Missoula Valley, MT April 2021

A P R I L 2 02 1

Eco-Friendly

FOOD + DRINK T H E F RU I T S O F L AB O R HOME + DESIGN PL AN T Q U EEN LI F E + C U LTU R E F LO C K I N G T O H I G H Q UAL I T Y PRO D U C T S

HE L PI NG YO U STAY Healthy

!

•NEV ER FORGET YOUR M ASK AGAIN• N o w t h a t t h e w o r l d h a s o u r f a c e s c o v e re d…

D o n ’ t f o rg e t y o u r m a s k s .

How many times have parked your car and started to walk to the store, into a client’s office or at work, and left your face mask behind?

With our new Tucker-Hold-A-Mask your mask will always be with you!

Order yours online at www.TuckerHoldAMask.com As well as at these great local businesses: Fuel Fitness | Rockin Rudys | Montana Acupunture & Herbal | Stitches Embrodery Westside Lanes and Fun Center | Wordens Market | Pro Adjusters Chiropratic | Hockey Wolf

LIFESTYLE LETTER

APRIL 2021 PUBLISHER

Mike Tucker | MTucker@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

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

In the green.

Erika Fredrickson | Erika.Fredrickson@LifestylePubs.com

SOMETHING ABOUT THE APRIL ISSUE SPLASHES MY WORLD WITH COLOR.

Marla Huggins | Marla.Huggins@LifestylePubs.com

After a long winter (let's face it, with or without snow, it's still long), it's refreshing to

ACCO UNT MANAGER

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

see so much greenery as I pull together the eco issue alongside my team.

Erika Spaulding | InspiredbyMontana@Gmail.com

I love seeing how thriving plants can make you feel like you've stepped into a jungle

Whitney Lockhart

of sorts, right here in Missoula. No plane ticket necessary. And I love knowing the little stories that exist in tiny coffee shops—how they strive to be sustainable without losing quality. But the story that really set this issue in motion for me is Flocking to

AD DESIGNER

L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dani Moore

High Quality Products, which is quite literally, a flock of birds. After having surgery

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

on my neck twice last year, I sported (and still do) a red, raised scar that will fade

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Kathleen Goodwin, Jill MH Taber, Mike Tucker, Susie Wall

with time. However, I had a friend gift me a bottle of emu oil from Montana Emu Ranch in Kalispell and said she swore by it for vanishing the same scar on her neck.

I had to research this miracle product.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kayla Joan, Athena Lonsdale, Sierra McMurry, Mike Tucker

When I looked up Montana Emu Ranch, I read their story and learned all about their delicate, intricate process of obtaining the premium oil that so many Montanans—and those all over the country—love. And I fell in love with their birds. Emus are just the coolest looking birds out there with their golden eyes and intense expressions. I have a soft spot for people who raise and harvest animals

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

ethically and with respect. It's a hard job to provide a clean living environment and

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

feed top notch food, and it ain't cheap.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

The same can be said for Farmer Fred's Green Bench Orchard. It's hard work to

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

grow and operate an organic orchard but it's a good fight for our future. Wherever

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

it is that you find inspiration for doing better, buying better, and dreaming greener dreams, I hope this issue sparks a little fire in you to pursue something worthwhile for your family and our environment.

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Editor ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA

ON THE COVER Farmer Fred

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

walks through his orchard months before the fruits of his labor come to life.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIKA SPAULDING 6

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

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.

INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2021

FEATURES 12 Flocking to High Quality Products An interview with the owners of Montana Emu Ranch.

18 The Fruits of Labor Farmer Fred is committed to keeping his orchard organic.

24 Plant Queen Leaf + Quiet is a house plant haven.

18 24

30 A Roasting of Regions A roadtrip to Fieldheads Coffee proves a local and global experience.

30

12 DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

10

Around Town

12

Hometown Hero

36 Driver’s Notebook 38 DIY 40 Lifestyle Calendar 42 Locals Only

Give us a call and we’ll be there chop-chop.

call 542-SEED

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

9

AROUND TOWN the fascinating whales and their magical existence in our world. You can visit Wildlife-Film.com for more information.

FIFTH ANNUAL MISSOULA BIKE SWAP On Sunday, April 25 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. stop by Free Cycles to buy a new-to-you bike!

Whether you're looking for a frame set, project bike, parts for your dream build, or just a new ride, they've got something for you. Commuters, road bikes, mountain bikes, kids bikes, and more will be available. Their helpful volunteers can help you find the right bike.

Free Cycles is located at 732 South 1st Street West.

