Missoula Valley, MT November 2019

NOVEMBER 2019

MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com

Glass Full of Gratitude

SOME DREAMS ARE DELICIOUS

NOTHING TO WINE ABOUT

A DECADENT HISTORY

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

NOVEMBER 2019 PUBLISHER

Mike Tucker | MTucker@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Chelsea Lyn Agro | Chelsea.Agro@LifestylePubs.com MANAGING EDITOR

Erika Fredrickson | Erika.Fredrickson@LifestylePubs.com

Small things.

NOVEMBER STIRS UP ALL SORTS OF EMOTIONS, MAINLY THOSE WHERE I'M SITTING AT A DECORATED DINNER TABLE WATCHING SOMEONE CARVE A GOLDEN TURKEY INTO JUICY SLABS. Thanksgiving, for me, is a warm home full of guests. It's the blonde stairs of my sister's home back in New York and the leather chair my father once sat in. It's the television turned down while we gossip about life and how the weather is so dreary.

Rain trickles from the roof steadily, keeping us all inside.

AD DESIGNER

Alicia Huff LAYOUT DESIGNER

Dani Moore STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Open Lens by Pamela | OpenLensByPamela@Gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Shelby Humphreys, Amanda Krieg, Louise McMillin, Jill MH Taber CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Erika Spaulding

And some years later, it's my husband and I tackling the turkey for the first time. I've got ear warmers on and fleece-lined tights, wool socks. I've found a recipe online and we're giving it our best shot, letting the glow of the oven warm our faces. It is dozens of degrees into the negatives and it's our first holiday without family.

Then mom is at the table along with a friend who's too far from home. We use the

CORPORATE TEAM

same recipe and we make it even better. There is warmth and laughter and deca-

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

dent dessert. And who knows what this year's holiday will look like? The point is to

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

not focus on how things used to be or how many people will come or how your new

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

job won't allow for you to go above and beyond. The point, rather, is to dig deep for gratitude and hold close to it when you find it.

This fall I'm thankful to still have our chocolate lab. There's a shadow that's been following around my joyous times with her, watching her leap and bound down the driveway and run in the opposite direction of the mid-air ball. She isn't the young

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

pup she once was and I'm just grateful that I get to hear her snoring on the bed, where she spends all of her time these days. So long as she's somewhere near our turkey, looking for a handout, there is happiness in my heart.

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Editor Chelsea.Agro@LifestylePubs.com

IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

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MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com ON THE COVER Missoula Wine Merchants is stocked and ready for the holiday season.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIKA SPAULDING 4

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

Proverbs 3:5-6 Missoula Valley Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Missoula Valley areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this 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 Missoula Valley Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2019

FEATURES 14 Some Dreams are Delicious Veera Donuts went from Clark Fork Market booth to storefront.

18 A Decadent History The Keep is still one of Missoula’s most treasured places.

24 Protecting our Native Plants Gardens at University of Montana serve as example habitat.

14 28

28 Nothing to Wine About Be fit for any occasion with Missoula Wine Merchants.

24

18

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

14

Culinary Creations

24 Healthy Lifestyle 28 Trend Setter 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Parting Thoughts

GOOD TIMES

Missoula loves their pets!

Exhibitors, participants, and the pet-loving community made for another successful Petfest. This annual event promotes responsible pet ownership with education through entertainment. PHOTOGRAPHY CHELSEA LYN AGRO

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

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AROUND TOWN

MISSOULA CHILDREN'S THEATRE: ACT UP!

team outings, fundraisers, and corporate events.

