SIMPLY LOCAL MAGAZINE - JANUARY 2024 -EMBRACING THE CHILL

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What is it about the turning of the calendar to a new year that compels us to implement changes, set goals, adopt diets, and make resolutions? While the start of a fresh year provides a beautiful opportunity for a new beginning, the truth is that there is no wrong time for positive strides and healthy choices. Every morning greets us with the chance for a fresh start, new morning mercies, and limitless possibilities. These new beginnings vary for each individual; some may find it beneficial to remove certain aspects from their constant hustle, while others may need to incorporate new habits or routines. A common desire for many is to cleanse and detox from the indulgences of the holiday season. Recognize that there are no rules or guidelines for when to embark on a journey towards positive growth and well-being. Start now; today is the day!

I don’t gravitate towards making resolutions, as it often feels like setting myself up for failure. Instead, I prefer to dedicate some quiet time for reflection, prayer, and contemplation. One year, I committed to saying “no” more often – declining opportunities that didn’t align with my interests and avoiding overwhelming my schedule.

“Start now. Start where you are. Start with fear. Start with pain. Start with doubt. Start with hands shaking. Start with voice trembling, but start. Start and don’t stop. Start where you are, with what you have.... start.”

-IJEOMA UMEBINYUO

Imagine my delight when friends told me I was decisive and discerning about extra commitments. Another year, rather than resolutions, I created a ‘less/more’ list: less gossip, more prayer, less frivolous spending, more focused savings goals; less sugar, more protein… I always select a word of the year, although it often takes me a couple of weeks into the year to solidify my choice.

Our Embracing the Chill issue delves into the art of maximizing the winter experience at the beginning of this year. While January presents a quieter contrast to its festive predecessor, December, the winter season is only just commencing. Why not seize the opportunity to make the most of these extended chilly months by hibernating and seeking warmth indoors or going out and embracing Montana's invigorating cold-weather activities? Our feature, Making Winter Your Wonderland, provides insightful suggestions for nurturing winter wellness and dispelling those seasonal blues. For those on a journey towards healthier eating, our food feature, When Comfort & Resolve Collide, offers excellent tips for crafting nutritious twists on comfort foods. Enjoy this issue packed full of wintertime inspiration in the Big Sky State.

As we step into 2024, I encourage you to take moments for quiet reflection, acknowledging the blessings in your life. May you find the strength to gracefully say no to the things that no longer serve you, cultivate a mindset of contentment wherever you are on your journey, and discover joy and happiness in every moment. We are all works in progress. Wishing you a year filled with growth, strength, and resilience. Happy New Year!

Stephanie Love,

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Wellness begins with we.

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DArticle by Jessica Renstrom

O YOU HAVE A NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION?

Many people (myself included) set goals to improve their health at the start of a new year, but it can be challenging to form new habits that stand the test of time. If you’re like me, and rising at 5 a.m. to hit the gym feels unattainable, it’s time to look at alternatives. Here are several ways to boost your health this winter that are achievable and enjoyable.

GET OUTSIDE

As tempting as it may be to bundle up in a warm blanket and hibernate until spring, getting outside provides enormous health benefits for those willing to venture into the cold.

“Going outside for even five to 10 minutes can change your mood drastically, especially in more natural areas,” states Emily Chilcoat, Center Director of the Montana Audubon Center in Billings. Indeed, studies suggest that breathing in fresh air increases your brain's oxygen and serotonin levels, uplifting your spirits and enhancing your focus.

The Montana Audubon Center offers families and individuals many ways to experience the great outdoors year-round, complete with some exceptional winter experiences: “All year, we continue with our Weekend Wonders Program and Morning Bird Strolls,” continues Emily. “Our Owl Prowl is especially great in the winter as January and February are the breeding season for owls, so you’re more likely to hear them vocalizing at night now more than any other time in the season. In the winter, we take advantage of it getting darker sooner during our night hikes. When there’s a full moon with snow on the ground, everything just lights up.” Another benefit of winter’s early sunsets? Stargazing. According to Emily, “Winter is a phenomenal time for stargazing, finding basic constellations and seeing different planets, without having to stay up ‘til midnight!”

BOOST VITAMIN D

Getting outside also helps boost levels of Vitamin D, an essential vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. In addition to promoting bone development. Vitamin D can help fight off infections and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. But at our northern latitude, many Montanans cannot get enough Vitamin D from sun exposure alone. Many experts recommend supplemental Vitamin D during winter to ensure you get what your body needs. Not sure if

you’re low? Your doctor can run a simple blood test to see if your body needs a boost. As a person who’s been deficient in Vitamin D (more than once), I can testify that supplementation, when necessary, makes a wonderful difference!

TAKE A COLD PLUNGE

Cold plunges are a popular trend right now. A cold plunge involves fully immersing your body in cold water — whether in a bathtub, pool, or lake – and many proponents of this chilly practice state they’ve experienced remarkable improvements in mood, pain, and stress tolerance. Although the bulk of research studying cold plunges has yet to be conducted, much of the initial research is promising. Multiple studies have shown that regular exposure to cold temperatures can enhance insulin sensitivity (helping blood sugar management), and several studies indicate exposure to cold temperatures relieves inflammation.

Ready to give it a try? Despite its advantages, cold plunging can have some risks. So before you fill your bathtub with ice or take a dip in Lake Elmo, make sure to check in with your doctor.

ENJOY A HOT TUB SOAK

If reading about cold plunging makes you shiver, perhaps you’re more suited to a different form of hydrotherapy: soaking in a hot tub.

“Hot water can be the bridge that brings you to a different place when you’re living in Montana’s cold climate,” states Scott Prociv, Montana Hot Spring Spas owner. “It makes you feel better physically when you’re in the water soaking, and you’ll feel emotionally and mentally better when you get out. Even a 15-minute soak helps lengthen muscles, increase joint movement and range of motion, and encourage endorphin release.”

Warm water has been used for centuries as a therapy for many ailments. It can effectively decrease pain, improve quality of sleep, and speed up healing by increasing blood flow and circulation. In the winter, cold air and warm water make a powerful combo. “We’re blessed in Montana. Our state is unique. There are so many natural hot springs in Montana, with over 20 commercially operating. The cool, fresh air, in contrast to the warm water, makes for an amazing experience. Those who have done it are amazed by the contrast and continue to seek it out, whether in a natural hot spring or hot tub.”

Want to combine the benefits of warm water and the great outdoors in winter? That’s a recipe for ultimate relaxation, as Scott testifies: “There’s no better way to see the stars than when soaking in a hot tub.”

SAUNAS, SALT ROOMS, & FOOT SOAKS

Another excellent option for those looking to escape

your holiday travel with direct access & easy connections from Cape Air.

a ordable, non-stop flights between Billings and five Eastern Montana cities.

the ride.

winter’s chill is saunas. There are multiple types of saunas, but all have immense health benefits. If you’ve ever stepped inside a sauna, you’ve probably felt the relaxation firsthand, but did you know that regular sauna use can also decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia? It can also promote skin cleansing, enhance cardiovascular performance, and reduce the risk of high blood pressure.

Infrared saunas, in particular, can help combat the wintertime blues brought on by the decrease in sunshine. “The infrared sauna gives you a lot of the same health benefits as the sun, without the harmful rays and risk of sunburn,” states Lisa Oppegaard, owner of Onyx Wellness Studio & Spa. “It is great for a morale boost, easing anxiety and depression. I recommend people come at least two times a week for results that actually stick.”

Saunas, combined with other therapies, like salt rooms and foot soaks, can greatly help during cold and flu season. “If I’m still feeling congested after being sick, the infrared sauna really helps to clear out my airways,” says Lisa. “The results are even better partnered with our salt room. In the salt room, you breathe in tiny salt particles, which work to clear out your respiratory system, as salt is naturally antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal. This is great for allergies and asthma, too.” Combined with a detox foot bath, which works to clear out toxins and impurities from the body, regular use of these therapies helps with recovery from illnesses. It improves overall health to avoid getting sick all year round.

With all these great ways to boost your wellness this season, nothing is stopping you from channeling your inner Elsa (“the cold never bothered me anyway!”), and making this winter your wonderland. SLM

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 YOUNG CHILDREN. IN HER SMALL POCKETS OF FREE TIME, SHE ENJOYS PAINTING, FINDING COOL ROCKS, AND PLOTTING HER NEXT ADVENTURE.

photocourtesy of OnyxWellness photocourtesy of OnyxWellness

of Montana AudubonCenter

OYSTER

Inside the Pages:

100 Things to Do in Billings Before You Die

Article by Rebecca Stewart

Photo by Seth Kroft

If you are from the 406, you probably have big feelings about this place. It is our home; it is beautiful and massive, and as more and more people discover it, we find ourselves feeling protective of it. If people are going to be coming here (and they most definitely are), then we want them to get it right (see and experience all the great things) and treat it right, to boot. A touchstone of the www.travelmontananow.com blog, which launched pre-pandemic with the tagline, “Travel Montana Now…Before Everyone Else Does” and feels a responsibility to educate visitors ahead of arriving about respecting the land and communities, recreating responsibly, and leaving no trace, explains Gina Tarnacki.

Gina’s brainchild, she created this website with her mom (Nancy Icopini) and sister (Jackie), which ultimately led to them being approached by Reedy Press to write the Billings guidebook, 100 Things to Do in Billings Before You Die, which Gina and Nancy co-authored. Though the book proudly proclaims 100 things, you’ll be pleased to know that Nancy and Gina managed to sneak in some extras as accompanying sidebars on many pages.

Living Benefits Awareness Month

Perhaps because – despite the size of the Magic City (we are the biggest in Montana) – we all still feel like we operate with a small-town vibe; it might have you thinking, are there even a hundred things to do here?? With understanding, Gina shares that they, too, initially worried that they would have trouble getting to 100 things, but she says, “We actually had trouble choosing ONLY 100 things to do in Billings.” Once the ball got rolling and they began visiting places they had not yet been, “we discovered so many wonderful places that help make Billings special.” Then, they proceeded to tuck as many bonus activities and businesses to check out in the sidebars as possible, noting that the restaurants and museums were incredibly challenging to narrow down.

If you’re going to snag a copy of this book, and you should, there are various ways for you to consume the information nestled within the pages. Of course, you have the table of contents leading the way, and you absolutely could just read it from start to finish. Still, at the back of the book, ahead of the actual index, there are roadmaps, so to speak, where you will find activity ideas by season and four pages of suggested itineraries with everything from Take the Kids in the Summer to Day Trips from Billings and Western Way of Life.

