Missoula Valley, MT July 2019

JULY 2019

MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com

Missoula on the Move!

A WALK THROUGH GREENOUGH PARK

FUELED BY FAMILY

TAKE A STROLL IN OUR SHOES

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E A T & W E S T E R N A DV E N T U R E S

KICK YOUR BOOTS OFF & STAY AWHILE

Photo by Pamela Dunn-Parrish

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Braving new territory and finding the courage to ask.

So, will you?

Taking the next big step requires courage, but there’s no better time than today to say yes. We want to help make sure there are many more proud, pivotal, perfectly unforgettable moments in your future. You’ve made it this far.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

JULY 2019 PUBLISHER

Mike Tucker | MTucker@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

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

Erika Fredrickson | Erika.Fredrickson@LifestylePubs.com

A little sweat equity.

JULY ALWAYS SMELLS LIKE LEATHER AND FEELS LIKE SWEAT, OR AT LEAST THAT'S HOW IT IS IN MY LITTLE WORLD. It's the summit of the yearly climb for my husband and I—the season we bust our tails for.

A few months ago, we headed north in a rainstorm to pick up a new-to-us horse

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

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

Shelby Humphreys, Amanda Krieg, Gabe Semenza, Susie Wall CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Amy Donovan Photography, Eric Ristau of One Acre Films , Mike Tucker

trailer. It was rusted through in some spots and our long journey home with it in tow

SALES SUPPORT MANAGER

was a white-knuckle-nervous-laugh kind of drive, wondering if we had taken on a

Gene Peterson | Gene.Peterson@LifestylePubs.com

little too much more than we could handle.

Through the weeks that followed, in the continued rain and wind, we hid behind handkerchiefs through metal grinding and sat on the porch some nights—covered in the remnants—just to look at the small progress we'd made that day, imagining all the camping trips we'd be able to take during this beloved month of ours. Before long, our rust bucket was glowing white with a brand new coat of paint. Its holes were all patched up and the inside smelled of fresh sawdust. It just needed a little love!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

This issue reminds me of that ambitious project. The stories within these pages are about

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

the courage and perseverance that comprise our histories. They are testaments to our

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

abilities and our faith. I hope they are a reminder to bite off more than you can chew, to laugh at yourself before you laugh at others, and to take chances on your passions.

I'm also tremendously excited to finally run an "Our Contributors" feature on most of the people who make this publication what it is. There have been countless laughs at our Missoula office, some head-scratching for ideas, and dozens of times where

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

the energy exploded over a cover image or the perfect harmony of words. For some of us, this is our life's work. For others, it's a guilty pleasure that we are called to make time for. And none of it would be worth it if our community wasn't so rich in personality, grit, and mesmerizing truths. Thank you, Missoula!

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Editor Chelsea.Agro@LifestylePubs.com ON THE COVER Walt Muralt stands proudly outside of Muralt’s Travel Plaza, a longstanding family business here in Missoula.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC RISTAU, ONE ACRE FILMS 4

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6

MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com

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.

INSIDE THE ISSUE JULY 2019

FEATURES 12 A Walk Through Greenough Park City's First Park Paved Way for Conservation Mindset.

20 Fueled by Family Muralt's Travel Plaza remains family-owned.

20 30

30 Take a Walk in Our Shoes The up-from-the-bootstraps history of Hide & Sole.

24

12

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Water & Woods

16

Hot Spot

30 Local’s Choice 34 Lifestyle Calendar 38 Parting Thoughts

F I N D I T A L L A T T H E L I V I N G R O O M

HIGH STYLE | SOLIDLY MADE | MANY CHOICES | GREAT VALUES

BEAUTY REST & BEAUTY REST BLACK MATTRESSES IN STOCK 2 6 1 0 S . R E S E R V E S T . M I S S O U L A || 4 0 6 - 7 2 1 - 1 3 4 0 THELIVINGROOMFURNITURE.COM

GOOD TIMES

Missoula Strong Positive vibes came from all Missoulians in support of wounded Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Wade Palmer during the 301 Strong Benefit that took place at Neptune Aviation. Businesses, community members, and fellow police officers are banding together to raise funds for Wade's family while he recovers from his injuries. Welcome back home, Wade! Photography Mike Tucker

8

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

AROUND TOWN

NORTHWEST MARGARITA FEST

KIDS FEST

On Saturday, July 13, Caras Park will be salted at the rim!

