Missoula Valley, MT May 2021

M AY 2 02 1

LI F E + C U LTU R E T H E B USI N ES S O F B LO O MS FOOD + DRINK T H E M AT RIARC H O F M AK I N G BAG EL S WELLNESS

Bloom

Women in

B I G SK Y APPE T I T E

WOR KING OU T AT HO ME IS JU ST NOT TH E S AM E

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A Single Momen t In Time

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A Single Moment taken of the Beauty of the Montana Outdoors

LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2021 PUBLISHER

Mike Tucker | MTucker@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

The Motherlode.

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

Erika Fredrickson | Erika.Fredrickson@LifestylePubs.com

IT'S APPROPRIATE THAT MOTHER'S DAY AND THIS WOMEN'S ISSUE COIN-

ACCO UNT MANAGER

CIDE WITH A BLOOMING SPRING. The air is more fragrant, the sunshine has

Marla Huggins | Marla.Huggins@LifestylePubs.com

more warmth, and the bulbs that lie dormant all through those cold winter months have graced us with more electric green beginnings.

Since becoming a mother last year, I started to take note how mothers are often the catalyst for each day's beginning and each day's end. And for the most part, all of what happens in the interim. The clean plate and high chair, the soft clothes, the hours spent reading or playing or cleaning up or making a mess, and finally the

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Erika Spaulding | InspiredbyMontana@Gmail.com AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dani Moore

filling of the bath tub, the hooded towel laid out on the floor with the bottle of lotion

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

nearby. It's a portrait of more than the mundane routine of an infant and his mother.

Shelby Humphreys, Amanda Krieg, Jill MH Taber, Susie Wall

It's the careful attention to detail that most mothers possess so things stay on track and continue without avoidable chaos.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Pamela Dunn-Parrish, Celine Saucier, Jayde Wilmes

I remember always trying to convince my mother to drop what she was doing and come sit on the couch, watch the movie, forget the dishes. But now I know that she needed to wash them, for life to continue, so the domino effect of life's routine wouldn't signal a pileup. She's taught me—someone who's never had a schedule—the importance of doing the daily deeds so that the wheel of life is always

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

greased. When I think of the word mother, I now think of these very important acts

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

of selflessness.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

I wanted this issue to celebrate women and their accomplishments but also spot-

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

light the fire in their bellies, whether it be passion, nerve, or determination. I love

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

seeing what can become of our most innate desires and where those desires can take us. To me, it looks a lot like blooming.

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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 SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER Bitterroot Flower Shop is full of gifts, flowers, plants, and much more. Stop in today!

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIKA SPAULDING 6

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 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.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2021

FEATURES 14 Big Sky Appetite Two friends travel the treasure state in search of good eats.

22 The Business of Blooms Bitterroot Flower Shop is dedicated to the Missoula community.

28 A Date to Create Owner of CREATE Art Bar helps everyone become creatively inspired.

22 28

32 The Matriarch of Making Bagels Sue Thompson of Bagels on Broadway retires.

14

32

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

10

Around Town

14

Food & Wine

20 Artist’s Palette 32 Local Limelight 38 Travel Destination 40 Lifestyle Calendar 42 Local’s Choice

HE L PI NG YO U STAY H E A LT HY! •NEV ER FORGET YOUR M ASK AGAIN• Now that the world has our f a c e s c o v e re d…

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AROUND TOWN

ROBERT HARRISON: IT TAKES A VILLAGE

GENTLE & RESTORATIVE YOGA

Robert Harrison is at the forefront of radical change

A short, gentle movement practice to help you

in the ceramics community. Author of Sustainable

coast from the day’s activities into rest and relax-

Ceramics: A Practical Guide and leading the National

ation. Mostly a floor practice with some chair

Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts Green

adaptations. Restorative yoga has the intention

Committee, Harrison challenges the medium’s

to support an opportunity for you to rest body

extractive history and encourages its long-term sus-

and mind. You will be taught tips on how to

tainability. Harrison is internationally known for his

thoughtfully support your body for relaxation.

large-scale, site-specific architectural sculpture. For

People may use rolled towels, blankets, pillows,

the Missoula Art Park, Harrison will exhibit site-spe-

and chairs for support. 4-Week series lasts May

cific wire-mesh house structures that continue his

3 to 24. Takes place at 6:30 p.m. at the Learning

exploration of his architecturally based work. The

Center at Red Willow.

