels blessed to raise her family here. Rachel is a stay at home mom raising four kids ages 17, 15, 13, and 8. She loves attending their sporting events as well as supporting her husband of

19 years who is a high school teacher, football coach, and track coach. She feels very thankful to have such wonderful, supportive friends and family in the Flathead Valley. Hair by Rhonda Kastelitz, Studio 13 P h o t o B y : K e l l y K i r k s e y P h o t o g r ap h y ( w w w . k e l l y k i r k s e y ph o t o g r aph y . c o m )

Business Girl

Sara Joy Pinnell

sara@mrsandmrpublishing.com

photographers

Amanda Wilson Photography Daley McDaniel Photography Alisia Dawn Photography Camp-n-Cottage Lisa Marie Images Scott Wilson Photography Sara Joy Photography Kelly Kirksey Photography Jessie Mazur Photography Brenda Ahearn Jeremiah & Rachel Photography

View current and past issues of 406 Woman at

w w w . 4 0 6 W o m a n . c o m

Michelle Petrina Michelle is living her dream as a commercial pilot and flight instructor in the valley. She loves teaching and knows it can change people lives. Read her full story in our Business Feature.

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

Photo By: Lisa Marie I m a g e s P h o t o g r ap h y (lisamarieimages.com)

Check out www.406woman.com for our full distribution list.

406 Woman is distributed in Bigfork, Columbia Falls, Kalispell, Missoula, Whitefish and every point in between.

Have a great story idea or know someone that we should feature? Email us with your comments & suggestions. Interested in increasing your business and partnering with 406 Woman? Check out www.406woman.com.

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Checking In

w o m a n

I’ve done quite a bit of traveling this year out of the area working some pretty big events. Although they are exhausting and frankly pretty crazy at times, I always welcome the opportunity to work with a team of talented professionals.

Regardless its business and I always look forward to getting home and exploring in my own backyard. Mostly I enjoy the simple pleasures that I can add to my memory bank and call upon when I’m feeling a little low. More often than not these memories involve being around water – there is just something about water that relaxes me more than anything else. We’ve had a few of these adventures this summer that as I reflect on them now I can’t help but smile.

A few that we’ve enjoyed that you might try…

· Spend the day hanging out a Wayfarers Park in Bigfork. I love the shallow water that allows you to wade slowly into Flathead Lake. · Head on up to Polebridge and grab a huckleberry bearclaw at the Mercantile then venture a bit further into the park and relax on Bowman Lake. Take a hike along the lake and if available, get out on the water. Lucky for us our friends brought a 2-person kayak. · Another getaway involved a couple days of camping at Georgetown Lake (about an hour from Missoula by Phillipsburg, famous for the candy store). There were a bunch of great camping areas (that were only $15 per night) plus if you fish this seemed to be a fisherman’s (or women’s) paradise. · For something a little different (that I’m certain your company will love), try tubing on the Swan River. What a great way to spend the afternoon without a care in the world. It’s not too late to enjoy the last of the summer season. Whatever your pleasure, I encourage you to jump in the car and explore!

Georgetown Lake

Have Fun,

{

Bowman La

What you’ll find in this issue

{

A story about Everit Sliter, our 406 Man this issue. He’s a family man with a strong sense of community service. Read Mary Wallace’s story in our Business & Health section on page 16.

Lighthouse Christian Home is a haven for adults with developmental disabilities. Kay Burt writes about their history and the upcoming Harvest Festival. Read her story on page 24. Got kids heading back to school? Then Nancy Kimball’s story “Getting back in the groove … of school” is a must read! She spoke to the caregivers at Sunny View Pediatrics and they shared some great “back to school” advice. Read the story in our Business & Health section on page 54.

Our Talented 406

Meet

Erin Blair…

contributors C. Claude Basler, D.C.

Family chiropractor, allowing you to express your true potential

Erin Blair

Licensed esthetician and owner of Skin Therapy Studio

Delia Buckmaster

Certified in pilates and an active health coach, owner of Exhale Pilates Studio

Brianne Burrowes

Founder of I Want Her Job and Senior Consumer Marketing Manager at NASCAR track Phoenix International Raceway

Kay Burt

Mother, Grandmother, native Montanan, legal assistant--a woman whose life is blessed beyond measure

Cris Marie Campbell

Master certified Martha Beck coach and consultant, co-owner of Thrive! Inc.

Kristan Clark

Co-owner of Bestow Heart and Home, designer and writer.

Susan B Clarke

Faculty at The Haven Institute for 20 years and co-owner of Thrive! Inc.

Brian D’Ambrosio

Accomplished writer and newly published author of “Reservation Champ’

Jen Euell

Program Director for the Women’s Foundation of Montana

Kari Gabriel

Exec Dir or Flathead CARE plus wildlife rehabilitator and educator

Kalispell OB/GYN Doctors & Practitioners

Board certified OB/GYN professional offering expert advice

Nancy Kimball

Marketing communications specialist at Kalispell Regional Healthcare, and career journalist

Marti Kurth

Public relations and marketing expert for organizations in the arts and music

John Miller, DDS

Specializing in general dentistry, Dr Miller provides expert advice

Carole Morris

Instructional Specialist, Author and Adjunct Professor. The proud mom of two perfect children and grammie to three flawless grandchildren.