This popular franchise evolved from an Etsy shop

Did you know that the Missoula Children's

to a branded e-commerce platform and blog where

Theatre is excited to host your student onstage and

thousands would visit and shop the online store

in the audience for a season of spectacular produc-

for printable party goodies. This is the first and

tions and classes? Production classes will explore

only AR Workshop in the state of Montana. Visit

the 100 Acre Woods of Disney's Winnie the Pooh,

ARWorkshop.com to view upcoming events!

the Wildwoods of MCT's Hansel and Gretel, the Kingdom of Arendelle from Disney's Frozen, and

GRIZZLY SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE

the wild west in MCT's Beauty Lou and the Country

On Wednesday, November 13, five nationally

Beast. Students of any and all abilities and expe-

acclaimed singer-songwriters with ties to Montana

riences are encouraged and welcome. The class

will perform some of their greatest hits. Artists include:

“Rising Stars” is from November 5 to November 21

+ Tom Catmull, "Sail on Gone" + John Floridis, "Musician's Spotlight" + Susan Gibson, "Wide Open Spaces" + Kostas, "Timber, I'm Falling in Love" + John Pierce, "Sweet Annie"

and take place every Tuesday and Thursday from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Specially designed for your young performer with dreams of the stage! This class will focus on basic musical theater techniques and provide them with the skills to succeed in future production classes. Visit MCTinc.org.

Children 12 and under are free, students are $10, general public is $30, and V.I.P tickets are $55. Follow "Grizzly Songwriters Showcase" on

DIY MADE EASY

Facebook for more updates.

Missoula has a new act in town, one where you get to be the designer of some nifty homemade creations. Visit AR Workshop on Higgins to choose

HISTORICAL MUSEUM'S 10TH ANNUAL USED BOOK SALE

a project design and register. When you arrive

Beginning on October 31 and ending on

for your workshop, AR provides all the necessary

November 3, the used book sale is one hot

materials and instruction. You can customize your

place to be before winter returns for the long

project with your choice of stains, colors, and tech-

haul. With shorter days and longer nights

niques. Leave with your ready-to-display finished

ahead, there are thousands of books to read.

project! These workshops are ideal for a night out

Browse every genre and a selection of 60,000

with friends or family, birthday parties, date night,

books. Books can be purchased at the low

bachelorette parties, team building events, sports

price of $1.50 an inch, not including specially CONTINUED >

Plan for the Westside Lane Halloween Party! And plan to take the WESTSIDE LANES GRIZ BUS TO ALL THE HOME FOOTBALL GAMES! 36 Lanes of bowling.

THUNDER ALLEY BOWLING Every Friday, Saturday and Monday Enjoy the Lights, 10 Foot Video Screens, Music Videos!

$1.25 Bowling Specials Every Sunday, Monday and Wednesdays Starting at 9PM, Per Person, Per Game.

Plus $2.00 Tuesdays!

The BOWLDOG LOUNGE has Karaoke by Solid Sound Every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and the 1st and 2nd Saturday of Every Month! PLUS a DJ by RMF Entertainment on Saturdays!

Check out the Full Service Snack Bar with Home Made Soups and Freshly Made Pizzas to Order!

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

Retreats, Conferences, Holiday Parties and Celebrations QuinnsHotSprings.com 406-826-3150

November 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

11

AROUND TOWN

(CON TI N UED)

priced books. The book sale takes place at Heritage Hall (Northern Rockies Heritage Center) at 30 Fort Missoula Road. For more information or to volunteer, contact JRogers@MissoulaCounty. us or call 406.258.3479.

Schedule:

+ Thursday, October 31: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

+ Friday, October 1: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. + Saturday, October 2: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

+ Sunday, October 3: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

CHEESE & CIDER TASTING Celebrate Cider Week with a cheese and cider pairing hosted by Tucker Family Farm and Western Cider. Head cheese maker Allison Dembek of Tucker Family Farm will guide you through a tasting at Western Cider of four artisanal

The concept of Sandhill Ridge is to provide custom homes designed for your lifestyle.

cheeses matched with four handpicked ciders. Cost is $25 per person. Begins at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 9.

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We are always accepting submissions for announcements you’d like to see included in our Around

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Town section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us tab at MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com.

