Simply Local Magazine - September 2024 - Fall Flourish

simplymagazine local September 2024 Fall Flourish

Sewing Joy One Flower at a Time Exploring Music for All Generations With Billings Symphony Transform Your Weeknights The Magic of Meal Planning Modern & Timeless Refreshing Billings' Aging Buildings

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Editor’s Note

Hope Rising “Today, you could be standing next to someone who is trying their best not to fall apart, so whatever you do today, do it with kindness in your heart.”

-UNKNOWN

I

t’s easy to get discouraged in this life, isn’t it? Just last week, I was struggling to find the positive when a text came through from a dear friend at just the right moment: an invite to spend some time together at the Farmer’s Market. While my instinct when feeling down is often to withdraw, I said yes. A few days later, we sipped coffee and caught up on all the good and the hard. By the end of our time together, my spirits were lifted, and my steps felt a bit lighter. There’s power in community, and there’s hope in sharing our struggles with those we love and trust. We were made to be together, and carving out intentional time for connection is what makes life truly wonderful.

So many of us are trying to hold it together, carrying struggles and hardship while forcing smiles on weary faces.

A simple gesture can mean so much; it can make all the difference. A smile, an encouraging word, a compliment, or a listening ear, these small acts of kindness have a big impact. They are not insignificant, but rather, they are powerful tools that we all possess. May we never get so caught up in our own schedules, agendas, to-do lists, and

struggles that we forget to embrace each person who crosses our path with kindness and love. Let’s look beyond ourselves and toward the needs of others. Let’s be living sunshine.

As we trade summer’s easy, breezy days for fall’s rhythm and routine, our Fall Flourish issue offers inspiration for the shifting seasons. There are so many amazing people and organizations bringing sunshine, hope, and life to our city.

From one local woman’s dream of uniting the community through fall flowers at Sun & Celosia’s Sunflower Field to the incredible power of music to connect the generations with Billings Symphony’s Explore Music!, from hope and recovery for incarcerated women at Hannah House to the beautification of shared spaces through art, these are just a few of the wonderful stories that grace this month’s pages.

May the following pages bring a breath of fresh air from the news, daily grind, and struggles. There is good happening right outside of our doors. Let’s join together to make our city better and brighter. Let’s come alongside the afflicted, broken, and hurting to help change the trajectory from hopeless to hope-filled. Let’s focus on the good, because when we do, it inspires us to make the world a better place.

Let's allow these stories to fuel our own positive actions and contributions to our community.

Love,

Stephanie

4 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

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CONTENTS

September 2024

P.13

P.35

local

family

14 Feature Sewing Joy One Flower at a Time

36 Feature Exploring Music for All Ages with Billings Symphony

19 Giving Back Hands of Hope with Western Security Bank: Hope and Healing in Montana with Youth Dynamics 20 Arts & Entertainment NOVA Center for the Performing Arts: Bringing Local Art to Life 26 Woman to Watch Cultivation Connections: Hayden Trost's Greenhouse Vision

ON OUR COVER: Special thanks to Amber Renee Photographer for our cover photo 6 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

42 Meet the Maker The Artistic Journey of Mural Mamas' Kaitlyn Plenger 46 Family Matters Harvesting Hope Hannah House Expansion Supports More Women in Billings

Please recycle this issue of Simply Local Magazine.

P.55

P.67

P.96

food

home

calendar

56 Feature Transform Your Weeknights: The Magic of Meal Planning

68 Feature Modern & Timeless Refreshing Billings' Aging Buildings

September2024

60 Bake This Focaccia Art

75 Design The Dwelling Place Styling a Home Office for Productivity

62 Meet the Chef A Landmark of Taste Bistro Enzo's Tyler Samson

TOP EVENTS

78 Home Spotlight To Buy or To Build The Benefits of Buying 87 A Home Guide Plan Now Remodel Later: A Step-By-Step Guide to Spring Renovations

Celebrating 16 years in our community!

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simplymagazine local Behind the Scenes PUBLISHER Simply Family Magazine, Inc. PO Box 21587 ~ Billings, MT 59104 406.702.0267 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jenny Barriger jenny@simplylocalmagazine.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR Stephanie Toews stephanie@simplylocalmagazine.com CALENDAR calendar@simplylocalmagazine.com

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14 Feature Sewing Joy One Flower at a Time 19 Giving Back Hands of Hope with Western Security Bank: Hope and Healing in Montana with Youth Dynamics 20 Arts & Entertainment NOVA Center for the Performing Arts: Bringing Local Art to Life 26 Woman to Watch Cultivation Connections: Hayden Trost's Greenhouse Vision

13 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Sewing Joy one

flower at a time

Article by Stephanie Hobby Photos by Christine Claire Photography

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“I see a city full of people with a and this was the place. It’s a dream

local

hunger for beauty and connection, come true to provide the perfect place for connection and a place to food trucks ever, listen to some of the most talented (and personable) musicians, and soak in the late summer sunshine in a field of flowers.”

Aubrey Hopkins

I

t all started with a dream in early 2023 when stay-at-home mom Aubrey Hopkins wanted to contribute to her family’s finances. She was brainstorming options and landed on planting a field bursting with sunflowers, where she could invite the community to come out and pick sunflowers and take stunning fall photos with loved ones.

She contacted the Yegen family, who allowed her to use half an acre of their land on Shiloh and Grand Ave to bring her vision to fruition.

15 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Your best life right here.

sit back, enjoy some of the greatest

craft vendors, and music, Hopkins feels strongly as they explore the field of that public outdoor events flowers. that bring people together As a relatively new are vital to the health and gardener, Hopkins says the well-being of communities. learning curve has been a “It reminded me of the bit steep, but she’s getting quote where it’s better to the hang of it. “I don’t really light a match than curse garden, but I’ve really the darkness,” she said. fallen in love with planting “I would love to see more flowers the last few years. outdoor community events, I have so much to learn and so I thought, why not be have made some really silly part of it? It’s so much fun. mistakes,” she laughed.

I’ve really loved hosting this “The community has been and creating this beautiful so sweet and has just kind of environment for people to carried me along the way.” come out to; I know it’s small, Her family has been a big but to see the impact it had “I thought it would be cool to have help, too. Her four-yearreally touched me, and it old and seven-year-old love was so cool to see, and I’m a sunflower field, and it has turned seeing their work come into so excited to get to host this into so much more.” bloom despite the occasional again this year too,” Hopkins boredom when the space said.

AUBREY HOPKINS is just a dirt field. “It is so After the initial event rewarding to teach them ended last September, patience, which is huge Hopkins started making plans for this year, thinking about what worked well and what because then they are so excited when these flowers actually she wanted to change and add. It quickly became a year-round start blooming, and they can share this excitement with me, occupation. She started working on shoveling compost and so that’s really special,” Hopkins said. She is anxious to share preparing the soil. She has been ordering supplies and making her love of gardening with her next child, due a few weeks a game plan for the upcoming season. This year, participants after this year’s event. can expect a full day of fun, between food trucks, lawn games,

-

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If you have ever dreamed of having a gorgeous fall photo of your family in a field of golden sunflowers, now is your chance.

Hopkins has made arrangements with a select group of local photographers to offer photo shoots amongst the sunflowers prior to the festival. If you are interested in lining up a sitting, the list of approved photographers is on her website, sunandcelosia. com, where you can contact them directly.

The 2024 2nd Annual Sunflower Festival will be on Friday, September 13, from Noon-8pm and Saturday, September 14, from 7am-8pm at 1122 Shiloh Road. Savor a variety of delicious offerings from local food trucks while exploring the creations of talented local craft vendors, including hand-burned hats (artisan vendors will be available on Saturday only). On Saturday evening, kids can enjoy free balloons and face painting!

Groove to live music by Jeff Troxel Trio on Friday evening, and Zechariah Peabody on Saturday evening while wandering through the blooms. A professional photographer will be onsite Saturday evening to capture special moments. Make sure to book your session in advance! https://www.sunandcelosia.com/ photographers Tickets are $8 per person; children under 5 are free. Each ticket includes one sunflower to take home. Additional flowers are $2 each or $20 for a dozen and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit sunandcelosia. com. SLM STEPHANIE HOBBY IS MARRIED TO AN AWESOME BILLINGS GUY. THEY LOVE SKIING, HIKING, TRAVELING, AND OTHER ADVENTURES WITH THEIR TWO FUN KIDS AND CRAZY DOG.

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GIVING Back

with Youth Dynamics

Article by Tiffany Ricci | Photo courtesy of Western Security Bank

I

am so honored to report on Western Security Bank’s quarterly Hands of Hope recipients. Each quarter, Western Security Bank selects a local nonprofit organization to receive a $25,000 financial gift, a multi-media advertising package, and a service project completed by its employees.

Reader, I hope you are as encouraged by these stories as I am! Hope and healing are available to some of our community’s most vulnerable populations because of the relentless efforts of organizations like this quarter’s recipient, Youth Dynamics.

Youth Dynamics offers mental and behavioral health services for Montana kids and families. They serve hundreds of communities across the state via offices and group homes in 18 locations, providing much-needed mental health services including parent education and support, therapeutic group homes, and individual and family therapy.

Youth Dynamics is unique in its approach to providing these services in the Treasure State. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution but a tailored plan to help kids and families build a strong foundation and sense of belonging. The clinical team assesses all kids to determine what kind of care they need.

From there, they envelop kids in care, helping them heal, building on their strengths, and instilling a sense of hope for the future. The continuum of care is extensive with Youth

Dynamics - paving the way for youth and families to emerge resilient and supported.

Billings has four group homes in the community, located in neighborhoods to foster a sense of family and community.