THERE'S A NEW MOOSE IN TOWN

EMILY NAZARIO AT THE MONTANA FLUTE FESTIVAL

Mexican Moose is a new food truck in Missoula

Friday, April 30 to Saturday, May 1, Emily Nazario

that offers authentic Mexican cuisine. Their fresh

will play at the University of Montana in the

look, fresh ingredients, and traditional techniques

Montana Flute Festival. Emily is a freelance flutist

in the kitchen serve up some south of the bor-

based in the DC Metro area. She holds a Master

der flavor in high country. Follow MexMoose on

of Music degree in Flute Performance from the

Instagram and Facebook to see where they will be

University of Wyoming where she held a Graduate

around town!

Assistantship and she completed her undergradu-

INTERNATIONAL WILDLIFE FILM FESTIVAL Saturday, April 17 to Friday, April 23, the International Wildlife Film Festival takes place

ate studies from Ithaca College where she earned a Bachelor of Music Performance. Emily was a member of the University of Wyoming Symphony Orchestra and Wind Symphony.

at the Roxy Theater. This year's theme is RISING FROM THE DEPTHS. Whales are the guardians of

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the oceans and, as they navigate the tumultuous

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love

currents, they serve as a steadfast symbol for all of

to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/

us as we navigate the currents of life and climate

MissoulaValley using the Get In Touch link and let us

crisis. Several films relating to this theme delve into

know what you think.

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

THE PRESS BOX WINE DEPOT A large selection of Hand Picked Wines, Local & from Around the World

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Painting

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C u s to m P a i n t i n g D e s i g n e d to M at c h Y o u r S t y l e a n d N e e d s If you can’t remember the last time you home was painted, it’s probably been too long. Between seasonal changes in every month, wear and tear and damages sustained over the years, your home’s paint can take a beating. Rely on Staggs Painting and Powerwashing LLC to provide the solutions you need. We deliver 100% custom interior/exterior painting solutions that will give your home the look and feel you’ve always wanted. Additionally, if you’re working on a new home construction project, we can help with that as well.

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Commercial & Business

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Farms & Ranches

Condos

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staggspaintingllc.com CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

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HOMETOWN HERO

ARTICLE CHELSEA LYN AGRO PHOTOGRAPHY PORSCHE KELLER

F LO C K I N G TO

H I G H

Q UA L IT Y P R O D U C T S

AN INTERVIEW WITH THE OWNERS OF MONTANA EMU RANCH

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

PENNI, DON, WHAT AN INCREDIBLE OPERATION YOU HAVE AT MONTANA EMU RANCH. MY GUESS IS THAT NOT MANY PEOPLE KNOW TOO MUCH ABOUT THESE BEAUTIFUL BIRDS. CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT WHAT MAKES THEM SPECIAL? Having been carbon dated back as far as 80,000,000 years ago, emus are basically unchanged. Because of this they are very adaptable to most environments which make them compatible with our Montana weather and environment. They are also very prolific, producing on average 30 offspring annually per breeder pair. A good pair of breeder birds can be productive for 20 plus years and their lifespan can go for up to 35 years.

EMU OIL HAS ENDLESS BENEFITS IN TERMS OF SKINCARE IT SEEMS. CAN YOU SHARE HOW YOU FIRST LEARNED ABOUT EMU OIL AND DESCRIBE HOW IT CAN HELP PEOPLE? Emu oil is an ancient remedy that has been used by the aborigines of Australia for eons. The emu is to the aborigines as the bison is to Native Americans. The emu is a source of protein, bones for tools, hides for clothing and shelter, oil for skincare and wound care. Because emu oil is composed mostly of unsaturated fat—which include 5 Omega oils—it brings balance to the skin. This function has many health benefits. Emu oil is also a very effective anti-aging ingredient that can reduce wrinkles and effectively decrease the signs of aging. Emu oil is also very beneficial in treating a variety of skin disorders.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

13

HOMETOWN HERO (CONTINUED)

THE PROCESS SOUNDS TRICKY, TIMELY, AND SPECIFIC. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT HOW YOU HARVEST THIS OIL AND HOW YOU KEEP THE BIRDS’ WELL-BEING FIRST AND FOREMOST? Our birds always have clean shelters with fresh bedding, fresh well water, and free choice feeds. They are raised in large pens and shelters that are adequate to house the number of birds we allow in any given pen.

Emus are raised as agricultural animals. Hatching takes place in late winter and throughout the spring months. By June 1, June hatching is complete for the year. Birds 16 to 18 months old are processed humanely at a local Montana state-inspected facility. Western MT Growers Co-op, located in Missoula, distributes the meats throughout Western Montana.

Bones and organ meats are sold as pet food to raw dog feeders. The fat of the birds is frozen and then shipped to a facility that will render it down into crude oil, then take it trough a refining process which will make it into a very stable oil that is used in personal care products as well as supplements for internal use.