12

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

November 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

13

CULINARY CREATIONS

SOME DREAMS ARE DELICIOUS

VEERA DONUTS WENT FROM CLARK FORK MARKET BOOTH TO STOREFRONT

HANIAH SWEENEY DRINKS HER MORNING COFFEE IN THE AFTERNOON. She’s not a party-all-night-sleep-until-noon kind of gal, she’s more of a bake-vegan-donuts-all-night gal.

Haniah’s business, Veera Donuts, started as a wild idea to peddle vegan donuts at the farmers market. She made 100 donuts for that first Saturday.

ARTICLE JILL MH TABER PHOTOGRAPHY ERIKA SPAULDING

“As I was driving to the market, I thought, ‘well, this is probably the first and last day I’ll do this,’” Haniah said. “I had no expectation for people to love it and for it to take off at the first Clark Fork Market like it did.”

She sold out in the first hour.

Since opening her shop at 617 South Higgins Avenue, Haniah and her staff make between 600 to 1,200 donuts every night.

The donuts are a luxurious creation of quality (often organic) ingredients that Haniah said are the same she uses in her kitchen at home.

And while she wanted to offer a vegan donut option for her hometown of Missoula, Haniah said it isn’t her goal to force a vegan lifestyle on anyone. Vegans and non-vegans alike can find a tasty treat at Veera.

“My dad is a hunter. I didn’t want someone like him to come in and feel like there wasn’t something for him,” Haniah explained. “I encourage people to just try it.

I guarantee you’ll like something.”

From her market days, making up to 500 donuts a weekend for Saturday shoppers, to her now-daily routine, one thing is consistent: building a business requires a lot of guts and a lot of grit. She bartended at Charlie B’s on the weekends and made top-

VEERA DONUTS

pings, glazes, and donuts during the week

617 S Higgins, Avenue #2

to sell at the Saturday market.

406.317.1109

Sure, there were (and are) naysayers. But Haniah is undeterred.

“People would be hounding me at Charlie B’s: ‘Are you really going to do this? Are you even making any money?’”

Haniah recalled.

14

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

VeeraDounts.com

She

watched

documentaries

about

other entrepreneurs, realizing that yes, it could be done.

“I knew nothing about business before this,” Haniah said. “Everything was challenging: numbers, paperwork, wading through health department requirements. I wanted everything to be perfect.”

Haniah and another staff person make the dough, adding other staff for frying and baking donuts during the night hours, literally burning the midnight (non-GMO canola) oil to be ready for the day’s customers.

“People think it’s easy to make a donut, but it really isn’t,” Haniah explained. “I’ve been working five years on my dough recipe and have just now nailed it down.”

Perfecting donut dough is one thing, Haniah said, but building a business has come with a learning curve.

“I’ve stopped looking at Google reviews.

I know that I’m working every night, making donuts,” Haniah said. “It’s not a piece of cake. It’s hard work. But I decided this is my life. I’m going to dedicate myself.”

Her commitment is evident through her grinding schedule, no doubt, but also through her obvious love for creating delicious donuts to share.

“It’s still no days off,” Haniah explained.

“But I’m so passionate and I wanted my own thing. Sometimes, I can’t believe this actually happened. I sit in my yard with my dog, drinking coffee, and say, ‘there’s a donut shop named after you, Veera.’”

CONTINUED >

November 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

15

CULINARY CREATIONS

(CON TI N U ED)

People think it’s easy to make a donut, but it really isn’t,” Haniah explained. “I’ve been working five years on my dough recipe and have just now nailed it down.”

16

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

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17

A Decadent History

18

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

ARTICLE SHELBY HUMPHREYS | PHOTOGRAPHY ERIKA SPAULDING

THE KEEP IS STILL ONE OF MISSOULA’S MOST TREASURED PLACES

CHAIN RESTAURANTS COME AND GO BUT

space feels reminiscent of a time when gentle-

THE KEEP IS, WELL, FOR KEEPS.

men with top hats and canes would swap stories

Situated at 3,600 feet and overlooking the

over cigars and brandy.