Photo courtesy of travelmontananow.com

What do the authors most want people to know about Billings?

Gina and Nancy share,,,

BILLINGS HAS SUCH A VARIETY OF THINGS TO DO, BOTH IN THE CITY CENTER AND WITHIN AN EASY DAY TRIP.

• Billings is truly special in the way it straddles the mountain activities like skiing and alpine hiking to the west and the sprawling plains and vast farmland to the east.

• The history! Montana wouldn’t be what it is today without Billings, which you can learn about firsthand at the many museums and historical sites listed in the book.

While researching, Nancy checked out the Yellowstone County Museum for the first time despite having driven past it countless times. She was surprised to discover just how much there was to see in that (free admission!) museum.

• Billings may be the most populated city in Montana, but it still has a small-town vibe with so many local businesses and a “help your neighbor” mentality that we think is so special about Billings.

WHEN WE ASKED THE AUTHORS WHAT THEIR TOP FIVE FAVORITE THINGS FROM THE BOOK WOULD BE, THEY SAID THAT IT OFTEN CHANGES BY SEASON OR MOOD, BUT…

1. Boating at Bighorn Canyon- Nancy, a huge boat lover, and Gina, loves being on the water.

2. Pompeys Pillar and its modern visitor center make it interesting and inspiring.

3. So, too, is a visit to Chief Plenty Coups State Park south of Billings.

4. On the food front, Gina loves coffee at Black Dog or breakfast at Sassy Biscuit, while Nancy is always up for a drive to Red Lodge to eat dinner at Piccola Cucina at Ox Pasture

5. Despite neither being a cowgirl, each woman “covet[s] hats from Rand’s Hat Shop.” Beyond that, they love browsing the home and fashion finds at Joy of Living or Liberty and Vine

OKAY, FRIENDS, WHAT’S ON YOUR BILLINGS BUCKET LIST? SLM

Beyond Resolutions: Unveiling Your Why

Article by Marya Pennington

As we say goodbye to the joy and wonder of the holiday season, we turn to a new calendar year full of hope and expectation (possibly an extra five pounds, some credit card debt, and a little regret)! January is the month for new beginnings, fresh starts, and a list of resolutions to get us back on the right track. But we are creatures of habit, which makes creating new ones difficult and can leave us feeling worse than when we began.

Recently, I had the privilege of meeting with Sara Beth Wald, Boundaries and Trauma-Informed Coach and the author of the book Redefining Love, aimed at teaching people how to prioritize their mental health, set boundaries, and hold themselves and others accountable with love and grace. Our discussion centered on the cultural tradition of making New Year’s resolutions and why staying committed to them is so hard.1

THE EXPECTATIONS

Our inability to keep our resolutions or goals is often because we have unreasonable expectations that don’t match our values. “When we make resolutions but don’t think about the underlying reasons for wanting to make them or go deeper to think about the real issue, we feel shame. And if we can’t keep the resolution, we pile on more shame,” says Sara.

Let me give you an example. Your goal for 2024 is “I am going to stick to my budget this year,” and the expectation is not to spend more than the budget allows. But in reality, having the newest phone, an unexpected new tire expense, or a lack

1 https://www.redefine-love.com/

2 https://brenebrown.com/

of time to cook or meal plan might be more important, so we eat out every night instead. The expectations are destined to fail because they are not based on realistic expectations. Then, we feel shame for not meeting those expectations and give up.

THE MOTIVES

Resolutions start with a motive, which can determine your outcome. Sara says, “What is motivating the goal? Is it shame, guilt, obligation, comparison, fear, determination, joy, pleasure, integrity, desperation? There is a difference between resolutions we make for our own benefit, and those that we make for the benefit of others. Can you tell the difference?”

Are you trying to lose weight because you feel ashamed of how you look compared to others, or do you want to get healthy to keep up with your kids? Are you volunteering to make your community a better place to live, or because all the other PTA moms are doing it, and you worry about how it will look if you don’t? These are two very different motivators.

THE WHY

“It’s time to get curious,” says Sara, “and curiosity is uncomfortable because it is vulnerable.” Brene Brown, a research professor and author of six #1 New York Times bestsellers, says, “I believe that you have to walk through vulnerability to get to courage, therefore…embrace the suck. I try to be grateful every day, and my motto right now is courage over comfort.” 2

SARA SHARES 5 CURIOSITY PRACTICES TO LEAD YOU TO A PLACE OF COURAGE:

• Be kind and give yourself some grace

• Make space for quiet introspection

• Invite conversations with friends or a counselor

• Be honest about what you really want

• Set realistic goals outside of expectations

Ultimately, we shouldn’t make any resolutions without first creating an accurate Inventory of our Why. The recommendation? Create a list of resolutions you think you should make, and then dig into why you should make them. Investigate your intention. Look honestly at the reasons behind your resolutions and narrow them down to what’s really important.

“At the root of every overwhelmed person is an unexplored why. In order to know how to move forward, we must sit quietly in the discomfort of curiosity and be honest with ourselves. When we do this, the answer will float to the top. This kind of work takes courage,” says Sara Beth Wald. Take a step back. Find space to breathe. Get curious. Your why is waiting to be discovered. And then… have courage and get to work. SLM

SCHOLARSHIPS

This program is designed to develop and grow each individual and team. As a result, players will learn skills, technique, and understanding of the game that will build selfconfidence and emphasize teamwork.

4th graders will be given the option to play down with the 3rd graders or up with the 5th graders, depending on skill level.

Photo by Seth Kroft

From Victim to Advocate: Janisha's New Beginning

“My goal was to be a functioning addict. Hardly anyone knew what I was really doing.”

Article by Johanna Kennedy

If you were to pick a meth addict/trafficking survivor out of a lineup, you probably wouldn’t choose Janisha. Raised in a middle-class family in Billings, the youngest of five kids, she graduated from Senior High. However, her life quickly spiraled when she began experimenting with drugs at age 14. She was raped at 15. “Nobody believed me. It felt like I was unheard, like no one cared, and that bad things happening were just a part of life that I had to deal with and move on.” At 17, she ran away. However, she stayed in school and kept her job. At 18, she ran into her brother’s friend at a party. “My brother was in prison, and I really missed him. So, when his friend offered to take care of me, I took him up on it.” Soon, taking care of her meant being his assistant. She started by answering phone calls or messages on apps to schedule visits for his customers. His business was prostitution; his customers were commercial sex customers. “I answered the phones and babysat the girls’ kids when they went on calls.” She did this until she gave birth to her first child at 19.

When Janisha returned to work, her duties changed. She now went on calls. For the next two years, she juggled drugs, calls, and her son. One day, a regular of hers gave her a little extra money. “He knew that most everything I made went to my trafficker, so he told me to keep the extra.” Her trafficker found out and set up her next call. “When I walked into the hotel room, there were four guys there, and I knew.” When he picked her up from the call, he said, “Did you learn your lesson?”

“I felt like I was loved until I did something wrong,” Janisha continued, “If I didn’t want to go on a call, he would say something like, ‘If you don’t do this, I’ll call CPS.’’’ Then, at 21, Janisha gave birth to a baby girl. It wasn’t long before she wanted back in the game. This time, she came under a new trafficker. “One night, my friends went out without me, and an incident happened. The next day, the cops were at my door.” Janisha was told never to trust authority; unfortunately, she found this true. “I went on one call to a hotel where we pulled up next to a police van. I thought we were busted. However, the cop wasn’t there to bust me; he was my customer.”

Yet, when Officer Seth Foster from the Billings Police Department walked into her house the day after the incident, Janisha learned for the first time that not all authority is bad. “He didn’t treat me like garbage or a criminal. He wanted to hear what I had to say. He listened and understood.” After her interview with the police, the FBI got involved.

When FBI Special Agent Brandon Walter met Janisha, he saw a vulnerable young woman. “She was a young, single mom with two kids who had previously been in an abusive relationship and trafficked. It’s exactly what a trafficker looks for. Janisha didn’t admit to being trafficked right away but talked of her previous relationship and her friends who were being trafficked.” Her case was a major one involving 20 local victims that SA Walter worked on for over 18 months.

I asked Special Agent Walter how prevalent trafficking is in Billings. He stated, “When we adjust the statistics per capita, we have a significant problem here. Traffickers feel like they are trafficking in Mayberry [a quaint little town]. It’s right under our noses. I often talk to parents who have no idea that their daughter is being trafficked. It isn’t like the movie Taken, where the girls are in physical chains. The victims are psychologically chained to their traffickers, who are very charming. We call them Romeo Pimps because they give the illusion of love and romance. The girls often believe they are their trafficker’s favorite. He may promise that if she only keeps going on calls a little longer, they will have enough money to go away, get a house, and have a family together. That day never comes.”

Janisha began to realize that this day would never come for her, and she was tired. Working with the FBI could be her way out. She became an important witness in the case against her trafficker. Although Janisha began cooperating, SA Walter said: "Disclosure is a process, not an event.” It takes time. Around this time, she became aware that people were reporting her to CPS.

Janisa shared, “One day, I dropped a friend off at CPS for her visitation appointment. I sat in the car while she went upstairs. While I sat there, one of the social workers called me. She told me they knew I was in the parking lot and told me to come upstairs because they needed to talk to me about my kids.” Reluctantly, she went upstairs and met social worker Amy Charbonneau. Amy asked Janisha to take a drug test, which she refused. Amy remembers, “I told her that I was very worried about her and that I thought she was a kick-ass mom and a great person, but that she was in a scary situation and we had significant concerns.”

Janisha remembers Amy well. “She has a way with words. She said, ‘Your kids will go with your mom, and you will be OK.’ I hated her at first, but just by talking with her and listening to her questions, I could tell she had so much hope for me. [Throughout my involvement with CPS] Amy never gave up on me. I had never had anyone care for me that much at that time.”

“So, my kids went to live with my parents, and I waited to get into treatment,” Janisha continued. “I struggled to make the visits with my kids and with drugs. Then, I found an app that would allow Amy to track me. It was great because I couldn’t lie to her about where I was.” Then, the day came to check into treatment. “I was at a laundromat when Amy called and told me it was time to check-in. I told her I wouldn’t make it because I was doing my laundry.”