concept for his installation juxtaposes and stacks small and large iconic house forms with human

HOORAY FOR CLAY!

scale and bright colors. Harrison invites the Missoula

This camp is all about clay! Learn how to make

community to contribute material—brick, stone, por-

your own cup, vase, plate, and other functional

celain—to fill the interior space. The accumulation of

items through creative techniques. You will have

house forms suggests a community, giving voice to

time to create sculptures for the garden, jew-

the adage that celebrates collective action. Harrison

elry, games, and more! This event takes place on

has served as President of the Boards of both the

Wednesdays through May 12 between 4 and 6

National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts

p.m. Open to children 6 to 12 years of age at the

and the Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic

Zootown Arts Community Center. Cost is $125.

Arts. He was awarded the Meloy Stevenson Award of Excellence from the Bray in 2008. He has been

RENT WISE

elected to the International Academy of Ceramics

Are you rent wise? This free Rent Wise work-

based in Geneva, Switzerland (2001), the Royal

shop will teach you the keys to successful rent-

Canadian Academy of Arts (2007), and was a found-

ing, including:

ing member of the World Association of Brick Artists Award by the Montana Arts Council. This event takes

+ How your credit score impacts renting + How to improve your credit score for renting + Common reasons for rental rejections and how

place on Wednesday, May 5 at the Missoula Art

to move past them

Museum at 335 North Pattee.

+ Savings goals for overcoming renting barriers

(2010). In 2019, he was awarded the Artist Innovation

CONTINUED >

10

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

11

AROUND TOWN This workshop focuses on the impact of credit and rental history, how to improve your credit score, and the strategies and tools to overcome rental barriers to establish a good relationship with proudly located in the heart of Missoula, MT

your landlord.

Rent Wise is about learning how to overcome negative perceptions and rental barriers to become a great renter. Homeword is there to help teach you the tools and judgment skills to advocate for your goals and get into and stay in a rental home. Register online at Homeword.org.

This event takes place on Thursday, May 6 from 3 to 5 p.m. and Thursday, May 20 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Zoom.

DO YOU HAVE NEWS? We want to hear from you! Our team is always on

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!

the hunt for stellar employees around our community or perhaps a student who goes above and beyond their classwork. Maybe you know a neighbor who has saved a life or just want to shoutout to a friend or loved one for a birthday or special occassion. If you want to get a message out, contact us today! Email Chelsea.Agro@Lifestylepubs.com.

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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

did you just start reading this magazine? We want to know how you’re liking our content and stories about the Missoula community and beyond. It makes our day when readers email us or let us know in person how a particular story touched them in some way. Let us know! Email Chelsea.Agro@Lifestylepubs.com or visit us on social media.

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406.721.2147 521 South 2nd St West, Missoula MT 59801

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www.fullcirclenaturalmedicalclinic.com OFFICE HOURS: Tuesday – Friday | 9am – 4pm 12

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

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 know what you think.

Painting

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13

FOOD & WINE

TWO FRIENDS TRAVEL THE TREASURE STATE IN SEARCH OF GOOD EATS

ARTICLE SUSIE WALL PHOTOGRAPHY CELINE

ARE YOU ALWAYS HUNGRY, MISSOULA? Foodies and close friends Celine Saucier and Jayde Wilmes feel the same way. Their Instagram page @AlwaysHungryMontana documents their travels across the state as they feed their hunger for Montana’s eclectic food scene.

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET? Jayde: We met six years ago through a mutual friend. We really connected and realized that we both like great cocktails and good food.

WHAT MADE YOU START @ALWAYSHUNGRYMONTANA? Celine: It kind of started as a joke, actually. We were following foodies in New York and we thought, “We take pictures of food so why can’t we highlight the food that we eat and bring attention to Montana’s food scene?” We’re both from Michigan and a lot of our friends ask us if all we eat are meat and potatoes, so we wanted to showcase how much good stuff there is in Montana.

14

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

BIG SK Y APPETITE

SAUCIER AND JAYDE WILMES

HOW

WOULD

YOU

DEFINE

THE

CONCEPT

OF

@ALWAYSHUNGRYMONTANA? Jayde: We’re really just trying to highlight what Montana has

Jayde: We really try to reach everything from people that do pop-up dinners, different caterers, and definitely food markets.

to offer so anytime we’re traveling around the state we try to

Celine: We did a little collaboration with

eat everywhere we can and experience all the different kinds

the town of Anaconda where we high-

of food and then put that up on our Instagram page. Even

lighted some of what they have to offer.

in Bozeman people will be like, I didn’t know that this even

They have a Smelterman’s Day festival

existed, which is always interesting because you think if you

so we went there and featured the town.

live somewhere long enough you’ll find all these little spots.