The kids have been out of school for what seems like

Don't miss out on the first-ever Northwest Margarita Fest

a season already! Liven up those dog days of summer

where you'll indulge in the sweet nectar of tequila and mezcal

with a trip to Caras Park with the kids on Tuesday, July 23

from all across Latin America. Throughout the day you can

between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. This is the 25th annual

vote on your favorite margarita designed from local Montana

Kids Fest and it's free for the youth of Missoula! More than

watering holes and enjoy street tacos from local food trucks.

30 different local organizations come together to provide

Had enough of that dancing juice? Dance to latin and reggae

a fun and active afternoon complete with free lunch (while

music provided by Kris Moon and participate in speaking

supplies last) donated by the Missoula Food Bank and live

panels from Chief Agave to learn about the history and sto-

entertainment with Cowboy Andy and The Salamanders.

ries behind these cultural libations. All ages are welcome!

BIG SKY CHALLENGE HIKE

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER AT PARADISE FALLS On Saturday, July 20, Paradise Falls will host the

Hosted by the Brain Injury Alliance of Montana, this event

AniMeals "Dog Days of Summer" fundraising event!

is the second annual Big Sky Challenge Hike at Montana

This free event features live and silent auctions, raffle

Snowbowl on Sunday, July 14 at 8:30 a.m. Whether it's a virtual

items, food, a no-host bar, drink specials, and more.

hike, 1-mile loop, 5-mile loop, or 10-mile challenge, you'll get

One of the featured items that will be auctioned off at

the chance to pick the summit that works best for you! $45

the event are two dog houses painted into beautiful

for adults and $25 for ages 6 to 18 years old. All children under

works of art by local artists Megan O'Dell and Eric

the age of 6 are free. The price of your ticket includes lunch,

Urango. This event will help feed the homeless ani-

t-shirt, and a chance to win adventurous prizes. By participat-

mals that AniMeals and their rescue partners care for

ing in this event, you'll be supporting the Brain Injury Alliance of

while the animals wait for their forever homes. Since

Montana's mission to create a better future for those impacted

its inception, AniMeals has distributed more than 900

by brain injury. To register, please visit FirstGiving.com.

tons to hungry animals all across Montana.

10

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WATER & WOODS

A Walk Through Greenough Park CITY'S FIRST PARK PAVED WAY FOR CONSERVATION MINDSET ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY GABE SEMENZA

MORGAN VALLIANT PEERED INTO THE STONE BEAR CAGE, HIS STUBBLED FACE FLATTENED AGAINST THE RUSTED STEEL DOOR. He nodded toward the back of the structure, built 15 feet wide of Rattlesnake Creek cobbles, some as big as watermelons, where two dens had been bored into the hill. His eyes adjusted to the darkness inside. They roamed, searching for details to share about Missoula’s first park.

Morgan, 43, turned to face the creek, which swelled by early May. The glare off the water forced his sunglasses and ballcap back on. He stepped onto the paved trail, pinching the eighth of nine ticks he’d found by midday. When you’re the city’s conservation lands manager you learn to accept the outdoors. When you understand Greenough Park’s history you know conflicts occur between humans and nature.

In 1902, Thomas and Tennie Greenough, who built their wealth on timber and mining, gave the city most of the park’s 42 acres.

According to the original deed, the land is to be preserved so Missoulians can enjoy “a comfortable, romantic, and poetic retreat.”

Morgan and others say the gift, meant to remain forever as a public natural space, was a catalyst for the way Missoulians protect and enjoy the general landscape today.

Morgan hiked deeper into the park, his copper mutt, Hugo, in tow. He stopped at a grove of Norway maples—a nonnative, invasive species planted long ago. The tree has no natural predators and turns lush groundcover into bare soil.

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

Efforts over the years to alter the park from its natural state also include an animal menagerie, wading pool, and fish pond, according to a 1955 settlement between the family and city. The Greenoughs threatened to reclaim their land after the city bulldozed trees to make way for a ballpark. After arbitration, the sides agreed to “The 13 Points,” legal guideposts for how to manage the land in perpetuity.

