SIMPLY LOCAL MAGAZINE - FEBRUARY 2024 - INDULGE. CREATE. INSPIRE.

simplymagazine local February 2024 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

FRESH FACES IN FAMILIAR PLACES LESSONS FROM THE NEIGHBORHOOD: LOOK FOR THE HELPERS EARLY EDUCATION GUIDE INDULGE IN LOVE: SWOONWORTHY DESSERTS FOR VALENTINE'S DAY MAKING YOUR CLOSET WORK FOR YOU

live your best life right where you are.

local family food home

Only Local. Only Montana.

When you bank with us, you will be working with fellow Montanans who understand our unique way of life. From our executive leadership to our front-line employees, our team is almost 900 strong. We grew up in this great state, received our education here, and are raising our families here. We know first-hand what it’s like to live and work in Montana because it’s our home too.

MONTANANS SERVING MONTANANS Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

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Editor’s Note

“If you’re going to live, leave a legacy. Make a mark on the world that can’t be erased.”

-MAYA ANGELOU

R

eflecting on my childhood in Billings, numerous core memories revolve around local places. The summertime walks to Softies, the excitement of dance recitals on stage at Alberta Bair Theater, delicious dinner at The Happy Diner or pizza and Pac-Man sessions at Village Inn, and playing on the train at West Park Plaza stand out vividly. While some local spots have faded away, others have transformed, upgraded, changed ownership, and are flourishing. It brings me joy to see my children enjoy the same places that defined my youth. Caramel Cookie Waffles, once a post-orthodontist appointment treat, has now become a delight for my daughter. A Mustangs baseball game at Cobb Field was a perfect summer evening, and now Dehler Park is our family’s summer tradition. Our Magic City holds a multitude of beloved people and places!

Our Local Feature spotlights several community businesses that have undergone ownership changes yet continue to carry on legacies, offering incredible products

and services to our city. In this month’s Meet the Maker², we introduce a couple of resident artists—one familiar face and one fresh face, each sharing their unique talents to adorn the spaces where their artwork is shared. The 2024 Early Education Guide is here to guide parents in making crucial decisions about the first educational experiences for our littlest locals. A neighborhood favorite Dutch dining experience, Caramel Cookie Waffles, continues to delight under new ownership while staying true to its original bakers, recipes, and employees. Our Home section inspires us to love where we live with expert advice on transforming our closets from fair to fabulous. Dive into our Indulge.

Create. Inspire. issue and relish all of the goodness within!

This month marks 16 years of Simply Local serving as our community’s cheerleader! With a mission to share hopeful, complex stories and celebrate good news with enthusiasm, we aim to foster love among neighbors, inspiration to thrive in this place we call home, and support local businesses and community members. We believe in the transformative power of coming together, weaving beauty and lasting connections within the confines of our homes, extending to our neighborhoods, and resonating throughout our city—a legacy of love and life to be cherished and passed on. Whether you’re a long-time resident of Billings or brand new here, we know you’ll discover what a marvelous place it is and the many friendly places and faces that make up our community. Thanks for taking Simply Local along for the ride.

Love,

Stephanie

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5 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Tell your Montana story with PureWest.

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All information contained herein is deemed reliable, however, is not guaranteed by PureWest Christie’s International Real Estate.

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Andrew Miller 406.690.0353

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This Rene Mora-built home stands as a testament to builder excellence and timeless craftsmanship. Situated in the Yellowstone Country Club subdivision, the property stands out with its lush landscape and sophisticated exterior design.

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RED LODGE

This custom-built 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home on a 1.5-acre lot, includes an oversized 3-car garage complete with a 40x40 heated workshop. You can savor the picturesque countryside views from two charming patios.

Sheila Larsen 406.672.1130

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This turn-key, upgraded, and beautifully maintained motel boasts 17 units, 5 log cabins, manager/owner residence, RV housing, and potential 7-unit RV park. Park-like grounds with outdoor activities, basketball court, fire pit, and a stateapproved smoking gazebo.

Discover a luxury timber-framed home with breathtaking mountain views. The gourmet kitchen features Thermador appliances and a Butler’s Pantry. Dual-sided fireplaces add cozy elegance. Be among the first to experience this architectural marvel on 11 acres.

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Overlooking Lake Hills Golf Course, this exceptional property offers 6 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and a heated 5-car garage.

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List Price $600,000

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Discover this sought-after Rehberg Ranch townhome: 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms,, high-end finishes, meticulous details. Elegant primary suite, 2-car heated garage.

Stunning views, privacy with a well-manicured landscape and walk-out patio.

Sheila Larsen 406.672.1130

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$595,000

Daniel Kern 406.696.4676

Daniel Kern 406.696.4676

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List Price $499,900

Nancy Curtiss 406.696.2434

Discover mountain living on this 5.2-acre Red Lodge lot with views of Beartooth, Absaroka, and Crazy ranges. Fronts Smith Road, extends to Willow Creek.

Ideal location minutes from downtown, easily accessible.

Percolation tested, needs well and septic, electricity nearby.

MLS# 343378 $499,888 MLS# 343379 $499,888

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Rare opportunit to own: 40 irrigated acres featuring a 1200 sq ft, single-level home a short distance from town witha 2-car detached garage, 3-stall open garage, 4-stall equipment shed with enclosed shop, and additional outbuildings. Features a90% completed cabin with a bathroom.

Just a few minutes from town, this country home is set on over 12 acres and offers the perfect opportunity for a ranchette or hobby farm. The detached oversized garage (25x30) offers space for equipment and vehicles and the barn/shop (25x60) and pastures offer space for animals.

HARDIN

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HARDIN

$469,000

1805 Colton Boulevard BILLINGS

Korynne Kern 406.591.2160

DESIRABLE WEST END LOT

Ranch style home with 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms located in a coveted and convenient location with an established neighborhood and mature trees as a backdrop. Plenty of parking including 2-car garage, extra parking pad, and long driveway.

Korynne Kern 406.591.2160

$550,000

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Spacious home on 0.5-acre lot in quiet West End subdivision.

This stunning property boasts 5 generous bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. Featuring a well-designed layout, the open-concept living areas provide plenty of room for entertaining and family time.

NEW LISTING

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BILLINGS

Sheila Larsen 406.672.1130

HARDIN

This is the last, prime, I-90 frontage at this exit where commercial growth is happening quickly. The red-outlined parcel is 10.21 acres of level ground at the intersection of I-90 and Highway 47. Nearby Love’s Truck Stop, Town Pump, and new campground nearing completion.

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CONTENTS

February 2024

P.15

P.33

local

family

16 Feature Fresh Faces in Familiar Places

34 Feature Lessons From the Neighborhood: Look for the Helpers

23 Healthcare Spotlight Staying Strong Through Flu Season: Intermountain Health's Guide to Wellness 29 Meet the Maker2 Karyn Mehus Sadie Hilkemann

39 Education Spotlight Special Olympics Initiative: Changing the Landscape of Billings Schools 43 Community Spotlight Creating a Healthier Community: RiverStone Health WIC 46 Early Education Guide

ON OUR COVER: Special thanks to Karyn Mehus for our cover artwork "Blomma" 8 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

Please recycle this issue of Simply Local Magazine.

P.55

P.69

P.91

food

home

calendar

56 Feature Indulge in Love: Swoonworthy Desserts for Valentine's Day

70 Feature Making Your Closet Work for You

92 Connect All Month

63 Meet the Bakers The Stroopwafel Scoop: Continuing the Legacy

79 Homes on Parade Alpine Basin: Resort Style Living in Red Lodge

93 Around Town – Every Day A day by day rundown of unique events

67 Bake This Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies

Celebrating 16 years in our community!

9 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

96 Kid Connections

Two Hopes.

One Dream.

The Power of We

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

JENNY BARRIGER Owner | CEO

STEPHANIE TOEWS

Creative Director | Executive Editor

ABBEY SAGE

Director of Operations

ADVERTISING SALES For advertising inquiries contact advertising@simplylocalmagazine.com CUSTOMER SERVICE & DISTRIBUTION customerservice@simplylocalmagazine.com Check www.simplylocalbillings.com for distribution locations. Subscriptions are also available. Visit our website to get SLM delivered to your mailbox for a small annual fee!

© 2023 Simply Family Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The content of advertisements and editorial materials contained in this publication may not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers.

REBECCA STEWART

Assistant Editor | Calendar & Events

SYNDA ROREX

Art Director | Lead Designer

MARYA PENNINGTON Director of Sales & Marketing

LYNAE COLE

TOVE OBLANDER

Digital Specialist

Web Specialist | Designer

FOUNDERS

Kim Nelson & Jenny Barriger

PROUD MEMBER OF

ASHLEY FISHER

Senior Sales Executive

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MARTITA OVERBY Sales Executive

Thank you to our February contributors

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RENATA HAIDLE

ANNA ROGERS

MARIA WEIDICH

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JOHANNA KENNEDY

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STEPHANIE HOBBY

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16 Feature Fresh Faces in Familiar Places 23 Healthcare Spotlight Staying Strong Through Flu Season: Intermountain Health's Guide to Wellness 29 Meet the Maker2 Karyn Mehus Sadie Hilkemann

Photo by Seth Kroft 15 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Fresh Faces Places IN FAMILIAR

Article by Jessica Renstrom Photos by Jamie Blotske

B

illings has seen enormous growth over the past 30 years, bringing a variety of vibrant new businesses.

Amidst this expansion, it's wonderful to witness several business owners preserving the rich nostalgia and success of iconic local establishments.

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CJ’S BAR & GRILL

“In a growing, changing, fastpaced world, where there’s this push for bigger, better, etc., my goal would be consistency: you know exactly what you’re getting.”

-BRITTANY SMITH

Although Village Inn and CJ’s are separate entities, the family’s strong commitment to these two establishments is indistinguishable.

