Missoula Valley, MT December 2019

DECEMBER 2019

MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com

Rejoice!

ANGELS IN THE SKY

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2019 PUBLISHER

Mike Tucker | MTucker@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

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

Erika Fredrickson | Erika.Fredrickson@LifestylePubs.com

A time to marvel.

DECEMBER FEELS LIKE THE FINISH LINE.

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Ted Huter | Ted.Huter@LifestylePubs.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Open Lens by Pamela | OpenLensByPamela@Gmail.com, Erika Spaulding | SpauldingErika@Gmail.com

I've started the year with a bright spirit, I've put in the work with the wind at

AD DESIGNER

my back (and sometimes howling in my face). I've ridden countless miles on my

Chad Jensen

horses right here at the Big Sky Horse Park in Missoula, and I've seen multiple successes and failures. I've learned time and time again, even in the arenas of my life that I thought I knew best.

So December, now that we're here, feels like a break. I've crossed the finish line for

LAYOUT DESIGNER

Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Amanda Krieg, Louise McMillin, Amelia Pavlik, Jill MH Taber

another calendar year and I'm surrounded with new friends—several I've made just this year—and it feels like a victory. I've always seen this season as best suited for marveling at the simple joys that are often hidden in plain sight, like the pilot overhead.

Where's he going? Who's with him? In this issue, it's Michael Burks—Angel Flight West Montana Wing Leader. He's a soul-saver, a heart-patcher, an angel in every meaning of the word. I'll be surprised if pages 18 to 23 don't cause you to shed a tear.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

And then there's someone like Judith, on page 34, whom I met at a cafe in the

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

Bitterroot Valley a couple months back. Though her hair has grayed, I can see

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

her vividly as the young adventurer she still is. While this issue isn't shimmering

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

with Christmas adornments, the spirit of the holidays is right here within these

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

pages. It's good cheer and good people, joyous times and being together. It's having your heart in the right place.

I hope this month brings you closest to the things or ones you hold dear. Merry

EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Christmas and happy holidays!

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

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER Michael Burks, Angel Flight West Montana Wing Leader, poses with some of his special passengers.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY OPEN LENS BY PAMELA 4

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2019

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com

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 DECEMBER 2019

FEATURES 12 Healthy in Helsinki A weekend of wellness at Hotel St. George.

18 Angels in the Sky Non-profit organization provides free flights for ill patients.

26 The Hip Strip Baby Find fun and practical gifts at local baby store Hazel & Fawn.

12 18

34 Wild About Wonder Meet Judith Fraser.

34

26 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Travel Destination

26 Local Limelight 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Parting Thoughts

GOOD TIMES

Happiness Gold Mine!

Many members of the RCKN Outdoor Sisterhood gathered on a joyous trip known as the Happiness Gold Mine Fall Retreat. These ladies enjoyed ATV excursions, kayaking, hiking, and seasonal projects by the fire. PHOTOGRAPHY OPEN LENS BY PAMELA

8

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2019

AROUND TOWN

DENIM & DIAMONDS

SEUSSICAL!

Beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn,

Your favorite colorful characters from the

the 7th annual Denim & Diamonds gala takes off!

world of Dr. Seuss come to life in this musical

Indulge in an evening of dinner, drinks, socializing,

extravaganza. Through the narration of the

karaoke, dancing, and more as we come together

Cat in the Hat, you'll meet big-hearted Horton

to raise money for two deserving local nonprofits.

the Elephant. Horton's faithfulness and loyalty

All proceeds from this year's event will benefit

lead him on epic adventures in egg-sitting and

MOR4Kids and the YWCA Missoula. Tickets are

protecting a dust-sized Who world. He also

available for $65 per person and tables of ten are

befriends a disillusioned boy named Jojo, who,

available for $650. Both can be purchased online at

like him, feels "Alone in the Universe." With spec-

Denim19.GiveSmart.com. This event is presented

tacular music and lyrics by Tony Award-winning

by Clearwater Credit Union.

team Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Fiaherty, you and

KEN LITTLE: TROPHY ROOM

your family will be transported and uplifted this holidays season! This musical is rated G. Show

If you haven't had a chance to visit the exhibit

dates run December 5 though December 22.

Trophy Room by Ken Little at the Missoula Art

Visit MCTinc.org for tickets or more information.