THEY SAY IT TAKES A VILLAGE AND AS A BUSINESS OWNER I’M SURE YOU KNOW ALL ABOUT THAT. TELL US ABOUT HOW YOU WORK WITH OTHER LOCAL COMPANIES AND LOCAL TALENT TO PRODUCE YOUR GOODS. We do much of this business out of our own facility in that we produce and raise the emu. We have our own FDA-regulated facility that operates under GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards to produce our personal care as well as pet and livestock products. We have an outside facility located in Kalispell that produces our nutritional supplements. CHS in Great Falls mills the emu feed of which we purchase 24 tons at a time, in bulk.

Nationally, we have a broker network that works to maintain distribution in retail outlets as well as introduces new items and train staff to the advantages of using Montana Emu Ranch Products.

14

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

We do much of t his business out of our own facility in that we produce and raise the emu

IF SOMEONE GOES TO YOUR WEBSITE TO LEARN

due to a low stress environment and quality feeds. The

ABOUT YOUR PRODUCTS, THEY’LL LEARN THAT

refining process uses low heat. Mainly, it is the filtering

THE FAT FROM WHICH YOU MAKE OIL IS RATED IN

process that cleans up the fat and removes any impuri-

THE TOP 2% OF THE COUNTRY. CAN YOU SHARE

ties and/or free fatty acids (proteins) that would shorten

HOW YOU MAINTAIN SUCH A QUALITY PRODUCT?

shelf life and make the oil unstable. We end up with a

IF IT RELATES, CAN YOU ALSO DESCRIBE WHAT IT

very active yet odor free oil that is then combined with

TAKES FOR THE OIL TO BE 100% REFINED?

mostly plant oils to produce a very high quality, all natural

A couple reasons our emu fat is ranked so high has to

line of skincare products. Montana Emu Ranch products

do with feeding a well balanced and nutritional diet along

are marked under a couple brand names including

with clean, deep well water. This keeps the Omega oils

Emutrients (for our skincare and supplements) and

in proper balance and takes minimal refining as the fat

EMUgency/EMU Plus (for our specialty products for pain

is basically toxin free. No added hormones or antibiotics

management and wound care). We are also introducing

are used in the feed program. Our birds are high yielding

a line of CBD products under the EMU Plus logo.

Our greatest success is helping people by bringing them quality products

WITH ANY BUSINESS IT’S IMPORTANT TO RECOGNIZE HARDSHIPS AS WELL AS SUCCESSES. CAN YOU SHARE A NOTABLE HARDSHIP IN RECENT MEMORY AND PERHAPS A NOTABLE SUCCESS THAT BRINGS A SMILE TO YOUR FACES? Our greatest success is helping people by bringing them quality products. We hear from them daily and they thank us for doing what we do. As far as difficulties, this last year has been a test. Although store business is down slightly, our internet sales have climbed significantly as people tend to do more shopping from home.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

15

HOMETOWN HERO (CONTINUED)

LASTLY, SINCE IT’S SO IMPORTANT TO HAVE A GENUINE LOVE FOR THESE CREATURES, WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF CARING FOR THESE EMUS ON A DAILY BASIS FOR BOTH OF YOU? As I said above, keep them in a clean and stress-free environment with free choice feeds and fresh clean water. Emus are not pets, they have a purpose. The better they are taken care of, the better product we can produce. As they say, “Garbage in, Garbage out”. A product can only be as good as the raw ingredients that are used to make it. This goes for our feed program as well as all the ingredients that go into our products.

16

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

Uncompromising Service. Montana Style.

Investment and Portfolio Management

Left to right: Jim Benson, CFP®, CWS®, Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor; Julie Passuccio, CWP, FPQP™, Senior Registered Associate; Cynthia Fritch, CFP®, CPFA, CWS®, Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor; Laurel Kato, CWP, FPQP™, Senior Registered Associate; Frank D’Angelo, CFP®, CWS®, Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor, Branch Manager

283 W. Front St., Suite 101 | Missoula, MT | (406) 329-4040 | 406wm.com CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

17

of labor

the fruits

FARMER FRED IS COMMITTED TO KEEPING HIS ORCHARD ORGANIC ARTICLE JILL MH TABER PHOTOGRAPHY ERIKA SPAULDING

IT ALL STARTED WITH A GUY ON A BICYCLE.

Raspberries come ready right around

Fred Stewart, owner of Green Bench Orchard in Missoula,

Independence Day, with apples starting in

hadn’t planned to become “Farmer Fred” but one afternoon back

late August through October. Fred supplies

in 2004, his neighbor rode by on his bike and announced that he

baskets for raspberries and bags for apples.

planned to sell his 7-acre farm.