The Hands of Hope Award will go to the necessary upkeep of these homes. Residents stay an average of 6-12 months. They help with regular housekeeping chores, learning life skills as they receive therapy. It’s a beautiful model that promotes safety and serves to nurture these kids through boundaries, expectations, and love.

I highly recommend learning about each of these Hands of Hope Award recipients and the tremendous impact they are having on the populations they serve. Youth Dynamics has an incredible heart for the work they are doing, empowering youth and families for a brighter tomorrow.

For more information, contact Development Director Kyle Lantz at lantzk@youthdynamics.org or check out their website at www.youthdynamics.org. SLM

19 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Your best life right here.

Hope and Healing in Montana

local

Hands of Hope with Western Security Bank

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

NOVA CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

Bringing Local Art to Life

20 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

local rank Sinatra once famously crooned, "Fly me to the moon, let me play among the stars…" He may have very well found many of those stars right here in Billings. The name of one of our most iconic performing arts centers pays homage to that rare astronomical event when a star suddenly and drastically increases in brightness, so much so that the name is the Latin word for "new," appearing to be a new star entirely.

NOVA Center for the Performing Arts was born through the merger of Venture Theatre and Rimrock Opera in spring 2013. With a mission to "enhance the performing arts culture of the greater Billings region through education, development, and performance," NOVA shines bright as a local space for performing arts, offering drama, musical theater, and opera under one roof.

Dodie Rife has been the Executive Director of NOVA since 2015. She began as a volunteer for the 2009 production of Carmen with the Rimrock Opera and fell in love with the stage. She has tackled every role from prop master to stage manager, costume designer to director. Rife credits a fantastic team with her success at NOVA. She says, "Our team is composed of staff members, interns, board members, volunteers, and people we hire for specific tasks or productions. We even hire community members as needed to direct shows, teach classes, and help with summer camps." It takes an incredible troupe of individuals to keep the curtains rising at NOVA, as the only other full-time paid staff member is the center's Youth Director, DeLandy Hardy Ray. Rife says, "She does a fantastic job engaging young people!"

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Your best life right here.

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One of the key goals at NOVA is to serve as a creative hub for established and emerging artists. With other organizations renting NOVA for performances or meeting space, the building is in use almost every day of the year. This variety ensures that there is always something to inspire and engage audiences of all ages. The center also provides a platform for workshops, masterclasses, and educational programs to nurture the next generation of artists. By offering these opportunities, NOVA helps to cultivate talent within the community and fosters a deeper appreciation for the arts.

The 12th season in 2024 kicks off this month with "Space Pirates," presented by the NOVA Youth Conservatory.

This group holds a special place in Rife's heart, as it brings

"We provide a place for people to get involved, regardless of their skill level or experience.

We sing, laugh, dance, act silly or serious, but mostly, we connect at a human level.

We remind each other that, at our core, we are more than economic units. We are human beings who need to care about, understand, and support one another."

together students ages 5 to 18 to develop their talents, perform in productions, and gain much-needed confidence on the stage within a welcoming and fun environment. Rife recalls one memory from a recent production, "We end our Youth Conservatory sessions by having the students present a public showcase to demonstrate what they have learned.

During one of these programs, a music class, one student forgot the words and panicked. She knocked over the music stand, looked out at the audience with a horrified expression, and fled the stage." Though devastated, she pulled herself together and returned to the stage to start from the top. She did a great job. This was an affirmation to Rife that she felt safe and supported at NOVA, which is precisely the environment they're striving to create. "We're a place for learning, where you can give it your best shot, make mistakes, regroup, and try again."

22 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

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Your best life right here.

LET THE ART FLOW

Rife loves highlighting NOVA's important role in our community and beyond. She says, "As a Community Theater and a Youth Conservatory, fun is at the core of everything we do. Integrated within the fun is a rich cultural experience that nourishes and enriches the souls of all involved. That's why the arts are so important to every community. There's a theory that says one of the best economic indicators of the health of a community is the presence of a vibrant and diverse arts culture. I agree with that!" NOVA makes the arts accessible from the standpoint of an observer and a performer. Rife says, "We provide a place for people to get involved, regardless of their skill level or experience. We sing, laugh, dance, act silly or serious, but mostly, we connect at a human level. We remind each other that, at our core, we are more than economic units.

We are human beings who need to care about, understand, and support one another."

In addition to formal productions, NOVA is brimming with opportunities to dabble in the arts, even if your time or experience is limited. On the first Sunday of every month, they offer "Reader's Theater," an opportunity for adults and older teens to enjoy a play and bring characters to life - no makeup or memorization required. Classes for aspiring playwrights, an introduction to theater, and even "tiny tot" groups for kids ages 4-6 are offered throughout the year.

There is truly something for everyone. Even if you aren't sure the spotlight is for you, NOVA offers a class called "Backstage

Pass," where students can learn about costumes, props, lights, and sound that make the production come to life from behind the curtain.

Rife encourages anyone in the community to check out the fall adventures at NOVA. Whether you're a first-time showgoer or a regular attendee, she notes, "We have opportunities for people to get involved whatever their comfort level. Whether you want to attend a show or volunteer to participate, there's a place for you at NOVA." To learn more, follow NOVA on their website at novabillings.org or on social media at facebook.com/ novabillingsmt. SLM BROOKE WAGNER IS A SOUTHERN GIRL AT HEART, BUT A MONTANAN

BY CHOICE. SHE LIVES JUST OUTSIDE OF BILLINGS WITH HER HUSBAND AND THREE CHILDREN. SHE FINDS INSPIRATION IN THE RUGGED LANDSCAPES AND SMALL-TOWN CHARM MONTANA OFFERS. WHEN SHE’S NOT SCOPING OUT THE LATEST STORY, YOU CAN FIND HER EXPLORING THE GREAT OUTDOORS WITH HER FAMILY OR CURLED UP WITH A GOOD BOOK.

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WOMAN To Watch

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HAYDEN TROST'S GREENHOUSE VISION Article and Photos by Renata Haidle

I

magine a futuristic indoor garden where plants grow on white cylindrical towers that reach for the sky in spiraled rows that maximize space. The plants are watered and nourished by a pump system that runs on collected rainwater. The plants look vibrant and lush under the glass ceiling, the entire space bathed in sunlight. It sounds a bit sci-fi, doesn’t it? It is, however, as real as it gets; at St. John's United in downtown Billings, the future is already here.

“The Urban Horticulture Education Center, better known as the St. John’s Greenhouse at Gainan Commons, is the final product of my Platinum Project,” says Hayden Trost, who was instrumental in the development and implementation of this innovative project. “The Platinum Program, an extracurricular through School District 2, allows students to take on a Magnum

27 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Your best life right here.

Cultivating Connections:

Opus Capstone project to go alongside an extensive academic record. The project was designed to push students outside of their comfort zone by creating a community project or completing research.”

How did a high school student come up with such an ambitious idea, and how did she get it done? “I knew this was the perfect time to approach the organization I had volunteered with for several years - St. John’s United," Hayden explains. “I first approached the organization’s Volunteer Coordinator and Grant Writer, Carissa Welsh, with the idea of

“My once dream is now a reality, with vegetables growing alongside relationships between students and elders. The greenhouse is a part of SD2’s new career and technical education platform called Future Ready."

HAYDEN TROST

creating a community garden on the main campus. They loved the concept but encouraged me to take it one step further and reopen their vacant greenhouse space to create a year-round growing environment.”

Once the vision was clearly formulated, the work began.

The main idea was for the greenhouse to become a space to grow vegetables aeroponically. Aeroponics is a modern, environmentally friendly gardening technique that is based on vertical growing. No soil is required, the roots are suspended in the air, and the plants are being fed via a nutrient-rich mist.

The ultimate goal for the greenhouse was not simply to grow produce but to deliver it to St. John’s campuses and make it available to serve in their dining rooms. Furthermore, Hayden wanted to encourage intergenerational connections between senior residents at St. John’s United and Billings School 28 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

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District 2 students in a partnership that allows students to explore applied education outside the typical classroom.

Hayden presented the proposal to the St. John’s United Board at their annual strategic retreat. “After their approval,” she says, “I presented it to the School District Board in a public meeting. After addressing questions, permissions were obtained, and the real work began, raising the funds to renovate and equip the project. I knew as a high school student that this was bigger than myself. With the help of the St. John’s Director of Grants and their Director of Donor Relations and Annual Fund we raised the needed funds through grants, giving campaigns, and outreach.”

Billings architect Randy Hafer, a well-known specialist in environmental sustainability, volunteered to assist with the project. He helped design a system for rainwater collection, which includes seven 1,100-gal tanks to store water year-round.

The rainwater gets mixed with nutrients and is used to feed the plants.

“My once dream is now a reality,” says Hayden, “with vegetables growing alongside relationships between students and elders. The greenhouse is a part of SD2’s new career and technical education platform called Future Ready. In this program, interested students can work and learn in the space for high school credit. We have also worked with the district's Frameworks and Special Education departments.

Additionally, younger classes can use the space as an educational field trip destination. We try to prioritize having students and elders from St. John’s in the space together. I know how important those connections can be firsthand, as my grandma is a resident of Mission Ridge. So, I’m proud to say that not only do plants grow in the greenhouse, but so do community connections.”

After the project was completed, Hayden acted as interim greenhouse manager for a few months last summer, subsequently training the current manager, Cassie Crafton.

“After three years of working on the project,” Hayden says, “I was proud to leave this greenhouse behind as a sustainable space for education, innovation, and human connections.