Amy also remembers this moment. “I saw on the app where she was. When I called her to tell her to go to treatment, and she said she wasn’t going to make it, all I said was okay. I hung up the phone, drove to the laundromat, and told her to get in my truck. I grabbed her laundry out of the machines, threw it in my backseat, and drove her to treatment. She asked me, ‘What if I fail?’ I told her, ‘‘If you fail, you’ll try again, but

Photo by Britney Higgs

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you’ll be out in 30 days, and you will see your kids sober for the first time ever.’’

About two weeks in, Janisha was still planning how to use again until one of the Victim Advocates visited. She told Janisha that they had finally caught everyone associated with her case, including her trafficker, and that they would all go away for a very long time. “It felt like I was wearing all this armor to protect myself, and when she said that, it all came off. For the first time, I cried in treatment.” Something clicked, and Janisha thought she might make it.

After treatment, Janisha transitioned to a sober living house. While at the house, she became involved with Drug Court. With the people involved in her Drug Court, her social workers at CPS, and the FBI agents, Janisha felt she had true wrap-around care that worked. “I had so many people rooting for me and my kids. I could call them at any time for any reason, and someone would answer and help me.” Janisha graduated from Drug Court and was reunited with her children.

Three years later, Janisha is involved with these agencies in a different capacity. Instead of calling her FBI contact for encouragement, she calls to discuss their next speaking engagement to share her story. Instead of discussing her case with local law enforcement, she’s helping survivors she works with at HER Campaign navigate their own cases. Amy once asked Janisha what she wanted her life to look like in five years. “Everything that Janisha listed has happened; she accomplished everything.” Janisha attributes her success to those who invested in her. “If I didn’t have these people, I know I’d be sold across state lines or dead today.”

SLM

Photo

We will celebrate with a panel discussion on the history of our building, presentations from the people who made it happen, and discussions on the history and evolution of the Billings Public Library. We’ll host tours, events for kids, a birthday dance party, and more! Keep an eye on our socials, and visit our website for more information!

GRAND OPENING RECEPTION

Monday, Jan. 29 (6:30-7:30 pm – Community Room):

Help commemorate a decade of our beloved library’s journey. The evening will feature insightful speeches by the library and BPLF administration, outlining their ambitious vision for the next decade. Enjoy a sophisticated array of hors d’oeuvres as we toast to our shared future.

Innovating Pediatric Care:

Montana Pediatrics Paves the Way for After-Hours Access

Article by Hannah Olson

Photos courtesy of Montana Pediatrics

Progress often stems from a dissatisfaction with the status quo, a sentiment particularly resonant in the healthcare sector. Movers and shakers throughout Montana are uniting to redefine the healthcare experience, and at the forefront of this transformation is Montana Pediatrics. The challenges parents face in terms of affordable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for their children, compounded by restricted hours, are all too familiar. When a child falls ill, parents are frequently left with limited options that hinge on outdated phone calls with providers or expensive, fragmented emergency room or urgent care visits.

Realizing this lack of quality, accessible, after-hours pediatric care, Montana Pediatrics has taken a proactive stance to address this issue head-on by forging a collaborative approach to pediatric care that embraces technology and community spirit. Their mission is clear: no Montana family should face the worry of their child's health alone. Through a team of dedicated Montana-based pediatric providers, Montana Pediatrics is reshaping the landscape of pediatric care accessibility, ensuring Montana families have consistent round-the-clock access to pediatric-specific providers. This exclusively virtual model opens doors and provides care to even the most remote communities.

A COLLECTIVE VISION FOR MONTANA FAMILIES

Montana Pediatrics, as a non-profit organization, was born out of the pressing need to address the multitude of challenges faced by families in accessing pediatric care, especially during nights and weekends when traditional primary care offices are closed. The struggle for parents is all too

PARTIES AT PARKS!

real: limited options result in costly Emergency Room and Urgent Care visits, which are not universally available 24/7. Moreover, families in rural communities often grapple with a scarcity of pediatric specialists, exacerbating the already limited access to pediatric-specific care.

Adding to the complexity is the emergence of out-of-state telemedicine companies attempting to cater to families. These companies, while offering telehealth solutions, often lack a nuanced understanding of local services, access points, and the unique healthcare landscape of the state of Montana. This poses a threat to the continuity and quality of care, as these out-of-state entities may be disconnected from the intricate web of resources available locally.

Faced with these challenges, a dedicated and innovative group of pediatric providers within Montana Pediatrics recognized the need for a comprehensive solution. Their vision revolves around synergizing the capabilities of telemedicine with the invaluable local knowledge and resources inherent in Montana's communities. By doing so, Montana Pediatrics aims not only to provide immediate relief for families in urgent situations but also to foster a sustainable, locally grounded approach to pediatric care that bridges the existing gaps in accessibility and ensures continuity of service, particularly in underserved rural areas.

With secure and user-friendly technology at the heart of every afterhours telemedicine visit, families can receive timely, effective, and safe healthcare services wherever they are. Most importantly, Montana Pediatrics is dedicated to keeping every child’s primary care provider in the loop, updating them promptly with visit

notes, ensuring continuity of care and communication, and assisting in coordinating follow-up visits should additional care be needed beyond the telemedicine visit.

The providers at Montana Pediatrics are a group of Montana-based pediatricians who share a common belief in providing the best access to care for Montana's children. With a focus on continuity of care and supporting a child's own doctor, this team is united in the mission to improve access to healthcare and health equity for all children in the state. This often means being committed to being available when families need them, seeing patients from birth up to 22 years old.

While the hope is that emergency department referrals are rare, Montana Pediatrics ensures a seamless transition if it becomes necessary. Providers will contact the directed ER department, making them aware of the situation and providing them with a pediatric-specific recommendation or treatment plan.

COSTS AND INSURANCE

Understanding the economic diversity of Montana, Montana Pediatrics believes that every child in the state deserves high-quality pediatric care. They strive to accept all insurance plans in the state, including Medicaid, and generally align visit costs with what one would pay for an uncomplicated in-office visit. For those without insurance or Medicaid, there are low cash pay options as well.

Aligned with this, Montana Pediatrics believes caregivers should never be concerned about paying for care for their child. For any family facing financial constraints or concerns over the ability to pay, a generous Financial Assistance Policy is in place to reduce or eliminate the bill with a short form that can be easily completed on their website.

In essence, Montana Pediatrics is a key support to primary healthcare providers and a truly communitydriven initiative that places the well-being of Montana's children at the forefront. Through collaboration, technology, and a commitment to inclusivity, they are breaking down barriers to ensure that every child, no matter where they live or their economic circumstances, has access to highquality pediatric care. SLM

WHEN COMFORT & RESOLVE Collide

Article by Tiffany Ricci

Out the window, a frost-covered branch catches the setting sun’s weak rays. Wisps of snow leave their drift as the wind carries them from one side of the road to the other. A thermometer is unnecessary; you can see how cold it is outside.

It’s the kind of winter day that begs for a bowl of warmth for dinner. A meal that can fill the home with nostalgic aroma, the belly with happiness, and warm the body from the inside out. This day needs comfort food. Ooey, gooey, packedwith-memories comfort.

“Comfort food” is not a particular dish but rather the memories associated with the food. It’s the feeling you get when you take a bite of Grandma’s meatloaf or sink your teeth into a melty grilled cheese sandwich. Comfort food is more an experience that brings joy and warmth to body and soul.

But it’s also January. The month of resolve. The month where we stop our monthslong overindulgence that started at Halloween and stumbled right through till December 31st. It is the month where we “get back on track” by joining challenges and cleanses and the latest diet. It seems that the season perfect for comfort food is in opposition with the month of fresh starts.

WHAT DO WE DO WHEN COMFORT AND RESOLVE COLLIDE? THE SOLUTION IS NOT AT ODDS AS ONE MIGHT THINK.

Let’s look at this through the eyes of a registered dietitian who loves comfort foods yet understands the desire to pursue healthier nutrition and exercise patterns after the joyous holiday season, now in our rearview mirror.

First, while January is the month we resolve ourselves into our best versions - we want to make realistic changes that last into February and beyond. Practical changes include adding health to our current routines. Unrealistic changes include upending everything we currently do by replacing it with unsustainable patterns that are too draconian to last and force us to adopt too many new habits simultaneously.

For some of us, January can be a good reset to go back to patterns we had before the Halloween candy trickled in and then roared into all the edible Christmas traditions that littered the December calendar. January allows us to limit our dessert choices to one meal a day instead of every meal. We can stop living off leftovers and incorporate veggies into our lunches and dinners.

January is perhaps the most challenging month in Montana to sustain these healthy habits. We start to notice the dark and cold. The festive lights fizzle out, the decorations get stored, and all we’re left with is bitter wind, fast-approaching nights, and a deep desire (maybe even a need) for comfort food to provide a little hug to get us through till spring.

Let’s not dismiss comfort food or swear it off to save face for our habit trackers. Here are three ways to mend the vast divide between often calorically dense comfort food and our resolve to get back to healthy.

Add some nutrition to your comfort food dish. Is there a way to tweak the dish to improve the overall nutritional profile? See if any of these suggestions will work:

f Use less cheese or lighter cream cheese.

f Replace white rice with brown and use whole-grain pasta instead of white wheat pasta.

f Add pureed pumpkin or squash to cheesy dishes.

f Incorporate pulsed mushrooms and green peas with meat for meatloaf and meatball dishes.

f Double up the veggie content in soups and stews.

If you might be banished from the family for trying to “healthify” a beloved favorite, try adding nutrition to the side. Start with a smaller portion of the not-to-be-messedwith dish and add a healthy dose of veggies, fruits, and whole grains.

f Roast root vegetables such as beets, turnips, and parsnips to add color and flavor.

f Thinly slice raw Brussels sprouts to use as the base of a salad.

f Sauté broccoli and cauliflower with olive oil and seasonings.

f Use whole-grain bread or crackers to serve with soups and stews.

f Thaw frozen berries and mix them with yogurt as a side.

Invite a new comfort food to your rotation. Combine warm, soul-filling comfort food along with a “January-appropriate” dish. This can be done with options such as a veggie-packed stew or hot dish, a dreamy curry with brown rice, or a creamy tomato soup like the one featured in this issue.

Since we’re focused on a feeling of comfort rather than a specific dish, it is possible to incorporate nutrition into those signature foods so you can fully enjoy the associated memories and honor your resolution. Cheers to nourishing comfort foods! SLM

CREAMY TOMATO SOUP

INGREDIENTS :

2 Tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, chopped

½ teaspoon each dried rosemary, dried thyme, and dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground pepper

1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (not the kind packed in oil)

6 cups broth

1 28-ounce can crushed fire-roasted tomatoes

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the onions until translucent. Add garlic, herbs, salt and pepper. Sauté for one more minute.

