Issuu

N OV E M B E R 2 02 0

6114 Arthur Avenue

$2,682,632 4 bedrooms 4.5 bath

From soaring ceilings and custom brickwork, to multiple theater rooms and an inground pool, this remarkable home will surprise and delight at every turn.

The striking Industrial Modern design, situated on a 1.177 acre fully landscaped lot, showcases unique features and convenient additions which make 6114 Arthur Ave. an entertainer’s dream. The main living area (comprised of living room, kitchen, and dining room) boasts spacious 22” ceilings, exposed ductwork, custom brickwork, and a smart home audio system with localized room controls. Enjoy an 101” electric fireplace surrounded by solid walnut paneling. Zone heating and cooling and In-Floor radiant heat floors provide comfort through all seasons. In the kitchen, walnut cabinets, polished concrete floors, a 12’ island, quartz countertops, and a walk-in pantry blend style with utility. There are two unique theater rooms, each with their own wet bars, on the main level and in the loft. Polished concrete is continued throughout the home, including the Master Bedroom, Mud Room, Office, and Laundry Room. The Master Bedroom creates a space of comfort and luxury, offering a vast, custom closet complete with washer/dryer hookups, island, and makeup station. The Master Bath has a two person jacuzzi tub, quartz countertops, and an expansive tiled shower with 11 shower heads and a separate enclosed steam room. All bedrooms include en suite bathrooms and surround sound. At the 25’ x 50’ in-ground pool enjoy the swim-up bar with seating, or head to the separate seating area with fire pit when the weather turns chilly. Pool house includes wet bar, full bath, and independent audio system. A 65’ x 20’ enclosed patio with 2050 Broadwater Ave St. B, Billings, MT 59102 built in fire pit is also part of the home’s zoned smart system. In-Law living quarters include two bedrooms and 1 bath. The fully chris@dunndeal.us finished, heated and cooled garage has a 22’ ceiling, 3 bays with 10’ and 12’ doors, and room for multiple vehicles and a workshop, as well as a 22’ x10’ alcove ideal for a home gym. No detail has been spared. Schedule your appointment to view 6114 Arthur Ave. with Chris Dunn.

Chris Dunn 406-698-3531

chris@dunndeal.us

MAKE IT A Dunn Deal!

bighorndrywall@gmail.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

NOVEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Jeff Lethert | jeff.lethert@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Where Would We Be Without You? WOW, BILLINGS. How can it be that we are already nearing the end of the year?

Ann Lethert | ann.lethert@lifestylepubs.com ACCO UNT MANAGER

Hew Hundley | hew.hundley@lifestylepubs.com Steve Lethert | steve.lethert@lifestylepubs.com Pam Walter | pam.walter@lifestylepubs.com

The holidays will be here before we know it, and pretty soon we will be writing

AD DESIGNER

out our 2021 resolutions.

Miranda Williams

Before everything gets crazy and we start shopping for all of the people on our gift list, we want to take this time to pause and reflect. This year has been a wonderful journey with all of you, and we are grateful that we get to create this magazine every month and connect with you and your family. Thank you for sharing your stories and for reading ours. Thank you for supporting the local businesses in our community,

L AYO UT DESIGNER

Emily Lisenbee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Stephanie Hower CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Oluanai Photography

as without them, this magazine wouldn’t be possible. Thank you for the community service you do and for every time you recycle something or play a small part in keeping our city clean and thriving. We are so proud of where we live, and we know it wouldn’t be the same without each and every one of you. In this issue, we offer you the opportunity to reflect with us and spend some time being grateful for the people we have around us. During this holiday season, we encourage you to look at each person around your table and remember how they

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

have made a difference in your life. After all, we wouldn’t be here without each other.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Happy Thanksgiving, Billings.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Anmarie Lethert, Editorial Coordinator

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Proverbs 3:5-6 Billings Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Billings areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this

ON THE COVER Francis Chan 4

Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Billings Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Since 1988 Excellence Is Our Only Standard!

October is

NATIONAL DENTAL HYGIENE MONTH,

an effort to celebrate the work dental hygienists do and to help raise awareness on the importance of good oral health.

SOURCING LOCAL FOOD

SUPPORTING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

This year focus on four routines that can help people maintain healthy smiles: brush, floss, rinse and chew. The ADA recommends brushing your teeth twice a day, for two minutes, with a soft-bristled brush. The size and shape of the brush should fit the mouth allowing you to reach all areas easily.