Naomi Morrison

Professional journalist, freelance writer and committed to the community

Kelly O’Brien, Esq.

Business law specialist with Measure Law Office, P.C.

Kristen Pulsifer

Writer, editor and owner of Whitefish Study Center

Karen Sanderson

Wine expert and owner of Brix Bottleshop in Kalispell

Miriam Singer

Talented writer and songstress, promoting music as Singer & Simpson Productions

Lucy Smith

Executive Director of the Flathead Community Foundation, believes that everyday philanthropy is changing the world

Mary Wallace

Mother of three and grandmother to two, is still trying to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up..

For full bios for our contributors, please visit www.406woman.com.

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Profession:

Owner and Esthetician at Skin Therapy Studio

Resides:

Whitefish, since 1996. Originally from Wyoming.

Notable Accomplishments:

I've single-handedly created and grown my business over the past 10 years. While it hasn't always gone the way I planned or expected, I'm proud to say I've helped make the world a better place with the work I'm doing. I've also (almost) raised three daughters; the youngest has two years of high school to go.

My workweek always includes:

Teaching. Every week, without fail, you'll find me educating people about what they can do to turn their problem skin around.

My favorite outdoor activity is:

Island camping, with my husband, kids, and whoever else will rally. We load our pontoon boat with all our gear, and find a secluded beach to pitch our tents. The sunset lasts until midnight out there, I swear! Heaven.

Every weekend you’ll find me trying to: Go dancing!

When out for a meal, I always look for this on the menu:

I'm not picky. But I'm ALWAYS on the lookout for a dang good fish taco. To make the cut, it's gotta be a little spicy, never sweet, with lots of cilantro.

When it comes to food, I can’t live without:

Over medium eggs with a side of greens sautéed in coconut oil.

When it comes to electronics, I can’t live without:

Electronics are not my friend. I'd be happy if we could all live without them. But if I must choose, I'd say I'm pretty attached to my iPhone...despite that I can practically feel the radiation emanating from it. Oy.

My bucket list includes doing this in the next year:

I don't have a bucket list, per se. Is that something I should get? I'd really like to travel the world, although I don't foresee that happening this year. But I must admit, Bali sounds lovely. Eventually, I'll probably find some fun ex-pats living the dream on a beach somewhere, and dance off into the sunset.

Copperleaf Chocolat company 239 Central Ave. Whitefish Mt. 406-862-9659

Things We Love Locally Made Artisan Chocolates, Luxurious Cashmere, Custom Sterling Silver Jewelry, Mary Frances Beaded Purses, Scarves, & Time Tested Books.

The Summer House design}

Written by Kristan Clark of Bestow Heart and Home Photographed by Camp-n-Cottage

My dearest friend, Michele, has created the sweetest little retreat in her wooded backyard. Surrounded by towering pine trees, natural grounds, and fountains, the little house beckons one to enjoy nature in comfort. Christened “The Summer House”, it’s been the stage of many a gathering and some heart-to-heart conversations. Today she’s invited me to enjoy classic summer fare; ripe peaches, fresh picked cherries from along the orchards on Flathead Lake, ice cream drizzled with honey, petite cookies and ginger ice tea. Yum!

SweetTea Ginger and Honey 3 cups water

2 family sized tea bags ½ c honey

1 T. grated fresh ginger 7 cups of cold water Garnish: lemon slices Bring 3 cups of water to a boil; add tea bags. Boil one minute; remove from heat. Cover and steep 10 minutes. Discard tea bags. Stir in honey and ginger. Pour into a 1 gallon container and add 7 cups cold water. Serve over ice. Garnish with lemons, if desired. Michele is a talented artist and hostess and created much of the Summer House from found materials. The stunning arched window that forms one end of the house is a cast off from what was once actress Julia Roberts’ Montana summer home. There’s an ornate leaded window perched above the outdoor kitchen sink where Michele prepares refreshments. Chippie antique doors slide along the front of the house to block the sun or create privacy. Just a few examples of her creativity.

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The tablescape takes its cue from the French bee themed pillows covering the banquet. The yellow gingham checked tablecloth is set with antique plates in summer hues of cream, yellow and soft peach. Ice cream and sweet tea are served in Depression glass, and ‘bee’ towels are used as oversized napkins. Little golden bees are scattered about and one has landed near the golden richness of real honeycomb.

Little golden bees are scattered about and one has landed near the golden richness of real honeycomb.

What is the significance of the quintessential French symbol? Often called the Napoleonic bee, there are differing stories of how it rose to importance.

Bee Inspired

We’re all a buzz about bees! And the French bee seems to have truly captured our attention. What is the significance of the quintessential French symbol? Often called the Napoleonic bee, there are differing stories of how it rose to importance. One story states that Napoleon wanted a symbol of his reign other than the classic French fleur-de-lis and was inspired by turning rich fleurs-delis covered draperies in the royal residence upside down. The drapes suddenly took on the appearance of being covered with ‘bees’. Other stories indicate that Napoleon chose the bee because it was such an important part of French industry. Though its noble origin may be unclear, there is no denying that the bee is associated with royalty and prestige in French history. Today, designers embrace all things associated with the iconic symbol: wreathes, crowns, bees, honeycomb and bee hives. How lovely that the humble little Summer House, tucked into the woods, has this royal touch. I know that I feel like a queen bee when I am blessed to spend time in this magical place with my special friend.