2. Add potatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil. Turn heat down to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.

3. Add canned crushed tomatoes.

4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. (Transfer to a blender if without an immersion blender. Puree in blender and transfer back to soup pot.)

Serve with your favorite grilled cheese, and enjoy! SLM

Easy Garlic Knots

Ingredients:

• 1 can buttermilk biscuits

• 4 Tbs melted butter

• 2 Tbs parmesan cheese

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp dried parsley

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 400°

• Butter a large baking sheet and set aside.

• Cut each biscuit in half and roll each half into a longer strand about 6"-8" in length.

• Tie each strand into a knot and tuck ends gently underneath.

• Lay garlic knots on prepared baking sheet and set aside.

• In small bowl whisk together melted butter, parmesan, garlic powder, oregano and parsley until combined.

• Brush a little bit of the butter mixture over each knot and bake in oven for about 10 minutes until browned.

• Remove from oven and immediately brush with remaining butter mixture.

Feeding Students,Together

Article by Kelly McCandless

Food. We plan days around meals, we celebrate occasions around food, and we need it to sustain us. Most of us take food for granted. We can’t imagine wondering where our next meal will come from or what it feels like to go without food. Unfortunately, more people, especially children, are becoming all too familiar with these unimaginable realities.

THE BEGINNING

In 2007, School District 2 was addressing major behavioral issues and determined food insecurity was a significant factor. Kids who relied on school to provide breakfast and lunch through the free or reduced meal program went home on weekends and during school breaks with little to no food available. Anxiety before the break and emotional issues when they returned to school were rampant. That’s when the program's founder, Ginny Mermel, started the BackPack Meals and School Food Pantry programs. Today, the programs are managed by the Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools, and they ensure more than 800 children in SD2 are fed healthy, nourishing food each week when they’re not at school.

The BackPack Meals program focuses on elementary students. It provides two lunches and two breakfasts to sustain kids over the weekend for the meals they usually receive during the school day (and larger food kits for longer breaks). While students are at recess, school staff discreetly slip the meals into the child’s backpack. The Foundation provides 420 BackPack Meal kits each week, up 7% from last school year.

The School Food Pantry Program (formerly known as Teen Pantries) also addresses needs. In the middle and high schools, students identified as being food insecure are given access to a privately located food pantry where they select shelf-stable, nutritious, easy-to-prepare foods and basic hygiene items. In the spring of 2022, the pantry program expanded to include elementary schools and pre-K and adult education programs. Today, the Foundation manages 35 food pantries and feeds a conservative minimum of 400 students weekly through the pantries.

ALL HANDS ON DECK

Between the two programs, more than 800 students in Billings Public Schools rely on the Foundation for food outside of school hours. Meeting this huge demand costs between $4,000 - $6,000 every week.

That’s where this story gets good. Almost two years ago, a woman saw an interview of an elementary school teacher on the news. The teacher described how difficult it is to teach when a child is hungry because they can’t focus, they fall asleep, or they cry. The woman wanted to do something and thought many others would like to help.

The rest, as they say, is history. She connected with the Foundation to learn about the programs and where the need was greatest. After researching and learning about the needs, she knew she wanted to help elementary school children.

“I knew my friends would help, but I wanted to create something they would be excited about. My friends have done it all,” she explained. “They’ve been professionals, volunteers, board members, and community leaders. The last thing they wanted was more meetings and events.” So, she started sending emails to her friends, telling the story and inviting them to help in whatever way worked for them. She shared a list of items needed. Soon, her living room looked like a grocery store.

“The women started shopping for items the Foundation needed for these kids. They dropped it by my house, and I delivered it so the Foundation could distribute it to the students.” Some women brought checks instead of groceries; all became invested in providing for these kids, which they

do every month. The woman calls them the Wild Women of the West because they are! “Their commitment is extraordinary,” she said, noting that these incredible women remain anonymous.

What’s more, they’ve expanded how they care for kids. They’ve purchased better storage for the pantry foods in the schools and started providing fresh fruits and vegetables monthly year-round.

TOGETHER, WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE

The Wild Women will say, “Look what a group can do. We are making a difference with all of us doing what we can! We want to inspire others to take on a cause they are passionate about. Whatever you can do makes a difference when you have a common goal and work together.”

The Foundation cannot speak highly enough about these women, their generosity, and the amazing model they’ve created. “Every month, I know I’ll be able to restock our 22 elementary pantries with the nourishing food the women provide for us,” explained Nikki Dolan, Food Insecurity Program Coordinator for the Foundation.

It’s true what they say, “Many hands make light work.” And a BIG impact. SLM

Photo by Nathan Satran

SNUGGLE SEASON:

5 Ways to Your Home this Warm Up Winter

Winter is upon us, which means pulling out all the warm gear, preparing ourselves for floors that are constantly wet and dirty and overflowing closets with the aforementioned winter gear. In the midst of all this, you might even find yourself saying, “I am not a cold weather person,” more often than you mean to. It’s not necessarily because we don’t like winter; the season does have some perks...

Winter is beautiful and crisp, but the grind of the cold and lack of sun can have us feeling blue. With some preparation, we can set ourselves up for mental contentment during the cold months by warming up our homes. I like to ensure the place where I spend the most time has warm elements to make me feel comfortable and peaceful. It’s the joy you get when you have that perfect blanket, your favorite mug, and you’re watching one of your favorite movies or are nose deep into a good book.

Article by Meggie Shaw

Photos by Yardly Daigneau, @yardlydphoto

Key Elements to Create a Warm & Inviting Environment 5

1

Blankets

Think of your favorite sitting spot in the house; this is where your blanket should live. Stop putting it away because you’re just going to pull it back out. If you’re like me, it will be tied around your waist like a towel. Pick a color that you love, but try to get a darker shade of that color to give it a warmer vibe. Colors like maroon, dark green, mustard yellow, and navy are great to add a pop of color to the space.

Pro tip: When choosing a blanket, purchase one with some texture, not just fleece. Woven, waffle knit, and crochet are best for design. They look better when left thrown over your chair or couch. I guarantee you’ll enjoy your blanket more if it’s also meaningful. That may mean spending extra money to get exactly what you want, not just a random one. Etsy is always a great place to find handmade things!

2Candles

There is something about a candle; it just does the trick. I recently read that the soothing effect of candles is based on how the brain processes smells. The smell of scented candles stimulates our limbic system, the part of the brain that is home to our memory and emotions or nostalgia. When lighting a candle, hormones like serotonin and dopamine can be produced to help regulate mood. We need all the serotonin we can get with winter’s lack of vitamin D.

Pro Tip: Generic candles have toxins in them, so be careful! Instead, try this… make your own! You can do it right at home. Pick out a unique jar; this is the fun part! Get creative. You could grab something you already have or go hunting. Goodwill, Marketplace 3301, and Yesteryears all have a great selection. Pick an essential oil you love and follow the instructions on this DIY! It's such a fun girl's night activity.

Scan here for the DIY

3Lighting

In addition to candles, nothing says warmth and cozy more than the perfect lamp. Each room should have a lamp in it. To set the mood, turn out the main bright lights and use only your lamps. The game changer is to ensure you have incandescent or LED light bulbs that produce warm yellow light. You don't want a bright white light in your face, so changing these will make all the difference. If you don’t have the wiring for a new light fixture, you can always get away with a battery-operated wall sconce to create ambiance!

Pro Tip: Lighting makes a statement in the room. Decide what style you’re going for in your home and pick something along those lines. Just bite the bullet and spend the extra bill on lighting! World Market has a great selection of unique lighting options. Again, you can add vintage light to a more modern home; it gives the house a fun uniqueness. We don’t want the same basic Target lamp as everyone has. The perfect lamp could be one you find at an estate sale that’s ALMOST perfect. Another easy DIY is to grab a can of textured spray paint and update it.

4Texture

The more texture, the more warmth. Don't be scared to mix and match textures. Ensure you have a balanced mix of wood, metal, wicker, stone, and other textured design elements. The easy things to add to warm it up are wooden elements. Some ideas would be cutting boards, coasters, and accent chairs. Another item that adds warmth is baskets. These can store your blankets, toys, books, and shoes; they are a catch-all. The last idea is adding some unique stone around the home. This could be your favorite mug, a vase, or a jar on your kitchen counter. Mixing these in will surely bring warmth.

Pro Tip: Choose one space and scan it over. Do you have at least 3-5 elements? If you have all wood or all metal, consider adding a decorative accent of a different element. You can try playing the fun game of can this go on my wall? The most unexpected things can make stunning wall art. The trending basket wall is always a great way to add texture. Do you have a book you love? What if you ripped some pages out and framed them? Do you have a collection of something? Display it on your wall.

Greenery

We need to bring the outside in with most of the trees bare and grass covered with snow. Every room should have a lamp and some greenery in it. It just makes the space feel like it has some life in it. I know it's hard to keep plants alive, but trust me, get the real thing. You won't regret it. My go-to plant is pathos; they are pretty and easy to keep alive. Another easy option is dried flowers. Put some dried flowers in a vase and call it good. Plants and flowers are also an easy way to add a pop of color and remind us that spring is coming!!

Pro Tip: Pick out your plant and go hunting again! Hit the local antique shops and look for anything that could hold a plant! You might find something super unique and creative. Be open to all ideas. My friend has a plant in a vintage tin oil container, and it’s perfection!

These five ideas should help you add some unique warmth to your home this winter. You probably already have most of these things lying around. When in doubt about what to choose or what to put where get what you love. If it makes you happy and feels good, do it! If you are having trouble with putting what where, keep moving things and playing around with it. It's also best to take things home and try them out in real life; you can always return things. Create a space that feels authentic to you. SLM

MEGGIE SHAW OF MEGGIE ALYN DESIGN WAS BORN AND RAISED IN BILLINGS/SHEPHERD, MONTANA. AFTER COLLEGE, SHE MOVED BACK TO BILLINGS AND MET HER HUSBAND, JUSTEN. THEY NOW HAVE TWO ADORABLE CHILDREN, BECKETT AND RONNI. AFTER REMODELING A FIFTH WHEEL, SHE DISCOVERED A JOY FOR HOME DESIGN. IN 2022, HER HUSBAND SURPRISED HER WITH AN LLC FOR HER OWN COMPANY! SHE DOES IT BECAUSE SHE LOVES IT AND WANTS TO HELP PEOPLE DESIGN A SPACE THEY LOVE AND ARE PROUD OF.