Missoula Valley, this 1960s building has seen a

Tonight, however, with the shimmering city-

lot of change, and in time, taken on different

scape below as the chill of winter settles in for

lives of its own.

the evening, you can enjoy local craft brews and a

Melissa and Reed Mooney are the proud own-

selection of tastefully crafted appetizers before the

ers. Since 2007, they’ve cultivated a dining experi-

main event. Perhaps a ribeye or halibut. Be sure to

ence second to none, embracing that end-of-work

arrive early. You can linger in the lounge by the fire

casual vibe while also raising a glass to those

and share the intriguing story of how one Missoula

wanting to celebrate something special. It is rustic

home—that’s right, a home—traveled across our

Montana and regal all at once.

valley to claim this special spot on the hill.

“We live in one of the most beautiful places on

The Mansion restaurant—its original name—sat

earth,” said Melissa. “It’s such a tranquil feeling

upon this hilltop. A Victorian beauty, which served

when our clientele can sit and look out at that view

fancy meals to distinguished couples and prom

while enjoying a great meal in a beautiful building.”

dates alike, was originally built across the valley

The Keep’s castle-style building adds elegance

in the lower Rattlesnake. Designed by prominent

with iconic architecture and an unexpected tur-

area architect, A.J. Gibson, Thomas Greenough’s

ret. Even its stone steps make a click-clack walk

mansion was a nineteenth century spectacle of

in heels feel a bit more stylish.

western wealth. He built on his estate (which now

Inside, an intimate glow from candle-lit tables

includes his namesake “Greenough Park”). The

complements the elegant décor. Bespoke with

home had three floors with 22 rooms, six bath-

emerald green walls and hardwood beams, the

rooms, and a ballroom.

CONTINUED >

November 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

19

A DECADENT HISTORY

(CON TI N U ED)

Greenough’s daughter, Ruth, and her husband, Art Mosby, lived on that estate until the mid-1960s, when the highway department notified them that their historic home was in the way of the inevitable Interstate 90. Mr. Mosby made several attempts to preserve the building, including his proposal to sell the mansion to the city as a museum. None proved fruitful. Instead, Art Mosby doubled down with a bold plan. He decided to move the entire home across the valley to his Leisure Highlands development in Missoula’s South Hills.

However, moving a 287-ton home across town wasn’t simple. The building exceeded weight limits for every bridge crossing. The answer: split the entire mansion into three pieces. It took several years for the actual move and rebuild to take place. Eventually, the mansion traded up. She became the grandest and uppermost restaurant in Missoula.

Sadly, in 1992, a midnight fire burned the Victorian lady to the ground. One year later, a new building with a distinct Irish influence opened as Shadows Keep. Today, The Keep sits atop The Mansion’s original foundation.

The Keep shares a rich history of love and devotion. That history now includes Melissa and Reed’s love story.

“My husband, Reed, had worked here since 1987 when The Keep was The Mansion,” explained Melissa. “Reed started as a dishwasher in high school and worked his way up to kitchen manager after years of employment and additional schooling at the Culinary Institute. I moved here from Maine to finish college, became a server at Shadows Keep while finishing school, met Reed, and the rest, as they say, is history.”

Aside

from

its

fascinating

history,

Missoulians may recognize Art Mosby’s hilltop property as the origin of the Highlands Golf Course. This 9-hole layout extends down the hill from the restaurant.

20

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

CONTINUED >

November 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

21

A DECADENT HISTORY

(CON TI N U ED)

“It’s

the

oldest

golf

course

in

Missoula,” Melissa said. “The course is also part of a 100-year conservation easement, protecting the land from any future housing developments.”

In addition to the golf course and restaurant, The Keep also hosts a variety of special events. Its building and grounds can accommodate reunions, business

functions,

holiday

parties,

and weddings. In fact, many customers return to dine and share in the nostalgia of their special day.