Bestow Heart and Home 217 Main Street Kalispell, MT 406-890-2000 www.bestowheartandhome.com

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Many of the items featured in this article can be found at BESTOW Heart and Home Come visit us in Historic Downtown Kalispell

Vintage – Home Décor – Gifts – Jewelry – Inspiration - Venue

Call 406-890-2000 or visit www.bestowheartandhome.com for more information.

design}

Office Space styles that match you By Wrightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Furniture

Transitional

A young, hip transitional design that is scaled to fit smaller homes and condos. This desk is crafted in highly figured walnut veneers with rubber wood solids in a clear medium brown finish. The additional shelves on the front side are a bonus for storage and decor space.

Industrial

This sleek industrial design is a combination of acacia veneers and metal. The center drawer has a drop-front feature for keyboard use. The matching bookcases can stand-alone or multiples can be bunched together side by side to create a fresh, contemporary office space.

Traditional

This traditional style writing desk combines classic Georgian architectural details with more rustic timber-frame elements and leather accents. The matching bookcases offer more storage and display shelving and pair perfectly to create a beautiful office setting.

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Contrast

This desk features a bold black paint finish with heavy reddish brown rub-through, carved leather panels and nail head trim, creating a rich masculine look. This desk will add texture, elegance and an exciting pop of contrast to your office space.

Modern Rustic

A rustic steel base with a live edge acacia wood top combine beautifully in the Live Edge collection.

Vintage

This vintage inspired desk features gently worn dry antique paint patina with the charm of chalk paint finishes. Create pure serenity at home. Featuring a solid wood edge top and three drawers.

Contemporary

This Rustic Chic desk was designed and made with a reclaimed vibe. This collection features a mix of finishes -- the Mid-Century Modern walnut and Scandinavian Chic weathered finishes -- plus metal and leather on select pieces. The center drawer features a drop-front for keyboard use. The matching bentwood side chair is a fun, fresh addition. -Product featured is available at Wright's FurnitureWright's Furniture in Whitefish has many office collections available in stock and for special order. The wide selection ranges from writing and executive desks to filing cabinets, bookcases and more. Please visit our 60,000 sq.ft. showroom in Whitefish, MT or view our website at www.wrightsfurniturestore.com.

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Jenna Craig

July 16th 2016

Photographed by Jeremiah and Rachel Photography www.jeremiahandrachel.com

Who are you?

My name is Jenna Roe and I am a Montana Native. I grew up in the Flathead Valley snowboarding, tap dancing and exploring all of the nature that Montana offers. I moved to Chicago after graduating High School and immediately started my professional career as a Tap Dancer. I then moved to New York City for greater opportunities. I cocreated, produce and manage Chloe Arnoldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Apartment 33, a tap dance crew. I also perform with the Syncopated Ladies, based in LA. I love the life of an Artist and I live for the energy that the city creates. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Craig Weiseman and I grew up in the suburbs of New Jersey.

I am a college graduate who developed

a love for filmmaking. I moved to California to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. Eventually moving back to NY in 2004. I have been editing TV, movies and commercials for close to 15 years. I am now a father and a husband. I consider myself a family man with an easygoing personality.

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love} stories

Love is a complex force. It’s indescribable and it’s most certainly felt from the ones that are open to it. It’s everything we, as people, desire.

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I love Craig in ways that I can’t even describe. His kind spirit and honest soul truly changed my life. How did you meet?

Craig and I met in a charming Irish Pub on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. I was the new bartender at his local bar and poured him countless whiskeys, wooing him with my small town charm. I knew it was love at first pour. There was plenty for us to talk about being from two different worlds. Our shared passion for the creative arts laid the groundwork for our relationship. The Proposal? We traveled to Puerto Vallarta in the winter of 2014. One afternoon, Craig and I wandered along the ocean-side promenade. We stopped at a local, Ma and Pa restaurant situated on the beach for dinner. The sun was setting, the Mariachi were playing music at a nearby table, it was a great vibe. What is love? Jenna: There has been a lot of songs written about love. Love can break you or make you. Love is powerful.

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Craig: Love is a complex force. It’s indescribable and it’s most certainly felt from the ones that are open to it. It’s everything we, as people, desire.

What do you love most about each other? Craig: I love Jenna’s spirit and enthusiasm, something that I’ve learned stems from her Montana upbringing. I am very fond of her sense of adventure and her love for people.

Jenna: I love Craig in ways that I can’t even describe. His kind spirit and honest soul truly changed my life. I love that his word is his word and is always on time. Having a child with him has made me fall in love with him all over again as he is an amazing Dad. When did you know you were in love? Craig: I don’t think that there was one defining moment. I continue to find new things to love about her every day. Last year we had our first

child, Harper, and I discovered an even greater love for her when she became a mother. Jenna: I honestly knew it was love from the start. Wedding Details We went back and forth on where we should get married a million times. New York? Montana? Regardless, it was a destination wedding for one side of the family or the other. We knew we wanted to have some form of a water motif, whether it be an ocean or a Iake. Ultimately, Jenna and I thought Montana would be the best option. On one particular trip, we saw some live music at the Stillwater Landing; we felt it embodied the organic nature we wanted.