They have a younger city council and they

We’ve just noticed a lot of restaurants are under the radar in

were trying to bring attention to their city.

Montana so we really just try to emphasize the places that are

We try to help out people who have inter-

here and how great they are.

est in growing and showing off what they

Celine: In addition to that, when COVID happened it was

have to offer.

important to us to feature restaurants because that was one

Jayde: I was really surprised the first time

of the hardest hit industries, so we felt we should go out and

I went to Anaconda and now it’s some-

support our local community that way.

where I try to go as often as I can. You don’t realize what’s there and once you get

WHAT TYPES OF ESTABLISHMENTS DO YOU LIKE

there you [realize] there’s some really great

TO FEATURE?

restaurants there.

CONTINUED >

Celine: Everywhere there’s food or drinks!

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

15

FOOD & WINE (CONTINUED)

WE’VE JUST NOTICED A LOT OF R E S TA U R A N T S A R E U N D E R T H E R A D A R I N M O N TA N A S O W E R E A L LY J U S T T R Y T O E M P H A S I Z E T H E P L A C E S T H AT A R E H E R E A N D H O W G R E AT T H E Y A R E .

DO EACH OF YOU HAVE A

to places like PREROGATIvE Kitchen in Red

FAVORITE FOOD?

Lodge and SakeTome in Missoula or these

Jayde: I definitely think it’s Asian for both of us. I would say for me it’s sushi. I would eat sushi all day, everyday.

more obscure places that you wouldn’t expect to find.

Celine: We have a restaurant here in

Celine: I would agree with that but I also

Bozeman called The Sashimi Bar. I had gone

love small bites. On most occasions we go

to Japan and had a similar style yet the one

out and get a bunch of things and share

in Bozeman is something even more special.

rather than one giant entrée. So I would

The food is beautiful and good and well done

say shareable bites. We both also like spicy

so it rivals something where people have

foods and lots of sauces.

perfected it across the world. I think there’s

Jayde: It really comes down to the options!

a lot of passionate people who want to bring culture to Montana.

WHAT DO YOU FIND UNIQUE ABOUT THE MONTANA FOOD SCENE? Jayde: It’s so different. We both moved to Montana around the same time about ten

16

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE PLACES IN MISSOULA? Celine: I love Tagliare Delicatessen.

years ago. We really didn’t expect a lot from

Jayde: Number one is Notorious P.I.G. I go

Montana, especially a decade ago. You think

there and get all their sauces. Again, it’s all

there’s burgers and steaks. Then we traveled

about the options!

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

17

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

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ARTIST’S PALETTE

H A P P Y M OT H E R ’ S DAY F R O M M I S S O U L A VA L L E Y L I F E S T Y L E PHOTOGRAPHY OPEN LENS BY PAMELA

THERE’S SOMETHING SO TRANQUIL ABOUT WATCHING ANIMALS WITH THEIR YOUNG. Whether it’s paddling along behind mom in a lake, waddling beside her hip, or opening wide for that hard earned, regurgitated meal, moms are unswerving in their selflessness, leadership, and security.

20

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

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21

the business of

blooms

BITTERROOT FLOWER SHOP IS DEDICATED TO THE MISSOULA COMMUNITY ARTICLE AMANDA KRIEG PHOTOGRAPHY ERIKA SPAULDING

FLOWERS HAVE BEEN USED TO COMMEMORATE IMPORTANT

Thirteen years later, Lindsay and her

MOMENTS AND TO COMMUNICATE EMOTIONS FOR CENTU-

mother Nancy Larson continue to work

RIES. In Victorian culture it was considered rude to verbally express

side by side and in balance with each

one’s emotions so Victorians used flowers, specifically assigned to

other. The two of them, combined with

emotions, to convey their innermost feelings to the receiver. Nasturtium

their very impressive staff of designers,

represented loyalty, lavender for distrust, and red roses for romantic love.

managers, customer service assistants,

However, red roses given to someone upside down indicated anger.

and deliverers make their own kind of

It’s safe to say that our modern Missoula doesn’t follow this strict

beautiful bouquet. It is an incredibly large

floral code but maybe we can agree that flowers remain a way to

and complex operation with each person

reinforce our verbal love and support, or perhaps say the unsayable.

contributing their own unique colors of

Lindsay Irwin, owner of Bitterroot Flower Shop, is full of energy, ideas, and loyalty.

abilities and strengths.