“Village Inn was such an iconic place for so many people,” comments Brittany. “There was no way to keep the building, but we wanted to get the original things (as much as we could salvage) to give it the same feel.” With one glance inside, it’s obvious the new owners accomplished their goal. The building is filled with the original tables and chairs, stained glass, lights, and even the Pac-Man machine. Drinks are served in the authentic red cups, and pizzas are cooked in the original oven on “the same pans seasoned with love for 30 years.”

The new owners opened Village Inn in what was CJ’s Garage and sold their first pizza on November 2 with the help of their incredible team.

"The biggest gift for Village Inn 2.0 (as we’ve come to call it) is the staff,” Brittany states. “We acquired the original staff. They had all gone on to jobs in different industries and came back to join us.” Marcie agrees, “Everything is made from scratch. We bought the original recipes, but the staff have the love and the knowledge to bring the recipes to life.”

While keeping with the nostalgia of Village Inn, the new owners have implemented a few changes. In addition to a bigger beer and wine selection, gluten-free crust, and lunch specials, patrons may see future menu additions.

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Your best life right here.

VILLAGE INN

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After its initial opening in 1976, CJ’s Bar & Grill became a beloved gathering place for many locals, including longtime resident Marcie Smith and her family. “We love the previous owners and have been friends for 40 years. My daughter Alicia worked there for over 10 years, and it’s an incredibly run business.” So, when presented with the opportunity to purchase the bar & grill, her family’s answer was, “Let’s do this.”

Despite having previously worked in various industries, Kyle and Alicia Solheim, Marcie’s son-in-law and daughter, and the rest of the family leaped into the restaurant industry with enthusiasm. “We naturally evolved into our roles,” says Marcie. “As a mom, it’s great to work with my kids. It’s brought us together even more.”

While some changes have been made since taking over last April, including adding a rewards system and opening up the casino/gaming area, the new owners keep the staples that patrons have come to love, states Brittany Smith, Marcie’s daughter-in-law and co-owner. “You know the food and the feeling. You don’t have to worry about a change in recipes.”

This desire to preserve Billings’ best flavors and a serendipitous turn of events led the family to purchase another iconic business: Village Inn.

THE BASE CAMP Another Montana family keeping Billings’ businesses alive is the Brown family. After opening the first store in Helena in 1975, Scott and Deb Brown added a second store in Billings in 1990. Lauren and Cody, Scott and Deb’s daughters, grew up with a deep understanding of the stores but also felt free to pursue other interests.

“Honestly, Cody and I never worked in the store growing up. Our parents allowed us to foster our own passions.” Among other accomplishments, Cody traveled the world, became a business owner, and earned fashion and merchandising degrees. Lauren pursued photography and has run her own successful business for 20 years. But when their parents announced they wanted to sell the stores, the sisters turned their focus to continuing The Base Camp legacy.

Now, they bring their life experiences and love of The Base Camp to lead the stores into the future. “We want to continue to provide excellent customer service, supply the best products, hand-picked for quality, value, style, and comfort; and support our local communities,” says Lauren.

Patrons of The Base Camp can rest assured that the future of the stores is bright. According to Lauren, “We hope to have more in-store events and partnerships with other local businesses and non-profits. We are also looking forward to developing our online storefront. And, who knows, maybe there will be a third store sometime in the future as well.”

“We are so appreciative of our customers and communities who support The Base Camp and shop local.”

-LAUREN SCOTT

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Your best life right here.

3419 CENTRAL AVE. (WEST END)

“We have such wonderful people in our community, and as long as they all keep shopping local, I hope to be here for many more Photo by Miranda Murdock

years to come!”

-TIFF DAVIDSON-BLADES

DAVIDSON HOME FURNISHINGS & DESIGN Davidson Home Furnishings & Design is yet another example of a Billings-based business that has successfully transitioned from one generation to the next.

Tiff Davidson-Blades, owner of Davidson Home Furnishings & Design, took complete ownership of the business when her mother retired around 10 years ago.

Originally under the moniker of Patricia Davidson Designs in 1988, the store was eventually rebranded as Davidson Home Furnishings & Design as the mother-daughter duo worked to expand. Known for its stellar interior design work and excellent customer service, Tiff has maintained those ideals while adapting to clients’ evolving desires.

“As design evolves and changes over the years, it was very important that we, as a design firm and home furnishings store, adapted and grew our product offerings to reflect the current styles and trends,” Tiff explains. “We have worked hard over the last 10 to 15 years to focus on what our clients are asking for, which includes everything from traditional, contemporary, and transitional looks.”

In addition to seeking out desired offerings for clients, the company has started and grown a successful “trade program” with independent designers and cultivated a compassionate family culture for its employees. As she looks toward the future, Tiff is both grateful for their clients over the past 35 years and eager to help the new:

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“I'm a Billings girl – it's where I was born and raised, so I'd like to be able to do my part to give back to Billings and be a part of the Downtown community!”

-SHAUNDEL KRUMHEUER

The unwavering commitment of business owners like these ensures that our beloved Billings businesses continue to thrive. The beautiful balance between old and new makes our city truly special, and by shopping locally, you play an integral role in ensuring the longevity of all small businesses in Billings. 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 CHILDREN. IN HER SMALL POCKETS OF FREE TIME, SHE ENJOYS PAINTING, FINDING COOL ROCKS, AND PLOTTING HER NEXT ADVENTURE.

21 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Your best life right here.

Community involvement and local shopping are also at the heart of the 504 Square Feet pottery studio in the East Billings Urban Renewal District.

In November 2023, owner Cassy Crafton announced that she was selling the pottery studio to Shaundel Krumheuer, a studio member who loves creating and community. “My first thought when Cassy decided to sell the business was that if she were to close it, we would lose the community she has built. Honestly, the thought of that made my heart hurt. Of course, losing the place where I could play in the mud and create was a fear, but knowing that the 504 Square Feet community would be lost was the real gut punch!”

Since then, Shaundel has jumped in to continue fostering and growing this community of makers. She plans to continue many of the studio’s services originally implemented by Cassy, including classes, memberships, and take-home projects during holidays. However, she also has many ideas for the future of 504 Square Feet, including more diverse classes and community partnerships.

“I'd love to partner with other makers and maybe be able to offer workshops using materials outside of clay, too. I'm looking forward to collaborating with Jim Markel and Red Oxx and the BIRD to bring makers together and do what I can to grow the artisan and maker community,” says Shaundel.

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HEALTHCARE Spotlight

A

Article by Hannah Olson Photos by Jamie Blotske

s the winter persists, so does the heightened risk of influenza and other illnesses like COVID and RSV. The flu season is upon us, and it's crucial to take proactive measures to safeguard ourselves and our loved ones now and each year. Intermountain Health in Billings, Montana, emerges as a beacon of health awareness and prevention, offering a range of services, including flu vaccinations, to ensure the community's well-being.

The analogy that a flu shot is like a winter coat is apt—it won't guarantee absolute immunity, but it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness or hospitalization.

Despite receiving the vaccine, there remains a possibility of catching the flu, but the severity of the symptoms is notably diminished. This emphasizes the importance of flu shots as a fundamental step in fortifying one's defenses against the unpredictable nature of the flu virus.

23 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Your best life right here.

Intermountain Health's GUIDE TO WELLNESS

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Staying Strong Through Flu Season:

RECOGNIZING AND PREVENTING VIRUSES One often underestimated aspect of the flu is its rapid onset and potential to spread before symptoms manifest. Without the shield of a flu shot, individuals can unknowingly become carriers and pass on the virus to their loved ones. Getting vaccinated protects you and acts as a vital barrier, preventing the inadvertent transmission of the flu to vulnerable family members.

Family Medicine Physician Dr. Duane Teerink, D.O., who works out of the newly constructed Intermountain Health West End Clinic, is an advocate for illness prevention and stresses the importance of quality sleep, physical activity, decreasing stress, and eating a well-balanced diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, and both vitamins C and D. Although these things seem obvious enough, the business of daily life can deter us from maintaining these

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healthy habits and contribute to illnesses. “If you do get the flu, there are over-the-counter and homeopathic remedies that you can use,” Dr. Teerink says. Still, he also stresses that if you are experiencing more severe symptoms like fever, body aches, or prolonged symptoms, he encourages patients to be seen by their provider.

Certain demographic groups, such as children under 2, individuals over 65, and those with pre-existing conditions, face a higher risk of severe illness. Even if you don't fall into these high-risk categories, you may interact with someone who does. To create a protective network around vulnerable individuals, it is imperative that everyone aged six months and older get their flu shot.

VACCINE RECOMMENDATIONS AND TIPS The flu virus undergoes constant changes, much like the seasons. Staying up-to-date with regular vaccinations every six months to a year ensures you have the latest and most effective protection. This proactive approach becomes particularly crucial as the effectiveness of older flu shots

diminishes over time. Keeping your immunization current is a simple yet powerful strategy to shield yourself from the evolving flu strains.

The flu vaccine is the most effective means of safeguarding yourself and your family. A single shot can make a significant difference, offering a shield against the potential severity of the illness. It is a simple yet powerful act of protection that can resonate throughout your community.

Addressing concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the flu vaccine, it's important to note that the vaccine cannot cause a flu infection. Any side effects, if experienced, are mild and short-lived compared to the potential severity of the flu itself. Trusting in the safety and efficacy of the flu vaccine is key to fostering a culture of preventative healthcare.

Moreover, getting vaccinated is quick, easy, and often comes at a low or no cost to individuals. Many insurance plans, Medicare and Medicaid, cover or significantly reduce the cost, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder the community's access to vital preventive care.

We care about your healthy future.

A one-hour test might save your life!

At Granite Peak Ultrasound, we believe that taking charge of your health should be simple and accessible. That’s why we bring our top-notch ultrasound services directly to your community giving you the peace of mind you deserve.

We are located inside Rock31 in downtown Billings every Monday by appointment! Don’t miss out!

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! (406) 290-3302 | amy@granitepeakultrasound.com We look forward to building relationships with our patients and local businesses.