COLD MONTHS,

W Cozy HOME

Article by Stephanie Hobby

hen the weather outside turns frightful, safely keeping your home warm is vital. Pipes can freeze and burst, an unattended hearth can ignite a blaze, and furnaces on the fritz can cause bigger problems than just a chilly night. A little upfront effort in prevention goes a long way to keeping energy costs down and preventing a major disaster.

One of the best defenses is good insulation. Laura Sciacca, owner of 406 Disaster Response, says modular homes are particularly vulnerable to frozen pipes and encourages owners to invest in insulated skirts if their home isn’t on a foundation.

Speaking of pipes, if you haven’t already, disconnect your hoses and cover outdoor faucets. Contact a plumber immediately if you discover a pipe with a slow leak. As with most home maintenance, the earlier a problem is caught, the less it costs to fix.

If you’re headed out on vacation or leaving a vacation home for the winter, keep the heat at least 55 degrees F. “Sometimes people will shut off their heat if they’re going on vacation or leaving for the season, but if you’re going to do that, the water lines can freeze, which can cause problems,” Sciacca said. She recommends contacting a plumber to winterize the lines if you are leaving long-term.

There’s nothing like sitting in front of a cozy wood fire or enjoying a burning candle during Montana’s long winter nights, and you can do it worry-free with a few precautions. Make sure the chimney is cleaned annually. If you haven’t done it yet, it’s time to take your dead Christmas tree down. Once they dry out, plugging them in becomes a significant fire risk. Keep candles away from anything flammable. Never go to bed while a fire is still burning, and put a screen over the opening to prevent popping embers from igniting the living room rug.

While space heaters are great for small areas, they are notoriously dangerous. Sciacca explained never to leave one unattended or attach one to a power strip or extension cord, as they can arc and cause a fire. People sometimes use them under their homes to prevent frozen pipes, but that is very risky.

The real powerhouse of safe winter comfort is your furnace, and keeping it adequately maintained once a year will keep you and your family comfortable for 15-20 years, possibly longer if properly maintained.

Jeffrey Scherr, owner of Comfort Heat and Air Conditioning, said furnace technology has come a long way in recent years, and high-efficiency furnaces are your best bet for even temperatures.

“Even though a much older furnace is working and heating your home properly, the additional cost you spend on natural gas and electricity can be quite significant,” Scherr said. Ideally, set up a yearly maintenance plan with a local HVAC company, which can alert you when your furnace is reaching the end of its life, but if you haven’t, be proactive.

“They typically fail right when you really, really need it, and then it becomes an emergency situation, whereas if you replace it on your own time and your own schedule, you can get what you’d want,” he said.

To boost your furnace, seal up any windows or doors where air can leak through, and consider foam inserts for exterior wall electrical switches and outlets. Check the batteries in your thermostat, and turn it down at night.

Keeping the furnace fan running will help your thermostat function more effectively. “If you look at some cars, there are three temperature zones, and that’s 15-20 square feet,” Scherr said. “If you have a house that’s 1500 square feet on each level, and one thermostat upstairs in the middle of the home, that thermostat has no idea what’s happening any place else in the house, so keeping the fan going can help.” If areas of your home aren’t being heated evenly, reach out to your HVAC contractor for solutions.

A home humidifier is a must in our dry climate; not only can it help prevent dry, itchy skin, eyes and throats, nosebleeds, and breathing problems, but it helps eliminate static charges and is particularly helpful for keeping wood flooring in good shape. It also helps the house to feel warmer on a lower thermostat setting. “Keeping the relative humidity between 35 and 50 percent is optimal,” Scherr said. That range can prevent the growth of various molds and bacteria that thrive in either really moist or arid environments.

If disaster strikes, call a restoration company and your insurance immediately. Remember that you do not have to use the restoration company your insurance recommends; by law, they must work with your chosen company. Sciacca recommends hiring a company with an IICRC rating, which ensures that a company has been trained to meet globally recognized standards, credentials, and certifications for the inspection, cleaning, and restoration industries.

Above all, please don’t feel you must go it alone. Contact your HVAC contractor if you have questions or need preventative maintenance. “Most of us are more than happy just to come out and answer questions,” Scherr said. “We have a menu of options we can offer to boost comfort and efficiency.”

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.

WEST PEAK CONSTRUCTION

A SCANDI-MODERN STUNNER

Love

Article by Maria Weidich

Photos by Nathan Satran

Established in 2021, West Peak Construction is already building a distinguished reputation as a homebuilder in the Magic City. As illustrated at the Billings Parade of Homes last fall, West Peak owners Justin and Marley Johnson’s quality craftsmanship and innovative, out-of-the-box designs promise to amaze and delight with every turn.

TRADITIONAL MEETS MODERN

Traditional Scandinavian design emphasizes simplicity, neutral colors, and natural elements, and West Peak nailed it when designing the exterior of this home. The hipped roof, pine wood soffit, and contrasting exterior colors all express beauty without sacrificing function. The clean, sharp lines and minimalistic architecture unify the Scandinavianmodern design, making the look timeless.

THE KING OF ALL KITCHENS

West Peak Construction was awarded “Best Kitchen” at the Parade, and with its bigger-than-average, 5-by10-foot quartzite island, there is no question why. The entire kitchen was designed around the colossal island, one of Justin’s must-haves in the home. With seating for five, the massive counter doubles as a workspace, a classroom, or a focal place for entertaining. “We only trimmed a couple of inches off each end,” Justin said of the seamless, full slab island. “The size of the island, matching backsplash, and range hood caught everybody’s attention.”

The eye-catching 64-inch stainless refrigeratorfreezer attracted Parade goers, too. “I think every person at the Parade had to open at least one of the doors,” Justin laughed. Don’t forget the adjoining butler’s pantry with a prep sink, wine fridge, and ample storage.

As if the kitchen wasn’t striking enough, the home’s Great Room is a stunner. The 11foot ceilings, extra tall windows, and abundant natural light create an open and airy space that contradicts Montana’s cold and dark winters. More remarkable is the black fireplace surround and contrasting hemlock mantle shelf. The vertical wooden paneling behind the TV adds to the Nordic influence while transforming how the room looks and sounds. Though the floor plan remains open, the space is well-defined and cozy.

COZY AND BRIGHT

TRANSFORMING WITH TILE

Before he took on complete home builds, Justin filled his days as a skilled tile setter and floor installer, and his expertise is evident throughout the home.

“I love tile; that’s what I do,” Justin laughed. As a nod to their paired craftsmanship and creativity, the Johnsons created unique tile designs in each of the home’s three bathrooms, including different niche shelf styles in each shower. “We tried to do something different,” Justin said, “and sometimes the best place to experiment is on your own house.”

The main bathroom’s frameless, curbless shower is a luxury and a must-have for Marley. “The bathroom is relatively small, so we wanted to create a larger and more open feel with less angles and things to step over and walk behind.”

CONGRATULATIONS WEST

PEAK CONSTRUCTION!

For being one of the Best Kitchen winners in this year’s Parade of Homes.

Amy Adams, Kris Fairlee - Stockman Bank, Marley Johnson, Justin JohnsonWest Peak Construction

DITCHING THE DOORS

If interior doors weren’t fundamental, the Johnsons intentionally kept them off. These open passageways sprinkled throughout the home are a nod to the Scandimodern design. “We spent a good amount of time on the windows, and we love them,” Marley said. “The less we could deter natural light coming in from every angle, the better. We were happy to do that if it meant fewer doors.”

A PATIO PLEASING TO THE EYES

West Peak put just as much thought into the home’s outdoor beauty and livability. The 12-by-8-foot glass slider door escorts homeowners and guests to a spacious backyard and relaxing hangout. Between the simple outdoor kitchen and prominent stucco fire pit, the covered space has everything you need to extend time outdoors, even in marginal weather.

The Scandi-modern influence continues by juxtaposing black metal and pine wood soffit. “Add the black fan, and it really pops,” Justin said. “We tried to find ways to tie the front to the back of the house,” Marley added. “And in between the pine and stucco, I think we achieved that.”

THE WEST PEAK WOW FACTOR

West Peak knows homeowners highly regard their garage space, and boy, did they deliver. Capable of parking three cars, the extra-deep garage also includes a man cave with a mounted TV, built-in bar, and indoor-outdoor flooring. It’s the perfect space to watch the game and swap hunting stories. A door leading to a separate dog run for the Johnson’s three large pups is conveniently attached.

“We want to keep doing something different, something outside the box, something beyond your everyday designs,” Marley said. “We want to be able to drive through Billings, our own hometown, and say, that’s a West Peak house. Even with its challenges, we wouldn’t have it any other way. We found our passion, and we love it.” SLM

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.

Transforming Spaces with MAGIC CITY GRANITE

Article and photos by Renata Haidle

Magic City Granite recently inaugurated a new showroom at 5820 Titan Avenue. What started as a modest venture over two decades ago has grown into a thriving business offering a wide selection of products to those looking for countertop solutions. The new space showcases its extensive collection of natural stone and samples of manufactured products and inspires homeowners and designers looking to transform their spaces.

Though still in progress when this article went to print, the showroom is open to the public. Visitors can explore a variety of quartz and natural stone slabs, witnessing the beauty of these materials up close.

A DIVERSE RANGE OF PRODUCTS

Magic City Granite prides itself on offering a comprehensive selection of materials suitable for countertops, shower and fireplace walls, outdoor barbecues, and more. The possibilities are endless, with several types of quartz products and an array of natural stones like granite, marble, quartzite, and onyx.

The brands they carry, including familiar names such as LG, Cambria, Silestone, and Caesarstone, ensure that customers have a wide range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. The affordability of lines such as Revera Quartz and One Quartz provides a cost-effective alternative without compromising quality and aesthetics.

TRENDS AND TIMELESS BEAUTY

In the world of countertops, trends come and go, but Magic City Granite has observed an exciting resurgence in the popularity of natural stone. While quartz has dominated the market in recent years, there's a noticeable shift back toward the classic appeal of granite. With its durability and timeless beauty, this resilient stone is making a comeback, offering homeowners a robust and stylish choice for their countertops. Marble, another classic material, is in demand and appreciated for its timeless elegance. However, its application requires careful consideration due to its susceptibility to some level of etching and staining.