Of course, science changed. The family originally wanted dead trees removed promptly. As ecological practices evolved both sides grew flexible. Morgan said experts now know dead trees provide habitat to more species than a live stand does.

“Thirty-eight species,” a woman, jogging by, said.

Morgan half-chuckled. “That’s why I love Missoula,” he said.

He turned from the hillside, where heavy equipment was approved to restabilize the banks, and down a narrow dirt trail. Suddenly, Morgan was surrounded by hawthorn thickets, elderberry, black cottonwoods.

Civilization seemed distant. Somewhere above, Canada geese honked.

The cool forest floor smelled of fish, smoothed stone, and moss.

“Maybe it’s a coincidence there’s a strong conservation ethic here,” Morgan said, standing at the edge of tumbling rapids. “But it’s interesting our very first park was set aside as a natural area for the enjoyment Morgan Valliant

of the public. I think it planted something in the psyche of Missoulians.”

Emy Scherrer, historic preservation officer with the city, agrees.

“This initial land donation acted as one of the catalysts for our communal appreciation of our natural environment,” she said. “From any vantage point in Missoula, you’re surrounded by open lands in the distance, which is pretty special.”

Morgan crossed a footbridge and returned to the bear cage. He said the city’s police chief fed the bears, which were caged there from 1905 to the 1930s. Some say they were the university’s mascots.

At 114 years old, the cage needs repair again. Morgan and others plan to restore it. If approved, they’ll add interpretive signs.

“Missoula used to keep black bears in there,” he said. “We still have bears in the park but I’m glad they’re on the outside of the cage now.”

TO HELP PRESERVE GREENOUGH PARK, YOU CAN: + Avoid building swimming hole rock dams + Stay on designated trails + Follow the advice of signs + Pick up after yourself and pets

July 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

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HOT SPOT ARTICLE AMANDA KRIEG | PHOTOGRAPHY AMY DONOVAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Home in Time

THE GIBSON MANSION CELEBRATES YESTERYEAR AND TODAY

TOM AND NANCY MALIKIE WANT YOU TO FEEL

They swapped out the antique gooseneck sofas for

AT HOME AT THE GIBSON MANSION, DESPITE

smoking room-style leather in the sitting room when

THE OBVIOUS AND ENCHANTING VICTORIAN

they realized their guests were not only physically

STYLE OF A HISTORIC ICON WITHIN OUR CITY

larger than their 1900 counterparts, but they were

LIMITS. And somehow, they’ve found the perfect

also afraid of damaging the furniture. While they pre-

balance of preserving a rich history while welcom-

served the library area, they removed the lace and

ing guests of the modern world. It’s a dance, really,

doilies that their visitors found too stuffy. And you

between old world and new.

won’t find a sign-in desk here. Instead, newcomers

Contrary to what many of us locals believe, this

walk through the formal dining room to the kitchen

is not the original home of our famed architect A.J.

where they are encouraged to use the refrigerator,

Gibson – though he did design the mansion. He built

microwave, and help themselves to local beer, soda

this home for the Peterson family in 1903. Standing in

and snacks anytime they wish.

the foyer, you’ll see the original parquet floors, quarter

Tom tells of how innovative Mr. Peterson was when

sawn wood trims, and leaded stained-glass windows

he built the home. Even though electricity hadn’t made

that match the windows at St. Francis Xavier Parish

its way south of the Higgins Avenue bridge at the

in downtown Missoula. Tom and Nancy have done a

time, he had the house wired for the day that it would.

truly amazing and careful restoration of the home. In

Today, Tom has painstakingly equipped each room

fact, such a stellar job that you may never guess that

with reproductions of old-fashioned pushbutton-

this home has changed hands thirteen times, was once

style light switches. On the other hand, he’s also

scheduled for demolition, was moved from its original

preparing each guest room for soon-to-come tablets

location where Hellgate High’s gym now sits and sat

and apps that will allow guests to take full advantage

vacant and crumbling for three years. You wouldn’t

of amenities, such as scheduling room delivery of

guess that between 1903 and now, the Petersons’ high-

coffee and his famous scones or Cedar Creek Spa’s

end home was turned into a Sorority house, a 5-unit

in-room massages.

apartment complex and then a Fraternity house where, let’s face it, it was not prized.