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

Intermountain Health, formerly SCL Health, in Billings is a beacon of health during the cold and flu seasons. With walkin clinics strategically located across the city, accessible from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, the community has convenient access to flu vaccinations and healthcare services.

West End Clinic at 602 Henry Chapple St., N 27th Clinic at 1027 N 27th St., Broadwater Clinic at 2019 Broadwater Ave., Heights Clinic at 32 Wicks Ln., and Laurel Clinic at 331 S Washington Ave, Ste. B, in Laurel.

By taking advantage of the services provided by Intermountain Health, the community not only ensures their well-being but also contributes to a healthier and more resilient society. Let's prioritize preventive healthcare this flu season, embrace the flu shot as our armor, and enjoy the season with our families, not our providers. SLM

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Meet the MAKER 2

Age: A lady never shares…

Preferred Art Medium: Acrylic on Canvas Preferred Art Style: Abstract Intuitive Art Venues: Roots Garden Center, Electronic Storm Gallery, Rock 31 Contact: karynmehusstudio.com

aryn doesn’t remember exactly when she became an artist; she just remembers drawing everything all the time. In 2nd grade, one of her drawings of a plant was displayed in a local mall. At 13, she had a babysitting job where the child’s father, artist Steve Bjorkman, asked her to apprentice as a cartoon illustrator. Her art adorned the offices of her high school while she attended. After high school, she obtained a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Chapman University.

Degree in hand, Karyn began her career at a couple of art galleries in the Los Angeles area, where she started designing and painting art for corporate offices.

After marrying her husband in 2002, she was introduced to a new customer base. Her husband was a mortgage lender who worked with realtors. Once the realtors saw Karyn’s work, they began purchasing her artwork to stage homes. The demand grew as more people were exposed to her fresh, contemporary style. After years of painting and creating her art can now be found brightening the walls in coffee houses, restaurants, offices, and modern homes both locally and nationally.

Karyn’s voracious love of learning and extraordinary ability to see beauty everywhere in everything is noticeable when standing in front of one of her paintings. Her scenes are bold, bright, and filled with joy. Even the darker, deeper shades draw from a source of palpable hope. Currently, Karyn is leveraging her vast knowledge and joy in two different arenas: art for grief and trauma therapy and art opportunities for children. This winter, she is studying how to facilitate grief and trauma therapy groups using various art mediums.

Additionally, Karyn joined the board of Billings’ Arts without Boundaries (artswithoutboundaries.art). Together, they are creating more art opportunities for K-12 students in Yellowstone County. She aims to host a summer arts program at Orchard Elementary this summer. Children will come to the school for the day to experiment with creating art. If you’d like to view Karyn’s art or contact her, she can be reached through her website.

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Your best life right here.

K

Article by Johanna Kennedy Photos by Arianna Skoog

local

Karyn Mehus

Sadie Hilkemann

F

rom Sadie’s first memories, she was always creating. Her dad, a graphic designer by trade, and her mom (a nurse) homeschooled her from preschool through graduation, so she had the perfect atmosphere to endlessly experiment with multiple art categories. One day, she would draw, the next paint, followed by knitting and crocheting.

She isn’t the only designer in the family. Sadie and her three siblings have spent countless hours around their home building instruments (brother and dad), engineering planes (brother), drawing (sisters), and baking specialty cakes for friends and family (mom).

Sadie also has a creatively bent friend group. While her peers might be at the movies or out shopping, Sadie and her friends can be found perched around a table at a local coffee shop, talking, laughing, drawing, or painting together.

Currently, Sadie’s new position at Clark Marten Photography has served her well in expanding her expertise in yet another category in the visual arts, all things related to photography.

Sadie is a light-hearted, undemanding, witty teenager. Every bit of her inviting personality shines through her expansive landscape paintings. Standing in front of one of her landscapes, you’re drawn in by the peace it exudes with a desire to slow down, walk the rolling hills, lie in the wind-swept grass, and watch the clouds slowly drift through the sky overhead.

What would our world be like if we all took a deep breath and met in one of Sadie’s paintings? I daresay we would all find ourselves much more rested and ready for what the world needs from us. Her landscapes are available in all sizes at Roots Garden Center and through her Instagram. If you want a unique gift or a rich landscape painting to adorn one of your walls, Sadie is also available for commissioned pieces.

Age: 19 Preferred Art Medium: Watercolor and Oil Painting, Drawing Preferred Art Style: Landscapes Venues: Roots Garden Center Contact: Instagram @sadie.j.hilkemann

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simply family fun. inspired. simplified.

39 Education Spotlight Special Olympics Initiative: Changing the Landscape of Billings Schools 43 Community Spotlight Creating a Healthier Community: RiverStone Health WIC

Photo by Seth Kroft

46 Early Education Guide

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Your best life right here.

34 Feature Lessons From the Neighborhood: Look for the Helpers

Lessons From the Neighborhood:

Look For the Helpers T

Article by Brooke Wagner

he world knew him as the friendliest neighbor around. Fred McFeely Rogers, better known as “Mister Rogers,” hosted a children's television show from 1968 until 2001. Rogers used his platform to transform children’s television at the time and became a symbol of compassion and kindness to generations of young Americans.

“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’” -Mister Rogers 34 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

family Fun. Inspired. Simplified.

The definition of helper is deceivingly simple, yet profound; “A person who helps someone else.” The very nature of the word implies that one person steps into the gap of another person’s life and does what they can to make it easier or better.

As parents and caregivers, we are familiar with the concept of helping from the time our children are born. We help them eat and fall asleep (“Please, please fall asleep!”). We help them sit up, then crawl, and then learn to walk. We help them tie their shoes, button their clothes, and cut up their food at mealtimes, and as the school years roll on, we help with math homework and book reports and help them get to soccer practice on time (hopefully, with all their gear in tow). If we were paid for the hours spent helping those growing

minds and bodies around us, we could retire early as millionaires.

However, as our children grow up, the help we offer them takes a different form. It suddenly is not appropriate for us to help our child spoon food into their mouths, yet they may still need some guidance on how to shop for groceries and prepare food for themselves. We don’t help them with those pesky zippers and snaps anymore, but we drop them off at the mall to shop for the latest sneakers with their friends. The transition from the hands-on, “Let me do that for you,” approach we took as parents of toddlers, to the hands-off, “I can do it myself,” cry of an older kiddo and teen can be challenging to navigate. Parents of teenagers will attest that, more often than not, they

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realize too late that the help offered was either too much or too little than the moment called for.

When our children begin leaving the nest and finding their wings behind the wheel of a 4,000-pound automobile, caregivers may feel much less helpFUL and more helpLESS. I will never forget watching our oldest child drive off in the car by herself from the DMV parking lot and thinking, “She can’t be in there alone!”

One Billings mom, Amanda, had a similar thought when her son started driving but soon got into a rhythm of trusting that he would get to and from his travels without a hiccup. Her son, Ben, is an outgoing and adventurous teen with a shock of blond hair, bright blue eyes, and a sweet dimpled smile. He and a friend were driving down a busy Billings road last fall when he found himself involved in an automobile accident. Amanda was at home when she got the call. She says, “There is little in the world that is as unnerving as the sound of your child’s panicky and quivering voice. At that moment, it was obvious that something was terribly wrong.”

Amanda knew that although the accident wasn’t too far from their house, she couldn’t instantly get there to be with her son. She remembers, “I heard my own voice whooshing around in my head.” Things felt chaotic and out of control as Amanda tried to put the pieces together of what was happening. “Suddenly, a bystander took the phone from my son and confirmed there had been an accident. He’s there with my child and fills me in on what’s happening at the scene. He took control of an out-of-control situation, and I immediately felt peace knowing my son wasn’t alone in that moment.”

Amanda said it felt like 20 minutes to drive the three miles from her house to the scene of the accident. As she got closer, she could see several police cars and the flashing lights of an ambulance. Her eyes quickly scanned the debris on the road and the beat-up cars to find her son.

“There he is, head hanging low, his skin pale…but he’s standing. Someone is being taken away in an ambulance.

After a heart-stopping moment, I realized my son was not loaded in it. It’s not until later that I realized how my prayers had been answered.” Only hours before the crash, Amanda had been spending time in prayer and reflection for her family. She says, “That very day, I had asked God to send a helper to my kids when they thought that no one

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was coming.” She remembers praying, “Please send someone who can help, whatever the need may be, and make that person known to them. Let them fully understand that this person was sent to find them, take care of them, or help them manage their situation.”

Even months later, she is struck by how obviously and quickly that prayer was answered. A helper appeared for her son at the exact moment he needed him the most. The selfless action of one person, who didn’t have any obligation to step into this situation with Ben, impacted not only a teenage boy but also an entire family and community of friends.

Of course, when the dust settled, and Amanda had a minute to search for the helper who miraculously appeared, he was nowhere to be found. He slipped back into the hustle and bustle of traffic and headed to wherever the road was initially taking him. He never asked for recognition or special treatment - he just showed up where he was needed at the moment. Isn’t that just like a helper? SLM

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EDUCATION Spotlight

family

Changing the Landscape of Billings Schools

S

Article by Morgan Williams Photos courtesy of Special Olympics

pecial Olympics has impacted the lives of those with disabilities since the late 1960s, but now their sights are set higher – they’ve set out to shape an entire generation. Special Olympics' newest initiative, Unified Champion Schools®, is a program for schools Pre-K through university that intentionally promotes meaningful social inclusion by bringing together students with and without intellectual disabilities to create inclusive school environments. Eleven Billings schools – including all three public high schools – have taken the Unified Champion School pledge. West High Special Education Teacher and Special Olympics Local Program Coordinator Samantha Drange says it is changing the game for students of every grade and ability.

For those unfamiliar with Special Olympics’ history, it’s helpful to know that the now global

movement was borne from a backyard summer day camp started by Eunice Kennedy Shriver. Shriver had a sister with an intellectual disability and quickly recognized that the programs and options were limited for someone like her. Shriver strongly believed that sports could be a common ground to unite people from all walks of life, and six years after her summer camp started, the first Special Olympics Games were held in Chicago, Illinois. Today, Special Olympics International serves over 6 million people with intellectual disabilities in 200 countries.