“I surround myself with smart, wonderful

“I’ve always been a builder. A creator,” said Lindsay. While her hus-

people because I still don’t know every-

band attended law school at the University of Montana, she worked

thing. It would be silly to think I have all the

for the previous owners of Bitterroot Flower Shop and absolutely

answers,” said Lindsay. Three months after

loved it. Life then took her and her husband to Helena, where she

purchasing Bitterroot Flower Shop, Lindsay’s

completed floral design classes and worked as a designer in a shop

first daughter was born and then later, a sec-

there until her former boss called with news of her retirement and an

ond. The girls grew up in the shop, carried

offer for Lindsay to buy the shop on the corner of South Higgins and

around by Mom, Grandma, or whoever had

South 6th Street. She knew two things right away. She wanted to do

an empty arm. They learned to walk in the

it. And she wanted her mother there with her.

design warehouse, the little niche offices, and

“Family relies on each other to be real,” Lindsay said. It took no

the plant areas. Lindsay’s own little sprouts

convincing and soon Lindsay and her husband relocated to Missoula

thrived among the flowers, the customers,

and her parents joined her from Colorado.

and the staff family.

22

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

23

THE BUSINESS OF BLOOMS (CONTINUED) BITTERROOT FLOWER SHOP 811 South Higgins Avenue 406.542.0309

BitterrootFlowerShop.net

24

Today, Bitterroot Flower Shop is more than a

In-house, Lindsay also looks for ways to support

building to pop into for a quick bouquet or that all-

Missoula. She proudly sells local art, including glazed

so-precious prom corsage. It’s a constant expres-

flower pots created by people with disabilities through

sion of Lindsay’s commitment to Missoula—a

Opportunity Resources. Each of the artists receive a

commitment that spans wide and quietly. The

majority of the sale of their own pot. She also created a

shop donates over $1,000 in flowers per month

recycled vase program in which customers can bring

to nonprofits throughout the city. They provide

in their used vases. In return she repurposes those

color, aroma, and beauty to the Missoula Food

vases and donates $1 per vase to local nonprofits such

Bank’s fundraisers, CASA’s events, and MCT’s

as AniMeals. The charity changes every two months,

productions (just to name a few). They decorate

allowing for both a worthy donation and the oppor-

the Florence Building for Christmas. Heather, Plant

tunity to help multiple local causes. She’s so excited

Manager, even travels to a few businesses to care

about the exchange of vases that she even asks peo-

for and water their plants. Lindsay and her team

ple to buy up 25 cent vases at garage sales and bring

are constantly looking for ways to support the

them in. Better yet, rather than selling those vases at

good work of others.

your own garage sale, bring them in to her.

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

It’s not only nonprofits that Bitterroot Flower Shop are

local farmers.” She plans to continue purchasing from

helping. They’ve teamed up with businesses such as Big

these growers moving forward. The need to find inventory

Dipper Ice Cream, Frolic, and Florence Coffee to include

closer to home has also led Lindsay and her team to look

gift cards in their bouquets. A Mother’s Day arrangement

at herbs and succulents as possible ideas for arrange-

can include a mani-pedi, while a Father’s Day arrangement

ments. It is a creative moment born of necessity.

may come with a growler fill from one of the local breweries.

Covid-19 has also been an opportunity for Bitterroot

“Flowers only last so long but a gift card can extend

Flower Shop to think outside of the proverbial flower

the gift even longer,” said Lindsay. It’s a win-win for the

box. One great example is red roses, which traditionally

customer and also for the other businesses. The last year

come from South America. In the past, the flower shop

has hit the floral business hard in many ways but Lindsay

received weekly boxes of the crimson petals that arrived

has found resourceful avenues to negotiate Covid-19

to the U.S. via Florida and then onto Missoula.

restrictions while supporting businesses closer to home.

“I’ve always wanted to look at eco roses and more

While many flower shops across the country were

sustainable alternatives but I just didn’t have the time,”

completely shut down, Bitterroot Flower Shop was able

Lindsay said. Now that she’s made new local relation-

to continue operating. However, they were not able to

ships, thanks to the past year, she feels she can begin

import inventory from their usual suppliers. Traditionally,

looking into those possibilities.

flowers are purchased from growers in places like South America, Hawaii, and Canada.