Looking back on my Platinum Project experience, I am grateful for the support I had. The greenhouse would not have been possible without St. John’s United, the School District, and local community members.”

Hayden's vision, nurtured by a supportive community, has taken root. The Urban Horticulture Education Center stands as a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and, most importantly, the power of human connection. It's living proof that students, educators, and community members can come together to cultivate a brighter future, one seed at a time. SLM RENATA

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COMMUNITY COMMITMENT PROGRAM 406.652.3381 www.efirstfederal.bank 645 Henry Chapple St

Member FDIC

We’re donating $5,000 every month in 2024 to a nonprofit organization in Yellowstone County.

By banking with First Federal, you help us invest in the places we call home.

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An Elevated Healthcare Experience

local Your best life right here.

ATTENTION PARENTS:

HELP YOUR CHILD HAVE THE BEST INJURY-FREE SPORTS SEASON YET!

Did you know that flat arches can lead to ankle, knee, and hip injuries when running or jumping?

Schedule your child for a foot evaluation and get fitted for precise, custom 3-D shoe inserts to ensure a successful, injury-free season!

CALL TODAY! 406-707-6082 4120 King Ave West, Ste.1 BILLINGS, MT (across form REI) 406-707-6082 www.ConciergeHealthandWellnessMT.com 33 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

EMENTARY

TENNIS IS EL

TBALL

GIRLS BASKE

G AUTISM

LOVE SERVIN

3rd, 4th & 5th GRADE

GIRLS BASKETBALL October 21st - November 23rd Monday & Wednesday practices Game days on Saturdays starting November 2nd

Medicine Crow Middle School Riverside Middle School

$90 Will James Middle School

LOVE SERVING AUTISM Youth & Adult Lessons

$30 September 12 - October 3 18+

5-17

th

rd

TENNIS IS ELEMENTARY

$50 October 21 - November 13 st

K-2nd

$55 3rd-5th

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Eagle Cliffs Elementary

Meadowlark Elementary

th

local

simply family fun. inspired. simplified.

42 Meet the Maker The Artistic Journey of Mural Mamas' Kaitlyn Plenger 46 Family Matters Harvesting Hope Hannah House Expansion Supports More Women in Billings

Photo by Seth Kroft 35 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Your best life right here.

36 Feature Exploring Music for All Ages with Billings Symphony

exploring for all ages

WITH THE BILLINGS SYMPHONY

"THE LANGUAGE OF MUSIC IS COMMON TO ALL GENERATIONS AND NATIONS; IT IS UNDERSTOOD BY EVERYBODY SINCE IT IS UNDERSTOOD WITH THE HEART."

Article by Jessica Renstrom Photos courtesy of Billings Symphony

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family libraries and the St. John's Center for Generations program, this interactive program combines beloved stories with live music and hands-on learning for young viewers.

MUSICIANS IN THE SCHOOLS

EXPLORE MUSIC!

Driven by its mission to enrich lives through music, the Billings Symphony continues to grow Explore Music! its education and community engagement program. Explore Music! consists of various events and programs designed to introduce music to people of all ages throughout Billings and the surrounding communities. "Our free programs spread the love and joy of music to everyone, serving over 37,000 people per year," explains Brad Constantine, General Manager of the Billings Symphony. "We've reached people aged 3 to 103 and everyone in between."

Let's explore some of the ways the Billings Symphony engages with the community, starting with its youngest audience.

School-aged children love working alongside the professional musicians of the Billings Symphony, and the Symphony provides a variety of ways for children to experience music. "We've gotten into the schools over sixty times this year," states Brad. "Those engagements vary from coaching sessions in sectionals, our maestra or conductors working with ensembles, private music instruction within the schools, and our musicians and guest artists performing."

In addition, the Billings Symphony works closely with area music educators to provide recruitment videos, free dress rehearsal attendance, and instrument demonstrations. Some Symphony musicians even visit the classroom to tell students about their experiences as professional musicians in Montana.

MUSICAL STORYTIME

BILLINGS SYMPHONY YOUTH ORCHESTRA (BSYO)

One of the Symphony's newest Explore Music! programs, Musical Storytime, is designed specifically for children 3-6 years old; however, the program has quickly become a favorite for all ages. During these popular events, an engaging narrator reads children's books aloud while a string quartet plays. Featured at both the Billings and Laurel

Previously known as the Billings Youth Orchestra, the BSYO has found its niche within Explore Music! providing the opportunity for young musicians to grow and perform.

"We're happy to have the students within our organization," Brad states enthusiastically. Students within the BSYO rehearse weekly with experienced conductors and perform

37 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Fun. Inspired. Simplified.

A

s Italian composer Gioachino Rossini stated in the early 1800s, this sentiment still rings true today – the universality of music spans generations, bringing joy to the young and young at heart.

their own concerts biannually while benefiting from workshops with prestigious guest artists and symphony musicians. The BSYO continues to grow with the addition of a high school percussion ensemble this year. These students are learning to read orchestral literature while acquiring fundamental technical experience of the instruments in their section.

Another new addition under the BSYO is the Youth Chamber Project, a four-to-five-week intensive training program for students culminating in a special recital performance. "Students have been delighted about the experience," Brad comments.

Do you know a young musician who may wish to join? The program is open by audition to all students in surrounding counties from preschool through college.

HEALING HARMONIES

MUSICAL STORYTIME

Within the Healing Harmonies program, which was stalled during COVID, musicians visit local hospitals to provide the healing power of music to patients, staff, and visitors.

Fortunately, the program has been resurrected and has provided eighty different engagements with Billings Clinic during the 2023/24 season. "Our orchestra musicians will provide short recitals or solo cellists will go to the infusion center while cancer patients receive treatment," describes Brad. "We have 10-15 musicians who work with Healing Harmonies regularly."

Although these musicians are not music therapists, the Billings Symphony is interested in eventually expanding its work with the hospitals to begin partnering with an organization that provides music therapy programs.

SYMPHONY FOR SENIORS

BILLINGS SYMPHONY YOUTH ORCHESTRA (BYSO)

This beloved program provides music for all levels of local senior living, including nursing homes, memory care units, independent living apartments, and assisted living facilities.

Visiting symphony musicians can enrich residents' lives through music, whether through a performance or instrument demonstration. One Laurel Health & Rehabilitation Center resident was moved to tears because of the experience: "I didn't know that music like this could make me so happy. I'm sorry to cry, but it's because I'm happy."

SYMPHONY IN THE PARK

This outdoor musical experience for all ages has been an annual summer favorite since 1972. The well-attended event draws an estimated 10,000 people to Pioneer Park each year to enjoy the beautiful music, an "instrument petting zoo," a kid's conducting contest, and various food trucks and beverage vendors.

TUTTI BEHIND WALLS

HEALING HARMONIES

Just as music can benefit all ages, it can also bring joy during all types of life circumstances. Tutti Behind Walls is a well-established program designed to bring music to Montana Women's Prison individuals. The Symphony provides all of the equipment, instruments, and instruction while inmates learn music basics and how to play guitar. "The opportunity

38 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

local

Friday, October 4 | Tickets: $10

Masquerade at the YAM

Saturday, October 26 | Tickets: $55

These events sellout fast. Get your tickets today!

401 North 27th Street | Billings, MT | 406.256.6804 | artmuseum.org

scan me to learn more & get tickets Museum admission is FREE!

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LIBRARY HOURS Monday - Friday Monday-Friday 9am to 8pm 10:00am - 6:00pm Saturday 9am Saturdayto 5pm CLOSED: -Sundays & 9:00am 5:00pm

Federal Closed on Holidays Sundays & Federal Holidays

39 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Your best life right here.

Monster Drawing Rally

40 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

to participate in this amazing program of guitars has not only given me a chance to fulfill one of my lifetime goals of learning to play, it's opened my mind and eyes to all the good in the world during the worst time in my life," expresses D.R., a Tutti Behind Walls Student.

ADVENTURES IN MUSIC DAY

RURAL RHYTHMS

SYMPHONY FOR SENIORS

Fun. Inspired. Simplified.

For many rural Montana and Wyoming residents, the distance to Billings inhibits them from experiencing a concert with the Billings Symphony or attending other Explore Music! events. In response to this hurdle, Billings Symphony musicians perform for residents in regional small communities that don't often have the opportunity to enjoy live symphonic music. Visits to communities like Roundup, Big Timber, Joliet, and Sheridan, Wyoming, have made the uplifting experience of live music accessible to a wider audience.

These programs and events are just a portion of the offerings within the Billings Symphony's Explore Music! program, and the list will undoubtedly grow as the years go by. "It's one of the most important parts of our symphony orchestra organization," Brad states about the Explore Music! program. I feel really strongly about getting away from our stage and finding as many missiondriven activities as we can to support our community."

No matter your age, the Billings Symphony's dedicated musicians provide many ways to enjoy, participate, and Explore Music! SLM

family

For this special annual event, the Billings Symphony partners with the Billings Public Library to provide a free "instrument petting zoo." Children can try a large array of instruments and hear demonstrations from symphony musicians. Be sure to mark your calendar for this year's event on September 14 from 9:30 - 11:30, with a special musical presentation by the Billings Symphony Principal Strings at 11:30.

MASTER CLASSES AND CLINICS JESSICA IS A BILLINGS LOCAL WITH A BACKGROUND IN MARKETING AND A DEGREE IN COMMUNICATIONS. SHE LOVES BEING A MOM AND SOAKING UP TIME WITH HER CHILDREN. IN HER SMALL POCKETS OF FREE TIME, SHE ENJOYS PAINTING, FINDING COOL ROCKS, AND PLOTTING HER NEXT ADVENTURE.