The ADA recommends cleaning between your teeth once a day to remove plaque that is not removed by brushing. Plaque can eventually harden into calculus or tartar. Because teeth alone account for less than half of the mouth, rinsing can help eliminate biofilm and bacteria that brushing, and flossing cannot. Rinsing often, along with brushing and flossing, may help reduce the chance of dental decay and infection. However, avoid rinses that have alcohol in them. Lastly, clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes following meals can help prevent tooth decay. The chewing of sugarless gum increases the flow of saliva, which washes away food and other debris, neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth and provides disease-fighting substances throughout the mouth.

Call to schedule your cleaning, today! (406) 248-2669 www.Legacy-Smiles.com 1 43 0 CO U N T RY M A N O R B LVD, B I L L I N G S 406.534.8601

ď‚Ť

LOCALBILLINGS.COM

Michael W. Stuart, DDS

2700 Grand Avenue, Suite D Billings, MT 59102

CityLifestyle.com/Billings

INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2020

FEATURES 08 Fearless Compassion, Boundless Love LaVie strives to empower individuals to embrace hope by providing loving, compassionate care for early pregnancies

14 Shining a Light on HER HER Campaign strives to provide refuge, resources, and renewal for survivors of human trafficking and exploitation

18 More than Medicine Unveiling Smiles, Inspiring Hope

28 Turkey Day Workout A Simple Yet Effective Workout for your Holiday

18 08 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Giving Back

Our Town

Inspired By

24 Driverâ€™s Notebook 28 Healthy Lifestyle 31

Faith Reflections

I’m here to help! “She works hard for her clients - above and beyond.” Bill, Billings

“Karen is fantastic to work with.” Teresa, Billings

“She’s friendly, knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with, a true pro.” Joe, Billings

“I appreciated her knowledge of marketing, sales and timing as well as pricing.” Rhonda, Billings

KAREN FREEMAN, REALTOR® 406-876-1931 | billingshomes.net

Join us at Stacked where fresh food and fresh ideas make for an exciting meal any time of the day!

THIS MONTH WE

GIVE THANKS FOR

LIFE • HEALTH • FREEDOM • FAMILY FUN • FOOD OUR COMMUNITY • CHURCH FAMILY • A HOME ABILITY TO WORK & MAKE A LIVING • CHILDREN PETS • A BEAUTIFY STATE • FANTASTIC CLIENTS

COUNTLESS BLESSINGS

406-534-8702 STACKEDAMONTANAGRILL.COM 106 N BROADWAY BILLINGS, MONTANA 59101 OPEN 11 A.M. MONDAY - SATURDAY FOR LUNCH & DINNER

THANK YOU FOR BEING ONE OF OUR BLESSINGS!

Indoor (406) 655-1099 CityLifestyle.com/Billings

GIVING BACK ARTICLE STEPHANIE HOWER | PHOTOGRAPHY OLUANAI PHOTOGRAPHY

Fearless Compassion, Boundless Love LAVIE STRIVES TO EMPOWER INDIVIDUALS TO EMBRACE HOPE BY PROVIDING LOVING, COMPASSIONATE CARE FOR EARLY PREGNANCIES.

Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

WHEN FACED WITH AN UNPLANNED OR UNEXPECTED PREGNANCY, ONE MAY FIND THEMSELVES PLUNGED INTO A SEA OF DARK EMOTIONS, FROM FEAR AND CONFUSION TO DESPAIR AND SHAME. One organization works tirelessly to provide those facing such difficult situations with care, support, and guidance. “Our skilled and life-affirming medical care coupled with transformative education provides our patients with all of their options,” says Cindy Nordstog, CEO of LaVie, “trusting the best decisions occur

“EVEN IF SOMEONE CAN’T FIND SUPPORT FROM FAMILY OR LOVED ONES, THEY NEED TO KNOW THEY ARE NOT ALONE.”

with guilt-free empowerment.” Three women share their stories of how they came to LaVie and why their decision to visit helped them find peace, strength, and love.

Brionna Conley

Brionna After a difficult childhood, in which her parents divorced and she continually struggled in school, Brionna made the decision to drop out of high school at 17. “I didn’t have the drive to succeed,” she recalls. She completed her GED in just 3 months, then began a relationship. The couple moved in together and Brionna began working as a CNA. She found out she was pregnant at 20. “The biological father was not supportive and was angry about the pregnancy,” says Brionna. She made an appointment to terminate, feeling alone and without anywhere else to turn. “My best friend told me about LaVie,” she continues. “I decided to give it a shot. They did an ultrasound and I found out I was four months pregnant. I heard the heartbeat and immediately knew I wanted to have the baby.” She is extremely grateful for the staff at LaVie, who embraced her and offered support free of judgement or guilt. “Even if someone can’t find support from family or loved ones, they need to know they are not alone.” Brionna was able to receive medical care from LaVie throughout her entire pregnancy, from no cost Ultrasounds to free parenting classes. “They are there for you,” Brionna adds. “When I first went in, I was terrified. They gave me the courage to do this.” Now, Brionna’s son, Calvin, is four years old and thriving. He started pre-school this fall and is a handsome, rambunctious, and smart little boy. Brionna also began a new relationship with a supportive and loving man who has become a wonderful father figure to Calvin. An awakened sense of purpose and drive to succeed led Brionna to enter into the nursing program at MSUB. She was accepted and will begin spring 2021. “No matter how hard you are struggling, you can find success,” she urges.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Billings