Bitterroot Flower Shop is not only committed to Missoula’s nonprofits and its businesses but it’s monumen-

Last Mother’s Day was their first real challenge.

tally committed to their customers, wherever they are. One

Thanks to Covid-19, transportation became completely

thing Lindsay would like to stress to her customers is to use

unreliable. Lindsay scrambled to find Montana growers

the shop’s website when ordering online. Often times we

as well as farmers from California and Washington. The

don’t think to do so, or we’re unfamiliar with an area’s floral

end result was the most amazing tulips from local lands

options so we simply use a national chain. The problem is,

and new relationships with Pacific Northwest farms.

the customer is not ordering from an actual flower shop.

“It was amazing,” said Lindsay. “It felt so good. We were

They are ordering from a call center. The telemarketer then

just coming out of Covid-19, other state’s flower shops

takes the order and sends it through a computer system

were still shut down, and I was able to support more

until it makes its way to BFS’s team.

CONTINUED >

I SURROUND MYSELF WITH SMART, WONDERFUL PEOPLE BECAUSE I STILL DON’T KNOW EVERYTHING. IT WOULD BE SILLY TO THINK I HAVE ALL THE ANSWERS.

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

25

THE BUSINESS OF BLOOMS (CONTINUED)

There are two big issues with this process according to Lindsay.

The first is that the national chain takes a big cut right off the top.

A customer may see a picture of a beautiful arrangement for $150.

They love it and purchase it online. However, when she receives the order it is now for a $60 arrangement. Her team cannot create the arrangement the customer saw on his or her screen for less than half the price. The second problem is that Lindsay and her designers have no relationship with the actual customer so if they need to make a flower substitution they have no way of communicating that to the purchaser. The end result is sometimes righteous disappointment.

Ordering direct from Bitterroot Flower Shop’s website will ensure that you get exactly what you order at the value you expected.

Another way Bitterroot Flower Shop goes above and beyond for their customers is weddings. While they do offer complete packages, they also offer bulk flowers in case a bride or family wants to arrange their own pieces. This can help with costs but according to Lindsay it can be more than that.

“Sometimes it’s incredibly meaningful when a bride’s mother (or someone special) makes an arrangement for her,” said Lindsay.

Proms are also a celebration of flowers and yet there’s a lot of pressure to get the perfect wrist piece or boutonniere. Lindsay suggests “too much control doesn’t make a good corsage.” Instead, her team loves when a young lady brings in a picture of her dress or gives her date a swatch of her color(s) and then opens themselves up to suggestions. The designers at the shop are at the top of their game and allowing them a little artistic leeway will result in a more memorable piece.

Bitterroot Flower Shop’s trust is well placed and evident by their customers’ cycles. Often times, a prom corsage eventually turns into wedding flowers that eventually turns into a bouquet for a new baby.

Even so, Lindsay’s mission for the shop is, “to be an everyday flower shop, not just weddings and such. And to be community driven.” She explained that there is plenty of research to show that flowers help with mood and subconscious stimulation. While they are essential for important days and events, they’re also appreciated on ordinary days, for no other reason than making us feel good.

While we may have lost the flower language of the Victorians, we still feel loved and thought of when we open the door to find an arrangement on our step. We know what we want to say to that special someone when picking out a bouquet. The meaning between the giver and the receiver is as strong today as it ever was, it’s just spoken in a less formal flower lingo. It’s also spoken in the way Bitterroot Flower Shop cares for its town and its customers.

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

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

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CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

27

A DAT E T O C R E AT E

OWNER OF CREATE ART BAR HELPS EVERYONE BECOME CREATIVELY INSPIRED

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

ARTICLE SHELBY HUMPHREYS PHOTOGRAPHY ERIKA SPAULDING

PAISLEY TAYLOR ALWAYS FINDS A WAY TO MAKE

How does CREATE Art Bar work? Paisley curates

ART OUT OF LIFE. Her latest labor of love is CREATE

a menu of projects to inspire any customer’s muse.