In Montana, Billings boasts the largest Special Olympics population in the state, but historically, sports for those with disabilities had primarily remained isolated from the rest of the student body.

This is no longer the case, thanks to the Unified Champion Schools initiative. The initiative is built on three pillars: Unified Sports, inclusive youth

39 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Fun. Inspired. Simplified.

Special Olympics Initiative:

leadership, and whole-school engagement. Each school has the freedom to implement these goals creatively.

The commitment has taken buy-in from students and staff alike, but Drange says it has been exciting to see students and administration work to make lasting positive changes.

Billings West, Billings Senior, and Billings Skyview each now boast a unified physical education class; they’re working toward a class where 50% of the students have intellectual disabilities and 50% do not. The goal is for athletes to play alongside one another, encouraging a competitive nature and showcasing ability, helping prepare Special Olympics athletes for their respective games.

To promote whole-school engagement, Billings schools are also participating in the annual Spread the Word to End the Word® Day, which takes place on the first Wednesday of March. The aim is for society to stop and think about its use of the R-word and to rally people to pledge respect toward all individuals. The celebrations vary from school to school.

West High hosts a basketball game where a unified team takes on the Seniors during an all-school assembly. The teachers also fundraise in advance to buy Special Olympics swag, which is then awarded to students who have shown exemplary respect and encouragement toward their peers with disabilities. Across town, Washington Elementary hosts a respect challenge in February. Students can earn respect tickets, and the challenge is capped off with a celebration on March 7th to celebrate the winning house.

Back at West High, the administration has added an elective peer tutoring class, where students without disabilities can come alongside those with disabilities in academics. Drange, in her 16th year of teaching, says, “The learning that naturally comes from that partnership is way more valuable than me standing up teaching.”

The Unified Champion Schools program is forming the next generation in powerful ways. Drange said nothing has been more impactful than seeing varsity athletes high-fiving her students in the hallway and knowing them by name. Beth Gregg, Special Education Teacher at Washington Elementary and Special Olympics Local Program Coordinator for Elementary Schools, says Billings students are getting an opportunity to compete in something they otherwise wouldn’t, and it’s making “good citizens who understand and value our unique differences.” SLM

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

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

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Pregnant applicants may be eligible for benefits the same day you call us.

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COMMUNITY Spotlight

family

RiverStone Health WIC Article by Rebecca Stewart Photos courtesy of RiverStone Health WIC program

O

dds are, you’ve heard of WIC, but you may only have a vague understanding of what it is, who it serves, and how it benefits our community at large. We chatted with Kate Monger, MPH, RDN, the WIC and Family Health Services Program Manager at RiverStone Health, to better understand the RiverStone Health WIC program.

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Creating a Healthier Community:

BASELINE INFORMATION: • WIC is the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

• RiverStone Health WIC is currently serving nearly 3,000 new or expecting moms, babies, and children under the age of 5 in Yellowstone, Carbon, Stillwater, and Musselshell counties.

• Eligibility is determined by income- at or below 185% of the federal poverty line.

Anyone receiving SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid also automatically qualifies for WIC, but it’s important to note that WIC has a wider income range compared to those programs.

“It’s a low- and middle-income program,” says Kate.

• Education is a vital piece of WIC. COULD RIVERSTONE HEALTH WIC BENEFIT YOU? We all know that it can be difficult to ask for help, but at one point or another, everyone needs some kind of help.

What kind of help differs from person to person, but there is no shame in asking for and receiving a helping hand, whether that’s the mowing of a lawn or the accepting of community resources, perhaps most especially when we’re looking to get a hand up for our children. Kate emphasizes that the team at RiverStone Health WIC is “really non-judgmental and welcoming and inviting, so if anyone has a kiddo in their care and thinks they may qualify for WIC, please don’t hesitate to call us.”

Though women are right there in the name, WIC is not only for women raising children – dads, grandparents raising grandchildren, or foster parents could also apply to receive WIC benefits for their children. (Children in foster care automatically qualify, FYI.) As noted, pregnant, new moms, and breastfeeding moms are eligible to receive WIC benefits alongside their children. Because of WIC's broader income guidelines, people might qualify for these services and not even realize it, so it's worth looking into.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM RIVERSTONE HEALTH WIC?

First,

you’re going to either call or email to make an appointment to see if you qualify for WIC.

• 406.247.3370 • wic@riverstonehealth.org

Kate explains that once a participant is determined to qualify and is enrolled with WIC, they’ll be scheduled for an initial certification into RiverStone Health’s WIC program that occurs annually. This entails:

• Sitting down with a WIC Nutrition Educator who will run through the health history and nutrition screening, as well as a screening for resources they may need to be connected to. (There are also Registered Dietitians on staff for participants who have higher risk nutritional needs.)

• Once enrolled and assessment is completed, a WIC food package* is built for them, and they’ll receive a card that they can take to WIC-approved grocery stores (Walmarts, Albertsons, Town & Country, IGA, and WinCo), along with the South Park Gardeners’ Market in the summer and participating vendors of other Farmers’ Markets and stands. *Food packages are created based on category, so a pregnant mom’s package is going to differ from a breastfeeding mom’s, and an infant’s from a toddler’s.

• WIC is a goal-based program, so at the first visit, the family is invited to set a goal related to themselves or their child’s health, nutrition, or resource needs.

• WIC touches base with the families once every 3 months, either in-office or by phone, when they follow up on the goals, provide a nutrition education topic, and, every 6 months, check heights, weights, and hemoglobins of the kids.

The nutritional topics, explains Kate, might include, for a pregnant mom, “…At her next visit we might talk about folic acid needs, then we might talk about strategies for how to increase her fruits and vegetables intake, or we might talk about calcium or ways to increase dairy intake if that piece is low, but it would really be tailored to her nutrition assessment and go from there.” For the kids, she shares, “We might be talking to the parents about tips to get them to help out in the kitchen or ways to include toddlers; we might talk about picky eating and things like that.”

For breastfeeding mamas or moms who have identified breastfeeding as one of their goals, they have access to RiverStone Health WIC’s Breastfeeding Peer Counselor

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Program. The peer counselor is a mom who has been on WIC and breastfed her own child. Kate shares that, in addition to the relatability factor, “the other cool thing about Hannah, our peer counselor, is she’s on-call all hours of the day, including weekends. So, if a mom is having breastfeeding trouble, has a question, or just needs to run something by someone, that’s the go-to person for those moms to reach out to.” Recognizing that breastfeeding can be a sensitive topic, Kate assures that WIC will support

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The services of RiverStone Health WIC are aiming to create a solid foundation of improved health outcomes for the children of our community. Kate emphasizes both the improved access to healthy foods for the vulnerable in our community and the goal of reaching moms early in their pregnancies to deliver education sooner than later.

Particularly because, she notes that, research indicates that WIC has been shown to reduce infant mortality rates across the nation. It is a program, she says that, “Overall, it just makes our community healthier.” Our job in the community? Be educated and be aware so that we can help erase the stigma of utilizing these much-needed resources. SLM

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receive benefits within 10 days of that qualifying appointment.

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eat well & live a full life.

56 Feature Indulge in Love: Swoonworthy Desserts for Valentine's Day

food

63 Meet the Bakers The Stroopwafel Scoop: Continuing the Legacy 67 Bake This Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies

Eat well & live a full life.

Photo by Renate Haidle

55 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Indulge in Love:

Swoonworthy Desserts for

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Valentine's Day Article by Renata Haidle

food

L

ove is in the air as Valentine's Day approaches, and what better way to express your feelings than with a delectable, romantic dessert that will make your date swoon?

Elevate your culinary prowess and prepare a delightful treat to set the mood for a perfect evening.

This elegant dessert combines poached pears with smooth chocolate sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Created by Auguste Escoffier in Paris in the 19th century, it was supposedly named after the operetta La Belle Hélène, by Jacques Offenbach. The symphony of textures and flavors creates a romantic harmony that will transport you and your date straight to the City of Light.

CHOCOLATE MOUSSE WITH COINTREAU: A DECADENT DANCE OF FLAVORS Indulge in the sinfully smooth dance of chocolate mousse infused with the citrusy notes of Cointreau. This dessert celebrates contrasts – the deep, dark chocolate intertwining with the zesty orange liqueur. Each spoonful explores taste, a journey through velvety richness punctuated by a burst of citrus. A dollop of whipped cream on top adds the finishing touch, making it a perfect pairing of flavors for an intimate Valentine's Day celebration.

57 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Eat well & live a full life.

POIRE BELLE HÉLÈNE: A FRENCH LOVE AFFAIR

RASPBERRY PARFAIT: LAYERS OF LOVE Create a visual masterpiece with layers of luscious raspberry parfait. The vibrant red hue of the raspberries captures the essence of passion, while the alternating layers of creamy yogurt or whipped cream add a luxurious touch. Top it off with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or almonds for a delightful crunch. The parfait's visual appeal and the harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors make it a splendid addition to your Valentine's Day dessert repertoire.

PASSION FRUIT TARTLETS: TROPICAL ROMANCE Transport your loved one’s taste buds to a tropical paradise with passion fruit tartlets. The exotic flavor of passion fruit combined with a buttery tart crust creates a dessert that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. The burst of tangy passion fruit is tempered by a silky vanilla custard, making each bite a celebration of love and adventure.

FIG CRÈME BRÛLÉE: A SOPHISTICATED SWEETHEART'S DELIGHT Elevate the classic crème brûlée by incorporating the soft yet crunchy texture of figs.

Their subtle sweetness complements the creamy custard base, creating a sophisticated and indulgent dessert. As you break through the caramelized sugar crust, the crackling sound adds a touch of drama to this romantic treat, making it a perfect choice for a special Valentine's Day celebration.