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED) Laura Thomas

LAURA & SEAN After years of devastating loss, including eight miscarriages due

“In 2009, Laura started volunteering there,” says Sean. “Since that

to a gene mutation contributed by one parent, as well as the loss of

time, she has been fortunate enough to join the staff at LaVie as

their daughter Zoe due to a congenital condition, Laura and Sean

a Project Coordinator. It was amazing that God had interlinked our

were at a crossroads.

lives in ways we had not even realized.”

“When Zoe passed away after just 36 hours here in our arms, we struggled to know what we would do next,” Laura recounts. “We

They continue to have a close relationship with their son’s birth mother and her family.

had been overjoyed at the thought of finally becoming parents and

“We have been able to blend together in a way that he knows he

knew that it was something which unfortunately we would not be

is loved by all of us,” continues Laura. “Adoption is so worth it! We

able to do on our own.”

have adopted three children now. Each of their paths to our hearts

The following year, they decided to pursue adoption and met with the staff at Catholic Social Services of Montana.

and family has been different and had its own set of challenges; those challenges are nothing compared with the overwhelming

“We love that they put their emphasis on the birth parents and

feeling of our family being complete through adoption. If you are

make sure to help them get to a place where they are completely

thinking of opening yourselves to adopting, talk to as many people

comfortable with their decision,” says Laura. “They also offer con-

with adoption experience as possible. Each adoption is unique

tinued support and counseling for birth parents after the adoption

just as each family is unique. Although each experience is differ-

placement has been made.”

ent, you are not alone. There are so many people and resources

Upon hearing that a birth mother had chosen them, Laura and Sean’s nerves were tempered by excitement. The potential mother had visited LaVie and the couple was surprised and thrilled with her decision.

Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

available to support and help guide you.”

“I WANT OTHERS TO KNOW THAT YOU CAN ALWAYS REACH OUT TO LAVIE, AND NO MATTER WHO IT IS, THEY ARE WILLING TO HELP. THEY WANT YOU AND YOUR BABY TO GROW.”

Breann

Breann Messerly

An enrolled member of the Gros-Ventre tribe, Breann grew up on Fort Belknap Reservation in North Central Montana. She moved to Billings to pursue a degree in Human Services. After a pause in her education, she found out she was pregnant. “I felt like I had little to no support,” Breann begins, recounting her first visit to LaVie. “I had been weighing my options and was unsure what to do. The staff was very supportive, no matter my decision. They gave me options, resources, and information that I didn’t know was available.” After sitting down with LaVie staff, her mixed emotions and confusion melted away. She decided to return to school during her pregnancy. “They were compassionate,” she says. “Any decision, they will help guide and support you.” Breann learned that there were resources which could help with the baby, both emotionally and financially. She enrolled in “Earn while you Learn” educational courses which allowed her to receive free gifts for completing prenatal classes. LaVie also helped with some college expenses, such as books and a campus parking permit. Her daughter, Sariyah, will be one next spring. “I am really blessed with her,” says Breann. “I lost my mother in February and had Sariyah exactly 35 days later. She helps calm my emotions and handle my grief.” Now, her daughter is the primary motivator driving Breann to complete her Human Services degree this fall, no easy feat as a single, working mother. “I want to get back onto that career path and provide the best life for my daughter,” she states. “I want others to know that you can always reach out to LaVie, and no matter who it is, they are willing to help. They want you and your baby to grow.” laviebillings.com CityLifestyle.com/Billings

November in Arizona! Life in the Phoenix valley really starts to ramp up in November. Overseeding is complete and the golf courses are back open with fresh, new grass. Friends are arriving and everyone is making plans for golf leagues, shopping, hiking, biking, boating, water skiing, snow skiing (some years), and of course Thanksgiving! It’s normal to golf in the morning and have friends and family over for Thanksgiving dinner out by the pool.

So, if you’re an avid golfer or just someone who likes the outdoors and is tired of the cold and snow, contact me today, and let’s find home for you in time for Christmas! With the interest rates at record lows, it’s still a great time to buy in Arizona.