MUICIANS IN SCHOOLS 41 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

MEET the Maker

BILLINGS MOTHER KAITLYN PLENGER AGE | 26 PREFERRED ART MEDIUM | Paint and digital PREFERRED ART STYLE | Bold and beautiful, yet simple VENUES | Commissioned projects and booth space in Casual Space CONTACT | @muralmamasmt on Instagram or hellomuralmamas@gmail.com 42 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

local

Mural Mamas' Article by Tory Kolkhorst Photo by Arianna Skoog

"M

ommy’s job is painting, and daddy’s job is working,” says four-year-old Daisy, daughter of Kaitlyn Plenger and big sister to Harper.

What started as a lifelong passion for creating led to a casual art project: painting her first mural in her daughter’s playroom while pregnant with her second. This project ultimately jumpstarted the creation of Kaitlyn’s business. The positive feedback she received on her debut mural in her daughter’s playroom from friends and family sparked the origins of her small business, “Mural Mamas.” Drawing inspiration from her deep-rooted passion for art and her role as a mother, Kaitlyn’s murals reflect this beautiful blend that makes her business unique.

From her earliest days as a child bringing home pictures, paintings, and art projects from school to drawn-out evenings turned to nights painting alongside friends in college, to eventually starting her own business – Kaitlyn has dedicated her life to her craft since she can remember.

“It’s in my bones. I’ve never had a passion like this for anything else,” she shared. Since Kaitlyn first became a mom in 2019, she will attest that motherhood brought an entirely new dimension her life’s work that serves as the lifeblood of her business.

43 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Your best life right here.

THE ARTISTIC JOURNEY OF

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WENT ON TO RECEIVE DEGREES FROM TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY, AND THEN QUICKLY RETURNED TO THE LAST BEST PLACE, WHERE SHE AND HER HUSBAND, COLLIN, HAVE PLANTED ROOTS TO RAISE THEIR TWO CHILDREN, KENNEDY AND CREW. WITH A DAY JOB IN FEDERAL

New Physician Announcement Julie Middleton, MD

Dr. Middleton is currently welcoming new patients and is excited to grow her practice in the Billings community.

Call (406) 248-3607 to schedule an appointment with her today.

GOVERNMENT, TORY FINDS INDULGENCE IN AUDIOBOOKS, REALITY TV, CRUMBL COOKIES, AND TAYLOR SWIFT SONGS. PROVERBS 9:10.

(406) 248-3607 1611 Zimmerman Trail Billings, Montana 59102 45 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

billings-obgyn.com

Fun. Inspired. Simplified.

TORY KOLKHORST GREW UP IN THE HUNTLEY PROJECT COMMUNITY,

Your Health, Our Passion.

family

Through Mural Mamas, she strives to honor the journey of motherhood with a keen focus on her role as mom to Daisy and Harper by coordinating her commissioned pieces with windows of evening childcare so she can be home with her littles during the day. Being a mother and having a fulfilling career are not mutually exclusive; they complement each other beautifully, as we can all witness through the impassioned works of art that Kaitlyn has created.

When asked about the role art plays in the sense of community, Kaitlyn was quick to illustrate how art can serve as a catalyst for dialogue. After spending a great deal of time at home during the COVID-19 pandemic and now investing her days in quality time at home with her daughters, Kaitlyn found that art could be a great way to spark conversation. Beyond a piece of art’s visual impact, it can do so much more than merely capture the attention of its audience. Art can evoke a range of thoughts and emotions from spectators, which provides a natural focal point for discussion. Here in Billings, murals and other forms of public art can showcase the spirit of our community in a beautiful way that we can point out to visitors from near and far.

Beyond the significance of art featured in public spaces and community settings is the deeply personal form of expression it can provide inside one’s own home. Within the walls of Kaitlyn’s home, she continues to transform different nooks, spaces, and rooms with various paintings ranging in size and style that serve as intimate reflections of her identity and what inspires her as an artist. Being surrounded by her own creations (in art form and her children!) within her home environment is important, as they constantly remind her of what impassions and motivate her to keep creating. Her pieces, whether works-in-progress or finished masterpieces, contribute in big and small ways to make her house feel like a home for her family.

By building a small business from her passion and personal gift, Kaitlyn has created a powerful example of determination and entrepreneurship for her daughters, Daisy and Harper. These little girls will have the opportunity to witness their mom pursue her passion and achieve business success, as they have front-row seats to the magic behind dreams becoming reality. SLM

FAMILY Matters

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Article by Morgan Williams Photos by Renata Haidle

T

he grips of addiction are ruthless - and merciless. Promise was 24 when she hit rock bottom; she was pregnant, addicted to drugs, and “barely existing.” During this time, she witnessed a murder that rattled her to her core, and she quit using drugs on the spot, but she still had a long way to go. She was separated from her first son after giving birth and had no idea what to do next. Thankfully, she had an aunt who had been successful in recovery - her name was Theo, and she lived at the Hannah House.

While falling into addiction seems all too easy - trauma, poverty, and early exposure are all signposts on the road to a life marked by drugs and alcohol no one just happens to fall out of addiction. It typically takes a life-altering experience and a vision of what a life of sobriety could be like.

47 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Fun. Inspired. Simplified.

HANNAH HOUSE EXPANSION SUPPORTS MORE WOMEN IN BILLINGS

family

Hope for Healing

Left to right- Jessica Smith, Hannah House Director, Tabitha Kroll, Hannah House Case Manager

Tucked under big, mature trees is a sweet home that has brought hope to hundreds of women and their families over the past twelve years. This year, a campus expansion is on the horizon, allowing the Hannah House to serve up to 20 women and their children simultaneously.

The Hannah House is a nationally certified sober living home that has been casting that vision for women since 2012. Tucked under big, mature trees is a sweet home that has brought hope to hundreds of women and their families over the past twelve years. This year, a campus expansion is on the horizon, allowing the Hannah House to serve up to 20 women and their children simultaneously.

Getting sober is just the first of many hurdles when leaving a life of addiction, and Promise described what many former addicts experience when she said that leaving her ‘using community’ felt like “walking off a cliff. They were the only family I had ever known, and I struggled to imagine kind, good people ever wanting to be around someone like me.” While sober living homes are common, even in Billings, the Hannah House is distinct in a few important ways - one is the premium they place on building a new community.

The Hannah House has adopted a tiered and unhurried approach with residents. In 2022, the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs reported that the average stay at a sober living home was between 166 and 254 days. At the Hannah House, residents are asked to stay at least 180 days (6 months), but most are staying much longer.

Residents spend the first 30-45 days getting on their feet, much of which is filled with paperwork, obtaining social security cards and IDs, and finding work. Counseling and bible studies are interspersed throughout their week, and later on, residents begin working through the Genesis Process, a relapse prevention model that provides a biblical and neurochemical understanding of what causes self-destruction and a real plan for lasting change.

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family

Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering persons with disabilities in southeastern Montana

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Meet us every Monday at 9am, starting July 29th, to stroll with friends and enjoy physical activity!

Tai Chi

On Tuesdays at 9am, experience the mental and physical benefits of gentle, flowing exercises and practice of deep breathing. This class can be completed seated or standing.

49 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Fun. Inspired. Simplified.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS PROGRAMS

Diabetes Prevention Program

After six months, residents can move into “graduate housing.” Here, residents begin to get a feel for what rent is like outside of the house. They also take on more of their own financial responsibilities, like cleaning supplies and toiletries.

Currently, the Hannah House only has room for three residents in graduate housing, but the new expansion will allow for six graduate-level homes, all on the same campus, plus space for other onsite resources. Hannah House Supervisor Jessica Smith says this expansion will eliminate the need to rush residents through transitional housing, which gives women more opportunities to build a lasting, healthy community.

The Hannah House believes strongly in a holistic approach to growth and is founded on the belief that each woman matters in the name of Jesus. They are one of the only places that make space for women to be reunited with their children, and if you enter the Hannah House, you can expect extensive 1-1 case management and your own room.

Their reputation precedes them; this year, they anticipate having over 300 applications for their 15 beds. Many of their referrals come from judges, probation & parole officers, and local and statewide drug and alcohol facilities. They’ve even had national requests and inquiries.

The expansion will cost $1.7 million overall and has been broken down into three phases. Phase 1 included purchasing two new lots adjacent to and directly south of the current house, of which one lot had to be demoed and was completed this year. Phase 2 will start in Spring 2025 and include two

new homes. The front house will have an open living space on the main floor for bible studies and community gatherings, while the basement will house a trauma-informed care counselor and a child therapist. The Hannah House also plans to open an onsite daycare for residents, an invaluable resource that will be more affordable and practical given the odd hours that women typically work. The final phase will include campus-wide upgrades deferred over the past several years, such as radiator, window, and gutter replacements.

Ultimately, this expansion is making room for more women like Promise to build a new life and actually say, “It feels good to be alive.” Many generous community partners and foundations have made this campus expansion possible.

It will allow more women like Promise to begin to dream and experience a life of sobriety and community.

If you want to partner with the Hannah House, please visit www.cldibillings.org or scan the QR code below. SLM

MORGAN WILLIAMS IS A LIFELONG MONTANAN. SHE IS MARRIED TO NATHAN, AND TOGETHER THEY ATTEMPT TO WRANGLE THREE YOUNG KIDS WHILE RUNNING A SMALL CONSTRUCTION BUSINESS, MONTANA GROUND SCREW. SHE LOVES A GOOD WORKOUT, QUALITY TIME WITH FRIENDS, AND RARELY TURNS DOWN THE OPPORTUNITY FOR A NEW ADVENTURE.