Museum, you've got twenty-eight days left to see it! Through December 28, observe the curio

PARADE OF LIGHTS

collection of taxidermy animals. Ken Little makes

Come see the lights from around the world

sculptures by piecing used leather products, dollar

on Saturday, December 7 between 1 and 7 p.m.!

bills, and other found objects onto taxidermy forms

The Missoula downtown association kicks off the

to give new life to the traditionally stiff and lifeless

holiday season with a day of free family activities.

animal trophy mount. Ken Little explains:

Enjoy free and low cost children's activities, holi-

“One day in the studio I was working on a rather

day carolers, performers, hot cocoa, and cookies

weathered, old deer head mount that had been

and then end the evening with a stroll through the

abused. The nose was rotted off, the eyes were

brightly lit streets of downtown Missoula. Spoiler

missing, and the antlers were broken. I began to

alert, Santa will be at the new Missoula Mercantile

try to return it to some sort of grace or dignity, by

Residence Inn by Marriott at 1 p.m., followed by

rebuilding the eyes. I then ‘armored’ the whole thing

photos with Santa! This year's theme of "Lights

in Lucky beer cans (for the hunters!). I repaired the

Around the World" was chosen in celebration of

antlers. And then, I started to use parts of an old

all cultures and religions.

leather shoe to replace the nose. AAH HA! I was returning the skin back to the animal; I was Dr. Frankenstein to this beast!”

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2019

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A WEEKEND OF WELLNESS AT HOTEL ST. GEORGE

E H A E L L T S

H I Y N I K N I

MASSAGE BLISS. Those were the words running through my mind as my therapist, Carol, kneaded the gold-infused oil into my tight muscles. I was in the midst of my 110-minute Holistic Luxury Treatment at Hotel St. George Care, and felt like I was in Helsinki heaven.

I was in the Finnish city for a few days before heading to London and had selected the St. George as my home away from home. The hotel is part of the Kämp Collection and is known for being a luxury wellness property.

ARTICLE AMELIA PAVLIK PHOTOGRAPHY IMAGES BY PROVIDED BY HOTEL ST. GEORGE AND AMELIA PAVLIK

12

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2019

T H E LO C AT I O N Location is everything. That’s what my godmother once taught me about booking hotels. And the St. George doesn’t disappoint in this category. The hotel is situated in the heart of Helsinki, so the harbor and other historical sights are within walking distance. Plus, Helsinki’s central train station is only a 10-minute walk away. The airport, however, is a small journey from the hotel. For this self indulgent trip I decided to take advantage of hiring a private car with help from the hotel for my arrival. The peace and quiet it provided as I laid eyes on Helsinki for the first time was worth every penny.

THE ROOMS Staying in the attic might be considered a punishment under most circumstances. But, at the St. George, it’s a pleasure.

My Sky Attic Studio was a little slice of hotel heaven with a window-seat view of the rooftops of Helsinki and the changing fall leaves in the Old Church Park. I spent most evenings sitting on my little stool in front of the window, sipping a glass of wine and watching the sunset. There were other joys such as the mini bar, which was appointed with healthy options like a ginger-lemon shot, Kombucha tea, and raw cashews. Then, there were the on-demand workout programs offered on the TV, the rainforest shower head, and the sweet-smelling L:A Bruket fullsize bottles of products like body wash and lotion. Lastly, there was the cloud-like bed that I slept on each night. Speaking of sleep, the St. George offers a sleep evaluation called the Emfit QS. I opted to take advantage of the service (it’s basically a device you barely notice that’s attached to your bed) and learned about things like how much REM sleep I got during my stay and how much I tossed and turned on a given night.

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

13

TRAVEL DESTINATION

(CON TI N U ED)

T H E S PA Body scrub, massage, facial, scalp massage. Ah. That about sums up the Holistic Luxury Treatment that I enjoyed in the spa area of St. George Care. This Finnish gem offers a steam room and sauna, a pool for swimming laps, and a relaxation room stocked with tea and snacks like fruit and nuts. When it was time for my treatment, my therapist escorted me to the treatment room and explained what was to come. Of course, the spa offers a variety of individual treatments, but I have to say that the multi-treatment option was exquisite. First, I received a much-needed body scrub with exfoliating gloves, followed by a sugar scrub. After rinsing off I enjoyed a full-body massage with that beautiful oil that I mentioned, which was followed by a customized facial and scalp massage. By the end, every bit of stress I’d accumulated from hopping the pond seemed to have melted away.