Honeymoon plans Jenna and I took time off work prior to our wedding to travel to Montana to button up some of the last minute details locally. It became an inside joke that we were celebrating our honeymoon before the wedding. No additional plans have been made yet.

New at FVCC,

Wine 101

Written by Karen Sanderson, Brix Bottleshop

Ain’t summer grand with its many hikes, days on the lake, barbeques and concerts? Add some birthday parties and by August it might feel overwhelming. For me, that breaking point was the day my grade-schooler declared 10:00pm should be her normal bedtime hour. When had she taken her last bath? I couldn’t even remember. (Lake swimming counts, right?) Suddenly we find ourselves begging the sun to set earlier and welcome the cooler nights. As we breathe that secret sigh of relief from seeing the stores fully stocked with pencils and notebooks, we know what’s coming next. Back to school time!

In the midst of the summer bustle, I had an exciting phone call from Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC). The director of programming, Susie Burch, asked if I was interested in teaching a “Wine 101” class. Heck,

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ya! If there’s one thing I love about the wine biz, it’s passing on information. Naturally, I said yes. What does one expect from a beginner’s class? Here’s a sneak peak at my lesson plan.

History

According to historical sources, the oldest-known winery was discovered in Armenia and dates back to 4100BC. The "Areni-1" cave in Vayots Dzor, contained a wine press, fermentation vats, jars, and cups. Archaeologists also found grape seeds. Wine from the “Fertile Crescent,” was the starting point of what is now considered one the most celebrated beverages in the world. What’s the difference between old world and new world? These are things you learn in a 101 class.

Winemaking

Need proof that wine isn’t always so glamorous? Just head to Napa during harvest and watch the crew sweat over a sorting table, rotating “punchdowns,” and filtering from tanks to barrels.

Many winery owners have year round vineyard workers to ensure their grapes are in perfect condition when harvest arrives. Essentially, winemakers are farmers, pure and simple.

Basics

When you learn about wine, you must first wrap your head around the basics of grape types, growing regions, and their vintages. Once you have a grasp of that, you will be well on your way.

Etiquette

To spit or not to spit, that is always the question. From table manners to tasting rules, it helps to know the guidelines of wine etiquette. Generally speaking, the only reason to spit at a tasting is if you have the opportunity to taste over 10 wines. This is a perfect time to learn the nuances and characteristics of different varietals and vintages.

Varieties

Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah are all grape varieties. What’s the

food}

wine 101

difference between these different wines? The best way learn is to taste them. Our Wine 101 class will offer a chance to sample 4 whites in a row followed by 4 reds in a row to pick out the similarities and differences.

Tasting

When customers buy wines to take home to serve with dinner, most don’t feel the need to analyze every sip. That’s ok. The order of “Look, swirl, smell, and taste” is a process typically reserved for wine tastings. However, if you truly want to understand wine, the best way to learn is to taste as often as possible. Interested in signing up for a class? Look out for FVCC’s registration booklet coming in the mail soon. Or visit them on their website at http://www.fvcc.edu.

WINE 101, FVCC

Does wine speak leave you baffled? Come learn the basics of wine and how to differentiate between popular varietals in this relaxed, educational class. Students will learn basic wine terminology. They will discover which wines suit them best and how to make informed wine selections. An overview of how wine is made, the history of old and new world vineyards and basic wine etiquette will be included. Students will have a chance to compare and contrast the qualities of popular varietals by tasting 4 whites and 4 red wines side by side.

Class Dates: Tuesday, Sept 13th Thursday, Sept 15th Thursday, Oct 13th Tuesday, Oct 18th

· All classes are from 6:00pm-8:00pm · Cost is $59 for each class and the $30 fee for supplies is included · Students must be 21 or over to participate · Please contact the school to RSVP at http://www.fvcc.edu

Cheers! Karen

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food}

Olive dip

Olives...

By Justin Pinnell

one of the healthiest foods in the world. Filled with benefits for your body such as Antioxidants. In addition to being an anti-inflammatory, studies show olives can help protect against cancer. Enjoy the complex flavors of this dip and do your body good. I recommend with La Panzanella Mini Croccantini black pepper crackers, and a crisp white wine!

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food}

olive dip

Olive Dip 3/4 cup Castelvetrano Olives (with natural juice) 2/3 cup Beldi Olives (with natural juice) 1/3 cup Kalamata Olives (no juice) 1/4 cup roasted red bell peppers 1/8 cup Balsamic vinegar 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup Feta cheese 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1 tablespoon minced Garlic 1/2 teaspoon Rosemary 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Add fresh ground pepper & ground sea salt to your liking

food}

Rhubarb

Strawberry Rhubarb Crumb Pie By Carole Morris

Hello sweet summerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;strawberries and rhubarb are both available in the market. Now, we can make a pie that represents summer in an unparalleled way. You will love the tartness of rhubarb, when it is richly enhanced by the flavor of strawberries; what a duo!