Call to Schedule an Appointment

get involved!

To partner with Hannah House, scan here:

Kelly Clarke, D.D.S. Mark Wilgus, D.D.S. • Tanner Bennion, D.D.S.

See us at any of our 5 locations!

(406) 652-5550 • 1-800-655-0409 BILLINGS, MT: 2700 Grand Avenue, Suite B BILLINGS-HEIGHTS, MT: 848 Main St. MILES CITY, MT: 205 S. Haynes Avenue CODY, WY: 2910 Big Horn Avenue SIDNEY, MT: 401 N. Central

www.pediatricdentalspecialists.org 50 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

DOES YOUR CHILD STRUGGLE WITH:

If so, your child may be dyslexic.

GIVE US A CALL TODAY!

Phone: 406-670-2825 • Email: randakdyslexia@gmail.com

HAVE CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF FIVE? Give them the joy of healthy foods with farm fresh produce.

Call us to see if you may qualify for WIC farmers market vouchers.

406.247.3370

*this institution is an equal opportunity employer

51 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Fun. Inspired. Simplified.

We offer dyslexia screening, dyslexiaspecific tutoring for reading and math, and several other services to help your child succeed!

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PARK’S MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY NEW STUDENT BACK TO SCHOOL SALE!!!

Chemnet is now the Blood Draw center for Quest Diagnostics Laboratory in Billings, MT.

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STEP INTO A WORLD OF COMFORT & CONVENIENCE

Designed with your needs in mind, our new lobby offers a warm welcome to travelers from near and far.

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BILLINGS LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

FLYBILLINGS.COM

Fun. Inspired. Simplified.

new students only expires 10/3/24

EATING LOCAL MADE EASY. Swift Buckets food waste recycling service diverts tons of local food waste from the landfill every year and creates Big Sky Bio, a fermented soil conditioner that’s better than compost. We donate the rest of our food waste to be turned into traditional compost.

House of Ferments creates unique vegetable ferments and kombucha using local and organic ingredients. Sourcing local keeps ourselves and our neighbors in business.

Live Fermented Kraut, Kimchi, and Kombucha

"Always Good, Never the Same"

www.houseofferments.com IG: the_fermentologist

Baked fresh every day!

We would love to serve you our traditional, NY-Style bagels!

7117 King Ave, Billings, swiftbucketsllc@gmail.com (406) 861-0049

Lady Kate’s Garden

Shop open 7:30am-12:30pm or until we are sold out.

Monday - Friday 219 N 29th, Downtown Billings. 406-969-1117.

Also available through YVFoodhub.com

Weekly Pick-Ups in: Billings, Red Lodge, and Absorokee 54 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M Delivery to : Billings and Laurel

Lady Kate’s Garden is a woman-owned organic farm specializing in medicinal and culinary herbs, alongside seasonal vegetables.

Our mission is to foster a stronger, more sustainable community through our commitment to environmentally friendly practices. ladykatesgarden.com

yvfoodhub.com

simply food

eat well & live a full life.

56 Feature Transform Your Weeknights: The Magic of Meal Planning

food

60 Bake This Focaccia Art 62 Meet the Chef A Landmark of Taste Bistro Enzo's Tyler Samson

Eat well & live a full life.

Featured Photo by Renata Haidle: Bistro Enzo Fresh Persillade Crusted Halibut with potato puree, asparagus, and Beurre Noisette (lemon, caper, brown butter sauce) 55 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Transform Your Weeknights 56 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

The magic of meal planning

57 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Eat well & live a full life.

T

he temps might not scream fall just yet, but for many families the calendar certainly does! Kids are transitioning back to school, work’s pace is picking up, and weeknights are just a little busier after Labor Day. With this new schedule, it can be challenging to figure out dinner meals again.

This is where meal planning is worth money in the bank (literally).

Meal planning can help make your desire for healthy and delicious recipes a reality. Fall is the perfect season to resurrect your meal planning practice (or get started if you don’t have one) because cooler temps entice us back into the kitchen, where we’re ready to turn on the oven again. And this opens the door to so many autumn-kissed recipes. We can look forward to roasted acorn squash, baked frittatas filled with garden-fresh onions and spinach, and warm apple crisp served with vanilla ice cream.

If you’re not in the groove of planning your meals and shopping on a schedule, meal planning seems more like a headache than a blessing. But you might change your mind after reading some of the benefits of meal planning:

food

Article by Tiffany Ricci

IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH WITH HOME-COOKED MEALS. You’re more likely to eat more vegetables and fiber at home and less sodium, sugar, and saturated fat. You’ll also meet more nutrient goals because your overall diet quality improves.

SAVE TIME, MONEY, AND STRESS. • Time: When planning your meals and creating a weekly grocery list, you decrease trips to the store.

• Money: Home-cooked meals are cheaper than restaurant meals (especially because of their increased nutrient density). You’ll actually use what’s in your fridge rather than tossing it (there is not much more expensive and wasteful than a garbage full of unused produce).

• Stress: Two words, Decision Fatigue. When you spend a little time planning your meals, you decrease the decisions you must make during the week by following your plan. And you’ll always have the answer to that oftasked question, “What’s for dinner?”

ENJOY A WIDER VARIETY OF FOODS. By incorporating seasonal produce, your meals will have a new vibe with the changing of the leaves. Fall is the season to stock up on local produce at the farmer’s market and connect with local meat producers and food artisans. This will undoubtedly increase your food choices when planning your meals.

Let’s look at the basic framework to help you put that magic into your weekly routine: SCHEDULE. To plan your meals, you have to know what is going on in the evenings and how much time you have to prepare the meal.

Some seasons require late nights at work or are time-crunched with youth activities. When you know your schedule, you can plan meals that will fit into the time available.

PLUG IN MEALS. This is where the fun starts! Now that you know your schedule, you can fill in your menu with tried-and-true favorites or new recipes to try. Don’t forget to add breakfast, lunch, and snacks to your meal plan.

CREATE A GROCERY LIST. With your meal plan sketched out for the upcoming week, it’s time to make a grocery list. Make your list while you are creating your meal plan. This way, you don’t forget very important ingredients to make the meals you’ve planned. You might already have an ongoing grocery list for when you run out of items and need to restock. Consolidate this list with your meal-planning grocery list. Pro-Tip: Take your meal plan with you to the grocery store. You’ll know what ingredients will be used for in case the store is out of them.

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PREP. Save time by meal prepping - chopping veggies, creating spice kits, and portioning meat - to ease the time commitment later in the week. You can also prepare your breakfast, lunch, and snacks all at once so that they’re ready to go when you are.

This is not an essential step to meal planning, but one that can help once you get into the rhythm of planning your meals.

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Meal planning can be a lifesaver as we transition from carefree summer days to the scheduled tempo of fall. Posting a meal schedule can bring a sense of peace. You are free of the late afternoon “what’s for dinner” panic and a last-minute trip to the grocery store.

Meal planning is a skill we can practice to become proficient at. Give yourself grace and remove the expectation that your meals need to be elaborate and time-consuming. Meal planning is naming the meals you will have for the week. It might be boxed mac-n-cheese or pork tenderloin with honey garlic glaze. The sophistication of the meal is not the point. It’s knowing what you’re having when, and that’s the magic. SLM

Pumpkin Spice

TIFFANY RICCI IS MARRIED TO HER PERFECT MATCH AND MOM TO THREE WILD BOYS. . SHE IS A REGISTERED DIETITIAN, NUTRITIONIST, AND PERSONAL TRAINER. TIFFANY CO-OWNS FUELING LIFE NUTRITION, WHERE SHE HELPS WOMEN LOSE THE FOOD STRESS AND MAKE THE MOST OF THEIR EXERCISE.

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www.getyourspoonon.com food

Asian-Inspired Dishes | Classic Montana Favorites

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FOCACCIA ART

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Article and photo

by Renata Haidle

ith its flat surface and pillowy texture, focaccia is a perfect canvas for unleashing a bit of creativity in the kitchen. You might have already seen focaccia art on social media - it is everywhere nowadays. Flower petals, veggie spears, cheese, olives, and a variety of herbs contribute to creating beautiful, edible masterpieces. Before you start decorating, you will need a great focaccia base. You can easily master this recipe whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice - the result is a flavorful bread that is crispy on the outside and soft and airy inside. You can serve focaccia as a brunch item, a side dish, or an appetizer, accompanied by cheese, a charcuterie board, or just some good quality olive oil for dipping.

Buon appetito!

DIRECTIONS: Preheat the oven to 425℉.

1. In a large bowl, add the water, sugar, and yeast; stir gently to combine.

Let sit for 10-15 minutes. After that, the mixture should be airy and foamy. (If it isn’t, the yeast is probably dead; discard it and start over using fresh yeast.)

INGREDIENTS: 1 Cup water at 80 degrees F.℉ ⅓ Cup olive oil 2 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt

2. Add the flour and salt, and start mixing with your hands (alternately, you can use a food processor if you have one). The dough will be quite sticky. Gradually add the olive oil and continue mixing until the dough is coming off the walls of the bowl. Tip the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-6 minutes. Place the dough back in the bowl, brush with olive oil and cover. Let it rest at room temperature for 2 hours.

3. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil and flatten the dough, using your fingertips to create dimples all over. Brush lightly with olive oil and let rise for another hour—it should double in size.

4. At this point, you are ready to get creative. Push down the dough with your fingertips to create dimples again, and add your sliced veggies, edible flowers, cheese, olives, or herbs. Bake for 20 minutes, until the crust starts turning golden. Transfer to a wire rack to cool down.