THE ART OF SELECTION AND DESIGN

Selecting the right countertop involves a thoughtful process. At Magic City Granite, customers are encouraged to consider their lifestyle, coordinate with existing décor, and factor in their budget. The showroom provides a handson experience, allowing visitors to visualize how different materials and colors will look in their homes.

Magic City Granite's team assists in the decision-making process, discussing the pros and cons of each material. Every detail, from edge profiles to maintenance requirements, is carefully considered to ensure that the chosen countertop meets aesthetic and practical needs.

CRAFTING PERSONALIZED SPACES

Magic City Granite primarily serves residential clients, offering a personalized experience tailored to each homeowner's preferences for indoor and outdoor spaces. The introduction of man-made materials like Dekton opened up new possibilities for outdoor applications, providing heat-resistant and durable solutions for outdoor kitchens and barbecues. The versatility of these materials allows for creativity in design while maintaining functionality.

BEHIND THE SCENES: THE FABRICATION PROCESS

Magic City Granite's team comprises skilled fabricators, templaters, and installers who bring customers' visions to

life. The templater measures and programs the cutting machines, ensuring precision in every project. Fabricators then use state-of-the-art machinery to cut and polish the slabs, followed by meticulous hand polishing to achieve a flawless finish.

The installation team brings the crafted countertops to their final destination, ensuring a seamless integration into the client's home. From digital imaging for visualizing the final result to hands-on fabrication, Magic City Granite takes pride in overseeing every step of the process.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

As Magic City Granite continues to evolve and grow, the commitment to providing quality materials and personalized service remains unwavering. The new showroom signifies a physical expansion and represents a dedication to creating a space where customers can explore, dream, and bring their visions to life. Often, countertops become more than functional surfaces—they become works of art that tell a story of craftsmanship, elegance, and the enduring beauty of natural stone.

TIPS ON CHOOSING THE RIGHT MATERIALS FOR YOUR PROJECT

Selecting the right countertop for your home involves careful consideration of various factors. Here are some tips to guide you through the selection process:

• Consider Your Lifestyle: Before selecting a countertop, assess your lifestyle and how you use your kitchen or bathroom. If you entertain frequently or have a bustling family, opt for darker shades or patterns that can hide potential stains and wear.

• Coordinate with Existing Decor: Both natural and man-made countertops are versatile and can complement various design styles. Consider your home's existing color scheme and design elements to ensure seamless integration of the new countertop.

• Test for Durability: As with any countertop material, testing for durability is essential. Granite is resistant to heat, scratches, and stains, making it an excellent choice for busy households. Perform a simple water droplet test to check if the stone needs sealing.

• Budget Considerations: Quartz countertops are an investment in your home's aesthetic appeal and functionality. While they may have a higher upfront cost, their durability, and timeless beauty make them

a cost-effective choice in the long run.

• Edge Profiles: The edge profile of your countertop can significantly impact the overall look of your kitchen or bathroom. Magic City Granite offers various edge profiles, from simple and straight to more elaborate styles. Choose an edge profile that complements your design preferences.

• Sealing and Maintenance: Most natural stone slabs require the periodic application of a sealant to enhance their longevity. Consider the maintenance requirements and choose a stone that aligns with your willingness to care for it. SLM

RENATA HAIDLE IS A ROMANIAN-AMERICAN PHOTOGRAPHER, WRITER, AND BOOK AUTHOR. AN AVID TRAVELER, SHE CREDITS PARIS FOR SPARKING HER PHOTOGRAPHY CAREER AFTER HER FIRST VISIT THERE IN 2014. HER FIRST PHOTO BOOK, FRENCH RIVIERA, WAS PUBLISHED IN JULY 2019.

Photo by Seth Kroft

fter the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, January is… Lacking is not quite the right word, but it’s also not exactly what one would classify as a delight. It is often bitterly cold; we’re feeling the pressure of New Year, New You, and it’s like we’re all taking a collective breath, settling back into routine. You know, with a side of hitting the gym, meal planning, assessing our organizational aspirations, and/or dabbling in healthy eating.

I always note that January’s calendar is not nearly as full (or jolly) as its December counterpart, which is not necessarily a bad thing. Perhaps what we find lacking is exactly what one needs in the aftermath of the hubbub – the calm after the storm, so to speak. Whether we go all in on making resolutions or setting intentions or not, January is like one big, frosty reset button. It’s impossible to always be on, and maybe January is our reminder to slow down (perhaps both literally – icy roads – and figuratively), enjoy a calmer pace, and marvel at another year gone by.

Where does the time go, we often wonder? In the hard times, the days might feel endless, and it seems like we’ll never see through to the other side until one day, we just are. And, still, we wonder, as we look around and discover that we made it, where did the time go? As I have so often said, the time, if you’re looking for it, it’s in the little things. The little things that make the world go round get us through the hard things and sprinkle magic into the big, bright, and beautiful things. And, so, here in January, we let go of all the hullabaloo from which we’ve just come, we reset, and maybe we look for the little things and their big impact.

Rebecca Stewart, Assistant editor

Friends, I know I make special mention of this in the calendar, but if we’re talking about where has the time gone, then how can we not extra acknowledge that it has been TEN years since Billings Public Library opened its doors?! What a wonder it was to experience the excitement and anticipation as it neared completion of construction and then opened its doors in a most glorious fashion, having created exceptional, intentional spaces that would care for its community so beautifully. Please do take note of the 10-Year Celebrations, but also appreciate the expansive programming offered monthly within the walls of our library and beyond.

Beyond the Pages

Connect with us beyond the pages this month on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and with our bloggers as they bring you original content all month long

CALENDAR January 2024

Edited by Rebecca Stewart

RiverStone Health Immunization

Clinic open M-F to provide child and adult immunizations by appointment only. 123 S 27th St, next to the pharmacy. Please call 406.247.3382 to schedule an appointment. Vaccines are available at no charge for uninsured and underinsured children.

1 Monday | New Year's Day

2 Tuesday

Memory Cafe . 10:30am. 1st TU of the month. Billings Public Library. Adults experiencing memory loss and their caregivers are invited to visit the library to socialize and enjoy an activity together. This event is sponsored by Dementia Friendly Billings and Big Sky Senior Services. For more information and to RSVP, please contact Suzanne at 406-2593111.

member! — Sarah Brown leads these sessions and welcomes ALL levels. Please bring your own yoga mat. Cost: $60/member, 6-class series // $90/non-member, 6-class series.

Quilt By Association Monthly Guild Meeting | Annual Holiday festivities 6:30-8:30pm. American Lutheran Church, 5 Lewis Ave. Come join a group of quilting maniacs. First Monday of the month.

4 Thursday

NAMI Billings Support Group for Mental Health | Connection. 1-2:30pm, TH. NAMI Billings, 955 Broadwater Square. Provides a stigma-free environment for adults living with mental health conditions. Find a community of support in a confidential setting. No cost, and no registration required. Zoom available: info@namibillings.org.

5 Friday

FAM at the YAM | Make Your Own Mini Print. 4-6pm. Yellowstone Art Museum. All ages. Free admission. For every type of family, come and go, and create art with a professional artist. www.artmuseum.org.

Friday Night Fun | Game Night . 5:307:30pm. Billings Public Library. Bring your favorite games to play with friends, and maybe make some new ones along the way!

Look for our event picks of the month.

NAMI Billings Support Group for Mental Health | Family Support Group. TU, 6:308pm. NAMI Billings, 955 Broadwater Square. No cost, and no registration required. Zoom available: info@namibillings.org.

Grief Support Group . 7-9pm. Dahl Funeral Chapel, 10 Yellowstone Ave. Every other TU Sept 15-May 2024 More info: 406.591.3219.

3 Wednesday

YAM Teens | Rescheduled! Building Books. 3:30-5pm. Yellowstone Art Museum. Ages 12-18. Free. No advance registration is required. 1st Wednesdays | Dive into the YAM’s exhibitions, learn new techniques, and discover your artistic voice.

Yoga @ The YAM . 10:30-11:30am. Yellowstone Art Museum Murdock Gallery. Every W. Yoga instructor — and YAM

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¡Hora de Cuentos en Español! Spanish Story Time! 4pm. Billings Public Library. We will enjoy stories, songs, and more! Speakers of all levels are welcome.

Pediatric CPR/AED/First Aid class. 11am3pm, Jan 5 // 2-5pm, Jan 20 // 6-9pm, Dec 12, Jan 24. America First Response, 3333 2nd Ave N, Ste 250, Billings. Cost: $80. For daycare providers and anyone who works with children. Register: www. america1stresponse.com.

Cross-Country Ski Workshop . 5:30-8pm, F; 9am-12pm, SA. Jan 5: Billings FWP office, 2300 Lake Elmo Dr // Jan 6: Red Lodge Nordic Center. Cost: $35. Interested in crosscountry skiing, but don't know where to begin? Join Montana FWP and the Becoming an Outdoors Woman program for a crosscountry skiing workshop. This is a great opportunity for beginning and new skiers. Register: https://fwp.mt.gov/education/ becoming-an-outdoors-woman.

6 Saturday

Paws to Read: Practice Reading Skills with a Therapy Dog 11am-12pm, 1st SA // 3-4pm, 3rd W. Billings Public Library, Story Tower. Reading aloud helps your young child expand their vocabulary and improve reading comprehension. Learning to read can be scary; a friendly face, particularly one with a wagging tail, can ease reading anxieties and build confidence. BPL is hosting two sessions a month: Saturdays with Intermountain Therapy Animals & Wednesdays with Pet Partner Therapy Animals. Sign up day-of, spots are limited.

Krafty Kids . 2-3pm, Jan 6 & 20. Billings Public Library Craft Corner. Announcing a new art program for ages 6-9! Craft projects selected to help develop and mature finger dexterity, fine motor skills, and selfconfidence. Upcoming projects include using cups and straws for weaving. Registration is required and space is limited. Registration opens 2 weeks prior to each meeting. 406.657.8256 or https://billingslibrary.org.

Cross-Country Ski Workshop . 9am-12pm. Red Lodge Nordic Center. Cost: $35. This is a great opportunity for beginning and new skiers. Register: https://fwp.mt.gov/ education/becoming-an-outdoors-woman.

Basic Life Support CPR/AED Renewal. 10am-2pm, Jan 6 // 11am-3pm, Jan 26 // 6-9pm, Jan 10. America First Response, 3333 2nd Ave N, Ste 250, Billings. For medical professionals. Cost: $80. Register: www. america1stresponse.com.