“On numerous occasions, customers who have had their weddings at The Keep will return every year for their anniversary dinner. The location continues to hold a special place in their lives for years to come,” Melissa said.

For years, a tradition of fine food, warm atmosphere, and Missoula history has resided at the top of Ben Hogan Drive-and it will continue for years to come.

As you and your guests leave the table, satisfied by exceptional cuisine, you have become part of that tradition, too. You need only look up on your way out. Above the foyer, a worn, hand-painted sign reads, “The Mansion.”

THE KEEP 102 Ben Hogan Drive 406.728.5132 TheKeepRestaurant.com Sundays - Thursdays 5 to 9 p.m. or Fridays and Saturdays 5 to 10 p.m.

22

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

Steak, Seafood, Fine Wine & Spirits Enjoy Panoramic Views of the Missoula Valley

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November 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

23

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

ARTICLE LOUISE MCMILLIN | PHOTOGRAPHY OPEN LENS BY PAMELA

Protecting our Native Plants GARDENS AT UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA SERVE AS EXAMPLE HABITAT

24

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

IT SEEMS A BIT ODD TO BE TALKING ABOUT SEEDS AND BLOOMS IN NOVEMBER, DOESN’T IT? While that might be true, it also gives us something to hope and plan for, which is what winter is for most gardeners.

Missoula, the Garden City, is blessed with bounty— clear waters, prestigious mountains, forests and grasslands and wide open skies. But due to population growth and other factors, both within and outside the state of Montana, extraction of natural resources places pressure on some of these pristine places of admiration. The Montana Native Plant Society is one of many groups who work to protect these priceless areas for our continued enjoyment.

The Society’s mission statement, from its inception over thirty years ago right up to today, is to “…preserve, conserve, and study Montana’s native plants and plant communities.” To this end, State President Gretchen Rupp explained that the overarching goals of local chapters throughout the state, and the state society as a whole, are to focus on the many areas of land use throughout the state. That means bringing education, attention, and specific knowledge to various land-use bills and land-use proposals. Individual chapters contribute essential and critical knowledge to local endangered land and native plant protection.

In addition, each chapter has many plant-related activities, including hikes, local garden and education projects, and even plant trivia nights.

The Missoula chapter is deeply involved in local education about regional native plants. The group is an interesting mix of folks with various backgrounds, including scientists, foresters, educators, and medical personnel, among others. The common bond they all share is their concern for and love of native plants and protecting critical plant habitat. One of their main projects is the native plant gardens on the University of Montana campus. Located directly south of the University Commons building, the gardens were donated by the university and are funded partially by the Plant Society and the university.

The gardens are a unique and condensed vista of Montana’s entire native plant habitat, including alpine, sub-alpine, grassland, desert, shrub land, and others.

Dedicated volunteers are assigned a shared garden and work to keep a variety of native plants that represent what people encounter when they hike or visit those specific plant habitats.

Kelly Chadwick, the university horticulturist, is a stalwart of the Plant Society and explained the importance of the gardens to both the University and the community at large.

CONTINUED >

November 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

25

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

(CON TI N U ED)

“We strive to make the gardens accessible to everyone, both as an educational tool and as a concrete way to visualize these habitats in our state. They are especially important to older people who no longer hike in rough terrain. They can visit the gardens on

“WE STRIVE TO MAKE THE GARDENS ACCESSIBLE TO EVERYONE, BOTH AS AN EDUCATIONAL TOOL AND AS A CONCRETE WAY TO VISUALIZE THESE HABITATS IN OUR STATE.”

campus and see the plants they love, but are no longer able to visit in their natural

environment,” said Kelly.

Each person from the Missoula Native Plant Society brings distinct knowledge of different aspects of native plant preservation.

Some are botanists who explain intricate plant biology. Others, like Mary Lawrence, a retired clinical laboratory scientist, enjoy the challenges of propagating plants from seeds and getting plants that would typically grow in different environments, such as alpine meadows, to grow in the garden.