Art Bar in downtown Missoula. Walk through its doors

Whether it’s for a birthday party or a fun date, each per-

and a giant string art mural provides instant inspiration.

son can choose their own project. “Arttenders” are avail-

Designed by Paisley, the work presents unexpected

able to answer questions and give guidance. Projects

shapes to nudge the brain out of mediocrity and get

range from $10 to $50. “I strive for inspiring creativity

those creative juices flowing. With strings connected

in people,” explained Paisley. “We’re not just designed

from nail to nail, her mural reflects Paisley’s artistic jour-

for artists. We have the simplest projects all the way to

ney through life.

complex pieces.”

“As a child, I was always in art classes. My friends and

Reservations are encouraged but drop-ins are

I would visit this artist’s studio. We had a different art

welcome when space is available. Each session lasts

project every week. One week it was papier-mâché and

three hours to allow for the most relaxed, enjoyable

the next week a painting,” said Paisley. “In high school,

crafting experience.

I focused on oil painting. In college, I got a degree in psychology. Once I graduated, though, I realized that I

“We want you to be able to finish and take it home in one sitting,” said Paisley.

wanted to teach art. I taught for several years then took

CREATE Art Bar also accommodates private events. “It

a break to start our family. After having children, I didn’t

can be a fun redux of the office party,” Paisley said. “One

want to go back to the classroom but I knew that I still

business gave us their logo and we designed a four foot

wanted to work in an art studio atmosphere.”

by three foot art mural that they could complete together.

Luckily for Missoula, Paisley’s dream of owning an art

They had 15 people working on it at the same time.”

studio space persisted. Located inside The Mercantile

Besides crafts, Paisley offers inspiration in their vari-

Hotel, CREATE Art Bar has an urban-chic vibe, glowing

ety of libations. The bar includes a selection of wines and

with artistic flare like sputnik lights and bright, geometric

craft beers. Taking the idea of “craft” drinks to another

patterns. “I did a lot of the design work myself,” Paisley

level, the menu of cocktails and mocktails reads like an

said. “It was a lot of fun putting my own touches to it.”

art history review.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

29

A DATE TO CREATE (CONTINUED) CREATE ART BAR 140 East Front Street 406.830.3941 CreateArtBar.com

This year, CREATE Art Bar will host special events with Missoula locals.

“We’ll reach out to artists to teach workshops.

“Our most popular drink is the Spicy Frida, a

It’s a way to support them through exposure in

jalapeño margarita named after Mexican artist

our community. Plus, we’ll host wine tastings fea-

Frida Kahlo,” she said.

turing an artist or art project.”

Paisley and her husband spent five years form-

Whether she’s coming up with fun names for

ing their vision for the business but 2020 upped

tasty drinks or crafting with a creative newbie,

their long-range plans a bit. They started assem-

Paisley wants art to be fun.

bling Take-and-Make Kits for pick up and online orders. The concrete coasters project is a bit hit.

30

“We want it to feel social, not intimidating. My favorite customer is the one who comes in and

“Over the holidays, customers ordered kits for

says, ‘I’m not creative.’ After they finish their proj-

their families that they couldn’t visit. They’d go

ect, they’re so proud of it and they walk away with

online and craft together,” said Paisley.

a smile on their face.”

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

31

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

T THE MA RIARCH OF

MAKING B AG E L S

SUE THOMPSON OF BAGELS ON BROADWAY RETIRES ARTICLE JILL MH TABER | PHOTOGRAPHY ERIKA SPAULDING

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

W

HEN SUE THOMPSON OPENED BAGELS ON BROADWAY

IN 1993, SHE DIDN’T KNOW A WHOLE LOT ABOUT BAGELS. “I had never eaten one,” Sue said with a laugh.

Sue built a career in pediatric physical therapy, owning her own clinic in Missoula for many years. But she knew the physical demands of therapy would take their toll.

“I knew I had to get out of PT eventually,” Sue explained.

So, in December of 1993, Sue and a business partner opened Bagels on Broadway. She learned the art of making bagels from another shop owner.

“It’s half science and half art. Without exception, our bakers take great pride in what they do and they do it with love and care and consistency.”

“We had phenomenal bagels and we had phenomenal bakers,” Sue said. “It’s half science and half art. Without exception, our bakers take great pride in what they do and they do it with love and care and consistency.”

Sue sold Bagels on Broadway in early 2021, capping off a 27-year career. Along the way, she built an institution of sorts in downtown Missoula, offering not only bagels, but

SUE THOMPSON

a gathering place for community members from all walks of life.