He charges, not by weight or volume, but

“I knew there’d be six or seven houses right next door to me if I didn’t figure out how to buy it,” Fred explained.

by the container. Pickers pay on their way into the orchard. Signs and flags in the trees

Fred, a retired investment advisor and Forest Service economist,

alert people to the variety of apples and

said he didn’t know a whole lot about apple orchards but 17 years

Fred’s website gives suggestions for best

after his foray into farming, he’s got quite a bit figured out.

uses for each type of fruit.

Early on, he researched apple varieties and started with 42 trees,

Fred took the steps to become a certified

planted in 2011. He added trees every year for a few years, bringing

organic orchard and while there are strict

the current total to 185 apple trees, as well as a few plum and pear

regulations on what cannot go into an organic

trees. In 2015, he added a raspberry patch.

apple, it’s not to say they don’t require a lot

Fred developed a U-Pick model to sell his produce and, ever the

of work. Fred has spent hundreds—maybe

economist, he gathers data and makes tweaks to his operation as

thousands—of hours researching methods

he sees fit.

and practices to keep his orchard organic.

“I’m not a farmer by background,” he explained. “The experiment is to see if U-Pick is viable in Montana.”

“With the apple trees, you want to minimize the amount of competition on the ground and

With nearly 200 trees and 150 raspberry plants, there’s a lot of fruit

around the trees so nutrients from the soil

to harvest each year, and Fred—who operates mostly on his own

get to the apples,” Fred said. “With non-or-

with one or two seasonal employees—doesn’t want to pick the fruit

ganic methods, it’s easy to spray Round-Up

himself. So, he opens the orchard to the public.

and kill the grass.”

18

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

19

THE FRUITS OF LABOR (CONTINUED)

But in an organic orchard, chemicals are a no-no. For a few years, Fred and his team cultivated the ground around the apple trees by hand—a good workout, sure, but eventually hard on the shoulders. In 2020, he received a grant that enabled him to purchase a thick layer of certified organic compost around the trees, reducing his cultivation costs.

“We needed to be a bit smarter about how to keep the ground clear,” Fred explained.

Additionally, Fred researched ways to fertilize the trees and keep within organic certification guidelines.

“I used to think nitrogen is nitrogen—what difference does it make whether it comes from ammonium nitrate or compost?” Fred said. “But chemical nitrogen is harmful to the soil. Chemicals require more chemicals.”

20

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

So, as he is apt to do, Fred looked for alternatives. in a way that’s good for the environment and “Part of the experiment was to grow alfalfa between the trees, mow the alfalfa and leave the cut alfalfa to provide nitrogen for the trees,” Fred explained.

Based on soil and leaf analysis, he said the experiment has proven fruitful.

good for people, too.”

He’s found that his customers appreciate his commitment to being eco-friendly.

“Picking fruit here is a family event. An awful lot of my customers are families with kids. When I tell them we’re certified organic, I’m surprised

“The soil is healthier. The trees are doing

the number of people who say that’s important,”

well,” Fred said. “Farming can be done in a way

Fred explained. “People tell me it’s important to

that’s reasonably profitable. The environment is

know where their food came from.”

important to protect.”

The 2020 harvest was one of the most

While organic farming comes with its chal-

bountiful on record for Green Bench Orchard.

lenges—Fred can’t simply spray pesticides or

Fred donated 5 percent of his gross revenue to

use chemical fertilizers—he said the effort is

the Missoula Food Bank as well as nearly 900

worth it on several levels.

pounds of apples.

“I read something on a cereal box that said

“I even had several people throw in ten bucks

only about one percent of farmland is organic. I

to add to what we gave to the food bank,” Fred

thought, ‘Well, we need to work on that,’” Fred

said. “People are sensitive to the fact that there

said. “My goal is to produce really good fruit

are people who don’t have enough food to eat.”

CONTINUED >

PICKING FRUIT HERE IS A FAMILY EVENT. AN AWFUL LOT OF MY CUSTOMERS ARE FAMILIES WITH KIDS. WHEN I TELL THEM WE’RE CERTIFIED ORGANIC, I’M SURPRISED THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE WHO SAY THAT’S IMPORTANT.

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

21

THE FRUITS OF LABOR (CONTINUED)

Fred loves the community aspect of his farming adventure. People come from near and far – Great Falls, Butte, Deer Lodge, and Drummond, to name a few—to spend time at the orchard.

“It’s an opportunity to do something that’s laid-back and relaxed, a place they can enjoy themselves,” Fred explained. “Kids are pretty excited about picking apples.

The little kids are good at sampling raspberries along the way. I don’t worry about kids eating as they pick. It’s a family thing. If they enjoy it, they’ll come back.”