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food}

pie

First make the pastry

for the bottom crust. Grab your partner and collect… 1 9-inch pie plate 1 ¼ cups flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/3 cup vegetable shortening 4 tablespoons of cold water Partners wash hands, then…In a medium sized bowl, stir together the flour and salt. Using a pastry blender, mix in shortening until the pieces are the size of small peas. Sprinkle the water, one tablespoon at a time, over the mixture and stir with a fork until all of the mixture is moistened. Form dough into a ball.

(Young people love to help with this next step). Lightly flour the work surface. Place the pastry on a floured surface and sprinkle a little flour on top of the pastry. Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough—rotating the dough to prevent it from sticking. Once rolled, the dough should be about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer the dough to the pie dish and trim off extra dough, leav-

ing an overhang of 1/2 inch. Fold under the extra pastry (on the edges of the pie plate) and press down with a fork, or your fingers to make a scalloped edge. Set aside and let the dough rest.

The finale, congratulations!

Next the pie filling

The crumb topping

You and your partner will need… 2 ½ cups rhubarb (cut in one-inch pieces) 2 ½ cups strawberries (sliced) 1 ½ cup sugar 5 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice ½ teaspoon cinnamon Mix all ingredients together in a medium sized bowl. Then, allow to rest while you make the crumb topping. (This allows the tapioca to absorb the liquid).

-putting it all together-

3 cups flour 1 ½ cups packed brown sugar 1 ½ cups white sugar 12 tablespoons (¾ cup) softened butter Combine the flour and the sugars together. Mix in the softened butter, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Next, pour your filling into the pie crust. Sprinkle, the crumb topping on top of the filling. Cover edges of pastry with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375° for 25 minutes. Remove foil then cook for an additional 25 minutes. Serves eight frolicking, joyful summer friends and family.

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Berries,

breakfast &

bedtime By Dr Austine Siomos

This article is devoted to back to school. This is by far my favorite time of year. It brings to mind the smell of new books, the crunch of leaves, and, in reference to the nutritional focus of this article, the sunny sweetness of berries! My job involves constantly reading the most recent scientific articles regarding pediatrics, cardiology and nutrition. I consider myself to be in school for life. Parents and teachers know that nutrition and lifestyle are essential for a positive school experience. Numerous studies demonstrate better school performance in children who have good nutrition, plenty of physical activity per day, and consistent sleep patterns. So how do we achieve all this for our children in this busy world? Ask the following questions with regard to supporting your children in achieving their best health to promote a good school experience:

studies to improve cognitive ability, psychosocial functioning, behavior and academic achievement. Many parents have mentioned to me that when their child or teenager is most involved in a sport, even when that sport requires 2-3 hours of practice per day that is also the time when they are strongest academically.

Children who are physically active are:

1. How can we plan for more time in the day to focus on good nutrition, physical activity and health?

- more likely to have a normal weight - more likely to graduate from high school - less likely to be depressed or have anxiety - less likely to abuse drugs - less likely to have chronic diseases as they get older.

2. What habits and activities are detrimental to

How to introduce more physical activity

health for our family?

3. How can we promote the good habits and diminish the negative habits to result in an overall good school experience? Physical activity

Most parents and teachers already know that physical activity is good for children. We have all observed that when children spend time outside, their mood and behavior improve. This is supported by science. Physical activity is found in countless

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- Go for a walk or bike ride every evening after dinner. - Provide active toys â&#x20AC;&#x201C; make sure your kids have access to balls, jump ropes, bikes, basketball hoops and parks - Sign up for organized walks and runs as a family. Then you can train together and have a goal as a family! - Most importantly, set the example. Children learn from parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; examples. If you are outside and active, they will be there with you!

Sleep

Along with going back to school comes a discussion of sleep. The National Sleep Foundation officially recommends the following amount of sleep: School-aged Children ages 6-13 years: nine to eleven hours per night Teenagers aged 14-17 years: eight to ten hours per night Children who have consistent bedtimes have better school performance, better coping mechanisms, better athletic performance, and for those with ADD or ADHD require less medication.

Melatonin Melatonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body and is secreted by the pineal gland. Melatonin is most famous for its role in sleep. It is released in anticipation of sleep and its production decreases in the presence of light. It functions to promote sleep onset at night, and decreases in the morning when it is time to wake up. Many people do not know that melatonin has also been found to have several other important functions. It has anti-inflammatory properties, is an antioxidant, and is oncostatic (inhibits the growth of cancer cells).

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Berries are thought to have the highest

anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity of all fruits. We know that light inhibits melatonin, and backlighting from electronic devices is the strongest inhibitor. In some studies, backlighting decreases melatonin levels by 90%. Because of this motivating scientific research, I ask all families to avoid having a television or any other screen in a child’s bedroom, and if there already is one, I suggest that they remove it. This can be difficult, but is vital for good sleep quality and a healthy lifestyle. Screens in the bedroom are associated with a higher incidence of obesity, isolation, depression and substance abuse. If your child requires an alarm for waking, a basic alarm clock is fine.