Volunteer Linda Pillsworth said, “Being here focused me to learn more about the plants in my garden and what plants can grow in a prairie ecology.” Linda gives plant tours on campus and hopes they encourage people to plant more natives.

Janet Simms is a retired nurse from Los Angeles. She was a native plant volunteer in California and she said it was interesting to learn all new plants when she moved to Missoula and joined the Native Plant Society.

She said the camaraderie of the volunteers is one of the most important things to her. She loves seeing plants in all their various stages and said, “Plants feel like family to me.”

The gardens aren’t the only project and activity of the Missoula chapter. They plan hikes and camping trips to various habitats throughout the state as educational opportunities. They do outreach to different groups in order to continue to build interest in native plants. The group also encourages people of any age and background to volunteer. The group involved in the gardens includes

university

students,

currently

employed professionals who come on their lunch breaks or day off, and retired professionals, all of them caring for the native plants of Montana and the preservation of the habitat on which they live.

26

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

November 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

27

TREND SETTER

NOTHING TO WINE ABOUT BE FIT FOR ANY OCCASION WITH MISSOULA WINE MERCHANTS ARTICLE AMANDA KRIEG | PHOTOGRAPHY ERIKA SPAULDING

28

WITH THE HOLIDAYS AND WINTER NIPPING

done the work for you and take great joy in helping

AT OUR HEELS, TAKING A QUICK TRIP TO

you pull off a pleasing choice.

MISSOULA WINE MERCHANTS IS APPROPRI-

Doug emphasizes that once in his shop, you’ll only

ATE. Whether it’s something in-hand to bring to a

find a “small limited production that is handmade by

party or just for yourself, wine is the ultimate gift

growers who care for the earth,” as opposed to mass

to share among friends or luxury to slowly sip from

produced corporate wines that contain chemicals to

the comforts of home.

enhance taste. His wines must meet the strict criteria

Doug Ness is the owner of Missoula Wine

of being less processed and filtered while also staying

Merchants and he likes to think of his wine selection

true to the region. Rather than allowing distributors to

in the same way that folks like to consider their food

pop in with catalogs, Doug goes directly to the source

or beer. Our community wants something organic

to let the product sell itself. Some days that might

or locally sourced or they want it to be worldly,

mean visiting a grower in Walla Walla or growers in

hand-picked for Missoula by a connoisseur. Doug

France, Spain, or Italy. Other days it looks like New

holds his wine selection to a high standard, want-

York City, scanning for quality and refining that cul-

ing everyone who comes through the door to have

tural selection back in Missoula with fresh additions.

an experience, know what they’re purchasing, and

“Most of what Missoula Wine Merchants does

maybe even come back—for the wine or the ‘80s

is [figure] out how to import these select wines to

music, we’ll leave that up to you.

Montana,” said Doug. And he’s successful at it. Even

Once inside, you’ll find that this isn’t your typical

their logo—the pack mule carrying a crate of wine—

bottle-buying situation. It’s warm and friendly and

is an ode to how only quality items are chosen to tra-

there’s a method to the madness when it comes to

verse their way over our mountains and into our city.

which bottle you should choose. The shop is orga-

There are only a handful of certified sommeliers

nized by old world, new world, and bubbles. Tables

in Missoula, and Missoula Wine Merchants has two

in the middle of the store are set up by themes such

of them on staff, eager to guide you toward the right

as $20 new world reds or wines under $15. Despite

gift. Wondering what to serve with Thanksgiving

having wines that range widely in price point, there is

dinner? Anabelle recommends the fruity but pep-

no need to be educated on the range of differences

pery Saint Cosme Cotes du Rhone or a winter white

in taste, pairings, or color. Doug and his staff have

like Domaine du Bagnol Cassis.

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

Missoula Wine Merchants also offers a wine club where interested parties can get an education that goes beyond buying a one-time gift for a party or dinner at home.