Paul Hartman - Realtor 480-586-8833 Call or Text paulsazre@live.com www.paulsellsazhomes.com

18th Tee at Las Sendas in Mesa with views of Phoenix and Camelback Mountain in the distance.

We moved our family from Billings to Arizona in 2010 and have loved every minute.

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Your Montana Source for Arizona Real Estate

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406.259.0111

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Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

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OUR TOWN

SHINING A LIGHT ON HER HER CAMPAIGN STRIVES TO PROVIDE REFUGE, RESOURCES, AND RENEWAL FOR SURVIVORS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND EXPLOITATION.

ARTICLE STEPHANIE HOWER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY BRITNEY HIGGS

IN 2016, BRITNEY AND SAMMY HIGGS

That same year, their vision became reality

for survivors, one where they and their three

EXPERIENCED A MOMENT OF ENLIGHT-

and HER Campaign was born. Operating as

young children lived in the home with the

ENMENT DESTINED TO CHANGE THE

a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the HER

women they were serving.

COURSE OF THEIR LIVES FOREVER.

Campaign exists to help survivors of human

“We founded the HER Campaign fol-

trafficking heal, grow, and find purpose.

“Over the last three years, we have built a restoration program providing trauma-in-

lowing a vision of starting a safe home for

“Our vision is to create a world where

formed resources and therapies while

domestic survivors of sex trafficking,” begins

FREEDOM gets the final say. We help to

integrating survivors into a family system

Britney Higgs, founder and president. “Our

restore women survivors of human trafficking

and helping them step into a life of indepen-

hearts were broken for the issue of human

and sexual exploitation. We do this through

dence with a continued support system,”

trafficking and we knew once the veil was

our 24/7 HOPE Line and long-term residential

says Britney. “At the HER Campaign, we

lifted, we could no longer turn a blind eye to

housing through our HER Refuge Housing

believe that God’s first design for restoration

this issue. In a dark and hurting world, we

Network, a network of family-run safe homes.”

and healing is within the family structure.

As a young family of five, the Higgs pio-

With the majority of adult survivors we serve

neered a new kind of residential program

coming from the foster care system, familial

all have the opportunity and privilege to be carriers of light and support for survivors.” 14

Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

Sammy & Britney Higgs

exploitation, and/or abusive and broken

immersion into their homes and families,”

months, with up to 3 survivors living at the

families, reintegration with their biological

Britney continues. “Our goal is to create an

home at a time. As residents of the HER

families is typically not viable, at least not

ecosystem of love and healing for the mind,

Refuge, it was the longest stay for 100% of

during the healing journey.”

body, and spirit within communities nation-

the survivors stepping into the home that

wide by placing each survivor of human traf-

had previously been in other shelters and

ficking in a family unit to experience love in

safe home programs throughout the coun-

action and have a continued support system

try.” Women in the program regain a sense

throughout the healing journey.”

of safety and belonging by being immersed

HER REFUGE HOUSING NETWORK The HER Refuge Housing Network program is the heart of the Campaign. This Network serves as a system of support for survivors, through survivor led group discussions and family run safe homes.

The first family run safe home opened at the end of 2017.

in a healthy, strong family structure. Looking ahead to 2021, the HER Refuge

“From December 2017 to July 2020, it

Housing Network’s goal is to raise up to

“The sole purpose is to ignite the faith

was our honor and privilege to live with and

20 host families to operate HER Refuge

community to be a safe place for each

walk the journey of healing with 10 survivors.

safe homes. This will provide refuge for 20

survivor by one-on-one mentorship and

The typical stay for those 10 women was 6

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Billings

OUR TOWN (CONTINUED)

“EACH FAMILY WILL IMMERSE ONE SURVIVOR INTO THEIR FAMILY AND HOME AT A TIME AND WALK THE JOURNEY OF HEALING WITH HER UP TO ONE YEAR.”

survivors, including those who are pregnant, have chil-

exit from the life or resource the caller,” explains Britney.

dren, disabilities, or handicaps, within 2021.

“Merch with a Message is an online store and local

“Each family will immerse one survivor into their

boutique that creates clothing and apparel spreading

family and home at a time and walk the journey of

a message of hope and proceeds go towards survivors

healing with her up to one year. HER Campaign staff

stepping into our HER Refuge Housing Network. API

and mentors come alongside host families by providing

Institute (Awareness, Prevention, and Intervention) is a

survivors’ case management and programming for ther-

program that provides awareness, prevention, and direct

apies, healing resources, education, job training, and

care trainings throughout the region for businesses,

employment opportunities.”

organizations, ministries, schools, and agencies.”