Berries

My nutritional highlight for this article is all berries. There are so many types of berries! The actual scientific definition of berries is complicated, and in fact includes bananas, grapes and kiwi fruit. Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries actually don’t meet the botanical definition of berries, but most consider them to be berries, and I will here too.

Why berries? In addition to being delicious, berries provide numerous health benefits. Inflammation: berries are thought to have the highest anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity of all fruits. This has been studied in multiple inflammatory issues, from post-exercise soreness to osteoarthritis. Heart: Fresh berries have been found to modify the risk of myocardial infarction and coronary artery disease associated with genetic predisposition.

What are the best berries?

Any berries are great. The fresher they are, the better. But if frozen berries are what is available to you, then those are good too. The most extensive scientific studies have been done on blueberries and strawberries, but this may just be due to availability. In our beautiful region, huckleberries are a delicious option, and likely have similar health benefits to those of blueberries. Cherries are also prevalent here so another great option.

What’s the deal with breakfast? Is it really the most important meal of the day?

There are more scientific studies about breakfast than about any other meal. The general thought from the results of these studies and the consensus of physicians and dieticians is that it is far more important what is eaten than when it is eaten. The word “breakfast” literally refers to the breaking of the nighttime fast. I counsel my patients and families to plan for a powerfully nutritious breaking of that fast, in order to set them up for a successful day. Most children are hungry in the morning, but often teenagers and adult are not, especially if they wake up early for work or morning sports. It is ok not to eat first thing in the morning. I have included a recipe that can serve for a morning breakfast or a “breaking of the fast” on the go after practice or a few hours of work. As always, it is important to avoid processed foods and added sugar and sweeteners at breakfast.

Baked Oatmeal with Strawberries and Walnuts

This is a great option to make ahead for those busy mornings when you want something nutritious that will provide enough protein, fat and fiber to last until lunch! I used strawberries and walnuts in this example, but you can use any fruit and nut combination. These can be baked in a casserole dish, muffin tin or ramekins. Adapted from a recipe by Suzanne M

Ingredients: · 3 cups oatmeal · 3 cups milk (nondairy milk or dairy milk, depending on preference) · ¼ cup maple syrup · 1 tablespoon vanilla extract · 1-2 cups of fruit

Weight control: berries are high in fiber and water, which give a sense of fullness

· 1/2 cup nuts, any type

Blood pressure: berries (blueberries, strawberries and cherries) have been found to decrease systolic and diastolic blood pressure

Instructions

Neurologic: People who eat at least two servings of berries per week have a 25% lower chance of developing Parkinson’s disease.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the above. Pour into a casserole dish or small dishes and cover with aluminum foil. Cook for 18 minutes. Uncover and cook for another 5-10 minutes or until all the liquid is visibly gone and the edges start to brown.

Cognitive: women who eat at least two servings of strawberries or one serving of blueberries per week have been found to postpone cognitive decline by about 2.5 years. Sleep: Berries, specifically cherries, have been found to increase sleep time and sleep efficiency.

1. Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees F Dr Austine Siomos I am a pediatric cardiologist. I trained first to become a pediatrician and then specialized in the study of pediatric hearts. I see children from before they are born until they are ready to see an adult cardiologist. I am passionate about the health of all children and families. My goal for all children is to promote healthy habits and avoidance of those types of heart disease that are generally considered to be adult problems.

3. Let cool 5 minutes. Serve with a splash of milk. Garnish with fresh berries, maple syrup or honey.

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“‘

’ the Fear” By Kristen Pulsifer

One beautiful day, several years ago, I was playing in our sandbox with my daughter who was only a year old at the time. As we finished filling our buckets and shaking sand from a diaper, not mine, we walked up the steps towards our door to call it a day. As I reached for the door, my not so articulate one year old started yelling, “nak”, “nak!” “Yes”, I said, as if I understood. “A ‘nak’. Wait….what?” I looked to where she was pointing, and sure enough, a ‘nak’, translated… a snake. Granted, it was a simple garter snake, no poison, no fangs, but regardless, it was a snake! I have a huge fear of snakes, so I did what any caring mother would do- I pushed my daughter to the side and ran into the house. Now, before anyone passes any judgments, I did catch myself rather quickly, but only after the snake entered the house. After I regained my composure, I made it back to my daughter, brushed the little squiggly friend back out the door and closed us both, together, inside. But, I can’t say I would do anything any different if it happened again, and it has become a huge joke with my whole family regarding how afraid I actually am of snakes. I tell you this to express a fear that I have. We all have them and encounter many of them every day. But, what keeps those fears under control and managed, especially in our children? I watch my own children, and those I work with as clients, and I cannot really identify any logic behind why people have certain fears at a young age. I know that some children fear things because of negative experiences they have had with situations, while some seem to simply develop them instinctually. Or, children may see either an adult or friend (someone they trust) react fearfully towards certain things and adapt that fear because they trust the adult’s reactions. Regardless of why they develop particular fears, I am in the business of helping to manage the fears or anxieties of my children and clients as they walk through either my home or office door.