RASPBERRY TIRAMISÙ: A BERRY BLISS Give the traditional Italian tiramisù a romantic twist by infusing it with the vibrant flavor of raspberries. Slice it in heart shapes (larger cookie cutters work well), or serve it in a champagne coupe for an intimate and indulgent experience that will leave your date craving more.

DAIQUIRI PAVLOVAS: WHIPPED TO PERFECTION For a light and airy dessert, whip up daiquiri Pavlovas. These delicate meringue nests, filled with a zesty lime and rum-infused cream, represent love's effervescence. The crisp exterior of the Pavlova gives way to a pillowy interior, creating a textural masterpiece that will have your date floating on cloud nine.

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Eat well & live a full life.

e s i t r adve

food

TASTY FOOD

MOLTEN LAVA CAKES WITH CHERRY GLAZE: A SENSUAL EXPLOSION OF FLAVOR Ignite the flames of passion with molten lava cakes oozing with a decadent chocolate center. The addition of a luscious cherry glaze adds a fruity twist, creating a dessert that is both delicious and visually stunning. When your date cuts into the cake and experiences the gooey chocolate eruption, their heart will surely melt, just like the dessert itself.

HEART-SHAPED MACARONS: AN ETHEREAL DELIGHT Incorporate the delicate art of macaron-making into your romantic repertoire by presenting your loved one with heart-shaped macarons. These almond meringue cookies, sandwiched with luscious ganache or fruity fillings, are visually appealing and a testament to the precision and care you've put into your Valentine's Day celebration.

A perfect, sweet gesture that will leave your date utterly enchanted.

DARK CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES: PLAYFUL AND ROMANTIC “Pair homemade dark chocolate truffles with a Brut sparkling rosé,” says pastry chef Jacquelynn Beckman of Flours Bakery. “The playful pink color and the romance of the bubbles paired with a rich and decadent dark chocolate truffle would be perfect for celebrating Valentine’s Day. I recommend using a high-quality chocolate of 60-70% cocoa like Valrhona or Callebaut, but you can find Ghirardelli chocolate in your local grocery store that would be a lovely alternative.”

BAKED PAIN AU CHOCOLAT PUDDING: A PERFECT MATCH Halfway between dessert and decadent breakfast, this elevated bread pudding would make a wonderful treat for the morning of (or after) Valentine’s Day. A spinoff of a traditional British creation conceived to make good use of stale bread, this decadent dessert has nothing in common with its lowly predecessor, except for the custard it is soaked in.

The crunchy layers of chocolate-filled pastries and the smooth and luscious vanilla custard are a perfect match, much like you and the one you’ll share it with.

Creating a romantic dessert for Valentine's Day is an artful expression of love. Whether you opt for elegance and richness or playful charm, each dessert is a gesture from the heart. So, set the stage, ignite the candles, and let these sweet creations become the background to a night filled with love, laughter, and lingering glances. Happy indulging! 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.

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food Valentine’s Day Sweetheart Menu only at TEN at the Northern

19 N. Broadway complimentary valet and self parking 406.867.6774 nhten.com

61 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Eat well & live a full life.

Experience the enchanting flavors of the season, each course a celebration of love.

Creamy Goat Cheese Pasta

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Serve imm

Recipe of the Month

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Meet the BAKERS

food

Continuing the Legacy M

Article by Anna Rogers Photos by Renata Haidle

aybe you’ve been gifted a sweet stack with the recognizable blue and white windmill label, wrapped to display the golden goodness inside through the packaging. Perhaps you’ve treated yourself to lunch or a pastry at the café on 17th Street West, stepping into the cozy space that feels like home, part of the neighborhood since 1987.

Maybe you’ve popped in for a pie or cheesecake to carry out and elevate your holiday gatherings or celebrations. Whatever way you’ve encountered Caramel Cookie Waffles, it’s sure to have been a treat.

63 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Eat well & live a full life.

THE STROOPWAFEL SCOOP:

STEEPED IN TRADITION Dutch-born Jan Boogman and his wife Judy, a Montana native, met through their love of track and field, but they built their life on artisan cookies and good food. What started as a passion for bringing the taste of Dutch cookies to Montana in a concession trailer evolved into a beautiful, delicious legacy.

Opening a storefront café in 1987 to share baked goods, soups, sandwiches, and more alongside their signature stroopwafel, they dedicated their lives to making Caramel Cookie Waffles what it is today.

Longevity was always the goal for Caramel Cookie Waffles.

The Boogmans prioritized consistency and quality and maintained a strong commitment to employee and customer satisfaction. The café became a neighborhood staple, with the Boogmans riding their bikes to work, many employees walking to work, and staff familiarity with its patrons. Over

35 years and countless hours of cookie-making later, Jan and Judy are enjoying retirement and have passed on the torch of this unique Billing locale.

Thanks to a knowledgeable, dedicated staff, it’s been a seamless transition for those in Billings who love to frequent the café and munch on its cookies. Everything the Boogmans worked tirelessly and passionately to create remains: a family environment with a heart for community, good food, and the joy of a perfectly caramelized stroopwafel.

STROOPWAFEL SCOOP The stroopwafel is one of the most popular cookies in the Netherlands – one that was a staple of Jan’s childhood and has now become a staple in Montana. The sweet waffle cookies are sold all across the state in locally owned, mom-and-pop shops just like Caramel Cookie Waffles.

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This affordable and delicious treat is made by pressing vanilla and cinnamon dough between gas flame-heated waffle irons. The thin cookies are then split in two, filled with a rich homemade butter caramel, and put back together to bring you the perfect combination of sweet flavors and textures.

What sets this local cookie apart from others? Caramel Cookie Waffles are small batch, made locally by a sister duo and their team in Billings. Sam and Dova worked with Jan and have become masters of the stroopwafel, sticking 100% to the traditional Dutch cookie-making method. The experts at Caramel Cookie Waffles hand caramel and hand package every cookie. Each blue and white bundle is made with care, love, and quality control.

Café manager Sarah attributes her commitment to those she interacts with on the job. “Really, what kept me here is the customer clientele & the co-workers.” The camaraderie of a dedicated team and friendly customers who become friends is the atmosphere Caramel Cookie Waffles has always sought to create.

With the influential guidance of Jan and Judy, an all-star team of employees, and new owners dedicated to continuing the lasting legacy already created, the Billings and surrounding communities can continue enjoying Caramel Cookie Waffles café and cookies as they have for nearly four decades.

Sarah perfectly sums up the place and people with whom she spends her days: “It’s a unique staple – the hidden gem of Billings.” SLM

CONTINUING THE LEGACY The new owners’ goal is still longevity – continuing the tradition of care and love going into every cookie, bowl of soup, and baked good that changes hands in the café – and the dedicated employees are making this longevity possible. Many of them have been with Caramel Cookie Waffles for years, or even decades – a thread of continuity almost unheard of in today’s restaurant business.

ANNA ROGERS IS A TRANSPLANT FROM THE CAROLINAS WITH A BACKGROUND IN MARKETING AND GRAPHIC COMMUNICATIONS. SHE IS A WIFE AND MOTHER WHO LOVES TO GARDEN, COOK, AND PRACTICE YOGA. ANNA IS PASSIONATE ABOUT TRAVEL, WHICH AT ITS CORE IS REALLY A PASSION FOR PEOPLE, AS SHE BELIEVES PEOPLE AND COMMUNITY ARE WHAT TRULY BRING LIFE AND BEAUTY INTO A PLACE.

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65 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

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BAKE This

RED VELVET CREAM CHEESE BROWNIES Recipe courtesy of Caramel Cookie Waffles Photos by Renate Haidle

INGREDIENTS: BATTER: 12 ounces melted butter

•

3 Cups sugar

•

¾ Cup cocoa

•

1 teaspoon red gel food color

•

1 Tablespoon white vinegar

•

1 Tablespoon vanilla

•

¾ teaspoon salt

•

6 eggs

•

2¼ Cups flour

food

•

ICING: 16 ounces cream cheese

•

½ Cup sugar

DIRECTIONS: Use sheet pan with extender frame.

1.

Mix the batter ingredients as ordered, stirring after each.

2.

Reserve ¾ - 1 Cup (eyeball) batter for the top, and spread the rest in the bottom of the pan.

3.

Whip cream cheese and sugar in a mixer and scrape down as you mix.

4.

Swirl cream cheese icing with the remaining batter for topping.

5.

Bake for 30 minutes at 300° in a convection oven.

67 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Eat well & live a full life.

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simply home love where you live.

70 Feature Making Your Closet Work for You 79 Homes on Parade Alpine Basin: Resort Style Living in Red Lodge

Photo by Nathan Satran 69 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

MAKING YOUR WORK FOR

Closet You

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Article by Stephanie Hobby Photos by Nathan Satran

F

home

or centuries, most American homes didn’t even have closets, and those that did had small, dark, cramped spaces designed strictly for utilitarian storage. But today, that simple area has been elevated to an essential way to bookend your day.

Getting dressed is a breeze when things like shoes and accessories are visible and everything has a designated home. That kind of good design doesn’t just happen by accident, though. Years of careful planning and experience curated by expert organizers and designers make a critical difference if you’re considering a closet revamp.

Anita Price, Closet Manager at Beyond the Box, says she loves working with clients to help them find storage solutions across a variety of budgets. “There are so many ways to elevate your closet. Some are as simple as shoe shelves, drawers, and a built-in hamper,” she said. “But for the closet enthusiasts that really want that elevated look, we have lots of options to choose from.” Such options include lighted clothing rods that come in different colors like black or gold, and can be wired to turn on when you enter the closet, lights behind cabinet glass doors, and leather drawers and shelves.

Price recommends wall hooks as an easy solution for stretches of flat walls where space is otherwise wasted. However, if you want to make an area both functional and beautiful, consider the Symphony system, which comes in different sizes and colored metals and leathers. It is a space-efficient way to store jewelry, belts, shoes, and hats. “It can even be used in an entryway as a stylish way to organize your belongings,” she said.