The dance continues outside on the grounds.

According to the Malikies, “We are not the

The house now pays tribute to its original gran-

canned or cookie-cutter venue. We pride ourselves

deur, and it does offer guests a historical experience

in customizing events, making each one unique and

but the Malikies’ optimal goal is to make their guests

special for our clients.” Just ask their bride and lum-

feel at home.

berjack groom who brought in their own tree to cut

According to Nancy, “the worst thing for our

down during the reception. Or the ladies of ALPHA

guests is to feel like they’re staying in grandma’s

CHI OMEGA who came back to reminisce about

house or a museum”.

16

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

CONTINUED >

July 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

17

HOT SPOT

(CON TI N U ED)

misunderstanding when the Fire Marshal told them to keep that fire escape door open at all times. One poor thing woke up to snow on her bed many a morning!

Their guests come to the Gibson Mansion to plan a future that will someday be their history, or they come to explore the past while making their own memories–none of which would be possible without modern day comforts such as farm-to-table menus and multiplug outlets for your devices.

As for Tom and Nancy, they’re looking forward to 2029 when this home will be eligible for the National Registry. It already meets the requirements, other than the fact that it was moved from its original location. Fifty years at 823 39th Street will fulfill that legacy.

Ultimately, to be at home in the Gibson Mansion is to be at home in time. It truly does all that Tom and Nancy hope: “To give back to Missoula the history of the house while also using it for its best use.”

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

“ To g i v e bac k to M i s s o u l a t h e h i sto ry o f t h e h o u s e while also using it for i ts b e st u s e .”

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19

Fueled by Family MURALT'S TRAVEL PLAZA REMAINS FAMILY-OWNED

ARTICLE SHELBY HUMPHREYS PHOTOGRAPHY ERIC RISTAU, ONE ACRE FILMS

20

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

MISSOULA HAS GROWN UP AT THE CENTER OF FIVE VALLEYS. Its rivers empty into the bowl that’s our city. Head west of town, to Muralt’s Travel Plaza, and you can trace those waters on a giant, hand-painted mural. Like the pin of a compass, this family-owned truck stop has served customers, who are on their way to somewhere else, for more than 45 years.

In 1975, Gary and Susan Muralt bought the truck stop.

Today, their son, Walt, operates a collection of businesses, including: a truck repair shop, general store and refueling station, Wye West Casino & Lounge, Days Inn–Missoula Airport, and Wheat Montana Bakery & Deli. However, when Walt worked at the truck stop as a kid, the area was just a weed patch with no stoplight.

“I’d basically mow the dirt,” quipped Walt. “There was so little grass, that when I mowed down the weeds, a big plume of dust is all you’d see.”

When the dirt didn’t need mowing, Walt pumped gas.

“It was full-service back then, so I doubled as the attendant and windshield washer. I remember this one Fourth of July—everyone’s headed up to the lake for the weekend, and my brother, Jeff, and I had a challenge to wash everyone’s windshield that came through. That was a long day.”

Both Walt and Jeff—plus their sister, Sharla—worked in the business while growing up.

“Being the oldest boy in the family, I figure that’s why I was nudged a little harder to take a bigger role in the business over the years,” said Walt.

During those years, Walt learned how to hustle by watching his parents.

“Both mom and dad believed in working hard and respecting the customer. My dad would be sitting by the front window of the old Muralt’s Café, in a lunch meeting, and see someone pull up for gas. If no one was out there right away to help, he’d go out and pump the gas himself. And, of course, I’d hear about it for some time after,” joked Walt.

By 2002, Walt had taken over all the businesses. He continues his parents’ tradition of quality customer service by expanding the perks beyond the pumps.

“We’ve installed fiber-optic wi-fi, which gives our visitors the best connection possible,” Walt explained. “We also have inspirational fliers all throughout the place. Our business mission centers on customer service, but it’s also about enriching people’s lives. Customers will pick up one of our fliers, and hopefully the message makes their day a little brighter.”

Fostering those relationships keeps Muralt’s competitive edge sharp. That’s significant, considering that three (soon to be four) corporate truck stops operate within a one-mile radius.