The Housing Network uses a three stage process to aid survivors in their journey: the integration stage, emergence stage, and independence stage. Each stage

HOW CAN MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY SUPPORT

is tailored to guide survivors along their path of healing,

HER CAMPAIGN?

growth, and purpose while ultimately preparing them for a

If you would like to be a carrier of light and support for

successful life of independence. The HER Refuge Housing

survivors of human trafficking, there are a number of ways

Network Healing Towards Independence Plan costs on

to lend your help.

average $10,000 per survivor for one year with a host family and includes the following services: Case Management, Neuromodulation Technology Therapy, Body and Health Wellness Courses, Equine Therapy, Occupational Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Art Therapy, Survivor Led Support

1. Donate at www.hercampaign.org/donate/ 2. Become a HOPE Line operator – contact info@ hercampaign.org 3. Become a HER Campaign Ambassador 4. Shop our Merch with a Message online at her-

Groups, and Job Readiness & Training.

campaign.org/shop/

ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS

or organization.

5. Set up an API Training for your business, agency, Along with the HER Refuge Housing Network, HER Campaign’s programs include HOPE Line, Merch with a

6. Run a fundraiser for HER Campaign through your small business

Message, and API Institute to create a trauma-informed community. They employ 10 staff members and 61 volun-

HER Campaign, 501(c)(3) NPO

teers throughout the organization.

P.O. Box 51451 Billings, MT 59105

“HOPE Line is a 24/7 call line run by trained volunteers that provide hope while helping to facilitate survivors

Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

info@hercampaign.org 406.598.5674

We are THANKFUL at Meier Chiropractic to be part of your familyâ€™s Health and Wellness Care!

2 LOCATIONS NOW OPEN SATURDAYS

WEST END

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INSPIRED BY

MORE THAN MEDICINE ARTICLE STEPHANIE HOWER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY DR. MUSKETT AND DR. GROSSO

UNVEILING SMILES, INSPIRING HOPE

A SMILE IS A WINDOW TO THE SOUL, YET CONGENITAL

“We will run two or three operating rooms, each doing

DEFECTS CAN MAKE THIS ABILITY DIFFICULT, IF NOT

5-6 children a day, the next Monday through Friday,” con-

IMPOSSIBLE FOR SOME CHILDREN. Dr. Alan Muskett

tinues Dr. Muskett. “We will operate on 50-75 children

and his partner at Billings Plastic Surgery, Dr. Grosso, are

during that time. Needless to say, that puts quite a load on

among a concerned group of doctors and health profession-

the anesthesiologist, nurses, surgical technicians, post-op

als who work to repair cleft lips and palates in patients from

care providers, and the team leaders. These are small, often

other countries who would otherwise be unable to receive

undernourished, fragile little humans, so the focus has to be

treatment. Restoring the smiles of affected children is more

supreme and the physical stamina unyielding. It is common

than just an act of altruism, it’s an artform.

to become ill, either from a GI ailment or a weird cold/flu

Encouraged by their predecessor at Billings Plastic

bug, so one had better learn to operate between episodes of

Surgery, Dr. Walter Peet, Dr. Muskett and Dr. Grosso began

vomiting or worse. Air conditioning is rare, and the toilets are

traveling to Central America and Mexico with Smile Network,

no more predictable than a slot machine.”

an organization primarily based in Minnesota.

Not only do Dr. Muskett and Dr. Grosso offer their exper-

“Surgeons, anesthesiologists, surgical techs, nurses,

tise and services, their children have participated as well.

record keepers, volunteers, and team leaders compose the

Dr. Grosso’s wife, Dr. Lorinda Grosso, has also served as

teams,” explains Dr. Muskett. “In many of these countries the

a pediatrician.

surgeons and the hospitals are available, but will not provide

“I was privileged to share several trips with my daughter

care to those without resources. I traveled with Dr. Peet to

Sally, now a Doctor of Neonatal Nurse Practice at Cincinnati

Cuernavaca Mexico for my first trip, working with him and

Children’s hospital,” says Dr. Muskett. “Luke, my son, was my

getting the feel for the heavy schedule and the rustic condi-

assistant on two trips, and did a great job. That is a tremen-

tions. Often we work in older or abandoned hospitals, as the

dous thing to share with your children--they get to see Dad

local hospitals and surgeons, although unwilling to care for

in battle, they see families with nothing, they work with some

the indigent, don’t really want us there.”

of the finest minds in medicine.”