THE FOOD From the house-made yogurt and muesli with melon that I enjoyed from the breakfast buffet to roasted eggplant in a yogurt sauce, the beautiful food options offered at the St. George will not disappoint your taste buds. Now, for me, enjoying good food and drink in moderation makes me happy, and happiness is key to my wellness plan. So, when I indulged in dinner at the hotel’s dining concept, Andrea (known for its Anatolian dishes that incorporate Finnish ingredients), I decided to strike a balance between healthy and indulgent with an order of tastes including green lentil hummus with bread, the eggplant, grilled reindeer heart, and kohlrabi fritters with yogurt sauce—all paired with mouth-watering Turkish and French wines. Breakfast, which is also served in the Andrea space is also full of fresh and delicious choices. As part of the buffet, you can enjoy carafes of fresh juice (I opted for the mixed berry), meats, cheeses, fresh breads, frittatas, sausages, and more. Or, if you’d prefer a simple pastry and a cappuccino, the St. George is also home to a more casual bakery concept. It’s the perfect way to end a fit and well Finnish day.

14

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2019

“ THE PEACE AND QUIET IT PROVIDED AS I LAID EYES ON HELSINKI FOR THE FIRST TIME WAS WORTH EVERY PENNY.”

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2019

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December 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

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ARTICLE JILL MH TABER | PHOTOGRAPHY OPEN LENS BY PAMELA

ANGELS IN THE SKY NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION PROVIDES FREE FLIGHTS FOR ILL PATIENTS

EIGHTY-NINE. At six years old, Kanynn Vanisko has made 89 trips to Seattle—40 of those trips by airplane. Her mother, Jamie, says Kanynn loves to fly. She even sleeps right through the turbulence, which is amazing considering she flies on a private plane, not a commercial jet.

Kanynn fights a disease so rare it doesn’t have a name.

“She does not have a textbook diagnosis,” Jamie explained. “We don’t know what her future holds.”

One thing that is certain? The Vanisko family relies on Michael Burks, a Missoula-based pilot and businessman, and his Cessna TTX. 18

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2019

Michael volunteers his time and his plane to Angel Flight West (AFW), a nonprofit that arranges free air transportation for patients traveling for medical treatments.

And just recently, Michael became the Angel Flight West Montana Wing Leader, where his job has expanded to implement programs to recruit more pilots as well as to keep the Wing apprised of any changes within the organization. He’ll also be directly involved with the urgency and safety of the pilots and passengers as they complete missions in and out of the state.

“I really never thought about aviation until my son asked to start flying lessons on his 18th birthday,” Michael explained. “I went up with him on his first check ride and from the back seat, absolutely fell in love with being in a small aircraft.”

Michael immediately started flight training of his own, earning his license in ten weeks.

He flies every chance he gets.

“It’s the only way I can get away from the chaos that comes with running 13 corporations with over 300 employees,” Michael said.

And, he says, there’s nothing that keeps you more grounded than helping others.

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

19

ANGELS IN THE SKY

(CON TI N U ED)

Enter Angel Flight West.

“I was simply scrolling through Facebook and saw a sponsored ad,” Michael said. “In early 2017, I was still extremely new to flying and wanted to get as much as I could out of it, so it was an easy fit.”

Angel Flight pilots donate 100 percent of their costs—Michael’s plane runs approximately $100 per hour, so no family or patient pays a dime for their flights. Add in the convenience of avoiding TSA and busy airports, and you’ve got a pretty significant difference in the lives of Angel Flight families.

“I used to travel alone with a car seat, luggage, stroller, and a baby through SeaTac every 16 days,” Jamie explained. “It was a nightmare.”

The financial burden of traveling for treatment is also a nightmare. Kanynn’s health declined in April of 2018, forcing Jamie to quit her 17-year career in traffic control.

20

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2019

Wes and Callie Ross live in Great Falls with their son, Troy, whose condition requires frequent trips to Missoula for treatment. The Ross family met Michael at a Jadyn Fred Foundation benefit in the summer of 2019.