Green Bench Orchard is located at 4701 South Avenue West in Missoula. Find Farmer Fred on the web at GreenBenchOrchard.com or via Facebook at “Green Bench Orchard” for information and picking times.

“ I don’ t worr y a bout kid s e at in g a s t h ey pick . It’s a fa m ily t h in g .

If t h ey e njoy it , t h ey ’ll com e b ack .”

22

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

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plant queen

ARTICLE SUSIE WALL PHOTOGRAPHY KAYLA JOAN, ATHENA LONSDALE AND SIERRA MCMURRY

LEAF + QUIET IS A HOUSE PLANT HAVEN

WALKING INTO LEAF + QUIET ON A COLD SNOWY MISSOULA DAY IS LIKE WALKING INTO A WARM

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Clare opened Leaf + Quiet in Missoula’s historic Northside neighborhood in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.

HUG. Owner Clare Cornberg has fashioned her indoor

“I always toyed with the idea of opening a store but

plant store so that bright green foliage—some stand-

thought it would be much later in life,” said Clare. “Then I

ing a few inches high, some reaching to the ceiling—

saw this space come available and I signed a lease within

fills every space enveloping you with a sense of peace

a few days. I just thought 2020 was such a bizarre year

and quiet, or leaf and quiet.

that I just had to try it out. And it’s been incredible.”

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

In looking at all of those thriving plants, you would have no idea that Clare has no formal training in horticulture. In her words, her “addiction” began when she got her first plant while living in a tiny studio apartment in Philadelphia.

business consultations with those of us who wish to add indoor

“I got lucky with understanding plants and how they work and

plants to our lives. Clare will come into your home or office, consult

my addiction to indoor plants grew,” said Clare. Her addiction then

with you about your needs, time, space constraints, and experience

became an obsession after she moved to Missoula.

and then find just the right plants for your lifestyle.

“At one point I had a 700 square foot apartment and had about

Clare can list a number of benefits that plants bring to your work

250 plants. It was a jungle.” In addition to her plant-rearing history

or living space. She tells of numerous studies that have shown that

she credits her years of retail and service industry experience in

productivity in a work environment increases when people are sur-

teaching her how to cultivate relationships with her customers.

rounded by living things. Plants also help purify the air and remove

The retail side of Leaf + Quiet is the main focus of Clare’s business but she also shares her expertise in the form of in-home and

toxins. Then there is a calming aspect, which is evident when you walk through the door of her shop.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

25

PLANT QUEEN (CONTINUED)

I remind people I have killed so many different plants. It’s just a matter of finding the plant that fits your lifestyle.

Brown thumbs are not a thing.”

“Most of us humans are so nurturing. I think having something

“You have to think about exposure and how far it will be from a

that you’re able to take care of and help grow and thrive is great

window,” she said. “Water is important but you have control over

for our general well-being,” said Clare. Then of course there is the

it. You can’t control the light coming into your house.”

aesthetic side. Plants make any place warm and inviting.

“I’m fairly uncomfortable in places where there are no plants,” she said.

26

Another factor to take into account is how much time you have to care for the plant. Does your busy schedule make caring for a plant the last thing on your daily list? Your own

When asked about what to take into account when adding indoor

background and expertise with plants also comes into play.

plants to a home, Clare said light is the number one factor. You can’t

According to Clare, there are plants that are easy to care for

choose a plant simply based on how it looks and expect it to survive.

and those that are not.

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

27

PLANT QUEEN (CONTINUED)

“When people are starting out I want them to succeed and be empowered.”

“When people are starting out I want them to succeed and be empowered. The sale is secondary,” said Clare.

Clare doesn’t believe in the theory of being born with a green thumb. She tells the story of her favorite plant, the Ficus Audrey (Ficus benghalensis).

“I killed the first one I had. They’re absolute divas,” she said. “I remind people I have killed so many different plants. It’s just a matter of finding the plant that fits your lifestyle. Brown thumbs are not a thing.”

LEAF + QUIET 235 North 1st Street West Suite F 406.830.1420 LeafAndQuiet.com

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

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CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

29

a roasting of regions A ROADTRIP TO FIELDHEADS COFFEE PROVES A LOCAL AND GLOBAL EXPERIENCE

ARTICLE KATHLEEN GOODWIN PHOTOGRAPHY PORSCHE KELLER

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

" W e are always very c areful about any of t he ingredients t h at go int o all of our drinks as well as our b aked goods.

W e go t he ext ra mile of making sure everyt hing is natural and using organic when we c an."

WINTER, SUMMER, SPRING, OR FALL—

While summer brings booming business from

MONTANA

At

visitors near and far, Ben said that the com-

Fieldheads Coffee Roasting Co., your coffee

munity of Bigfork has been a huge support for

fix is their passion. Located in the village of

the business all year round.