Heartsaver CPR/AED/First Aid class. For the general public. 11am-3pm, Jan 19 // 2-5pm,

Jan 6 // 6-9pm, Jan 31. America First Response, 3333 2nd Ave N, Ste 250, Billings. CPR/AED/ First Aid training for the general public. Cost: $80. Register: www.america1stresponse.com

8 Monday

Chinese Story Time! 3pm. Billings Public Library Story Tower. We will enjoy stories, songs, and more! Speakers of all levels are welcome. Your presenter is a native Chinese speaker excited to share her language.

Painting 101 with Carolyn Thayer 6-8:30pm. Crooked Line Studio. Starts Jan 8. https://crookedlinestudio.com.

9 Tuesday

NAMI Billings Support Group for Mental Health | Family Support Group. TU, 6:308pm. NAMI Billings, 955 Broadwater Square. No cost, and no registration required. Zoom available: info@namibillings.org.

10 Wednesday

Yoga @ The YAM . 10:30-11:30am. Yellowstone Art Museum Murdock Gallery. Every W. Please bring your own yoga mat. Cost: $60/member, 6-class series // $90/ non-member, 6-class series.

Community Impact Night . 4-8pm. Taco John's, 4720 King Ave E. 20% of all sales from 4-8pm will support Boys & Girls Club of Yellowstone County.

11 Thursday

Painting 102 with Carolyn Thayer 6-8:30pm. Crooked Line Studio. Starts Jan 11. https://crookedlinestudio.com.

NAMI Billings Support Group for Mental Health | Connection. 1-2:30pm, TH. NAMI Billings, 955 Broadwater Square. Provides a stigma-free environment for adults

living with mental health conditions. Find a community of support in a confidential setting. No cost, and no registration required. Zoom available: info@namibillings.org.

CASA Information Session . 10am. CASA office, 1201 Grand Ave, Suite 5. This is for anyone interested in becoming a volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate for a child in foster care.

12 Friday

New Moon Night Hike. 6:30-8pm. Montana Audubon Center. During this unique guided experience, we’ll tap into our own sensory awareness and mindfulness as we experiment with our ability to navigate in the darkness. We’ll also discuss how different types of animals have adapted to thrive at night. Wear warm layers and good walking shoes and, bring a flashlight. $10/person or $5/members - become a member today! Registration required: https://mtaudubon. org/center/familyprograms.

5th Grade Art Show. 10am-5pm. Jan 12-Feb 18. Yellowstone Art Museum.

Friday Night Fun | Team Jigsaw Puzzle Championship . 6-7:30pm. Billings Public Library. Gather fam & friends to make up your team; teams are given a randomly drawn puzzle to assemble. The first to complete their puzzle earns the Championship Title, bragging rights, and maybe a prize! Doors open at 5:30pm.

Gaslight . 7:30pm, F/SA performances; 2pm, SU matinees. NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. Jan 12-14, 19-21. The story that gave rise to the term “gaslighting”, when the manipulation and sinister trickery of a cruel husband leads his wife to believe she is insane. https://novabillings.org.

Basic Life Support CPR/AED Provider class. 10am-2pm, Jan 20 // 11am-3pm, Jan 12 // 6-9pm, Jan 17. America First Response, 3333 2nd Ave N, Ste 250, Billings. For medical professionals. Cost: $80. Register: www.america1stresponse.com.

13 Saturday

One Book Billings Discussion: On Sarpy Creek with Cara Chamberlain. Cara Chamberlain will discuss the One Book Billings title On Sarpy Creek. Cara is the author of four books of poetry, and her poems and prose have appeared in numerous journals.

ASL Social Hour . 3-4pm. Billings Public Library Story Tower. Are you interested in meeting people who know or are learning American Sign Language? Join us at ASL

Social Hour! The goal is to foster a safe and open community for those interested in ASL. This is a way to provide access to ASL and bring people together to create new relationships by sharing stories, playing games, and more! All skill levels, ages, hearing, hard of hearing, and D/deaf people are welcome. 2nd Saturday of each month.

Gaslight . 7:30pm, F/SA performances; 2pm, SU matinees. NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. Jan 12-14, 19-21. https:// novabillings.org.

MetraPark Expo Center

Billings Wedding Fair

Sunday, January 14 @ 12-5pm

Wedding planning season is upon us, and it’s a big one for Billings Wedding Fair, its 30th annual! The pure giddiness that is the early days of wedding planning is brought into focus as brides and grooms, mothers and besties of the betrothed peruse the latest wedding trends, gaining expert advice from industry professionals. In addition to connecting with over 100 vendors, you’ll definitely want to stick around for the Fashion Show, which showcases “an elegant array of seasonal dresses, perfect for any bride and her party, our Fashion Show helps to display the most romantic, timeless, and elegant styles to help give the future Mrs. an idea of what their perfect day might look like,” Billings Wedding Fair’s website proclaims.

Congratulations! May your wedding planning be a joy with minimal stress!

Studio 2nd Saturday | For the Love of Painting . 10am-12pm. Yellowstone Art Museum. Ages 5-12. Play with color, light, and space like permanent collection artists in the exhibition Gifts of Miriam Sample. $10 member, $20 non-member rate. Register: 406.256.6804, x238 or arteducator@ artmuseum.org. com.

Saturday Cooking Classes | Winter Favorites . 10am-1:30pm. Yellowstone Art Museum. https://www.hisawyer.com/ yellowstone-art-museum/schedules?sched_

ids%5B%5D=161877&schedule_id=camps

Billings Preschool Fair. 9am-12pm. MetraPark Montana Pavilion. Free admission. Search for the perfect daycare/ preschool/drop-in for all your needs. With over 30 schools + local non-profits and resources, you can find all the answers to your questions in one place.

Free! Monthly Car Seat Check (BY APPOINTMENT). 10am-2pm. AMR, 1701 Montana Ave. Schedule your appointment: www.picktime.com.

14

Sunday

Gaslight . 2pm, SU matinees. NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. Jan 12-14, 19-21. https://novabillings.org.

Billings Wedding Fair . 12-5pm. MetraPark Expo Center. Come join us for the Biggest Wedding Fair in a 4 state region! Check out all of our wonderful vendors for all of your wedding planning needs!

15 Monday | Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Bell Ringing Ceremony . 9:30am-12:30pm. MSU Billings university campus. The 2024 Bell Ringing Ceremony takes place on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and focuses on remembering and honoring the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement and its participants. www.msubillings.edu/engagement/engagecommunity/Power%20of%20One.htm.

16 Tuesday

NAMI Billings Support Group for Mental Health | Family Support Group. TU, 6:308pm. NAMI Billings, 955 Broadwater Square. No cost, and no registration required. Zoom available: info@namibillings.org.

Grief Support Group . 7-9pm. Dahl Funeral Chapel, 10 Yellowstone Ave. Every other TU Sept 15-May 2024 More info: 406.591.3219.

17 Wednesday

Paws to Read: Practice Reading Skills with a Therapy Dog . 11am-12pm, 1st SA // 3-4pm, 3rd W . Billings Public Library, Story Tower. Reading aloud helps your young child expand their vocabulary and improve reading comprehension. Learning to read can be scary; a friendly face, particularly one with a wagging tail, can ease reading anxieties and build confidence. BPL is hosting two sessions a month: Saturdays with Intermountain Therapy Animals & Wednesdays with Pet Partner Therapy Animals. Sign up day-of, spots are limited.

Yoga @ The YAM . 10:30-11:30am. Yellowstone Art Museum Murdock Gallery. Every W. Please bring your own yoga mat. Cost: $60/member, 6-class series // $90/ non-member, 6-class series.

YAM Teens | Open Studio. 3:30-5pm. Yellowstone Art Museum. Ages 12-18. Free. No advance registration is required. 3rd Wednesdays Your chance to create in YAM's fully stocked education studio. Finish a work in progress or start a new project.

Coffee with CASA | Mazevo Coffee . 6pm. Mazevo Coffee, 819 Grand Ave. Meet some volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocates and learn more about getting involved to serve children in foster care. Open to the public. Learn more: www.yellowstonecasa. org/. To RSVP, or for any questions, please email: emily@yellowstonecasa.org, or 406. 259.1233.

18 Thursday

NAMI Billings Support Group for Mental Health | Connection. 1-2:30pm, TH. NAMI Billings, 955 Broadwater Square. Provides a stigma-free environment for adults living with mental health conditions. Find a community of support in a confidential setting. No cost, and no registration required. Zoom available: info@namibillings.org.

19 Friday

The Great Rockies Sport Show . Jan 19-21. 12-7pm, F; 10am-6pm, SA; 10am-4pm, SU. MetraPark Expo Center. Annual fishing, hunting, and outdoor adventure show for the entire family. www.greatrockiesshow.com.

Friday Night Fun | DIY Animal Toys with Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter . 5:307:30pm. Billings Public Library. We will be making dog and cat toys for your pets and the ones at YVAS. Supplies will be provided

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KID Connections

…on TUESDAYS

Adventures in Story Time: Preschool. 10-11am, TU/TH. Billings Public Library. Ages 3-6. Introduces young children to books, rhymes, crafts, and other fun interactive activities.

Nature Nuts Preschool Program. 1011am. Every TU. Montana Audubon Center. Ages 1-4 (and an accompanying adult). Guided outdoor play and learning. Suggested donation: $5/child or Free/members. http:// mtaudubon.org/center.

Daycare Storytime. 9:30am, beginning Jan 9. Billings Public Library, 2nd floor. Geared towards daycares. Story Time introduces young children to books, rhymes, crafts, and other fun interactive activities. Each session is a chance to practice reading readiness skills like listening during stories, letter awareness, and predicting. These skills build the foundational knowledge to prepare children to learn to read.

Art Explorers: Art Club For Tweens 4-5pm, TU. Begins Jan 9. Billings Public Library Children's Craft Corner. Ages 9-12. No pre-registration required. More info: https://billingslibrary.org/395/Children.

…on WEDNESDAYS

Adventures in Story Time: Tiny Tales. 10-11am, W. Billings Public Library. Ages 2-3. Introduces young children to books, rhymes, crafts, and other fun interactive activities.

…on THURSDAYS

Adventures in Story Time: Preschool. 10-11am, TU/TH. Billings Public Library. Ages 3-6. Introduces young children to books, rhymes, crafts, and other fun interactive activities.

Books & Babies Classic. 3:15pm. Billings Public Library. Ages 0-2. Stories, rhymes, and finger plays intended for our littlest pre-readers!