Love where you live.

71 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

One of the initial key steps is to assess what you own - and use the most - and plan accordingly. Rebecca Boyce and Jamie Holiday, of the professional organizers The OCD Girls, begin every closet overhaul by removing every item and doing a rapid “keep or toss?” session.

“One of the biggest problems we run into is that people have too much stuff. We wear 20 percent of our clothes 80 percent of the time,” Boyce said. “You have to be honest about what you really wear and what you’re no longer wearing and be able to pare down to the life you actually have. If you were used to going to an office and now work from home, and you’re hanging onto ten pairs of dress trousers, that no longer makes sense for you.”

Determining your needs guides the discussion for the actual closet design. If you have a lot of long dresses, you’ll need more tall rod space; if you have a lot of t-shirts and sweatshirts, you have to ask yourself if you’re more likely to hang or fold them. If you have a lot of things that need to be folded, shallow shelves and drawers can help keep things neat and organized so you’re not reaching for something at the bottom and knocking over a tall tower of clothes.

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73 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Whether you’re doing a complete overhaul or need to work with existing space, turning to a pro can be a game-changer. “We have a lot of really great product solutions,” said Boyce. “One of the advantages of hiring us is that our product knowledge is extensive, and we’ve seen and handled all kinds of problems and challenges.”

Carefully assess what’s in your closet and see if there’s another place it could go. Montana has seasonal temperatures, which means that when fall hits, you can safely put away your sundresses and flip-flops and move your warmer clothes front and center. The OCD Girls encourage clients to move those seasonal items into other storage so they’re out of the way and not taking up valuable real estate in your closet. Holiday and Boyce often find rarely-used items like luggage and wedding dresses in people’s closets, which can be moved to a guest room or the garage.

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home

75 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Love where you live.

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Price frequently collaborates with Boyce and Holiday, and they all agree that displaying items you love can be a great way to keep those items visible and give you something beautiful where you can focus your attention (instead of those piles of unfolded laundry). If you have a fabulous collection of shoes or hats, find a prominent spot where they can take center stage.

Price offers a variety of lighting options, luxe features like leather shelves and glass doors, and recommends painting your walls a coordinating color to give your shelves a bit of a pop, to make your clothing stand out.

Another easy, affordable trick is to purchase matching hangers that blend in with the clothing rod; The OCD Girls like the slimline velvet hangers, which can be found at Sam’s Club or Costco. Slim hangers can double your closet storage and reduce the visual clutter of having different colored plastic hangers mixed in with wood or wire. Having all the same color hangers, ideally with a metal hook that matches or blends in with your closet rod, is calming and more visually appealing.

Finally, having help building categories, zones, and sorting things by color sets you up for long-term success. “One of the benefits of hiring a professional organizer is that we’re going to set up the system for you to maintain from there,” said Holiday.

“Once everything has a home and place, and you consistently put it back, it really is easy to maintain.” SLM STEPHANIE HOBBY IS MARRIED TO AN AWESOME BILLINGS GUY. THEY LOVE SKIING, HIKING, TRAVELING, AND OTHER ADVENTURES WITH THEIR TWO FUN KIDS AND CRAZY DOG.

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HOMES On Parade

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Love where you live.

he mountains are calling, and the new Alpine Basin community in the heart of Red Lodge urges you to settle in and venture out.

Featured in 2023's Billings Parade of Homes, Alpine Basin had the privilege of showcasing a home in their newly developed Red Lodge neighborhood. Located just minutes from downtown, the resort-styled community boasts open floorplans, fine finishes, and easy mountain living.

“Red Lodge is a great outdoor playground, with a fantastic community and lots going on yearround,” said Andy Skatvold, Alpine Basin’s lead developer. “We want to give people access to it in a way where everything is taken care of.”

home

T

Article by Maria Weidich Photos by Nathan Satran

WIDE OPEN SPACES Step across the threshold and immediately devour the home’s grandeur. The towering vaulted ceilings, soaring fireplace surround, and prominent upstairs loft easily captivate, and the home couldn’t be more spacious.

Marcella Manuel, Alpine Basin realtor and host for the Parade of Homes was quick to say the responses from prospective homeowners were incredible. “Whether thinking of it as a vacation home or full-time residence, people loved the floorplan and how well thought out the spaces were.”

The exposed upstairs loft overlooks the great room, providing privacy while keeping the line of sight to the home's main features. The loft is a flexible space by nature, serving as a TV room, book nook, game room, or even an overflow sleeping area. It’s the perfect opportunity to build out the space to accommodate each unique homeowner.

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FLEXING WITH FINISHES The open kitchen and living space are simple, easy to maintain, and sprinkled with luxe finishes. The kitchen features granite countertops, tile backsplash, stainless appliances, and stunning wood cabinets. The custom steel railing adds a pop of modern elegance throughout.

The beautiful wood embellishments throughout the home perfectly complement its Red Lodge surroundings. The knotty alder doors, wood baseboards, door casings, and wall accents create the ultimate mountain retreat.

“So many positive comments were made about the quality of the finishes,” Marcella agreed. “People love the wood trim package and the wood accents throughout the house. Many commented on how warm and mountain-y it felt.”

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Learn About the Latest in: • Remodeling Ideas • New Home Construction • Interior Desgn Trends • And More!

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APRÈS SKI AT HOME After a wintery day on the slopes, the homes at Alpine Basin make it easy to create the ultimate après ski experience right at home. As the wet snow gear dries, cap off your day with a warm winter beverage and cozy up by the fire. Or, take the post-ski socializing outside to the hot tub or your private upper patio deck.

These exterior amenities of the home were the talk of the town. The rooftop deck with a wet bar nestled in the corner was a real surprise and was overwhelmingly favored at the Parade. “You can’t beat the outdoor living space,” Andy echoed. “Even though the homes are tight-knit, everyone has their own space, and there’s not a bad view in the whole development.”

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LOCALLY OWNED 1983 - 2023

home

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THIS LOCAL FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS

THE MORE, THE MERRIER The beauty of Red Lodge should be shared, and with the home’s roomy floorplan, there’s always space for more. The 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home will comfortably accommodate a crowd no matter the season. “I love the efficiency of the floorplan,” Andy agreed. “It looks and feels much larger than its actual square footage.”

As a convenience when hosting guests, each full bath includes double vanities and a separate water closet, allowing more than one person to use the space simultaneously.

The Grand Suite, located on the main floor, is privately tucked behind a rustic wooden barn door where in-floor heat awaits. The adjoining bathroom is just as grand, brimming with a spa-like walk-in shower and separate free-standing tub.

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MAGIC CITY

Thank you

GRANITE ALPINE BASIN

for allowing us to be part of this beautiful home!

NATURAL STONE & QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS 5850 Interstate Ave, Billings, MT

252-1106

www.magiccitygranite.com

LO WN N EEDD AANN D DO O P EPREARTA ET DE D LO CCAAL LL LYY OOW NATURAL STONE & QUARTZ COUNTER TOPS | FREE IN-HOME ESTIMATES

252-1106

5850 Interstate Ave • Billings

NATURAL STONE & www.magiccitygranite.com QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS 5850 Interstate Ave•Billings 252-1106| www.magiccitygranite.com

FREE IN-HOME ESTIMATES home Love where you live.

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EASY MOUNTAIN LIVING

ORIGINALLY

FROM

ALASKA,

home

The ease of upkeep, whether as a primary residence or a vacation home, is a big plus, Marcella said of the houses at Alpine Basin. “The HOA takes care of the lawn, snow removal, and exterior maintenance.

For vacation homeowners, that was appealing,” she said.

“And with vacation property management already in place, it makes it easy to short-term rent.” As an added bonus, the neighborhood’s clubhouse, equipped with a community room, outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, and equipment rental, is nearing completion.

Alpine Basin may be new to Red Lodge, but Andy and local builder Adam Quick of Palisade Builders each have over 25 years of experience in the industry. Mountain living is a lifestyle, and Alpine Basin is designed to cultivate that spirit in their community. The homes are built in reverence to the natural beauty of Red Lodge while offering comfortable, carefree living. Whether for a weekend getaway or the long term, Alpine Basin inspires getting outdoors while having a comfortable place to hang your hat at the end of the day. SLM MARIA

RESIDES IN BILLINGS WITH HER HUSBAND, TWO DAUGHTERS AND CHOCOLATE LAB, KIDS OR THAT NEXT RUNNING GOAL, YOU CAN FIND HER WEEKEND-WARRIORING IN THE MOUNTAINS OR THINKING ABOUT HER NEXT CUP OF COFFEE.

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Love where you live.

ECHO. WHEN SHE’S NOT CHASING HER

Children and families are at the heart of everything we do at RiverStone Health.

Call us today for an appointment in a warm, welcoming, environment.

406.247.3350

RiverStoneHealth.org

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calendar

around town, every day.

92 Connect All Month 93 Around Town – Every Day A day by day rundown of unique events 96 Kid Connections

calendar

Photo by Seth Kroft 91 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Connect All Month

O

bviously, we know that February is generally thought to be the love month, with Valentine’s Day smack dab in the middle of it. But did you know there is more warm and fuzziness to February than just this Hallmark holiday of questionable origin? Indeed, there is Thank a Mail Carrier Day (February 4- lest we forget they worked 7 days a week leading up to Christmas), Make a Friend Day (February 11- Whether starting anew or rekindling an old friendship), Random Acts of Kindness Day (February 17- Big or little give a kindness, receive a kindness, but always pass it on), National Caregivers Day (February 16- Let’s be sure to recognize the caregivers and provide opportunity for some extra TLC on this day and throughout the year.), National Love Your Pet Day (February 20- I mean…No brainer.), and because they deserve a little extra love, we’d be remiss not to point out that it’s a Leap Year! Happy (actual) birthday, Leap babies!