RUNS

ON

COFFEE.

Bigfork, Fieldheads is a family-run business

Fieldheads Coffee Roasting Co. makes

that strives to serve up responsibly sourced

it their mission to provide ethically sourced

coffees and delicious, locally sourced items

coffee to their patrons. From farm to mug,

from bakery treats to their most notable

Fieldheads is very particular about which

homemade flavoring syrups.

coffees are served, resulting in only products

A trip to Fieldheads is more than a visit to a

that are organic, Fair Trade, or Rainforest

local coffee shop. It’s a jump-in-the-car type

Alliance-approved brews, roasted on site in

of road trip just for a change of scenery and a

the Flathead Valley.

promise of something tasty. The storefront in the

This passion and knowledge of coffee

village also serves as the home for Fieldheads

expands into the storefront where custom-

roasting production, meaning that the smell of

ers can sample the different flavor profiles of

fresh-roasted coffee permeates all throughout

various regions and purchase fresh-roasted

town. Visitors to the shop can often see owner

bags to enjoy at home.

Ben Storest roasting, packaging, or shipping

“[Our baristas are] extensively trained

the award-winning whole bean blends, and

in where all of our coffees come from and

baristas serve up some of the freshest espresso

we are able to provide really valuable infor-

and flavors found in Montana.

mation to the customer of what they are

Since 2003, Fieldheads has been roasting

supporting when they purchase a particular

coffee for wholesale, but in 2012, owners

bag of coffee,” said general manager Erica

Ben and Melissa Storest took over the busi-

Carrara. Their impressive lineup features

ness and brought the award-winning coffee

staple blends as well as a rotating selec-

roasting company to its current home.

tion of single origins, making Fieldheads a

“When we first began, we were only whole-

dynamic experience for all levels of coffee

sale roasting in Creston, but [my wife and I] live

connoisseurs. With coffees from all the major

in Bigfork and were looking for a way to get

growing regions, including Central and

the business down here,” said Ben. The retail

South America, Africa, Ethiopia, Indonesia,

store and coffee shop in Bigfork has become

India and Hawaii, customers can enjoy and

a vibrant part of this tight-knit community.

experience the varying flavor profiles.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

31

A ROASTING OF REGIONS (CONTINUED) Fieldheads goes above and beyond to feature local Montana Made products in the store, including dairy products from Kalispell Creamery, honey from Bison and Bee in Missoula, Tipu’s Chai in Polson, and chocolate from Posh Chocolate from Missoula.

“We are always very careful about any of the ingredients that go into all of our drinks as well as our baked goods. We go the extra mile of making sure everything is natural and using organic when we can,” Erica explained. As farmers market season approaches, more local ingredients such as produce, fruits, meats, and cheeses will find their way into the menu items.

The talented crew at Fieldheads loves experimenting with new flavors, filling their menu with fun, seasonal flavors and beverages found nowhere else.

“We are really inspired by the seasons for the simple syrups we are creating in house, using local, organic or natural ingredients or essential oils, depending on what we can find,” Erica said.

Fieldheads Coffee Roasting Co. is all about blending: blending coffee beans to create delicious brews, blending flavors to create unique beverage experiences, blending tradition with experimentation, and blending local with global. Whether you are an espresso enthusiast, a latte lover, or a coffee purist, Fieldheads is a one-stop shop for all of your roasting needs.

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

33

Burning Feet? Electric Shocks?

Pain & Numbness?

Pins & Needles?

You might have

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral Neuropathy is a condition that affects nearly 20 million Americans.

It usually begins in the feet & lower legs, but over time, can advance into the hands & fingers. Until now, the only treatment for this terrible condition has been oral medications & injections. And in many cases, these simply didn’t work.

WE CAN HELP YOU!!!

We’ve utilized a completely NEW TREATMENT that may take away most, if not all, of your pain. It’s safe and highly effective for most people... even diabetics. Call now to schedule a FREE consultation with our Doctor to see if you are a candidate for this procedure.

Dr. Gregory Chapman, D.C. (406) 721-5780 ChapmanProAdjuster.com

1526 South Reserve St. Missoula, MT 59801

Serving Missoula and surrounding Areas 34

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

®

406-721-9359 www.signpromissoula.com

· Digital Printing · Vehicle Decals and Wraps · Window Graphics · Site Signs · · Parking Signs · Sandwich Boards · Banners · Dimensional Lettering · Trade Show Displays ·

Locally Owned & Operated for Over 20 Years

We are Missoula’s Coolest Hotspot!