The first few days of these trips are devoted to screening

Dr. Grosso’s son Matthew assisted on a Peru trip, and his

patients, sometimes as many as 100 children and their families.

daughter Megan has participated on 2 trips to Peru and one

Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

Dr. Muskett and his son Luke with Patient and Mother

“BEING A PART OF A TEAM WITH A GOAL TO HELP THOSE THEY DON’T KNOW AND NEVER WILL IS A PEAK EXPERIENCE.”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Billings

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED) Dr. Muskett's Daughter Sally

Mandy and Corrina in India

to Guatemala. Overall, the Billings’ Community has been a strong contributor to serving under-privileged areas. “Dr. Chuck Aragon, an anesthesiologist, has been a team leader several times,” Dr. Muskett adds. “Mandy Charpentier RN and Corrina Main, Surgical Tech, from Billings Plastic Surgery, went to India with Dr. Grosso, and have lent their talents on other trips as well. Debbie Hammond, RN, also from BPS, traveled to the Philippines.” After visiting an area multiple times, members of the surgical teams may be able to connect with past patients, an experience Dr. Muskett treasures. “One girl, who I noticed on my first trip, always covered her mouth with a scarf or her hand,” he recalls. “When I saw her the next time, she proudly smiled and displayed her nearly seamless repaired lip. I would have to say that has been one of the highlights of my career--the chance to unlock a smile hitherto concealed. There are cultural stigmas associated with cleft lip and palate (the cursed is a translation), so these repairs are highly significant, apart from the functional aspects.” Surgeons and medical professionals such as Dr. Muskett and Dr. Grosso reap more than just emotional benefits by participating in organizations such as Smile Network. “It is a very intense, highly technical, surgical experience…35 cases a week of extremely precise, delicate 20

Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Billings

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

Life grows here.

IF P ICT UR E S A R E WORT H A T HOUSA ND WOR DS,

a virtual tour

IS WORT H A M ILLION.

surgery on small, sickly kids,” describes Dr.

U R OF T H I S H OME . . . . TA K E A V I R T U A L T O

Muskett. “I pride myself as a very efficient, decisive surgeon, and I feel I can do a lot of kids well with a minimum of trauma…Being a part of a team with a goal to help those they don’t know and never will is a peak experience. Talented, giving people working under duress, keeping their composure, not complaining--it is a band of brothers and sisters. At the start of the surgical week, I feel like I am standing in the tunnel before the Super Bowl. I reinforce my own feelings of gratitude, for being born into a good middle class family in the United States.” Dr. Muskett, Dr. Grosso, and their families want to continue this work in the future, but perhaps with more extensive follow up and longer stays, where they can better assess results and provide follow-up care. Their hope is that someday, providing basic health care will not just be a compassion-

. . . A N D M O R E O N O U R W E B SI TE!

ate gesture by altruistic surgical teams, but a priority of the governments where the indigent are in dire need. CityLifestyle.com/Billings

DRIVERâ€™S NOTEBOOK

Dashing through the Backcountry ARTICLE STEPHANIE HOWER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY POLARIS

Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

YELLOWSTONE POLARIS OFFERS VEHICLES SUITED TO ADVENTURES OF ALL KINDS THROUGH ALL WEATHERS.

READY TO EXPLORE ALL CORNERS OF THE STATE? There are off-highway vehicles equipped to take you from the forests to the farmlands, no matter what the elements throw your way. “It’s all about motion,” says Todd Loomis, owner of Yellowstone Polaris. “People get these vehicles to be in motion. And Montana has a lot to see.” The leader in snowmobiles, Polaris manufactures American made machines based out of Minnesota. Their high performance 850 Pro RMK vehicle is tailored to handle the deepest and steepest terrain. “It’s high horsepower, low weight,” explains Todd. “This snowmobile floats over the snow, so it can handle 3 feet of powder.” The sled is highly responsive and offers riders ultimate control and maneuverability. The Voyageur series offers a more family oriented vehicle, equipped to traverse the trails or ride through the deep snow with the perfect blend of RMK DNA and Polaris suspension technology. Although winter recreation is just around the corner and many are eager to hit the snow, Polaris has vehicles for all seasons. Their collection of Off-Highway Vehicles include Rangers, Razors, ATVs, and more. “Our vehicles are used for hunting, agriculture, recreation, trails,” Todd says. “You can use them year round.” Shorter days don’t have to mean less adventure. Hit the trails, the mountains, or the backroads and get moving this winter. FEATURES: Patriot Engine Designed for class-leading durability, responsiveness, unrivaled acceleration and industry's best power-to-weight.

PRO-Lite Seat Mountain snowmobiling requires a different seat design and that is what Polaris delivers.

AXYS Platform The raised AXYS platform increases clearance and reduces drag to keep you on top of the snow.

Polaris Interactive Digital Display This exclusive and industry-leading full color display provides important information and capabilities to the rider such as: sled performance, Bluetooth™, GPS mapping, Clock, and LH Control.