“A lot of independent truck stops have sold out to the big chains,” said Walt. “There’s not a lot of family-owned truck stops out there anymore. I like to think of us as the craft beer of the truck stop business,” he said, beaming.

CONTINUED >

July 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

21

FUELED BY FAMILY

(CON TI N U ED)

“In fact, we’ve added a walk-in Beer Cave with our General Store remodel,” Walt explained. Customers can walk through double-doors into the tricked-out, custom-cooled space and pick packs of cold brews right off frosty shelves lining the cave.

“We’re also expanding our product offerings to double the size,” Walt added.

free full-service at the pumps. “It’s a throw-back concept,” explained Walt.

“We’ll pump your gas, wash your windshield, and even check your oil and tire pressure. You won’t even have to get out of your car,” he winked. “My dad passed away last fall, and it’s a way to honor him.”

As does the sign above Muralt’s Montana mural, which reads,

Still, the family’s focus on local and regional products will

“Fiercely Independent! Proudly Montana!” Walt stopped at the

remain. Inside the main store and the Wheat Montana Bakery &

foot of that sign, one recent afternoon, to help a visitor who was

Deli, shoppers can buy Montana-made products, like huckleberry

folding and refolding his map. When Walt walked by, the man

treats from the Flathead and skin care products made from the

asked, “Do you know how to get to Spokane?”

honey of bees raised west of Missoula.

“I think it’s important to represent local and regional businesses,” said Walt.

“Where you from?” Walt replied with a pat on the man’s shoulder.

“Canada,” he answered.

“I’m sorry, we don’t help people from Canada,” Walt joked.

Customers can experience that kind of enduring commu-

Awkward pause. Then they laughed, like instant friends. Walt

nity connection with a new service called “Hump Day Help.”

pointed his finger along the interstate. “Just head that way and keep

Every Wednesday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Muralt’s provides

on driving,” he directed. “That’ll get you where you want to go.”

22

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

“I like to think of us as the craft beer of the truck stop business�

July 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

23

Behind the Words & Photography MEET THE FREELANCE WRITERS AND STAFF OF MISSOULA VALLEY LIFESTYLE

ARTICLE CHELSEA LYN AGRO PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY WRITERS

Michael Tucker OWNER & PUBLISHER I was born right here in Montana and, though many opportunities have come and gone to leave, I never have because the people who live here are the best and most supportive people in the world. My wife Mysta and I are thrilled to be residents here along with our daughters Amanda and Jessica, and our son Dustyn. Other than being the owner and publisher of this magazine, I’m proud to announce the launch of Flathead Valley Lifestyle magazine. I’m also the owner of Tucker Entertainment Marketing Group, where I advise local businesses in marketing. In the past, I owned Tucker Entertainment Events Company LLC, which brought many concerts to the Missoula Valley and I also worked in radio sales as well as the nontraditional revenue manager in Missoula for 20 years.

24

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

Erika Fredrickson MANAGING EDITOR I was the Arts Editor at the Missoula Independent for 10 years until it was shuttered

by Lee Enterprises in September, 2018. During that time I wrote and edited profiles on artists and reviewed albums, theater productions and films. In my new life chapter, I’m working for several publications as a freelance writer, but I’ve also been pursuing other passion projects like playing guitar and singing for various rock bands. Like so many people right now, I’m crazy for podcasts, and I’m working on my own called Death in the West that features crime history stories. On top of everything else, I’m excited to be working hard to bring another alt-weekly newspaper back to Missoula to fill the void after the Indy disappeared.

Pamela Dunn-Parrish STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER I am the owner of Open Lens by Pamela and I'm a member of the Professional Photographers of America, as well as Montana

Professional

Photographer's

Association. I love being behind the camera, creating lasting memories for families or for myself. One of my most recent passions is letting women know that they're beautiful and they don't need to worry when getting in front of a camera. I love showcasing who that woman is in her entirety!

CONTINUED >

July 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

25

BEHIND THE WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY

Amanda Krieg CONTRIBUTING WRITER After graduating from Wofford College in South Carolina, my husband and I moved to Missoula for what was supposed to be a two year adventure. Instead, we fell so madly in love with Montana that 19 years later we’re still here. Our adventure now includes two native daughters, a thriving chiropractic business, and the happiest home ever. My purpose is to inspire others through writing–to point out the beauty and humor in the world by drawing attention to what might be otherwise missed. Life is in the details. We can’t live in the now without them.