While it might seem obvious, this idea of sprinkling kindness and goodness around like confetti; sometimes we need a reminder. Perhaps especially when we’re in an election year? May we remember that it is better to work together than apart, that two heads are better than one, that our differences can help each other grow, and that kindness and caring never go out of style; in fact, it’s bridged many a gap.

BECCA’S NOT-TO-MISS FEBRUARY EVENT Because music is the universal language that is an exquisite bridger of gaps, we present Johnny Gandelsman: This is America, live at the Billings Depot on February 15. The Grammy award-winning violinist will present selections from This Is America, an anthology borne from the social justice reckoning of 2020 and 2021, a difficult but important time in our country’s history.

Get tickets:

“We rise by lifting others.” -Robert Ingersoll

Becca

Rebecca Stewart, Assistant editor

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

@ www.simplylocalbillings.com And so much more! Remember, Simply Local Magazine isn’t just once a month, it’s every day!

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February 2024

CALENDAR Edited by Rebecca Stewart

FIND YOUR FUN AND RESOURCES AT A GLANCE.

Foundation members. Moderated by BPLF Director Cody Rose, this session offers a rare glimpse into the challenges and triumphs behind our award-winning facility.

FAMILY FUN OUT & ABOUT KID ZONE LET’S MOVE CREATE IT COOK THIS

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.

PERFORMANCES T(W)EEN TIME NIGHTLIFE COMMUNITY RESOURCES EDUCATIONAL FAITH-BASED LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE VIRTUAL EVENTS

Look for our event picks of the month.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR sponsored by

1 Thursday | 1st Day of Black History Month Huntley Project Museum Quilt Show.

10am-4pm, TU-SA, Feb 1-29. Huntley Project Museum, 770 Railroad Hwy, Huntley. Free admission. Pop by the museum to vote for your favorite quilt!

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 of 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 93 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

2

Friday

Art Auction Exhibition Opening & Artist Party. 5pm. Yellowstone Art Museum.

Celebrate the YAM's 60th Anniversary and the artists who make this auction fundraiser possible! Featuring quick-finish artists, live music from the Jessica Fiveland Quartet, cocktails, mocktails, heavy apps, and dancing. This is your first chance to begin bidding or buy-it-now on works in the silent auction. Psst! You won't want to miss the special announcement at 6pm!

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.

GET OUR APP! View full event descriptions and stay up-to-date with our calendar and local events. Search for Simply Local Magazine in the app store or scan below to download today!

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NAMI Billings Support Group for Mental Health | Connection. 1pm, 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 – contact info@namibillings. org.

Heartsaver CPR/AED/First Aid class. For the general public. 10am-2pm, Feb 24 // 11am-3pm, Feb 9 // 6-9pm, Feb 1. 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

¡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.

MSU Billings Jazz Festival. 7pm, Concert.

MSU Billings, Petro Theatre. A day of High School, College, and Middle School ensemble performances and adjudication. Concert includes MSUB's Jazz Orchestra with guest artists. $15/person. msubillings.edu/jazz/.

Pediatric CPR/AED/First Aid class. 11am3pm, Feb 2 // 2-5pm, Feb 24 // 6-9pm, Feb 15. 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.

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.

Krafty Kids. 2-3pm, Feb 3 & 17. 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.

6

Tuesday

Class: NAMI Peer-to-Peer. 6-8pm. TU, Feb 6-March 26. NAMI Billings. Free, 8-week education program focused on mental health, wellness and recovery for anyone experiencing a mental health condition. namibillings.org/ peer-to-pee...

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.

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Wednesday

YAM Teens | Light & Color. 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. Please bring your own yoga mat.

Cost: $60/member, 6-class series // $90/ non-member, 6-class series.

8

Thursday

Harvest Church’s annual Daddy Daughter Dance. 6:30-8:30pm, Feb 8, 9, or 10. Harvest Church. Tickets must be purchased in advance. www.harvestchurch.tv/signup

Thursday Evening Cooking Classes | Heartfelt Sweets. 5:30-7:30pm. Yellowstone Art Museum. Register online or call 406-2566804 during business hours. www.hisawyer. com.

Class: NAMI Family-to-Family. 6-8:30pm.

TH, Feb 8-March 28. NAMI Billings. For family members who live with an individual with mental illness. www.namibillings.org Basic Life Support CPR/AED Renewal.

11am-3pm, Feb 23 // 2-5pm, Feb 10 // 6-9pm, Feb 8. America First Response, 3333 2nd Ave N, Ste 250, Billings. For medical professionals. Cost: $80. Register: www. america1stresponse.com.

9

The Pub Station THE TAYLOR PARTY: THE TS DANCE PARTY Friday, February 9 @ 8pm Get Your Tickets:

Friday

Gun Show. 2-7pm, F; 9am-5pm, SA; 9am2pm, SU. Feb 9-11. MetraPark Montana Pavilion. www.metrapark.com.

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: mtaudubon.org Friday Night Fun | A Night at the Opera. 5-7:30pm. Billings Public Library Community Room. Every Friday evening the Library features a fun and free event for families. Bring the whole family down for "Friday Night Fun" and enjoy games, movies, crafts, music, and exhibits.

Harvest Church’s annual Daddy Daughter Dance. 6:30-8:30pm, Feb 8, 9, or 10. Harvest Church. Tickets must be purchased in advance. www.harvestchurch. tv/signup.

'The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever.'

7:30pm, F/SA performances; 2pm, SU matinees. Feb 9-18. NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. Directed by Janie Sutton, The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever will have a cast of 30 NOVA Youth Conservatory actors plus an all youth tech crew. 406.591.9535, novabillings.org.

Building & Remodeling Expo. 2-5pm, F; 10am-5pm, SA. Feb 8-10. Metrapark Montana Pavilion. Everything for your home remodel or new construction project. Bring your building or remodeling plans and speak with a professional who can help. Admission: $3/adult; Free/Kids & Students. www. metrapark.com 94 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

If you are fully (or even kind of) in your Taylor Swift era and you’re 18 or older, then this is the party for you!

Are you ready for it?

The Pub Station is hosting this original Taylor Swift-inspired dance party where you’re invited to come shake it off at this enchanting evening of Swifties singing and dancing through all of TS’ iconic eras.

So get your Eras outfit together, gather your besties, and everything will be alright!

10 Saturday Gun Show. 9am-5pm, SA; 9am-2pm, SU. Feb 9-11. MetraPark Montana Pavilion. www. metrapark.com.

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.

Harvest Church’s annual Daddy Daughter Dance. 6:30-8:30pm. Harvest Church.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. https://www.harvestchurch.tv/signup Studio 2nd Saturday | Clay Creations.

10am-12pm. Yellowstone Art Museum. Ages 5-12. Explore shape and form using air dry clay and create a sculpture inspired by Art Auction 56 Register: 406.256.6804, x238 or arteducator@artmuseum.org.

Discover the Flavor & Language of Love.

3-5pm. Montana Audubon Center. Join us for this fun writing event -- combined with a food and wine tasting. We'll read a few classic and modern takes on love poems and discuss what makes them so special. We'll cap off the event with a complimentary red wine sampling and food pairing. A discussion of flavors, tastes, and the changing nature of our personal preferences when it comes to food (and love) will close out the event!

Participants must be 21+ to enjoy wine at the event. Please let us know of any food allergies in advance. $15/person for Members; $20/ person for Non-Members; $25/couple for Members; $35/couple for Non-Members.

Billings Symphony: 'Song for Humanity.'

7:30pm. Alberta Bair Theater. Grand in scale yet intimate in its message, Brahms’ “Human Requiem” (his preferred title) offers consolation for the living, rather than judgment for the dead. In keeping with the composer’s intention that this work would be “for all people,” this performance will be presented in English. billingssymphony.org 'The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever.'

7:30pm, F/SA performances; 2pm, SU matinees. Feb 9-18. NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. , novabillings.org.

Building & Remodeling Expo. 2-5pm, F; 10am-5pm, SA. Feb 8-10. Metrapark Montana Pavilion. Admission: $3/adult; Free/Kids & Students. www.metrapark.com Free! Monthly Car Seat Check (BY APPOINTMENT). 10am-2pm. AMR, 1701 Montana Ave. Schedule your appointment: www.picktime.com.

11 Sunday Gun Show. 9am-2pm. MetraPark Montana Pavilion. www.metrapark.com.

'The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever.' 2pm, SU matinees. Feb 9-18. NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. , novabillings.org.

12 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.

13 Tuesday Jon Pardi in concert. 7pm. MetraPark First Interstate Arena. www.metrapark.com Grief Support Group. 7-9pm. Dahl Funeral Chapel, 10 Yellowstone Ave. Every other TU Sept 15-May 2024 More info: 406.591.3219.

For the Love of the heArts. 6:30pm, doors open; 7pm. NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2317 Montana Ave. Guests will be treated to an evening of tasty treats, compli-

15 Thursday MATE Show / Home & Health Expo. Feb 15-17: TH/F, 10am-6pm; SA, 10am-5pm.

MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion. www.metrapark.com.

Johnny Gandelsman: This is America.

7:30pm. Billings Depot. After opening with a reimagined Bach Cello Suite, the Grammy award-winning violinist presents selections from This Is America. Each work is an intimate reflection on the current state of American society, looking through an unflinching lens at universal topics like separation, loneliness, hope, and love. billingssymphony.org.

16 Friday Friday Night Fun | Winter-Weather Trivia Night with Miller Robson. 6pm. Billings Public Library Community Room. Every Friday evening the Library features a fun and free event for families. Bring the whole family down for "Friday Night Fun" and enjoy games, movies, crafts, music, and exhibits.

'The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever.'

7:30pm, F/SA performances; 2pm, SU matinees. Feb 9-18. NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. , novabillings.org.

MATE Show / Home & Health Expo. Feb 15-17: TH/F, 10am-6pm; SA, 10am-5pm.

MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion. www.metrapark.com.

2024 MSU Billings Science Expo.

Registration deadline: Feb 16, 5pm.