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The best tool I have found in managing fears and anxieties in my own children and clients is acknowledgement. When a child cries because they are scared, part of that fear comes from the unknown. Also, fear is something so few people truly understand, so the reaction of fear itself creates a great deal of anxiety. When my child is scared, I am quick to say, “I understand why you’re afraid – that is scary.” When working with students who are afraid of school, teachers or tests, I question them a bit as to why they feel afraid and then, once again, am always quick to say, “I understand. That is a valid fear and concern.” As soon as I calmly acknowledge and ‘OK’ their fear, it is amazing the change in disposition that

I immediately see. The tears subside, worry lines decrease, and an acceptance of guidance and help ensue. Sometimes empathizing and telling a story of a time you feared a similar situation might help. Fear is a lonely place, and if you can provide constructive assistance, in that lonely place, the anxiety associated with particular fears can be eliminated. Eliminating anxiety associated with fears is part of the battle. School related fears, such as test anxiety and fear of seeking assistance from a teacher are similar. Most of the time the fear comes from not knowing what the outcome will be, or building up a negative outcome as way to attempt to manage something a person may have very little control over. Helping validate and acknowledge these anxieties is truly the first step. Letting students know it is ok to feel this way is a must in order for them to open the door to help. As fears deepen and become more serious, there are many other steps that need to take place in an attempt to manage and control fears; but, a person has to feel safe in order to allow someone in and assist them in managing what they fear. Acknowledgement and a feeling of validation is a solid starting point. People, young and old, like to feel ‘ok’ or validated when anxiety, fear and frustration are felt. Most people want to be either calmed or know that what their feeling is not foreign. Feelings of fear, in particular function this way. If there had been a friend close by when I attempted to ditch my child to the fate of a monstrous snake, that sunny day after the sandbox, maybe I would have reacted more calmly and therefore avoided having my own child now fear snakes. But, I am working through my own fear now – every time I see a snake I have to remain calm for my daughter and help her understand snakes, and how they truly are just as afraid of us as we are of them. Their fear is a defense mechanism, just like it can be with humans. Helping her has forced me to talk through my own fear, acknowledge and validate it and work through it. We both can laugh a little each time we shiver scream and run… and thankfully, laugh, together.

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Renegade Runway

Fashion Show w

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at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake Photos by Jessie Mazur Photography

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In January

we jumped in to start planning the first ever Renegade Runway Fashion Show alongside Soucie Soucie Salon and Day Spa and the Spa at Whitefish Lake. 39 beautiful models (one Ultra dancer and one former Miss Teen Montana), a little weaponry and great clothing from our 13 local vendors combined to create this stunning and unusual showcase of The West today. We gladly welcomed Luke Walrath with Alpine Theatre Project to emcee the event and be the beneficiary of the silent auction and VIP ticket sales. Chappy, our lead bartender at the Boat Club at the Lodge, had been asking every year for a fashion show and with the new Mercantile at the lodge and a whole lot of funky western clothing and jewelry to show off…the stars collided and the show was born. The Renegade Runway will be an annual event we look forward to making even bigger and better next year.

We'd be remiss if we didn't give a BIG thanks to our sponsors and all those who participated in putting this great event together.

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Renegade Runway

Glacier Symphony launches Cosmic Vibrations its 34th season with The Very best of John Denver a Symphonic Pops concert featuring Broadway Star, Mike Eldred By Marti Ebbert Kurth

Glacier Symphony and Chorale will launch its Cosmic Vibrations concert series on September 17 and 18 with The Very Best of John Denver a Symphony Pops concert that showcases the dynamic, versatile range of the orchestra and will feature one of Broadway’s most revered tenors, Mike Eldred. “It’s a perfect show to launch our 34th concert season,” comments John Zoltek, who enters his 20th season with the GSC as both Music Director and conductor. “It follows on our successful summer season of concerts; July’s Summer Pops concert at Rebecca Farm and the week long Festival Amadeus that wrapped up in August. This performing ensemble of musicians has such an incredibly wide range, from the complexities of classical to the very singable music of John Denver... it is a joy to lead them on these musical journeys!” Zoltek says the upcoming season will bring a refreshing mix of both popular classics as well as a host of internationally acclaimed soloists to play with orchestra. New additions include a three night Easter Festival in April that will showcase both the orchestra and chorale and a solo pianist in three distinctly different concerts. (See sidebar) This year’s concert line up offers a range of excellent musical experiences. To make it more accessible for families, the GSC offers free tickets to students through grade 12 to all masterworks concerts. A First Timers -Half Off program that provides a half price season ticket to new subscribers is a very affordable way to get acquainted with the GSC. Visit the new GSC website www.gscmusic.org and learn more about the whole variety of music and artistry available to you. Call 406-407-7000 for a season brochure.