Shelby Humphreys CONTRIBUTING WRITER I'm a native Missoulian who is glad I didn't leave town when I was 18, like I had wanted. I'd describe myself as a "dot connector." I enjoy connecting people and ideas, then, making the line between them a little more interesting. It's a creative way to live and kind of magical when things come together. I enjoy writing for Missoula Valley Lifestyle because it introduces me to innovative people in our city and gives me a chance to share their compelling stories. I'm always keeping my radar on for that next possibility.

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

(CON TI N UED)

Susie Wall CONTRIBUTING WRITER I'm a freelance writer whose work has been published in numerous local and national publications. I have written about a range of topics from travel to farming to scat identification, but my favorite subjects continue to be the fascinating people of Montana. In my free time you will find me hiking and always exploring.

Gabe Semenza CONTRIBUTING WRITER I'm a third-generation Montanan and Helena native.

I was an investigative journalist who also covered Major League Soccer and the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team. Bum Phillips, the late former NFL coach, commissioned me in 2009 to ghostwrite his autobiography. That same year, I was voted Texas’ Star Reporter of the Year by the Associated Press Managing Editors Association and Headliners Foundation. Shortly thereafter, I became a certified home inspector and today I own River City Inspections, LLC. I live in Missoula with my wife, Amy, and daughter, Parker.

July 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

27

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

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LOCAL’S CHOICE

Take a Stroll in Our Shoes THE UP-FROM-THE-BOOTSTRAPS HISTORY OF HIDE & SOLE ARTICLE SUSIE WALL PHOTOGRAPHY PAMELA DUNN-PARRISH THE HISTORY OF HIDE AND SOLE

Haven. The years passed by and eventually

IS AS UNIQUE AS THE DOWNTOWN

Scott bought the store in 1975 for $3,000

THIS

and changed the name to Mostly Leather.

ICONIC

MISSOULA

BUSINESS

HAS CALLED HOME FOR THE LAST 40

The store’s current incarnation came about

YEARS. In 1972, owner Scott Sproull was

in 1979 when Scott moved the store to the pres-

19 and on a break from school at Western

ent location on Higgins Avenue and changed

Illinois University following the trail of Lewis

the moniker to Hide and Sole to represent the

and Clark out west.

leather and shoes that he still sells today.

“I had 100 dollars at the time,” said Scott.

“It took a good 10 years before I felt like

“I knew I would run out of gas and when I did

I knew what I was doing and how to run a

I would get a job.” Hovering on empty out-

business and make real money,” said Scott.

side of Missoula, he noticed Sacajawea Park

“And what happened in that last 10 years

on the map and thought, “That’s a sign.”

was I found footwear.”

For the next two weeks, Scott lived in his

Scott grew tired of making custom foot-

car and eventually got a job at the Burger

wear, which was difficult work for little— if

Spot, where he got to know Bill Wilson, one

any—profit, so he looked around for another

of the owners of the Woven Leather Duck—a

high-quality shoe that he could sell at the

shop across the street in the Roxy Theater

store and found Birkenstocks. He first began

that sold weavings and leather goods. Bill

selling the famous sandals after a year of

suggested Scott come by to learn how to

saving up to afford their $1,000 minimum

tool belts and make the merchandise found

order. Today, Birkenstocks are still a staple

in the shop, which he did, thus beginning a

on the Hide and Sole shelves.

long future in the leather business.

Now, in 2019, Hide and Sole is once again

The business eventually moved to the

in the midst of change. You could refer to

Hippie Block, or what is now known as the

the store as a “family business” in that over

Hip Strip, and changed its name to Cow

the years three of Scott’s four children have CONTINUED >

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

July 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

31

LOCAL’S CHOICE

(CON TI N U ED)

worked there at some time. Now his youngest son, Shawn, after working at the store for 12 years, is preparing to take the reins from Dad. Scott said he never put pressure on his kids to take over. He was truthful about how tough the retail business is and always kept the reality alive that you could be wiped out in an instant. In fact, Shawn had avoided the store for 30 years and worked at several local businesses in the hopes of finding a permanent place. But during one of the weekly basketball games between father and son, Scott made Shawn “an offer he couldn’t refuse.”