…on FRIDAYS

Game On! 3-4:45pm, F/SA. Billings Public Library Craft Corner. Games and LEGOS!

…on SATURDAYS

Books & Babies: Music Edition. 10:15am. Billings Public Library. Ages 0-2. Books, hands-on musical play and fun! There will be no Music Books & Babies on Jan 13.

Game On! 3-4:45pm, F/SA. Billings Public Library Craft Corner. Games and LEGOS!

…throughout the MONTH

Take & Make Crafts | Winter Snowglobe. Starting Jan 2. Billings Public Library. Stop by the Children's Desk for your kit! First-come, first served, no registration required.

Family Reading Program begins Jan 23. Billings Public Library. Family Reading encourages families to develop the habit of reading aloud together. Studies have shown that children who are read aloud to have improved language skills and are more successful in school. Pick up a Family Reading postcard at the Children’s Desk and initial a stocking cap on the postcard for every day the family reads together for 20 minutes a day. Family = 2 people, with one person being 12 or younger. Once a family has read for 20 days return the postcard to the Children’ Desk for a book, coupons from local businesses as supplies last, and an entry into a drawing for a special grand prize. Family Reading is sponsored by Fuddrucker’s, This House of Books, and The Grand Escape Room.

to create the toys. Special guests (cats!!) from YVAS will make an appearance to encourage animal adoptions.

Gaslight . 7:30pm, F/SA performances; 2pm, SU matinees. NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. Jan 12-14, 19-21. https:// novabillings.org.

CASA Information Session . 11am. CASA office, 1201 Grand Ave, Suite 5. This is for anyone interested in becoming a volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate for a child in foster care.

20 Saturday

The Great Rockies Sport Show . Jan 19-21. 10am-6pm, SA; 10am-4pm, SU. MetraPark Expo Center. Annual fishing, hunting, and outdoor adventure show for the entire family. www.greatrockiesshow.com.

Krafty Kids . 2-3pm, Jan 6 & 20. Billings Public Library Craft Corner. Announcing a new art program for ages 6-9! Upcoming projects include using cups and straws for weaving. Registration is required and space is limited. Registration opens 2 weeks prior to each meeting. 406.657.8256 or https:// billingslibrary.org.

Class: Montana Winter with Ray Dickens. 9am-12pm. Crooked Line Studio. https:// crookedlinestudio.com.

YAM Adult Art Class with Gesine Janzen. 10am-4pm. MSU Billings. Printmaking Lab and Dry Room Create a three-color woodblock print of your own design inspired by the artwork in Not Out of the Woods . Students will learn how to transfer their design onto a block, carve the wood, and print with color inks onto multiple pieces of paper, ending up with an edition of 5-10 finished prints to keep. https:// www.artmuseum.org.

Class: Snowy Sunrise with Jennifer Plumley. 10am-12pm. Crooked Line Studio. https://crookedlinestudio.com.

Billings Symphony presents Free Family Series: A Puppet's Plight. 12pm. Alberta Bair Theater. Free. Join Benny on his journey as he meets different musicians, learns about instruments in the orchestra, and discovers all the opportunities music can provide. This show is geared towards K-6 students and their parents. https:// billingssymphony.org.

Strings Attached. 7pm. Alberta Bair Theater. The Juilliard-trained Ahn Trio collaborates with the Billings Symphony on one of Beethoven’s most unusual works: his radiantly joyful Triple Concerto. The program concludes with Stravinsky’s Pulcinella Suite, an elegant neoclassical

confection filled with quirky humor and catchy tunes. https://billingssymphony.org.

Billings Public Library Celebrating 10 Years of Billings Public Library! January 29-February 2

Can you believe that it’s been an entire DECADE since Parmly Billings Library closed its doors and Billings Public Library took on the mantle in a brand-new stunning, energy-efficient, environmentally conscious, state-of-theart building? As chronically shocked, where-did-the-time-go-ers, we could not believe it when the library shared its 10year anniversary celebration schedule this month. Here’s an at-a-glance look at what’s to come (check each date for more info):

• Jan 29, 6:30-7:30pm | Grand Opening Reception

• Jan 30, 6:30-7:30pm | A Journey Through Time: The Library’s 123-Year Legacy

• Jan 31, 11-11:30am (offsite) | RibbonCutting for Library Express Locker #3 in Lockwood

• Jan 31, 12:30-2pm | Program: Future of Library Express Lockers

• Feb 1, 6:30-7:30pm | Panel Discussion: The Making of an Icon

• Feb 2, 6:30-7:30pm } BPL’s Birthday Bash!

Gaslight . 7:30pm, F/SA performances; 2pm, SU matinees. NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. Jan 12-14, 19-21. https:// novabillings.org.

Bryan Adams in concert . 7:30pm. MetraPark First Interstate Arena. www. metrapark.com.

21 Sunday

The Great Rockies Sport Show . 10am-4pm. MetraPark Expo Center. Annual fishing, hunting, and outdoor adventure show for the entire family. www.greatrockiesshow.com.

Gaslight . 2pm. NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. https://novabillings.org.

24 Wednesday

After School Art . 2:45-4:45pm. Crooked Line Studio. 6-week series starting Jan 24. https://crookedlinestudio.com.

Yoga @ The YAM . 10:30-11:30am. Yellowstone Art Museum Murdock Gallery. Every W. Please bring your own yoga mat. Cost: $60/member, 6-class series // $90/ non-member, 6-class series.

25 Thursday

NAMI Billings Support Group for Mental Health | Connection. 1-2:30pm, TH. NAMI Billings, 955 Broadwater Square. Provides a stigma-free environment for adults living with mental health conditions. Find a community of support in a confidential setting. No cost, and no registration required. Zoom available: info@namibillings.org.

26 Friday

Friday Night Fun | Video Games . 5:307:30pm. Billings Public Library. Join us for a Nintendo Switch Sports Party! Drop in and go head-to-head in a match of Tennis or a game of Bowling and win a prize!

Wine Down with the Symphony. 7-9pm. Billings Symphony Office. Enjoy a night of wine, charcuterie, and live music – all from the comfort of your home or join the in-studio audience with a VIP ticket! Become part of our FUN-raiser evenings and help make an impact in our community. billingssymphony.org

27 Saturday

Zonta Club Trivia Night Fundraiser. 5pm, social hour; 6pm, trivia starts. MetraPark Montana Pavilion. Teams are made up of eight players each. Cash prizes, multiple rounds, dinner and concessions available, live & silent auctions, door prizes, raffle. Registration: $240/team. More Info/Register: https://www. billingszonta.org.

Venture Improv. 7:30pm. NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2317 Montana Ave. Entertaining for over 20 years! Rated PG-13. $10 at the door. http://novabillings.org

29 Monday

BPL 10-Year Anniversary | Grand Opening Reception. 6:30-7:30pm. Billings Public Library. Help commemorate a decade of our

beloved library's journey. The evening will feature insightful speeches by the library and BPLF administration, outlining their ambitious vision for the next decade. Enjoy a sophisticated array of hors d’oeuvres as we toast to our shared future.

30 Tuesday

A Journey Through Time: The Library's 123-Year Legacy. 6:30-7:30pm. Billings Public Library. Kevin Kooistra, Executive Director of the Western Heritage Center presents an enlightening session on our library's storied 123-year history, originating from the Billings family’s heartfelt donation. Discover how the library has become integral to our city's fabric.

Adult Mental Health First Aid. 9am-3pm. America First Response, 3333 2nd Ave N, Ste 250, Billings. This class is for those wanting to assist youth going through a mental health challenge. Cost: $70. Register: america1stresponse.com

Grief Support Group . 7-9pm. Dahl Funeral Chapel, 10 Yellowstone Ave. Every other TU Sept 15-May 2024 More info: 406.591.3219.

31 Wednesday

Ribbon-Cutting for Library Express Locker #3. 11-11:30am. Off-site, Billings Public Library at 254 US Hwy 87 E, Lockwood. Join BPL at Intermountain Health Clinic to inaugurate its 3rd Library Express Locker!

Yoga @ The YAM . 10:30-11:30am. Yellowstone Art Museum Murdock Gallery. Every W. Please bring your own yoga mat. Cost: $60/member, 6-class series // $90/ non-member, 6-class series.

BPL 10-Year Anniversary Celebration | Future of Library Express Lockers . 12:302pm. Billings Public Library Community Room. Join library leaders as they unveil future plans and collaborations that have been instrumental in making the Library Express Locker project a cornerstone of service in Yellowstone County.

1 Thursday | 1st Day of Black History Month

Johnny Cash the Official Concert Experience. 7:30pm. Alberta Bair Theater. Bringing songs and stories from the “Man in Black” to the stage in a way that audiences haven’t seen or heard before. With video of Johnny from episodes of The Johnny Cash TV Show projected on a screen above the stage, a live band and singers will accompany him in perfect sync. www.albertabairtheater.org.

BPL 10-Year Anniversary Celebration | Panel Discussion: The Making on an Icon . 6:30-7:30pm. Billings Public Library Community Room. Dive into the library's history with a panel discussion featuring key community figures, BPL Board, and BPL Foundation members. Moderated by BPLF Director Cody Rose, this session offers a rare glimpse into the challenges and triumphs behind our award-winning facility.

2 Friday

FAM at the YAM | Art Auction Opening. 4-6pm. Yellowstone Art Museum. All ages. Free admission. For every type of family, come and go, and create art with a professional artist. www.artmuseum.org.

BPL's Birthday Bash. 6:30-7:30pm. Billings Public Library Community Room. Enjoy delicious birthday cake, dance, and sing Happy Birthday to our library—a fun and memorable evening for the young and young at heart.

3 Saturday

Paws to Read: Practice Reading Skills

with a Therapy Dog 11am-12pm, 1st SA // 3-4pm, 3rd W. Billings Public Library, Story Tower. Reading aloud helps your young child expand their vocabulary and improve reading comprehension. Learning to read can be scary; a friendly face, particularly one with a wagging tail, can ease reading anxieties and build confidence. BPL is hosting two sessions a month: Saturdays with Intermountain Therapy Animals & Wednesdays with Pet

Partner Therapy Animals. Sign up day-of, spots are limited.

Simply Local Magazine’s Calendar lists area activities, classes and events for everyone looking to live life in our community. We encourage readers to call ahead and confirm dates and times.

Send all calendar items to: calendar@ simplylocalmagazine.com

Deadline for the February issue is January 5th! Do you have an event for the calendar next month?