These monthly offers include two selected bottles with information about the wines, the region and the history. This is where the staff can take risks and help expand their customers’ palates.

“It’s so easy to get stuck in a rut with wine,” said Doug. “We want to help people get out of that rut and these bottles can do that.”

Missoula Wine Merchants is also truly a one-stop-shop. Once you’ve made your wine selection, you can browse all the accessories, such as charcuterie, cheeses, greeting cards, bottle openers, stoppers, aerators, travel options, and books that illustrate and narrate the import process and mission.

DRINK IT UP Missoula Wine Merchants 311 North Higgins Avenue 406.926.1911 MissoulaWine.com Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. or Sunday, 12 to 4 p.m.

CONTINUED >

November 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

29

TREND SETTER

30

(CON TI N U ED)

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

November 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

31

NOVEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1

Reflect on what is bringing happiness

This night is an opportunity to share

into our daily lives and express that

poetry, stories, show-n-tell, comedy,

WARREN MILLER'S 70TH FILM: TIMELESS

through images, drawings, stencils,

art, music, song, and dance. Kids are

paint, pen and ink, and a variety of

welcome to attend and participate.

other materials. Join Kate Crouch and

Share or listen, starting at 7 p.m.

The Wilma

explore gratitude through a layered

After seven decades of celebrating

art exercise. Class begins at 7 p.m.

skiing and snowboarding, Warren Miller Entertainment can confirm that nothing compares to the anticipation of another season. Come get stoked for winter! Start time is 6:30 p.m.

2

HOMEBUYER CLASS

9 MISSOULA MEDICAL AID 21ST ANNUAL SALSA BALL Studebaker Building

bites, beverages, dancing, and a silent auction. Missoula Medical Aid is able to significantly improve the lives of

Thinking about buying a home? Learn

people in rural and impoverished

the basics of the home-buying process

communities of Honduras with your

through the HUD Certified Housing

support. Let the fun begin at 7 p.m.

learn to select a lender, determine what you can afford, distinguish between different types of loans and so much more. Registration is required and can be completed at HomeWord.org.

University Center

Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the largest craft sale in Western Montana! Begins at 9 a.m.

28 TURKEY DAY 8K & 3K FUN RUN University of Montana

Get some fresh air and exercise before feasting on a Thanksgiving

Counselor and Homebuyer educator, Throughout this 9-hour class, you'll

THE ULTIMATE CRAFT FAIR

Enjoy live music by Salsa Loca, small

Homeward, 1535 Liberty Lane

Julie Pavlish and other professionals.

23

10

meal! These two fun runs will travel

BANFF CENTRE MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL

Missoula city streets. Participants

along the Riverfront and Milwaukee Trails with short distances on a few will receive chip timing, a winter hat,

The Wilma

and are eligible for overall prizes. See

Are you ready for an adventure? Go

you there at 9:30 a.m.

on a big-screen expedition to exotic

3 PUMPKIN REHARVEST RIDE Soil Cycle

Time to get your bike, trailer, and pickup truck for the annual pumpkin reharvest event. Riders and drivers will be divided up and taken to Missoula neighborhoods to save

landscapes, learn about remote cultures, and explore the world outside.

Begins at 6 p.m.

15 CREATE YOUR OWN HOLIDAY PHOTO CARDS

30 HOLIDAY WREATH CLASS

Missoula Natural History Center

Make a beautiful holiday wreath out of local conifer boughs. You'll be shown how to create the frame, attach greenery, and add decorations. Cost

The Lifelong Learning Center

is $30 for MNHC members and $35

as many pumpkins as possible.

Explore the graphic design possi-

for non-members. Registration is

Pumpkins will be trucked to a local

bilities in Photoshop Elements by

required and can be completed on

farm to feed goats, chickens, and

learning how to make your own holi-

MontanaNaturalist.org.

hogs. Venture starts at 10 a.m.

day cards using your favorite images.

Begins at 6:30 p.m.