Great Happy Hour Specials on Food & Drinks. The Perfect Place to Watch Sports with Friends.

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

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

35

DRIVER’S NOTEBOOK

THE EV OPTION FLANAGAN MOTORS OFFERS AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE INVENTORY UNLIKE THE REST

THE DEALERSHIP EXPERIENCE: FIRST THING THAT COMES TO MIND FOR ME IS THE HUNT. And walking the lot. Purchasing a vehicle is something we all learn to do with experience, gradually getting better and better at it as we grow older and more knowledgeable. That hunt for the right vehicle has made a dramatic shift in recent years with our local population wanting a more efficient vehicle for the environment and ourselves. Let’s take a peek at electric vehicles and what they have to offer before we venture to the lot to sit in one.

FUEL EFFICIENT: That’s a trick, isn’t it? The most fuel-efficient cars are the ones that don’t use fuel, like an EV. They are up to three times cheaper than a gas-powered car.

LOW MAINTENANCE: No oil changes and longer lasting brakes.

Electric vehicles are extremely minimal and their low operating costs usually offset the cost of the vehicle in one year.

AFFORDABLE: New electric vehicles start at $16,000 after federal tax credits and pre-owned models can cost half of that. After you factor in dealer subsidies, the EV becomes more affordable.

GOOD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT: Transportation accounts for 29% of the United States greenhouse gas emissions, so driving an EV makes a real difference toward a cleaner electricity grid.

FLANAGAN MOTORS MAZDA 1776 Stephens Avenue 406.721.1381 FlanaganMotors.com

36

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

LIFESTYLE: Most people spend the majority of

Flanagan Motors purchased their first Fiat 500e

their time in cars commuting or running errands

in 2018. Since then, they’ve become Missoula’s

less than 50 miles a day, which is easily attained

only dealer who focuses on pre-owned plug-in

by an EV. And Missoula is getting more and

electric vehicles. You can visit their selection

more charging stations each year. You can visit

online at FlanaganMotors.com and selecting the

PlugShare.com to see where they are.

“Electric Vehicles” tab or by calling 406.721.1381 to speak with an electric vehicle specialist.

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

37

DIY

Benefits of a

chemical-free home

HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED WHAT IT WOULD TAKE TO TURN YOUR HOUSEHOLD CHEMICAL-FREE? It's not as hard as you might think!

We hear a lot about the dangers of chemical ingredients, but it's easy to ignore all of the warnings and keep using our favorite products.

When you don't know of a better alternative, it's just what you do!

However, all of those ingredients add up and can make a big difference in your health, as well as the health of your family and pets.

The products that are most important to swap out depend on your lifestyle and what you use the most.

If your little ones are eating food right off of the counter, you might consider the ingredients from the cleaner you just used to wipe it down and start by switching to a natural method.

ARTICLE HAYLEY HYER

If you have sensitive skin, you might start by taking inventory of your beauty and personal care products to see what you can replace.

To get you started, here is a DIY product that you can make yourself for your chemical-free home.

38

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

DIY Laundry Scent Enhancer If you have ever added those popular scent beads to your load of laundry before, you know how lovely it is to pull your amazingly scented clothes out of the dryer.

The funny thing about a product like that is it truly has no purpose other than adding a good smell, but it does add lots of chemicals to your daily life!

There's a safer and more beneficial way to make your clothes smell heavenly. Try this DIY scent enhancer with your next load of laundry and put it to the test.

Ingredients 3 parts Epsom Salt + 1 part Baking Soda + Essential Oils

Directions Mix your ingredients together in a jar or canister and scoop about ¼ cup directly into the washer basin before adding the clothes—just like you would with scented beads. Continue with your laundry like normal.

Learn More

For more information on starting a chemical-free household, you can browse online resources such as ChemFreeCom.com or find a social media group to join with likeminded people who have some experience from their own trial and error. If you get overwhelmed, remember that you don't have to get rid of all chemicals in one day. Every swap you make is something to celebrate!

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

39

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1 PAINT YOUR OWN POTTERY CURBSIDE SERVICE proudly located in the heart of Missoula, MT

Zootown Arts Community Center

Look through the available pottery and add your desired pieces to your cart. Complete your payment and submit your order. Zootown Community Arts Center will call you to let you know when your order is ready for pickup (you'll be asked what glaze preferences you like during this call).

6 NUTRITION CLASS Virtual

Dr. Amy Haynes N.D., founder of Full Circle Natural

Medical Clinic, practices holistic medicine in Missoula, MT. For over 35 years, Dr. Haynes has used natural methods to treat the whole body, rather than masking symptoms.

Another Option Beyond Pain Meds and Surgery Full Circle Natural Medical Clinic is delighted to offer Regenerative Medicine to restore joint and back function naturally!

