publisher's note

The Northern Lights have flaunted their beauty across Montana this spring. Photos from around the region are a testament to the wonder of this rare display and a reminder of God’s handiwork. The phenomenon provided a welcome distraction from the months of record-breaking mountain snowfall and lingering winter regionwide, which left us wondering when green grass would peek through once again.

With warmer temperatures finally arriving and summer on the horizon, we’re looking forward to enjoying the great outdoors and packing as much as possible into the short season. Small towns and rural communities are filling their calendars with traditional events such as county fairs and farmers markets, offering creative ways to entertain locals and attract tourists.

Perhaps the highlight of all summer weekends is the Fourth of July which still holds a patriotic sentiment for most folks. In the West, this American holiday is synonymous with rodeo and not only is the National Anthem sung with pride, but the arena action is always preceded with a prayer to God for protection. The three biggest rodeos in Montana and Wyoming over the Fourth are Cody, Red Lodge, and Livingston. Dubbed “Cowboy Christmas,” it’s an exciting time for spectators and contestants alike. This issue features the firsthand experience of two contestants partaking in the “Fourth Run,” covering as many miles and hitting as many events as possible in a few short days.

Speaking of rodeo, it seemed fitting to honor the start of the season with a mock event poster on our cover. Using photographer Colleen Kilbane’s image, graphic designer Melanie Fabrizius utilized her talent for us. She’s designed multiple eye-catching posters for rodeos this summer and we are pleased with the version created for our magazine.

Spring fever may bring on the itch to start sprucing up the yard and planning the garden as well. Be sure to read our feature on saving the seeds from your harvest this fall and check out Jean’s Cuisines for a host of delicious recipes for potlucks or family picnics.

We are also featuring the history of The Pollard Hotel in Red Lodge and a couple small businesses in communities thriving largely due to local support. Our colorful character is Wanda Wilcox, who works tirelessly to share her ranch heritage with visitors. And lastly, we have included an upcoming events calendar to make your Montana summer bucket list.

It’s been a long winter and summer assuredly will be a delightful change. We hope you make time to enjoy the beautiful creations dotting our map and take advantage of the many entertaining events across the state.

“The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns, where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy.” Psalm 65:8

MELANIE FABRIZIUS, GRAPHIC DESIGN

Melanie was raised on a farm on the banks of the Clarks Fork River in Belfry. Her life-long love of art led her to a career as a freelance graphic designer. When she’s not busy working, Melanie enjoys being with family, spending time with her dogs, camping, ATVing, collecting rocks and watching the sunset. Check out her art at www.melaniefab. com and follow her on Instagram @melaniefabart.

KAYLA WALKER, WEBSITE DESIGN

Originating from a fifth-generation Montana ranch, Kayla has a real connection to the agriculture industry and the cherished western lifestyle. After several years as editor of Western Ag Reporter, she now ranches with her husband, Chace, and owns Ranch Raised Media which compliments the work they do on the land. Whether it be through photography, writing, social media, graphic design, or web design she strives to share the story of this way of life on a day-to-day basis. Follow Ranch Raised Media on Facebook and Instagram or visit www. ranchraisedmedia.com to view her work and check out daily Montana ranch life.

JEAN PETERSEN, WRITER

Jean is a cookbook and children’s picture book author, freelance writer and has been a weekly columnist with Western Ag Reporter for over 15 years. She and her husband live near the Beartooth Mountains in Red Lodge with their four children. Most days she can be found outdoors with her animals, on a hike, at her children’s activities, or cozying up writing and reading. You can find her at www.jeanpetersen.com

AMY GRISAK, WRITER/PHOTOGRAPHER

Great Falls writer, Amy Grisak balances her life between the mountains and the prairie looking for stories that catch her interest. This awardwinning author shares what she loves with readers, whether it’s finding gorgeous hikes in Glacier National Park or how to push the gardening envelope in our challenging Montana climate. Look for her book, “Nature Guide to Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks,” published by Falcon Guides and follow her at amygrisak.com

KAYCEE MONNENS CORTNER, WRITER

Kaycee is a cowboy’s wife from Wyoming. She was placed in the saddle before she could walk, and her passion for horses, rodeo, and the western industry have led her to tell fascinating stories as a freelance journalist. Her full-time job is serving as an equine body worker, helping four-legged athletes perform at their best. Kaycee equally loves spending time in her little library at home and roping in the branding pen. Check out her website: thepreservationoffire.com

COLLEEN KILBANE, PHOTOGRAPHER

Colleen spent her summers at her family’s guest ranch near Nye, Montana, where the Beartooth Mountains, the animals that inhabit the region, and the western way of life made an early impression and have always inspired her. Her favorite subjects are rodeo and landscape. Colleen was given her first camera at age 8 and today is continually honing her skills by attending several workshops a year. “You can never stop learning,” Colleen says. She and husband, Jim, live in Red Lodge with several dogs, cats, and horses. Follow her on Facebook at: Colleen Kilbane Heart 4 Bar Photography

JACKIE JENSEN, PHOTOGRAPHER

Ranch raised, Jackie, spent her youth competing in high school, college, and then amateur rodeo before becoming a full time PRCA rodeo photographer. “I’m a storyteller by nature, the camera allows me to take my audience with me to places they would never see and do they would never be able to do.” Check out her website: jackiejensenphotography. com