6 SIP & SKETCH: GRATITUDE ART JOURNALING WITH KATE CROUCH Montana Natural History Center

November is a month for gratitude.

32

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

16

We are always accepting sub-

OPEN MIC NIGHT!

tion. Submissions are accepted

missions for events you'd like to see included in our Calendar sec-

Open Way Mindfulness Center

via

All are welcome to attend and it's free!

MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com.

the

Contact

Us

tab

at

BREAKFAST & BRUNCH • SANDWICHES • BURGERS

We are thankful for YOU!

Join us this Thanksgiving for a traditional turkey dinner.

(Reservations recommended.)

Join us at 3621 Brooks Street • 406.728.3228 • Visit us on Facebook to see our current specials, menu, and events!

Voted ula’s Misso -In lk #1 Wa Clinic

Now Care Nose to Toes Care Open 7 Days A Week No Appointment Needed

M O R G E N R OT H M U S I C C E N T E R S RENT-TO-OWN B A N D A N D O R C H E ST R A

Educator approved instruments for the budget conscience.

“Voted Missoula’s Best Music Store for 17 consecutive years!”

Life is short...don’t forget to play!

o Back t l o o h c S

Corner of Sussex and Regent, 1 block north of the Fairgrounds Entrance

www.montanamusic.com 406-549-0013 November 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

33

PARTING THOUGHTS

BOOK-ISH WHAT TO READ THIS MONTH

ARTICLE CHELSEA LYN AGRO

THE STARLESS SEA

THE FAMILY UPSTAIRS

THE POPPY WIFE: A NOVEL OF THE GREAT WAR

By Erin Morgenstern (author of The Night Circus)

By Lisa Jewell (author of Then She Was Gone and Watching You)

By Caroline Scott

Zachary Ezra Rawlins is a graduate

Soon after her twenty-fifth birthday,

1921. Survivors of the Great War are des-

student in Vermont when he discovers

Libby Jones returns home from work

perately trying to piece together the frag-

a mysterious book hidden in the stacks.

to find the letter she’s been waiting

ments of their broken lives. While many

As he turns the pages, entranced by

for her entire life. She rips it open with

have been reunited with their loved ones,

tales of lovelorn prisoners, key collec-

one driving thought: I am finally going

Edie’s husband Francis is still missing.

tors, and nameless acolytes, he reads

to know who I am. She soon learns not

Francis is presumed to have been killed

something strange: a story from his

only the identity of her birth parents,

in action, but Edie knows he is alive.

own childhood. Bewildered by this

but also that she is the sole inheritor of

An incredibly moving account of an

inexplicable book and desperate to

their abandoned mansion on the banks

often-forgotten moment in history—

make sense of how his own life came to

of the Thames in London’s fashionable

those years after the war that were

be recorded, Zachary uncovers a series

Chelsea neighborhood, worth millions.

filled with the unknown—The Poppy

of clues -- a bee, a key, and a sword --

Everything in Libby’s life is about to

Wife tells the story of the thousands of

that lead him to a masquerade party in

change. But what she can’t possibly

soldiers who were lost amid the chaos

New York, to a secret club, and through

know is that others have been waiting

and ruins in battle-scarred France; and

a doorway to an ancient library, hidden

for this day as well—and she is on a

the even greater number of men and

far below the surface of the earth.

collision course to meet them.

women hoping to find them again.

PUBLICATION DATE: NOVEMBER 5

PUBLICATION DATE: NOVEMBER 5

PUBLICATION DATE: NOVEMBER 5

34

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | November 2019

Dr. Stephen P. Hardy

Bringing Your Inner Beauty To The Surface

Melinda Barnes, RN

SAF E T Y | QUA L IT Y | E T H ICS | S E RV ICE | E X C E L L E N C E

Missoula Office 2802 Great Northern Loop Missoula, Mt 59808 406.728.3811

Helena & Whitefish

By Appointment Only

406.728.3811

nwpsa.com