Running a bagel shop wasn’t always easy or without stress but Sue says it was all worth it, even in the beginning, when she and her staff faced the task of turning out a consistent, quality product that would keep people coming back for more.

“My son had recently graduated from high school. He went to learn how to make bagels,” Sue said. “He made the first bagels. He was a nervous wreck but they turned out perfectly.”

At the start, Bagels on Broadway boiled every bagel. Switching to a steam-injected oven several years in cut down on staffing requirements and time. But both systems required Sue to learn the ins and outs of equipment repair.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

33

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

“Some nights, I’d go to bed and 15 minutes later, I’d wake up to a phone call that something needed to be fixed, so I’d work all night and then all day,” Sue explained. “You just never knew if the equipment would turn on.”

The mixer, for instance, held 350 pounds of dough. The parts came from Germany. So, if something broke down, there could be a wait for parts.

“Right or wrong, I have learned how to fix and rewire,” Sue said. “It was really on-the-job training. There was no way you could have planned for it or pre-learned it. Like so many professions, every day you had no idea what would hit you in the face or kick you in the butt.”

From fixing equipment to collaborating with staff and customers on ideas for new recipes, Sue relished the flexibility of owning her own business and making her own rules.

“I really enjoyed the creativity of trying new things,” she explained. “I didn’t really expect that.

Experimenting with ideas was always entertaining. If it didn’t work, we’d ditch it and go to the next thing. But we could laugh either way.”

“I really enjoyed the creativity of trying new things.

Experimenting with ideas was always entertaining. If it didn’t work, we’d ditch it and go to the next thing. But we could laugh either way.”

34

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

Keeping a sense of humor and thinking

“It takes a lot of finesse and a lot of car-

outside of the box led to a successful busi-

ing. I just can’t give my staff enough credit,”

ness. Among her nuggets of advice for aspir-

she said. “I made such good friends with my

ing business owners, Sue said that taking

staff, suppliers, and customers. Those are

advice is important but that following your

lifelong friendships.”

own intuition is crucial as well.

The downtown location hosts a wide vari-

“Let life unfold but also realize you need

ety of customers, which led to some of Sue’s

to be in charge of your own life,” Sue said.

best memories with nearly three decades at

“You have to be willing to put in the work.

the helm.

I was an integral part of every part of that

“We’ve gone through life stories with

shop. Sure, it’s exhausting but you have to

people. Couples would get married at the

be willing to do that.”

courthouse and then come over for a bagel,”

Over the years, Sue said she learned how to keep setbacks and challenges in perspec-

she said. “People told me stories about their families—good and bad.”

CONTINUED >

“Let life unfold but also realize you need to be in charge of your own life.”

tive. She credits her staff and her customers.

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

35

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

One long-time customer became very ill and confided in Sue. She spent time with him and his family in the hospital.

“When he passed away, his family asked if they could have his memorial at the bagel shop,” Sue explained. “I said, ‘Why not?’ That’s where his friends were. It was the most beautiful and meaningful service.”

Throughout her years downtown, relationships sustained and enriched Sue’s life and the lives of her customers, building the fabric of the Bagels on Broadway community. And that possibility—of helping each other through life (and making a good bagel)—isn’t over thanks to Sue’s commitment and passion.

“It takes a lot of finesse and a lot of caring.

I just can’t give my staff enough credit.

I made such good friends with my staff, suppliers, and customers. Those are lifelong friendships.”

36

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

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37

TRAVEL DESTINATION

M OUNTAIN

SHADOWS

A BOUTIQUE ESCAPE IN PARADISE (VALLEY) ARTICLE KRISTIN HEGGLI PHOTOGRAPHY MOUNTAIN SHADOWS RESORT SCOTTSDALE + DAVE SANSOM PHOTOGRAPHY

MOUNTAIN SHADOWS SET THE BENCHMARK

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Set in the shadow of Camelback Mountain in the town of Paradise Valley, the resort sits just ten minutes from Old Town Scottsdale’s renowned dining, shopping, nightlife, and art galleries. Contemporary design is infused with a dash of 1950s modernism and abundant natural light. Choose from chic resort guestrooms and two-story lofts in the luxuriPhotography Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale 38

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

ous wing of residences.