Students can create an account and register their science fair projects online: msubillings. edu. Science Fair: March 16, 10am-4pm (located at Yellowstone Science and Health Building).

17 Saturday No Limits Monster Trucks & Thrill Show.

7pm. MetraPark First Interstate Arena. www.metrapark.com Krafty Kids. 2-3pm, Feb 3 & 17. 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.

'Hairspray'. 2pm & 7:30pm. Alberta Bair Theater. This all-new touring production reunites Broadway’s award-winning

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creative team led by Director Jack O’Brien and Choreographer Jerry Mitchell to bring HAIRSPRAY to a new generation of theater audiences. albertabairtheater.org 'The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever.'

7:30pm, F/SA performances; 2pm, SU matinees. Feb 9-18. NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. , novabillings.org.

Lincoln Center HEARTS FOR THE ARTS Friday, February 17 @ 6pm Music and art reach across all barriers, creating connection where there might otherwise not be. Our educators in the Fine Arts departments across the Magic City will once again be holding an art show and concert featuring Billings Public Schools staff and fine arts community friends at the Lincoln Center. Portions of the art show will be part of a silent auction to raise professional development funds for SD2’s Fine Arts teachers. Additionally, for the first time ever, the Hearts for the Arts award will be presented to a Fine Arts friend who has made significant contribution to the BPS Fine Arts programs.

The Art Show begins at 6pm with the concert starting at 7pm. Come express your heart for the arts programs in Billings Public Schools!

Live Music | Repeat Offenders' Love Rocks Show. 7pm. Craft Local, 2501 Montana Ave. All ages welcome.

Emo Night Prom Night. 8pm. The Pub Station. DJ artxdamage will be playing all the emo hits. Tickets: https://thepubstation. com/events.

MATE Show / Home & Health Expo. 10am5pm. MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion. www.metrapark.com.

18 Sunday 'The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever.' 2pm.

NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. , novabillings.org.

GET OUR APP! View full event descriptions and stay up-to-date with our calendar and local events. Search for Simply Local Magazine in the app store or scan below to download today!

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14 Wednesday | Valentine's Day

mentary wine, as well as live music by the local trio “Mojo”. The evening also includes a silent auction filled with delightful “date night” gift cards and the popular wine raffle.

The winning ticket for the raffle wins a bottle of wine as well as two wine glasses…and a night for two at The Northern Hotel in Downtown Billings. Ticket prices for the event are $50/couple and $30/individual. https:// novabillings.org/events/.

KID Connections …on TUESDAYS

…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.

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.

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

Daycare Storytime. 9:15am, 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.

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

Teen Techies. 3-4pm. Billings Public Library Computer Classroom. Grades 6th12th. 8-week course starting Feb 27. Basics of Arduino Coding using Uno and bread boards to light LEDs in new and interesting ways. All supplies provided. Space is limited, register online early. billingslibrary.org Art Explorers: Art Club For Tweens.

4-5pm, TU. Beginnings Jan 9. Billings Public Library Children's Craft Corner. Ages 9-12.

No pre-registration required. More info: https://billingslibrary.org/395/Children.

Friendship Teens. 6-8pm. Every TU. Friendship House, 3123 8th Ave S. Ages 12-18. Games, snacks, and more. More info/updates: 406.259.5569, Instagram @ friendshipteens

…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 FRIDAYS

…on SATURDAYS Books & Babies: Music Edition. 10:15am.

Billings Public Library. Ages 0-2. Books, hands-on musical play and fun!

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

…throughout the MONTH Take & Make Crafts.

Starting Feb 1. Billings Public Library. Stop by the Children's Desk for your kit! First-come, first served, no registration required.

Family Reading Program runs through Feb 29. 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 ZooMontana.

19 Monday | Presidents' Day 21 Wednesday Eastern A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball Tournament. Feb 21-24.

MetraPark First Interstate Arena. www. metrapark.com Billings RV & Boat Show and Sale. 10am8pm, W-SA; 10am-5pm, SU. Feb 21-25.

MetraPark Expo Center. This annual event brings together Montana's premier RV and boat dealers, offering enthusiasts an exclusive glimpse into the latest models with on-site manufacturers providing unbeatable factory discounts and incredibly low show pricing. billingsrvandboatshow.com 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.

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.

22 Thursday Eastern A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball Tournament. Feb 21-24.

MetraPark First Interstate Arena. www. metrapark.com Billings RV & Boat Show and Sale.

10am-8pm, W-SA; 10am-5pm, SU. Feb 21-25. MetraPark Expo Center. billingsrvandboatshow.com.

DRUMLine Live. 7:30pm. Alberta Bair Theater. With riveting rhythms, bold beats, and ear-grabbing energy, the stage show is a synchronized musical showcase of the HBCU experience.

Incorporating original compositions and soul-infused interpretations of Top 40 hits, group performances range from colorful, choreographed routines to heavy doses of drum riffs and cadences. www. albertabairtheater.org.

Coffee with CASA | Mazevo Coffee. 6pm.

Mazevo Coffee, 1405 38th St W. 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.

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Eastern A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball Tournament.

Feb 21-24.

MetraPark First Interstate Arena. www. metrapark.com Billings RV & Boat Show and Sale.

10am-8pm, W-SA; 10am-5pm, SU. Feb 21-25. MetraPark Expo Center. billingsrvandboatshow.com.

Owl Prowl. 6:30-8pm, Feb 23. Montana Audubon Center. We'll talk about the different species of owls that live in Billings and throughout the state, then we'll go for a hike to look and listen for them. Wear warm layers and boots (trails may be snowy, icy, and muddy!). $10/non-members, $5/members, Free/children < 12 Advanced registration required: mtaudubon.org Friday Night Fun | Zodiac Night. 5:307:30pm. Billings Public Library Community Room. Every Friday evening the Library features a fun and free event for families.

Bring the whole family down for "Friday Night Fun" and enjoy games, movies, crafts, music, and exhibits.

24 Saturday Eastern A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball Tournament.

Feb 21-24.

MetraPark First Interstate Arena. www. metrapark.com Billings RV & Boat Show and Sale.

10am-8pm, W-SA; 10am-5pm, SU. Feb 21-25. MetraPark Expo Center. billingsrvandboatshow.com Art Auction Artist Workshop. 10am-4pm.

Yellowstone Art Museum. Art Auction artist Linda Pease will be in the Education Studio for a day of art making inspired by her work in Art Auction 56. Together we will create compositions on canvas with antique paper and acrylic paint.

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

25 Sunday Billings RV & Boat Show and Sale.

10am-8pm, W-SA; 10am-5pm, SU. Feb 21-25. MetraPark Expo Center. billingsrvandboatshow.com

27 Tuesday

Program: Bring Your Own Grownup (BYOG). 3pm. Billings Public Library. BYOG encourages families to participate in craft and nature activities together. Learn about macramé by making a macrame hanging plant holder. This program requires an adult for every registered child (5-12). billingslibrary.org

29 Thursday Burgers for Benefits.

11am-8pm.

Fuddruckers, West End- 2011 Overland Ave. Support Yellowstone Valley Out of the Darkness Walk by telling the cashier that you are there to support the cause and a portion of your total will support Suicide Prevention.

Malevo – Argentinian Dance Company.

7:30pm. Alberta Bair Theater. Passionate Drumming. Explosive Dance. Fiery Theatrics.

Argentina’s answer to Stomp and Riverdance. www.albertabairtheater.org.

1 Friday | 1st Day of Women's History Month FAM at the YAM | Tons of Tintypes. 4-6pm.

Yellowstone Art Museum. All ages. Free admission. Explore the photography of Will Wilson and learn more about traditional photographic processes. For every type of family, come and go, and create art with a professional artist. www.artmuseum.org.

Spring Home Improvement Show. March 1-3. 12-8pm, F; 9am-6pm, SA; 10am-5pm, SU. MetraPark Expo Center & Montana Pavilion. www.billingshomeimprovementshow.com

2

Saturday

Amy Grant at ABT. 7:30pm. Alberta Bair Theater. www.albertabairtheater.org.

60th Anniversary Live Auction Gala.

5pm. Yellowstone Art Museum. There is much to celebrate as the YAM pays tribute to 60 years of exceptional artists, exhibitry, and growth. The Live Auction Gala, led by esteemed auctioneer Maron Hindman of Hindman Auctions, will conclude the YAM’s Art Auction with final in-person bids placed on Silent and Live Auction works for ticket holders. artmuseum.org/engage/ yellowstone-art-auction.

5

Tuesday

Anderson & Roe Piano Duo. 7:30pm. Alberta Bair Theater. Known for their adrenalized performances, original compositions, and notorious music videos, Greg Anderson and Elizabeth Joy Roe are revolutionizing the piano duo experience for the 21st century. www.albertabairtheater.org.

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

97 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

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 tocalendar@simplylocalmagazine. com

Deadline for the March issue is February 5th!

GET OUR APP! View full event descriptions and stay up-to-date with our calendar and local events.

Search for Simply Local Magazine in the app store or scan below to download today!

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'Mean Girls'. 7:30pm. Alberta Bair Theater.

Direct from Broadway, Mean Girls is the hilarious hit musical from an award-winning creative team. www.albertabairtheater.org/

28 Wednesday

Do you have an event for the calendar next month?

23 Friday

Exciting News simplylocalbillings.com has a new look!

Our revamped website is designed with YOU in mind – making it easier than ever to stay connected with the heartbeat of our community.

Scan here to check out simplylocalbillings.com

Follow us on social media for giveaways! @simplylocalbillings 98 | S I M P LY LO CA L B I L L I N GS.CO M

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99 | F EBRUA RY 2 0 2 4 Indulge. Create. Inspire.

Your Heart Deserves the Best Don’t wait until it’s too late to take care of your heart. Contact your primary care doctor to schedule a check-up and take the first step towards a healthier heart. Our team of experts are here to help you every step of the way.

To make an appointment with your primary care doctor today, please visit billingsclinic.com or call 406-238-2900.