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE is an exciting new field of therapy that specializes in rejuvenating body function and tissues. It includes therapies such as: • Prolotherapy • Placental Allografts, 2 nd Gen Stem Cell Therapy • Platelet Rich Plasma • Facial Rejuvenation • O-Shot/P-Shot • Prolozone Therapy

This course is free and open to the public. Participants must attend 6 of the 9 classes in order to receive a graduation certificate. This course covers issues related to diet quality, physical activity, food resource management, food safety, and food security. Offered every Tuesday and Wednesday night at 5:30 p.m.

Email Kayla.Martin@Montana.edu and you will be provided a link to each class.

7 BIRDWATCHING FOR BEGINNGERS Lifelong Learning Center

Have you ever wanted to know how to identify the birds of western Montana by sight and by song? Learn over 25 species of birds commonly found in our grasslands, forests, and river habitats. First class is in the classroom getting down the basics and the second is in the field bird watching. Wednesday, April 7 from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, April 10 from 9 to 11:30 a.m.

Cost is $38.

WE ARE THE SECOND OPINION

Call to schedule your free 20 minute consultation!

13 BEGINNING SPANISH

Lifelong Learning Center

406.721.2147

a refresher, this is the class for you! With an emphasis

521 South 2nd St West, Missoula MT 59801

on conversation in the present tense, you will learn the

info@FullCircleMedicalClinic

skills to speak, read, and write while traveling, work-

www.fullcirclenaturalmedicalclinic.com OFFICE HOURS: Tuesday – Friday | 9am – 4pm 40

If you never spoke a word of Spanish or simply need

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

ing, or just enjoying the Spanish language. There are 10 sessions between April 13 and May 13 on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 6 and 8 p.m. Cost is $147.

APRIL

16 WHITEWATER RAFTING WORKSHOP Montana River Guides

Get ready for a weekend of whitewater instruction and river skills practice for novice river guides and recreational boaters. One evening of lecture and discussion followed by two full days on the Blackfoot River and Alberton Gorge. Tuition is $295. Visit MontanaRiverGuides.com for more information.

17 CPR AND FIRST AID

Lifelong Learning Center

This combination class includes Heartsaver First Aid and Adult/Child/Infant CPR. Hands-on instruction will be given. Upon successful completion you will receive a two-year Heartsaver First Aid/CPR certification card. Bring a snack or lunch for full day class. Must have a valid email address. Cost is $96. Takes place between 8:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.

GET INSPIRED EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ MissoulaValley using the Get In Touch link and let us

City Lifestyle YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

know what you think.

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

41

LOCALS ONLY

Positiv it y ARTICLE MIKE TUCKER

WE ALL HAVE CHOICES TO MAKE BUT WHAT PATH DO WE CHOOSE? There is always going to be an easier, less bumpy, maybe even paved road but let’s face it, it’s not always the most fulfilling decision.

The path I was on—the easy one— led me to have a stroke. I did rehab for two and half years and speech therapy for one and half years. I chose alcohol and then chose rehab. Today I’ve chosen a different path for my life—one of health and stunning vistas.

The only way we know we’ve chosen the wrong path is when we see the end of the path in front of us. Pave a new path for yourself today.

There is so much life to live and sights to see.

You’ll see me struggle but you’ll never see me quit.

Elevation snowshoeing up Ch-Paa-Qn peak.

Push through the pain. Stay Strong.

Follow @OutdoorsInspiring on Instagram for more inspiring photos and stories.

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | April 2021

A Single Momen t In Time

Go to MandMTuck .PicFair .com

A Single Moment taken of the Beauty of the Montana Outdoors

Board-certified

Plastic Surgeon We all want to look and feel our best, and advancements in modern medicine are making this goal safer and more effective than ever before. Unfortunately, as the popularity of cosmetic surgery grows, some patients may seek treatment before they have fully researched the surgeon they choose to perform their procedure.

Dr. Stephen P. Hardy

At Northwest Plastic Surgery Associates, we are committed to helping you achieve your desired aesthetic outcome in a safe, professional environment.

Dr. Stephen P. Hardy is a boardcertified plastic surgeon offering an unparalleled level of care to patients in Missoula, Whitefish, Butte, Helena, and surrounding communities.

Christy Lopp APRN, FNP-C, WHPN

To learn more about the benefits of trusting your care to a certified plastic surgeon, and to undergo evaluation for any of our services, schedule a consultation with us today.

Missoula Office

Helena & Whitefish

2802 Great Northern Loop Missoula, MT 59808

406.728.3811

406.728.3811

Safety

nwpsa.com

|

By Appointment Only

Quality

|

Ethics

|

Service

Excellence