Dave Sansom Photography

When it comes to planning your Paradise Valley escape,

Treat yourself to a true boutique experience at

keep an eye out for the resort’s annual summer sale, taking

Mountain Shadows that’s relaxing yet invigorating. The

place May 14 to 20 and offering the best rates of summer.

resort’s iconic views and Paradise Valley location cre-

Celebrating something special? Make it memorable by

ate a true sense of retreat, while the best of the Valley

reserving the Sip, Saber & Savor Experience, an immersive

is still easily accessible, from horseback riding to local

culinary experience for two with private events including

dining. This sleek getaway is an ideal resting stop for the

a Champagne sabering, Spirited Sipping Seminar, and

design-forward, modern traveler.

Food for Thought class.

MountainShadows.com

Photography Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

39

MONTANA ACUPUNCTURE & HERBAL MEDICINE montana-acupuncture.com

6 MISSOULA GIVES & BITTERROOT GIVES MissoulaGives.org

MAY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

Missoula Gives & Bitterroot Gives, an initiative of your

Missoula Community Foundation, is a 26-hour online celebration of the Missoula and Ravalli communities. It connects generous Missoulians and Bitterrooters with the causes they care about. It is a day to celebrate all

that Missoula and Ravalli are and the role nonprofits play in making our community great.

8 PLANTING A HANGING BASKET Doug gave me my life back. I am seeing the world through whole new eyes. I am a better Mom, a

Lifelong Learning Center

The sweet air of spring has arrived and it’s time to get our hands into the earth again. Just in time for Mother’s

happier wife and I look forward to each and every

Day, learn about the creative adventure of planting and

day ahead of me because I know am in a great

caring for a hanging basket. You will be given information

place. And no matter what is put in front of

on how to select a successful combination of plants and

me now, I am able to handle it.

color to create your own hanging basket to take home.

No experience is necessary and supplies will be provided. Visit MissoulaClasses.com for more information!

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9 MOTHER'S DAY WEEKEND GETAWAY The Resort at Paws Up

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brunch, with Bloody Marys plus toe-tapping live music, she’ll also get to spend time with the people she cares about most: her family. Be sure to go horseback riding or hot air ballooning together before she heads off to Spa Town® for an indulgent massage. This is a Mother’s Day weekend getaway she won’t soon forget.

12 QIGONG FOR SEASONAL HEALTH: SUMMER The Learning Center at Red Willow

Qigong (pronounced “chee gong”), part of Chinese culture for 2500 years, is one of the main branches of Chinese medicine. The exercises and meditations in this series of seasonal classes come from a variety of sources, some of them many centuries old; they are suitable for beginners and experienced practitioners of

40

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

all ages. The benefits extend beyond seasonal health and include more complete breathing, reduced stress, and a healthy flow of Qi in the body. This class is based on Qigong Through the Seasons, created by Dr. Ron Davis, author of the book of the same name and practitioner of Chinese Medicine and qigong for 35 years. This is a two part workshop: May 12 & 19, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

18 MINDFULNESS FOR BEGINNERS The Learning Center at Red WIllow

Meditation is a daily tool that has profound health effects including stress reduction, increased immunity and brain function, and overall well-being physically, emotionally, and mentally. We will experience a wide range of guided meditation techniques, sitting positions, and ways to integrate these practices into your daily life. You will leave each session with new tools to implement immediately. A regular meditation practice allows one to return to their lives feeling grounded and relaxed in the here and now.

22 BIKE FOR SHELTER WITH WATSON'S CHILDREN'S SHELTER Virtual

Bike for Shelter was established in 2001 as a signature event for Watson Children's Shelter with three goals: to provide a fun, family-oriented event, to enlighten the community about the essential service that the Shelter provides for children, and to raise needed funds for Watson Children's Shelter. This year Bike for Shelter will be virtual. We encourage everyone to participate and ride their bike through the month of May but especially on May 22. Join us for our first ever Bike for Shelter scaven-

PUT YO U R C IT Y O N O U R MAP.

ger hunt that will take you on a beautiful ride throughout

Start a magazine

downtown Missoula. Sign up to participate in the scav-

& build a legacy.

enger hunt to win prizes and support a great cause. Visit WatsonChildrensShelter.org/bike-for-shelter for more information.

Life is short. Love what you do.

LifestylePubs.com/OwnIt We are always accepting submissions for events you'd like to see included in our Calendar section.

Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us tab at LifestylePubs.com/MissoulaValley.

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

41

LOCAL’S CHOICE

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SAGE ACCESSORIES 259 W Front St Suite 2 406.531.8259 SageAccessories.com

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | May 2021