LED Lights All models built on the AXYS platform feature standard LED headlights to deliver the industry's best lighting that is 80% brighter than incandescent lighting. CityLifestyle.com/Billings

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Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

TURKEY DAY FITNESS A SIMPLE YET EFFECTIVE WORKOUT COURTESY OF RANDAL CHOW, A PERSONAL TRAINER AT GRANITE FITNESS

ARTICLE WORKOUT CONTRIBUTED BY RANDAL CHOW PHOTOGRAPHY OLUANAI PHOTOGRAPHY

10 MIN. AS MANY ROUNDS AS POSSIBLE PUSH UPS - 10 SQUATS - 20 SHOULDER TAPS - 16

Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

01.

PUSH UPS

02.

SQUATS

03.

SHOULDER TAPS

The push up is a foundational upper body

The squat helps build the leg strength

Shoulder taps are a great way to

movement. For the push up, start with your

to stand up, sit down, and walk upstairs. To

strengthen the core. Start in the push up

hands and feet on the ground, back flat, arms

perform the squat, stand with the feet shoul-

position with your head facing the floor, back

straight, and shoulders above the hands. Once

der width apart and toes pointed straight or

flat, arms straight, and shoulders above the

in position, while keeping the back flat, begin

slightly outwards. With hands together at

hands. Your feet should be about shoulder

a controlled descent by bending your elbows.

your chest, simultaneously bend at the hips

width apart. Once you tighten your core,

Keep them slightly tucked by your side. Once

and knees. Descend until your upper leg

bring one hand off the ground and touch your

you descend as far down as your body will

is parallel or slightly below parallel with the

opposite shoulder and return to the starting

allow, push your body away from the floor and

ground. Once at the bottom position, keeping

position. Perform the same movement with

return to the starting position. For those who

the back and core tight, push with the middle

your other hand. During this movement, you

have challenges performing a regular push up,

of your foot and return to the starting position.

should feel your body trying to twist and

utilize this same technique but perform them

For those who cannot reach parallel or below,

wobble. The goal of the shoulder tap is to

on your knees or a wall while standing.

utilize a chair or stool to squat on.

keep your body square to the ground. CityLifestyle.com/Billings

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Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

FAITH REFLECTIONS

WALKING THE WALK

A JOURNEY DOWN THE WINDING LIFE PATH OF UNASSUMING SPIRITUAL LEADER FRANCIS CHAN

FROM THE PULPIT OF A THRIVING MEGACHURCH OF MORE THAN 5,000 MEMBERS AND GROWING, TO A HOME IN THE POOREST REGION OF HONG KONG. From authoring a New York Times bestseller, to being surrounded by people struggling to make it by on just 50 cents a day. For most, it probably sounds like a tale of riches to rags; an unfortunate result of someone falling upon hard times. But for Francis Chan, it’s exactly what his soul needed—an opportunity to fulfill his God-given purpose of becoming a man who can truly say he practices what he preaches. And it was all by his own choice (with maybe a little guidance from above). Francis, born in San Francisco, was raised in a traditional Chinese home and navigated a challenging upbringing. His mother died during childbirth. His father remarried, then his stepmother died in a car accident when he was 8. His father remarried again, then, when Francis was 12, died of cancer. Francis was around 14 when he was introduced to a youth group by a friend. “I fell in love with Jesus,” he says, explaining that it was

ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

then he decided if there really was a Heaven and Hell, it didn’t make sense to spend his life doing anything other than telling people about Him. Twenty-six and newly married, Francis and his wife Lisa founded Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley, California in the early 90s, beginning with 30 people. Within the first two months, the church grew to 100. In 2000, the church grew even more, to 1,600. By 2008, Cornerstone Community Church was one of the largest in Ventura County and Francis’ new book “Crazy Love” was a New York Times bestseller. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Billings

FAITH REFLECTIONS (CONTINUED)

Watch the full interview @ CityLifestyle.com! Then, in 2010, Francis decided to leave it all. But, he wasn’t leaving God. He was separating himself from the megachurch that had started in his living room as he and other elders began to question its direction. “Was this really what the Church is meant to be? Is this all God had in mind when he created His Church in the first place?” Francis questions in his second book Letters to the Church. “We began to wonder if our definition of a church actually fit God’s definition.” “Everything had grown to be very dependent upon one person,” he continues. “The Bible tells us that every member of the body has a gift that is necessary to the functioning of the church. When I looked at what went on in Cornerstone, I saw me and a few other people using our gifts, while thousands just came and sat in the sanctuary for an hour and a half and then went home.” After leaving Cornerstone, Francis wrestled with what the next step was. He and Lisa ended up selling their Simi Valley house and moving their family of six at the time overseas to India, Thailand and China. And the $1 million his bestselling book made in the first year, plus the money it continues to make? Francis signed it all over to a charitable gift fund helping the poor and victims of human trafficking. “We witnessed the simplicity of the lifestyles in rural Thailand, and the joy of the men and women who served widows and orphans day in and day out” “You meet these believers that just blow your mind. It’s everything the Bible talks about,” Francis says, inspired by those he’s met throughout his travels. “Some of the