Today Hide and Sole carries an inventory of around 6,000 shoes covering several different brands that always keep up with Scott’s high standards such as Dansko, Born, and Chaco.

“To this day, everything we sell is superb leather, superb craftsmanship,” said Scott. The “Hide” side may be less than 10% of the business, but it is still a very important part, and Shawn and Scott take pride in the fact that they have helped many local artisans get their start in the leather business.

Shawn was quick to say, “It’s still part of our roots, part of our name.” The leather hides are used to make a variety of items from jewelry, belts, clothes, and wallets and to reupholster furniture.

Hide and Sole’s success is well worn within the Missoula community because of Scott’s basic business philosophy.

“Business is about people,” said Scott. “If you take care of your customers, your employees, your suppliers, your vendors, your marketing partners—if you’re always thinking of them as partners—you’re going to do just fine because they are going to take care of you.”

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

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July 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

33

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

10 TEEN ARTIST SUMMER OPEN STUDIO Missoula Art Museum

Each Wednesday, MAM hosts open studio time for teens. They'll have the chance to work closely with professional artists and art mentors in a fun and informal environment.

11 WESTERN MONTANA OPEN Playfair Park

Montana's largest tennis tournament! Juniors play Thursday and Friday, adults play Friday and Saturday. Come out and enjoy watching a competitive game with the Garden City Tennis Association.

14 ORANGE STREET FOOD FARM PARTY Orange Street Food Farm

It's customer appreciation day! Come over for free

making you smile "The staff at Montana Dental Arts is friendly, helpful and efficient. They take the time to answer questions and provide solutions.

Dr. Wilcox is thorough in examinations and communicates in a way the patient can understand. The staff is equally as thoughtful with younger patients and know how to set them at ease. I would recommend everyone to make an appointment with them now!!"

hot dogs, crafts for the kids, and giveaways.

15-19 HISTORY CAMP

The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula

Become a history detective! Travel back through time to learn what life was like when the Fort was built in 1877. Experience the trials and tribulation and triumphs of homesteading. Ages 8 to 13 years old. $150, 10% discount for museum members.

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17- 20

Call Today & Schedule your appointment with

INTERNATIONAL CHORAL FESTIVAL

Dr. David Wilcox

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Enjoy hand-selected choirs from around the world list of concerts, please visit ChoralFestival.org.

CONTINUED >

34

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

JULY

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NOW CARE Open 7 Days A Week • No Appointment Needed Southgate Mall / 2901 S Brooks • Downtown / 500 W Broadway July 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

35

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

17 IRC FAMILY MENTOR VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION

International Rescue Committee in Missoula

Every third Wednesday of each month, between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m., learn how to be an IRC Family Mentor Volunteer and support refugees as they begin their new lives here in the

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Garden City!

27 VFW HARLEY DAVIDSON RAFFLE PARTY Grizzly Harley Davidson

Live music, food, and fun! Support our local veterans and be included in the drawing for several stellar prizes. For ticket purchase call Steve at 406.493.2264. All proceeds from this raffle go to the charitable foundation for Ole Beck VFW Post 209.

29 FAMILY COOKING CLASS Lowell School PTA

Join Garden City Harvest staff for a fun and family-friendly cooking class in your school garden! $5 will get you a ticket for the whole family. Please

S E M I - C U S TOM EN ER GY EF F IC IEN T C O MMU NI TY B U I LT B Y

email Lori@GardenCityHarvest.org.

We are always accepting submissions for events you'd like to

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see included in our Calendar section. Submissions are accepted via

the

Contact

Us

tab

MissoulaValleyLifestyle.com.

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

at

JULY

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July 2019 | Missoula Valley Lifestyle

37

PARTING THOUGHTS

Picture this

PHOTOGRAPHY CHELSEA LYN AGRO

WHETHER IT’S THE GRIZZLY ENCOUNTER (RIGHT OUTSIDE YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK) OR DRIVING THE EVER-SCENIC GOING TO THE SUN ROAD INSIDE GLACIER NATIONAL PARK, YOU’RE BOUND TO BE REMINDED OF ALL THE BEAUTY THAT NATURE BESTOWS UPON US. 38

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | July 2019

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