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THE VERY BEST OF JOHN DENVER “His amazing voice – a high-flying, full-bodied tenor, intensely romantic, alternately wrenching and joyful – was so compelling that you forgot you were in a theater, forgot everything but the sound pouring out of his throat.” Kevin Nance, The Tennessean

Mike Eldred will lend his soaring lyrical voice to an exceptional orchestra scoring of John Denver’s greatest hits including Sunshine On My Shoulders – Annie’s Song – Rocky Mountain High – Take Me Home Country Road – High Calypso –Thank God I’m A Country Boy – The Eagle and The Hawk and much more. The concerts will be held at Whitefish Performing Arts Center on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 7:30 pm followed on Sept. 18 with a Sunday matinee at 3 pm. Eldred says the concert pays tribute to the John Denver songbook without trying to copy his iconic singing style. “It’s unlike the other John Denver tributes that exist in that it focuses on the amazing songs John wrote and performed more so than it does the recording artist himself. It isn't an imitation, so to speak, as much as it is a nod to the brilliant poetry and deceptively simple melodies that Denver presented. It is an honor to present these songs in a different light.” Eldred, a Tennessee resident, is truly bringing the work home as he says it was first conceived at his second home in Whitefish while visiting his friends Diane Smith and David Pickeral several years ago. “So many creative ideas have happened when I’m in the Flathead Valley. Obviously, the connection to and inspiration of John's music is so prevalent here with those of us who ‘relocate’ or ‘escape’ to the Northwest.” Mike recalls that his personal interest in John’s music began when he was eight years old, driving across the country in a station wagon with his family. “I’ll never forget hearing that voice while seeing the Rocky Mountains for the first time. It's hard to describe the impact it had on my life.”  The concert became a reality in Flat Rock, North Carolina a year or so later, then reached it's full potential in a premiere with the Nashville Symphony in 2012. Since then Eldred says he has had a great time touring the concert and performing it with symphonies across the country. “I absolutely love this concert!”

An artist of tremendous depth and reach Eldred has appeared in Les Miserables as “Jean Valjean” on Broadway, at the Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival, the Schermerhorn Symphony Hall, and the Aspen Theatre. He was in the original Broadway cast of the Tony-nominated The Civil War and performed in the 25th anniversary national tour of Jesus Christ Superstar and in the national concert tour of Handel’s Messiah Rocks. He starred as “Tony” in the Nashville Symphony’s production of West Side Story earning international praise as “arguably the best ‘Tony’ on record.” The cast recording of the show starring Eldred was released on NAXOS International. He is increasingly interested in using his performances to raise awareness and funds for causes close to him. A benefit concert in Montana raised thousands of dollars for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).

Cosmic Vibrations Glacier Symphony and Chorale’s 34th concert season October 15/16: The Planets and Prokofiev Glacier Symphony performs with pianist Ilaya Yakushev Prokofiev Piano Concerto #3 and Holst The Planets – Kalispell. November 12/13: Flights of Imagination – Glacier Chorale conducted by Micah Hunter in a varied repertoire of choral music – Whitefish and Kalispell. November 19/20: Cosmic Windows – Glacier Symphony with Giora Schmidt violin, Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto in D and Respighi Church Windows – Kalispell.

In addition to numerous appearances on recordings and DVDs, Eldred has released three solo CDs that have garnered critical and popular acclaim. These include favorites from his years on Broadway, a holiday album, and a celebration of the music of John Denver, which he offers as a symphony pops concert.

December 2/4: Handel’s Messiah – Glacier Chorale and Glacier Messiah Orchestra in three venues: Bigfork, Whitefish, Kalispell.

Eldred has performed in concert with most of North America’s finest symphony orchestras including Baltimore, Boston, Chautauqua, Chicago, Cincinnati, Dallas, Detroit, Edmonton, Fort Worth, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Long Beach, Milwaukee, Modesto, Naples, Nashville, Oklahoma City, Omaha, Phoenix, Portland, San Diego, Seattle, Toronto and Vancouver.

February 11/12: Star Wars, Dark Matter and Dvorak – Be swept away by the dramatic music of Dvorak and John Williams plus the world premiere of a cosmic tuba concerto with composer Benedict Kirby as soloist– Whitefish and Kalispell.

To learn more about this exceptional artist visit www.mikeeldred.com. Visit the website www.gscmusic.org to learn more about the season and purchase tickets or call 406-407-7000.

December 17/18: Holiday Pops – Glacier Symphony performs The Nutcracker, March of the Toys, Christmas at the Movies and more! A fun filled light holiday concert for all ages– Kalispell.

April 6/8/9: Easter FestivalGlacier Symphony and Chorale with Ketevan Kartvelishvili, piano. A new multi-concert event with a focus on sacred music celebrating the spring season and featuring the Symphony, Chorale and Soloists – Kalispell Visit the website www.gscmusic.org to learn more and purchase tickets or call 406-407-7000.

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Going To The Sun Gallery Proudly presents our Featured Artist

Patricia Griffin

Sally Vannoy

"Aurora" is an original Oil Painting by Patricia Griffin. Griffins portraits of animals are thrilling and evocative! An intense involvement with bold colors and light dominate her paintings. Her work has shown in Eight Museums and has brought her International recognition. Griffin is a Signature Member of Artist For Conservation and donates 10% of the proceeds from her work to animal Conservation.

Sally Vannoy Is an emerging artist from Big Fork, Montana. She considers her paintings as a part of her journey in life, as actual experiences, growing up in Big Fork on her family's farm. Her paintings evoke a sense of emotion of love and serenity for the animals and the land she grew up on. Her art is masterfully done! The original oil, "The Patriarch" she painted from the Bison range in Kalispell, Mt. took a first Prize Award at the Hockaday Museum Of Art in 2016.