This recipe also works great in a bread machine. Place all the ingredients in the pan, starting with the wet ones, and set the machine on the dough cycle. When ready, remove the dough and place it in a 9x13 dish, then follow the remaining steps above. SLM 60 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

3 Cups bread flour 1 ½ teaspoon active dry yeast

25-Minute Chicken & Veggie Enchiladas

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• 2 tab chini pped zuc o h c s p u • 1½c squash ed yellow p p o h c s p • 1 ½ cu w onion ped yello p o h c p u • ½c spray ced garlic Cooking poon min s • a te 1 • verde led salsa er salt tt h o s b o k p n u c o po • ½ • ⅝ teas aves epper p k c la cilantro le b h n s o re o F p s • • ½ tea ), divided out 1 cup tortillas b (a rn o d c e ) d h d c ese, shre • 8 (6 in 1/2 oz.)

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over etable Preheat , until veg tick skillet s n n e o ft n o e g rg in utes. stirr oil in a la ut 10 min and cook, o , b n a io , n n o w d ro to b , pepper squash an beginning icken, salt t h s c ju d d d A n . a r t and inute are tende ok until ho 1 more m o k C . o e o c in b d n om ,a nd cover to e; stir to c Add garlic om heat, a the chees fr f e o v p o u m c e R . and 3/4 t 1 minute elts, abou cheese m . bout keep warm ns. Place a o ti c e ir d e ld g g to packa h tortilla; fo ter of eac s accordin n la e il y c rt tl e h to g th li re in in a Warm ken mixtu ide down, ic -s h c m ilera f e o ro s b p , ) u e uart plac 1/3 c h (or a 2-q filling, and c n d -i n ith u 7 w x ro a le 1 rink y) 1 tortilla as, and sp oking spra d o a c il h h c it n t e (w o til h and over greased d oven un our salsa te P a . e h h is d re p g in safe bakin ntro. eese. Broil /4 cup ch h with cila 1 is g rn in a in G . a s rem minute out 1 1/2 bubbly, ab

Recipe of the Month FEATURING ONIONS FROM SWANKY ROOTS find us on facebook and online at

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TASTE Bistro Enzo's Tyler Samson Continues to Elevate Billings' Dining Scene

63 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Eat well & live a full life.

Wood-fired pizza ovens, chef's counters, Mediterranean dishes, and local artwork - can you guess which iconic Billings restaurant this describes? That's right, Bistro Enzo and Wine Bar (Enzo), nestled on the Westend, has been a culinary landmark for 25 years.

Owner Tyler Samson, who took over four years ago, recalls, "I want to respect the history of the restaurant but enhance it." Tyler's journey in the restaurant business began back in college, bartending. With a successful 12-year career in commercial real estate and previously owning The Edgar Bar, an opportunity arose to purchase Enzo in 2020. Tyler jumped at the chance to own his favorite restaurant since he was 21.

Tyler wanted to take what was already beloved and infuse it with new energy. "This has been a special place for me and my family, and I wanted to see it continue," he shares. This vision came to life with the key role of Executive Chef Alex Bean, who, despite having no formal training, rose from dishwasher to chef through sheer passion and mentorship under Chef James Honaker.

Chef Bean's hands-on approach and love for creating something new every day bring variety to the table. "I want to make people happy, spending time with their loved ones," Chef Bean says. Together, they have introduced features like the wine bar and chef's counter, elevating

food

Article by Brittany Schimke Photos by Renata Haidle

the dining experience. "Dinner and a show," Tyler calls it, describing the chef's counter where guests enjoy a special experience adjacent to the kitchen; a guest has a view of everything going on, interaction with the kitchen staff, on the house emu bush, and exceptional service.

"We strive to have passion. Every dish that we make is something that we would serve to our loved ones," Chef Bean explains. They strive for perfection in their from-scratch kitchen. Everyone who works at Enzo's is super passionate about their job, from the front of the house to the back.

The atmosphere at Enzo's is warm and inviting, filled with local artwork from Kira Fercho and candlelight. The roaring fire in the pizza oven adds to the charm. This dedication to quality is evident in every aspect of the restaurant.

The menu at Enzo is inspired by Mediterranean, French, and Italian cuisines, but Tyler and Chef Bean aren't afraid to innovate. They travel annually to discover new flavors, ensuring the menu stays fresh and exciting. Local favorite dishes include veal piccata, shrimp and vegetable tempura, and Tyler's favorite portobello mushroom mozzarella pasta.

There is something for everyone on the menu. They also pride themselves on using fresh, local ingredients, like the custom chuck and brisket hamburger blend from Blue Creek Marbled Meats, which can be found exclusively at Enzo.

Enzo is also committed to supporting the community.

They participate in numerous local events, host fundraisers, and work with local suppliers like Microgreens of Montana and Seafoods of the World. In the past three years, they've hosted fundraisers for the MSUB scholarship program and have been active in various community activities.

One of the unique experiences at Enzo is the Wine Dinners, a five-course meal paired with featured wine from around the

world. These dinners provide an intimate evening of culinary and wine exploration, with a wine representative or a direct representative from the featured winery discussing the wine.

Enzo is family-friendly; if you're lucky, you might catch Tyler's young son, Miles, helping out. The "Miles Pie" pizza is a favorite named after him. Tyler emphasizes, "I wanted it to remain an iconic staple in Billings and keep the legacy going for the community."

Looking ahead, Tyler and Chef Bean have plans for additional catering services and possibly a second location, maintaining the high standards and unique charm of Enzo's.

Under their leadership, the restaurant has won numerous awards, including five Reader's Choice Awards for Best Seafood and Most Romantic.

The most rewarding part of their journey? "Watching people connect over food and wine and the amazing feedback we get from our guests," says Tyler. Enzo continues to thrive, remaining a favorite for many in Billings. "You can never argue that if someone makes a comment, 'That's my favorite restaurant,' that's something that somebody can never argue."

SLM BRITTANY SCHIMKE IS A DEVOTED WIFE TO HER BEST FRIEND, ALEX, AND A LOVING MOTHER TO HER TWO ADVENTUROUS BOYS, CHANCE AND ROY. HER DEEP APPRECIATION FOR THE OUTDOORS, CAMPING, AND HIKING STEMS FROM HER ADMIRATION OF GOD'S MAGNIFICENT CREATIONS. AN AVID CRAFTER AND SKILLED IN LEATHERWORK, SHE FINDS COMFORT IN UNLEASHING HER CREATIVITY. SHE CHERISHES MOMENTS SPENT WITH A GOOD GLASS OF WINE, WHETHER BY THE WARMTH OF A CRACKLING FIRE OR ON HER PEACEFUL BACK PORCH.

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Executive Chef Alex Bean & Enzo Owner Tyler Samson

"We're all about hospitality. We want to continue to be that institution for Billings. People can feel the energy in here, and I think from the get-go they know it's going to be a great experience."

TYLER SAMSON

home

THE BEST DINING EXPERIENCE IN BILLINGS CALL NOW FOR A RESERVATION

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MLS MLS # # 347563 345505 Nancy Nancy Curtiss Curtiss || 406.696.2434 406.696.2434

MLS MLS ## 346739 340472 Sheila Larsen Andrew Miller| |406.672.1130 406.690.0353

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14 ROCK CREEK CIRCLE, RED LODGE WATERFRONT PROPERTY

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simply home love where you live.

68 Feature Modern & Timeless Refreshing Billings' Aging Buildings 75 Design The Dwelling Place Styling a Home Office for Productivity 78 Home Spotlight To Buy or To Build The Benefits of Buying 87 A Home Guide Plan Now Remodel Later: A Step-By-Step Guide to Spring Renovations

home Love where you live.

67 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Modern & Timeless

REFRESHING BILLINGS' AGING BUILDINGS Article by Elise Habel Photos by Renata Haidle

68 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

home

69 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

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B

illings designers are giving fresh life to our dear but seasoned downtown buildings. As different businesses roll in and out of the classic architecture, numerous opportunities open up for the spaces to receive the updates and TLC some have been waiting decades for. Most recently, the building that once housed Toucan Art downtown became an oil and gas company office. However, to transform from an art studio to a workspace, the building was due for a refresh before the big move-in. While the space required a few updates, the bones of the building still boasted a beautiful, classic framework that became the canvas for Tiff Davidson-Blades' latest design project.

The conference room chairs are even those once used in the men's lounge at Hilands Country Club; they're local pieces with a local history!

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71 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

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Tiff has been with Davidson Home Furnishing and Design since the company was established in 1988 when she was 18. Tiff and her associate Kara Dahlberg received the opportunity to work on the office redesign and were excited to tackle the project together. "That's how we do a lot of projects at Davidson's," Tiff smiled. We're a team!"

Tiff focuses on finding the perfect balance of modern style and timeless design in her projects. For a historic space like the Toucan Building, all the inspiration for the new style came from the classic features and character already built into the architecture. "We, along with Billings architect Eric Simonsen, wanted to bring back and enhance the original look of the space," says Tiff. "Old brick walls, wood floors, and the beautiful decorative ceiling—that was the focus of the design."

Billings's historic downtown buildings are a testament to the generations of businesses that grew in and out of them. So, it was important for Tiff, Kara, and their clients to refresh the space without excluding its natural, classic manners. Such a project is among Tiff's favorite projects to work on. "I love older buildings," she says, "they have a tremendous amount of character and charm." Seasoned buildings have seen times and stories that are simple history for most of us. Over each decade, the building experienced the typical wear and tear after years of hosting guests in and out. In Tiff's perspective for this redesign, any blemishes, scratches, or gaps only added to the appeal of the space. "My favorite part of this space is the 'imperfection' of the old!" Tiffany told us." For example, we didn't 'fix' the gaps in the brick walls unless it was necessary; we let that character remain."