It was after that Francis believes he was called back to the

godliest people, the most committed...people that I

States, and the Chan family ended up back in San Francisco.

admire and aspire to become like. If I can get past my

This time, much like the beginning of Cornerstone, Francis

own hunger for comfort and enjoyment and really sac-

and Lisa once again felt a calling to plant a church.

rifice like I’ve seen some of these people do, I know I’ll have even more fulfillment in life.”

What started this time was We Are Church—an organization passionately pursuing what God wants in a church, done through

“People tha t I ’ve f ou nd that have spent t h ei r l i ves tr uly loving o t h er s a r e t h e jo yf u l peopl e.” 32

Billings Lifestyle | November 2020

values and practices like devotion to scripture,

committing

churches of 10-20 people meeting in a home, and calling everyone to share the gospel and make disciples.

“Som et im e s you sh ed som e t h i ngs an d you re alize i t ’s a c t u a l l y bet t er ; s om e o f t he th i ng s w e t h ou gh t w ou ld brin g us in t o t h e p r esenc e of G od actually now di st r a c t u s.” Francis’ extensive time overseas has shown him a contrast

In the throes of a pandemic, quarrels over U.S. politics, a

between the American church and the spirituality and Godly

growing divide among people and beliefs, and the unsurety of

lives of others across the world, and now struggles with see-

life, Francis’ vision of where the concept of church is heading—a

ing the division in the church, due in large part to growing

non-prophetic guess, he clarifies, laughing—can be summed up

issues of individualism and pride.

through a story of his daughter Rachel, when she was 5 years old.

“Try to look at the church in America from an outsider’s

“We regularly visited this rundown place in our city called

perspective, Francis challenges. “Is that really where you

Paint Pals,” he laughs, reminiscently. “There was this old maze

would look for answers— knowing the divisiveness; know-

you walked through with only a few walls, some little ceramic

ing all the scandals; knowing everything you know about it?

things you could paint and this big bubble machine that was

The church is in a really poor state and it in some ways feels

just a hula hoop dipped in bubble solution.”

like it’s getting worse.” “I wish we could learn and see the sacrifice of others,” he continues. “Overseas they’re just obsessed with each other.” Francis, pretending to hold up a phone facing himself, goes on to describe how he sees this generation as a generation all about taking selfies; noting that you could be in the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls and you’re always in the picture—always the center of everything.

“One day I was just like, ‘Honey, this week I’m going to take you to Disneyland!’ And she was like, ‘What’s that?’” he says. “I go, ‘You have no clue. This is like the happiest place on Earth. You’re gonna go nuts!’” Francis says Rachel began to get very sad, asking if they could just go to Paint Pals. “She’s working herself into tears,” he laughs. “Like, you’re crying because I’m about to take you to Disneyland.”

“All we really need to do is hit that little button that switches

“I feel like we’re just like Rachel when she was 5,” he says,

it off selfie mode,” he says. “And now I can’t even see myself. All

fondly recalling the Paint Pals days. “We’re accustomed to

I see is God and those around me. People that I’ve found that

certain things and God has something so much better for us. I

have spent their lives truly loving others are the joyful people.”

believe he’s leading us all into a deeper intimacy with Him that

Much like separation from his megachurch setting,

is just off the charts. Sometimes you shed some things and you

preaching in front of thousands, and the continued growth

realize it’s actually better; some of the things we thought would

of We Are Church exudes, Francis continues to spread the

bring us into the presence of God actually now distract us.”

belief that people are the church.

Nearly six months ago, Francis’ path led him to the Sham

“It’s not about going to a place and needing a critical mass

Shui Po area on the Kowloon side of Hong Kong with most

of 8 people or 1,000 people or this or that; it’s the person of

of his family, including his wife, all but one of his daughters,

Christ and enjoying that,” he says. “I really believe the Lord

two sons-in-law and two grandchildren. It’s a place where he

wants us during this time to go back to the scriptures, rethink

later found is where his mother also did ministries in the 1950s,

‘What did he really want the church to be?’ Believers have

and allows him the continued humbling opportunity to live out

been scattered since the beginning of the church. People

his journey through the Gospel, working with the ultra poor

were alone, people were in little groups and found each other

to bring relief, sharing the word of God and, you guessed it,

and enjoyed Christ together.”

planting churches.

CityLifestyle.com/Billings

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