“The one thing that stands out to me is the amount of relief Angel Flight can give a family that is very seriously hanging by the threads,” Callie explained. “Wes and I both work full-time, have another child, and have been balancing the treatment schedule for over two years. We can’t always stay at hotels or take multiple days off work, so we were often leaving at 4 a.m. and getting home close to midnight. Allowing our family to not have a six-hour trip in one day is a huge relief beyond words.”

According to an AFW fact sheet, the organization’s pilots have completed over 54,000 missions, totaling more than 321,000 hours and 15.9 million miles flown, which is the equivalent of $38.9 million in donated flight costs.

Cheri Cimmarrusti, associate executive director for Angel Flight West, said the need for pilots continues to grow.

“We need more pilots in Montana to be able to handle the increase,” Cheri said. “It’s likely the need has always been there, but the rise in online support groups, social media, and other online resources, along with concentrated efforts on our part to reach out to health care providers, has spread the word to more who need the service.”

Michael has nearly 100 missions under his belt with Angel Flight, more than 50 in 2019 alone. Kiomi Burks, Michael’s wife, is the only registered Earth Angel in the state of Montana and loves to be involved, too.

“I just love flying and love helping those in need, so taking on a mission is an easy decision,” he said.

“Kanynn colors pictures for me, brings me candy and coffee, and has the biggest smile anyone could ever ask for. That in itself is enough for me to get in the cockpit and fly wherever they need to go.”

Personal connections sit at the heart of the Angel Flight West mission. In her 22 years with AFW, Cheri has accumulated mounds of inspiration and even landed herself on the holiday card lists of some AFW families.

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

21

ANGELS IN THE SKY

22

(CON TI N U ED)

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2019

“The stories of the passengers and the difficult journey that so many of them have to face really puts everything in perspective,” Cheri explained. “You work with parents who have children with diseases and conditions that would stagger anyone, yet you see photos of them laughing and enjoying their flights. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.”

Cheri reports that the Montana wing of AFW is composed of 31 pilots. Five of those are located in Missoula (two of whom fly regularly).

“For pilots, it’s the best way to use your flying skills,” she said. “It will be the most rewarding flying you ever do.”

Michael said that the tax deductibility of expenses provides an incentive, but as he talks about AFW, it’s less about the write-off and more about helping others.

“Getting to know these kids and parents is a blessing for me. If I ever think I’m having a bad day, all I need to do is have a fouryear-old cancer patient give me [knuckles] with the biggest grin on their face and all of my personal issues seem absolutely insignificant,” Michael said.

He talks about an AFW awards banquet in San Diego: “There were hundreds of pilots, Earth Angels, and volunteers. It was an incredible atmosphere. Not one negative aspect. In a time of such turmoil and negativity in our lives, I didn’t want the meeting to end. It was so intoxicating: smiles, hugs, and high fives. We all came out of it with huge smiles and so much motivation to continue helping while doing what we all love to do—fly.”

Jamie hopes more pilots will pitch in to fly with AFW. “We would not be able to get Kanynn the care she needs if it was not for the amazing pilots and this awesome organi-

Fly for Angel Flight West To become a pilot or for information on transportation to medical treatment, contact Angel Flight West through its website.

AngelFlightWest.Org

zation. We have met some pretty amazing people through our struggles,” she said.

“It’s a reminder that no matter what you go through, someone else has it a little tougher.”

December 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

23

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2019

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT FIND FUN AND PRACTICAL GIFTS AT LOCAL BABY STORE HAZEL & FAWN

THE HIP STRIP BABY WE’VE ALL HEARD IT SAID, “IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO RAISE A CHILD” AND THAT’S EXACTLY WHAT YOU GET WHEN YOU WALK INTO HAZEL & FAWN—A VILLAGE. Located next to Clyde Coffee on the Hip Strip, this baby boutique is women-owned and operated. Previously known as La Stella Blu, the shop specializes in chic and eco-friendly gear for the whole family.

Katie Albritton is the owner and chief of this village.

What started out as your typical mother-struggling-togo-back-to-work-while-raising-a-newborn has morphed into a thriving business that benefits not only herself and her family but the rest of us, too. Thirteen years ago, when Ergobaby first began selling its infant carriers, people often stopped Katie to ask her where they could get one. That’s when she realized there was a need for better baby gear. She started a website that specialized in selling carriers. Those carriers first filled a closet, then her garage until finally a commercial space. Today Katie sells so much more than just carriers.