Of course, the new space would also look bare without its hand-picked furnishings. Being a local home furnishings business owner, Tiff always advocates sourcing furniture locally and never shops online for her projects - ever! "For this project, we chose leather for the transitional sofa in a warm complimentary color to the walls and brick for practicality and style," Tiff told us.

"The chairs are a great swivel design that is comfortable and functional for a commercial setting." This office goes beyond the classic chair and desk furnishings; it also flaunts a long, beautiful natural wood bar table with metal accents and is accompanied by leather stools for entertaining guests and casual meetings. "We try to choose pieces for their timeless qualities, but also for being 'unique.' In each project we are a part of, we strive to have the look and the furnishings be a reflection of the client."

Tiff, Kara, and the rest of the Davidson team are proud to have restored instead of replaced the timeless personality of the new studio-turned-office space in our historic downtown Billings. "I hope [that this project] teaches that design is not about 'trends,'" Tiff told us. Design is about taking a space, new or old, and creating something beautiful and functional based on each individual. It should be timeless and classic!" SLM ELISE IS A MONTANA SOUL. SHE, HER HUSBAND, AND THEIR ADVENTURE CAT, CALLI, LIKE TO SPEND SUMMER DAYS DIGGING AS DEEP INTO THE MOUNTAINS AS THEY CAN WITH THEIR TRAVEL TRAILER

AND

JEEP.

CONSIDERING

HERSELF A SORT OF TRADESWOMAN, ELISE PICKS UP NEW SKILLS FROM A SMALL COLLECTION OF OCCUPATIONS AS

SHE

GOES,

SUCH

AS

VIDEO

PRODUCTION AND CONTENT CREATION. ONE DAY, SHE PLANS TO HOMESTEAD AND RAISE A FAMILY FULL-TIME, AND IN THE MEANTIME, SHE LOVES TO WRITE AND CONNECT WITH THE COMMUNITY.

Scan here to visit this article online and view the full gallery of photos.

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As a Level I Trauma Center, St. Vincent Regional Hospital offers the highest level of care in the region. Whether you’re having a heart attack, stroke, or you’ve had a sudden traumatic injury, we’re prepared to handle it.

It is always our goal to stay at the forefront of research and medical advancements in trauma care; with the resources, training, and technologies to treat every type of injury or critical health event. Serving our communities throughout Montana and Wyoming, we provide the life-saving care you and your loved ones need, when you need it most, right here close to home.

Learn more at svh.org/trauma 74 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

THE DWELLING PLACE Styling a Home Office for Productivity

home e are now four years into the work-from-home surge, and it seems as though, for many people, this is their permanent work setup. A home office has major perks with a dedicated workspace, organization systems, and some creativity in design. Whether you have an entire room dedicated as an office or a pop-up desk in the middle of the living space, there are numerous ways to make working from home something your boss can get behind. Let’s explore some ways to maximize efficiency and productivity!

75 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Love where you live.

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Article by Claire DePinto

Here are a few tips:

Incorporate soft lighting. Instead of working under harsh

fluorescent lighting, as found in a traditional office setting, being at home allows you to set the mood no matter what time of day. A desk lamp or wall sconce with a soft bulb can provide just the right light. This kind of lighting makes your office look and feel inviting and can also reduce glare on your screen and minimize eye strain. If you don’t have room for a small lamp on your desk, try a floor lamp in the corner to achieve that cozy feel.

Add personal touches. Nothing is easier to break up the

work day than shifting your eyes to something meaningful in your space- a family photo, a souvenir from a memorable trip, homemade art from a kid. It is a simple way to remind yourself what truly matters and can be a significant motivator for getting work done. If you are someone who invites clients into your home office, what a great way to start a conversation and make more personal connections.

"Creating a home office that feels and looks good can be a game changer in tackling your work daily."

Organizational systems. If there is anything that triggers

stress first thing upon walking into an office space, it’s one in which there are no organization systems in place. A designated place for papers, office supplies, mail, and other necessary items is essential. It allows for more efficiency during the work day and in maintaining a tidy look within the home. There are so many options for organizing within any size space. With the help of a simple internet search, you will have endless possibilities for storing, stacking, and sorting.

Shelving. Adding shelving pairs well with tips #2 and #3. It allows space to display personal touches and hold functional, daily work items. Shelving naturally draws the eye upward, giving the illusion of more space. Whether you install built-in bookcases or bring in a couple of small shelves to hang, the impact will be noticeable. Shelving doesn’t have to be a big investment and will help maintain order within your home office space.

Working from home may be your preference or the only option during this time in your career. No matter the circumstance, creating a home office that feels and looks good can be a game changer in tackling your work daily.

Remember, your home office can meet the needs of an evergrowing business while also simultaneously meeting the needs of your personal life. SLM CLAIRE IS AN INTERIOR DESIGN ENHTUSIAST WHO ENJOYS SPENDING TIME CREATING BEAUTIFUL SPACES IN HER HOME INCORPORATING HER LOVE FOR VINTAGE AND THRIFTED PIECES.

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This month’s secret word is harvest home Love where you live.

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THE BENEFITS OF BUYING

To Buy or to Build

HOME Spotlight

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Article by Maria Weidlich Photos by Nathan Satran

B

home

uilding a brand-new home can be exciting with its customizable floor plans, energy-saving measures, and personalized finishes. But there are plenty of advantages to buying an existing home, too. According to experienced Billings Real Estate Agents Stephanie and Erik Krueger, there’s a strong case for buying over building.

“With an established home, you get so much more for your money,” said Stephanie, who’s been in the industry for over 20 years. “You’re not spending more to put in the landscaping, the sprinklers, the trees, and the fence. All that can really add up.”

New construction can present unforeseen costs, supply chain snags, and low-quality building materials. After a successful 25-year career in the construction industry, Erik knows firsthand there are always surprises with a new build. “But at the end of the day, when you’re buying an existing home, you know what you’re getting.”

As recent empty-nesters, the Krueger’s own 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom Billings home is currently on the market and illustrates and upholds all the benefits of purchasing an existing home.

Love where you live.

79 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Location, Location, Location.

Established homes typically offer established neighborhoods, including the schools, playgrounds, and parkways that come with them. Unfortunately, many new housing developments have yet to add these sought-after amenities. It’s not uncommon for newly constructed homes to be found in distant neighborhoods simply because that’s where land is available for new development.

Nestled in Alkali Creek, the Kruegers were immediately drawn to their home’s location. “It’s a delight to be so close to nature and wildlife, even though we’re still in the city,” Stephanie said. “Both of us were raised on farms and ranches, and we have a little piece of that here. We’re less than 10 minutes to the airport and 10 minutes to downtown; it’s very convenient.” Eric added, “It’s like our own little Zimmerman Park," the 500-foot asphalt driveway takes you through the pine trees to a circular driveway. "You know you’ve arrived somewhere special. It’s unlike anything in Billings.”

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ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES Creating a “softer” side to Commercial Design!

Lush Landscaping DINING IN LATELY?

Some trees can take up to 40 years to fully grow, making the benefits of mature landscaping impossible to overlook.

The oversized lot at the Krueger residence is brimming with large trees providing both shade and privacy.

“We fell in love with the beauty because we know how long it takes for that landscaping to mature, Erik said. “You have towering pines, fields of grass, all the flowers, and years of trial and error to put in perfect landscaping that the deer don’t like to eat,” he laughed. “You just can’t get that with new construction.”

Home Furnishings · Accessories · Window Treatments Area Rugs · Full Design Services and more!

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Welcome to our world where luxury lives

MARY AFTON DOBROWSKY Realtor® & Luxury Specialist 406.606.0233 | www.AftonLuxury.com MaryDobrowsky@PureWestMT.com

82 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

Feel the Flow Another benefit of buying an existing home is having a visible floor plan where prospective homeowners can experience the home’s flow and functionality firsthand instead of imagining it on paper. Built by longtime Billings builder Helgeson Homes in 1994, Erik believes the home’s floorplan has withstood the test of time.

“It’s remarkable how ahead of the times they were,” he said of the builders. With oversized bedrooms, large living areas for entertaining, and intimate spaces for small groups, the practicality of the home’s layout remains relevant. “Even though it was built some time ago, you find it has amazing flow, and the rooms are scaled so perfectly.”

While the home boasts three levels, its main level offers convenient, single-level living. The kitchen, living room, master bedroom, office, and laundry room are all found throughout the 3,600-square-foot main level. “In new construction, people often outgrow those areas very quickly,” Stephanie said. With easy access, the floorplan functions well for growing families and their guests alike.

home Love where you live.

83 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Larger Lot Size The average land lot size for single-family homes in the United States is roughly 13,000 square feet or 0.3 acres, and this number is steadily shrinking, Erik said. Homes continue to get bigger, but our outdoor space is only getting smaller.

The Krueger’s 8,000-square-foot home sits on 4.39 acres, lending ample space and privacy, something Montanans love.

“You’re out in nature; you can breathe and feel at peace,” Stephanie agreed.

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The Design is Done

ORIGINALLY FROM ALASKA, MARIA RESIDES IN BILLINGS WITH HER HUSBAND, TWO DAUGHTERS, AND CHOCOLATE LAB, ECHO. WHEN SHE’S NOT CHASING HER KIDS OR THAT NEXT RUNNING GOAL, YOU CAN FIND HER WEEKEND-WARRIORING IN THE MOUNTAINS OR THINKING ABOUT HER NEXT CUP OF COFFEE.

85 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Love where you live.