Second-in-command is Jen Hildebrand. Jen is who you will most likely meet first when you walk through the door.

She is bright and bubbly and very clearly loves her job.

She was introduced to Katie through a mutual friend 6 years ago right after the birth of her third child. Working for Katie allowed her to be a mother and still work. Her

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Katie personally knows her customers not only by name but she remembers their children’s names like most of us

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remember people by their faces.

Katie said, “There is never a day when I don’t see someone I recognize”. She can show you pictures on her phone of the baby she held yesterday while mom shopped (village work at its finest!)

ARTICLE AMANDA KRIEG PHOTOGRAPHY ERIKA SPAULDING

26

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2019

What Hazel & Fawn offers in relation-

how Nicki went from an idea to selling in

ships extends beyond their employees and

stores like Hazel & Fawn is one that Jen

customers. Their vendors are their villagers,

seems personally proud of because they’re

too, just like their customers. You can point

all part of the same village.

to any merchandise in the store and not only

There’s also Melanie Knight, owner of

will Katie tell you the name of the owner (and

Starry Knight out of Corvallis. She started

their children) but also their story.

making baby loafers and toddler shoes

For instance, Katie met Nicki Radzely

because it was something she could do

from New Jersey at a trade show. Nicki

while her babies napped. Now she’s a full-

was first seen on the popular show Shark

fledged business that employees four part-

Tank. She created the Pop Pacifier, which

time employees and three seamstresses.

looks like a large bubble. The act of sucking draws the nipple out, so when baby drops it, the nipple instantly retreats back into its bubble. It stays clean because it can never touch the ground. The story of

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

27

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

(CON TI N U ED)

Jen said, “We love moms with a side hustle.”

The store opens its arms not only to mothers and fathers but also to family and friends looking to purchase gifts. Katie recommends tiny baby gear such as teething necklaces and the aforementioned Pop Pacifier for infants. For toddlers she endorses any kind of make-believe play like their Plan Toys Dentist Role Play Set, which not only lets kids pretend to be a dentist but also teaches them proper dental hygiene. For older kids, she absolutely loves the Little People Big Dreams books that are illustrated to appeal to children while also inspiring them to follow their dreams. The subjects include everyone from Coco Chanel to Bruce Lee to Marie Curie to Ella Fitzgerald.

Hazel & Fawn has a large on-line presence as well. Villagers near and far can purchase the best in baby gear, knowing that everything they sell is designed “to make your life easier” according to Jen. And that’s the very definition of a village.

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2019

December 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

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DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

2

7

12

BUGS AND BEERS FLY TYING WORKSHOP

MARCH WITH HABITAT IN THE PARADE OF LIGHTS

SIP & FELT: YELLOW WARBLERS WITH CLAUDIA PAILLAO

Nothing passes the season like

Join Habitat for Humanity of Missoula

Artist

preparing for the next, right? Come

in celebrating the holiday season

Paillao, owner of Patagonian Hands,

tie flies with the friendly folks

with a parade through our beautiful

will teach you the technique of nee-

from IFlyFishMontana and The

downtown. Volunteer to walk with

dle felting your own small Yellow

Missoulian Angler. Bring your own

or ride on the lights float! Sign up at

Warbler! $35 for members or $40 for

tying gear or use what is provided

HabitatMsla.org.

non-members. Ticket cost includes

Imagine Nation Brewing

Downtown Missoula

for the first 12 people to join. Pizza will be provided by Zimorino’s and beer will be available. Every fly tying night will feature a local conservation and a raffle will be held where all proceeds will go to that conversation. Admission is free.

and

craftswoman

Claudia

all materials and two glasses of wine.

8 MTFF ROADSHOW: MICKEY AND THE BEAR The Roxy Theater

A coming-of-age story told from the

Call 406.327.0405.

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unique perspective of a strong, unre-

The newest local Missoula concert

lenting female protagonist, Mickey

series with music mixed entirely on

WREATH MAKING JUNIOR

and the Bear marks actress Annabelle

vinyl records with a live horn section.

Attanasio's directorial debut. Visit

Come take a listen!