“The longer we were in this home, the more we appreciated it for what it was,” Erik said. “It’s a solid home with open floor plans, great lighting, windows with great views, and surrounded by nature; it’s just lovely and withstood the test of time. We knew how well it was crafted, and we never felt the need to update. Some things are such a fad, but this home is so timeless.”

Prospective homeowners can request a showing of the Krueger home by calling Stephanie at (406) 861-7657 or visit kruegerandcompany.com. SLM

home

For some, customizing and personalizing a home to fit their taste is enjoyable. But for others, choosing colors, textures, features, and styles can quickly become overwhelming and result in decision fatigue. This is a notable benefit of buying a completely finished home.

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PLAN NOW REMODEL LATER:

A Step-by-Step Guide to Spring Renovations

home guide

P

87 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

Plan Love now. where Remodel you live.

Later.

lanning a spring remodel in the fall might seem early, but it's actually ideal. The fall offers a crucial window to plan, secure contractors, and make decisions without the pressure of an imminent deadline. Starting now ensures an organized, stress-free remodel ready to begin in spring, allowing time to address challenges and refine your vision for a successful renovation.

PLAN, PLAN, PLAN

Fall

(6-9 MONTHS BEFORE START)

Winter

(3-6 MONTHS BEFORE START)

Define Your Vision and Goals. Determine the purpose and scope of your remodel. Create a vision board with inspiration for design and materials.

Develop a Detailed Plan. Finalize design plans with your professional. Obtain necessary permits and approvals.

Set a Realistic Budget. Estimate costs for materials, labor, and permits. Include a contingency fund for unexpected expenses.

Source Materials. Select and order materials and finishes. Ensure all items have sufficient lead time for delivery.

Hire a Professional. Research and select a designer or architect. Begin developing detailed plans and layouts.

Prepare the Space. Clear out the areas to be remodeled.

Arrange for temporary living arrangements if needed.

Choose Contractors. Research, interview, and hire contractors. Check references, licenses, and insurance.

YOUR DREAM HOME AWAITS

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PLAN NOW REMODEL LATER

a home guide

Spring

(1-2 MONTHS BEFORE START)

Early Finalize Timeline. Work with your contractor to create a

detailed timeline. Schedule start and end dates for each phase of the remodel.

Confirm Deliveries. Verify delivery dates for all materials.

Arrange storage if materials arrive before work begins.

Mid Spring (Start of Remodel) Begin Demolition and Construction. Clear the renovation

area of furniture and personal items. Contractors start demolition and initial construction.

Summer

(COMPLETION PHASE)

Finishing Touches. Install fixtures, hardware, and final finishes. Complete any remaining painting, tiling, or flooring work.

Final Inspections. Conduct a thorough inspection of the completed work. Address any final touch-ups or corrections.

Clean Up. Remove debris and clean renovated areas.

Move furniture and personal items back into place.

Monitor Progress. Conduct regular site visits and check-ins with contractors. Address any issues or changes promptly.

Mid-Project Inspections. Ensure that work meets building codes and quality standards. Schedule necessary inspections for plumbing, electrical, and structural work.

GRANITE

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MAGIC CITY

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REINVENT YOUR HOME

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PLAN NOW REMODEL LATER

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Meet your local contractors!

EVENTS TO GET YOU STARTED Don’t miss these upcoming home-themed events with local experts who will help bring your dream to life!

2024 Homebuilder’s Association Parade of Homes Friday- Saturday, September 21-21, 28-29 See page 86 to buy tickets!

42nd Annual 2025 Spring Home Improvement Show Friday, March 7th- Sunday, March 9th, Noon-5pm, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion

2025 MATE Show Home & Health Expo Thursday, February 20- Saturday, February 22, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion

91 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

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2025 Homebuilder’s Association Building and Remodeling Expo January 24th and 25th, 2025, MetraPark Pavilion. Friday, Noon—7pm, and Saturday, 9am—5pm.

home guide

2024 Fall Home Improvement Show Friday- Sunday, September 6, 7, 8, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion

PLAN NOW REMODEL LATER

a home guide

Renovation

TIPS AND TRICKS

With everything planned and in place, your fall-prepared spring renovation can be smooth and rewarding. By starting early and following the provided tips, you’ll manage your budget, stay organized, and enhance your home’s functionality and beauty. Embrace the process and enjoy transforming your space to fit your style and needs. Happy renovating!

PLAN AHEAD 9 Research. Learn about design trends and costs.

9 Create a Plan.

Outline steps and set a timeline.

PRIORITIZE QUALITY 9 Invest in Good Materials: They last longer.

9 Hire Experienced Workers: Ensure quality work.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT PROFESSIONALS 9 Check Credentials: Verify licenses and references.

9 Communicate: Have regular updates with contractors.

9 Include Extras: Set aside 10-20% for unexpected costs.

9 Track Spending: Keep an eye on expenses.

BE PREPARED

FIND BALANCE

9 Stay Flexible: Expect and adapt to changes.

9 Have Backup Plans: Be ready for problems.

9 Balance Function and Style 9 Ensure Practicality and Beauty: The space should work well and look good.

9 Consider Future Needs: Plan for changes.

ENSURE SAFETY 9 Follow Standards: Comply with building codes.

9 Protect Your Home: Keep a clean and safe living area.

BUDGET WISELY

FOCUS ON DETAILS 9 Pay Attention to Finishes: Small details matter.

9 Keep a Consistent Style: Maintain a cohesive look.

92 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

DOCUMENT EVERYTHING 9 Save Records: Keep contracts and receipts.

9 Take Photos: Document progress for reference.

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EVENTS IN BILLINGS & SURROUNDING AREAS

Love where you live.

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Top Events Calendar Connection

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Your place for everything, everyday in Billings.

1

2 Quitcherbitchen' Trail Run & Kids Trail Trek SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, (times vary) PHIPPS PARK

Ales for Trails

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2024, 5-10PM ZOOMONTANA Join us for the best party in Billings on September 6, 2024! With more than 50 regional microbrews, food trucks, giant beer pong, silent disco, and live music from Repeat Offenders, it's sure to be a great time! Act fast to get your brews at the zoo. See you there!

Join the Quitcherbitchen' Trail Run! Choose from 2, 4, or 6-mile courses, perfect for all levels. Beginners and seasoned runners welcome, with wellmarked trails and volunteer support.

Kids aged 5-10 can join the 2nd Annual Kids Trail Trek with 1 or 2-mile loops. Fun for the whole family!

Download the Simply Local App to keep all community 96 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

Billings' most comprehensive and up-to-date

September 2024

full calendar of events

TOP EVENTS

can be found in the simply local app here!

now powered by simply local

3

4 Magic City Plant a Palooza SEPTEMBER 7 & 8, 12PM THURSDAYS 2024 AT 6:00 PM BRASS VELVET TRADING CO

9th Annual Fall Festival 2024

Fall Festival *Vendors & Kids games 10 am-6 pm *Food trucks & Cornhole Tournaments 10am-8pm *Live Music with Tanglewood Band 5–9 pm 109 W. 1st Street, Laurel, MT, 59044

more top events on next page...

events and more at your fingertips all month long!

97 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

calendar

Brass Velvet Trading Co. and Pixel Plant Co. invite you to a plant-filled weekend in Billings! Enjoy buying, selling, and trading plants, plus plant supplies, arts, and crafts. A tattoo artist will also be on-site offering plant-themed tattoos (for a fee). Check out our vendor list on the Magic City Plant-a-Palooza Facebook event page. Join us at Brass Velvet Trading Co., 111 Moore Ln, Billings, MT 59101.

SEPTEMBER 14, 10AM LAUREL, MT

5

Relay for Life of Yellowstone Festival of Hope

7

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 14, 4:30PM METRAPARK PAVILLION

CommUnity Rally

Join us for a Family Friendly night of Celebration & Remembrance.

Kids Area, Luminaria Ceremony, Live Music, Life Auction, Food Trucks, Craft Faire, VIP Section, Drone Show, Live Art of Elyssa Leninger SPECIAL GUEST: Supaman

6

Saturday Live!

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 12, 4-7PM UNITED WAY OF YELLOWSTONE COUNTY The CommUnity Rally is a free festive gathering to engage and celebrate volunteers with music, food trucks, yard games/kids zone, and volunteer engagement opportunities.

Celebrate those who volunteer their time, share their financial resources, and raise their voice. This free admission event is family-friendly fun. Complimentary water, soda, and snacks are available. Beer and meals will be available for purchase. This celebration also serves as the official kickoff for the Workplace Giving Campaign.

Location: United Way of Yellowstone County 2173 Overland Avenue

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 28, 10AM-4PM METRAPARK PAVILLION For the 32nd year, the Education Foundation is thrilled to deliver Saturday Live! Altana Federal Credit Union presents this year's event, which will, as always, benefit the students of Billings Public Schools.

This year's Fun Run, presented by Scheels, will be a color run!

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Billings' most comprehensive and up-to-date

full calendar of events

can be found in the simply local app here!

calendar

99 SEPTEMBER 2 0 2 4 Fall Flourish

We deliver.

OB/GYN Physicians and Advanced Practitioners

At Billings Clinic, we have a comprehensive team of OB/GYN physicians and advanced practitioners to provide you with the best care.

Chelsea Drake, MD

James Metherell, MD, FACOG

Natalie Eggleston, MD

Camille Osborn, MD, FACOG

Brooke Hyman, MD

Jennifer Thompson, MD

Clayton McCracken III, MD, FACOG

Bridget Eckley, PA

Julie Morse, NP Labor and Delivery

Scan the QR code or call 406-238-2500 to make an appointment.