Montana Natural History Center

MontanaFilmFestival.org for ticket-

This family-friendly class is the best

ing information.

way to get into the holiday season with your young ones. Use a 6-inch branch

base

to

attach

conifer

boughs, cones, and ribbon to craft the perfect wreath for the holi-

10 TELL US SOMETHING

18 HOLIDAY MAGIC FEATURING ADAM TRENT The Wilma

The Wilma

Holiday Magic fuses technological

members, $30 for non-members or

Beginning at 6 p.m., eight storytell-

illusions, music, and comedy with a

$40 for members in a pair and $45

ers will share their true personal

holiday twist. Magician Adam Trent is

for non-member pairs.

stories without notes on the theme

one of the only magicians in history

of "Tipping Point." Come celebrate

to have starred on Broadway three

the transformative power of per-

times! Visit LogJamPresents.com

sonal storytelling. Buy tickets at

for ticket information.

days ahead. Individual cost is $25 for

7

LogJamPresents.com.

LITTLE RED TRUCK EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS MARKET Missoula County Fairgrounds

Browse gifts barns

vintage

and

handmade

the

newly

renovated

the

Missoula

in at

County

Fairgrounds. Tickets will be available at

11 MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS

22 BIERS & BRUNCH Bayern Brewing

Feast on a European-style break-

Adams Center, U of M

fast menu from Edelweiss Bistro

at

Founded by Grammy award winner

and wash it down with a thought-

LittleRedTruckVintageMarket.com.

Chip Davis, Mannheim Steamroller

fully paired beer selection. Visit

Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

revolutionized tradition holiday music

BayernBrewery.com

by blending synth-pop with beloved

details about this recurring brunch.

the

door

and

online

Christmas carols. Call 406.243.4051 or email GrizTix@UMontana.edu.

32

Montana Natural History Center

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2019

for

more

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

W ESTSIDE L A NES & F UN CEN TER

invites you to

DROP YOUR KIDS OFF TO BOWL WHILE YOU GO OUT SHOPPING

A RC A DE FOR THE KIDS

$2.00 T U E S D AY S

36 LANES OF BOWLING

PIZZA & BURGERS

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Now Care

Voted ula’s Misso -In lk #1 Wa Clinic

Nose to Toes Care During the Holiday Season

Open 7 Days A Week No Appointment Needed December 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

33

PARTING THOUGHTS

WILD ABOUT WONDER ARTICLE CHELSEA LYN AGRO

MEET JUDITH FRASER

WHATEVER BLOWS YOUR SKIRT UP. Judith Fraser has some stories—funny ones, hellish ones, heart-wrenching ones.

For this comical line, she’s referring to what somebody once told her when she was about to do something a little adventurous, off the beaten path, just like her father—the man she inherited her curiosity for the natural world from.

Her face lights up when she mentions her granddaughter as we talk about the old photos she had tucked under her arm. A few of them have her son in them—a bouncing baby boy—and in one photo he’s wearing a cashmere hat that Judith made from the sleeve of a sweater. They’re sitting outside of a tent with their adventure dog and her baby boy is only a couple months old.

Adventure is the backbone of Judith’s life, having spent her childhood exploring Hawaii, following the lip of a volcano on one or more occasions. Her father’s advice to her was to learn as much math and science as possible, and to spend time outside.

And so she did, completing a Master’s degree in Environmental Studies and pursuing a career as a wilderness ranger. So many of her days were spent in the wildernesses maintaining trails and Wilderness conditions. In 1991 she became the AnacondaPintler Wilderness coordinator and then the Program Manager for Wilderness and Trails, overseeing 1,500 miles of trails and 750,000 acres in three different Wilderness areas.

Once, Judith heard a noise so grand and escalating that she thought a string of pack horses had been stung by yellow jackets. Around the corner came a moose, followed by a large wolf. The moose got away by putting Judith in the middle and the wolf disappeared behind the rocky backdrop. Of all the memories Judith has banked on the trail, this one still carries the fresh scents of that day.

The promise of adventure is a written one, at least in Judith’s experience. Judith’s father wrote a letter to her mother while he was overseas and Judith still has it, written there on the back of a navigation chart. One line shines a bit brighter than the rest: “I hope you will always be an explorer.” And that’s something Judith wants to pass down to her granddaughter—the promise of wonder.

34

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 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