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Letter Editor FRO M TH E
EVERY YEAR when
I’ll never know. But I do know that a simple newspaper clipping became a family tradition, one that traveled from her kitchen to my mother’s and eventually to mine.
the holidays roll around, a memory surfaces. I get flashbacks of being in my childhood home, going into the corner cupboard which sat next to my mom’s sink and reaching for a small box that held index-card-sized recipe cards. Some recipes looked brand new, but other cards bore stains, maybe a little sweetened condensed milk or a splash of vanilla on them from years of love and use. There was one recipe I always reached for. My grandmother’s Cherry Bell cookies. On the recipe, scrawled at the bottom read, Detroit Free Press, 1953. The spiced cookie was rolled and then tucked around a brown sugar, butter and crushed walnut filling that had a splash of cherry juice added. A maraschino cherry cut to resemble the clapper of a bell was set into the fold. I’ve come to realize that Cherry Bells might be an acquired taste. Not everyone in my family is a fan. I’ve often reflected on this and wondered if half of the joy came from the memories rolled into these cookies. My “Granda Willy” pulled the recipe from the newspaper and decided to give them a whirl. My mom loved them so much, she continued the tradition when she started her own family. And me, well, there hasn’t been a Christmas where I haven’t baked them up myself. I wish I could ask my Granda Willy what made her choose that recipe from the Detroit Free Press all those years ago. Was it the unusual name? The bright red cherry? Or did she simply have a feeling they might become something special?
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8 YVW MAGAZINE
The original recipe card may be long gone (sadly), but its story lives on every time I make another batch. And someday, I hope someone in the next generation will pull out that recipe, read the familiar notes, and decide these cherry-studded delights would be perfect for their family. Perhaps that’s the real magic of the holidays. We aren’t just repeating traditions. We’re keeping stories alive. Wishing you a holiday season rich with memories, meaningful traditions, and a little sweetness all along the way. ✻ Enjoy this issue,
Julie P.S. If someone has a delicious recipe for maple fudge, shoot me the recipe via email. My godfather used to make a mean maple fudge. We’ve since lost the recipe, and I’ve been searching for a great replacement ever since.
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w h at 's i nsid e on the cover
2 8 planti ng seeds of h op e One journey. Thousands of lives changed.
a heart for the world
1 6 f e e di ng c h il d ren , f u el in g fu tu res Tawnya Rush has turned her passion for food into a powerful mission
2 2 a p lace to belong
Nations to Neighbors is evolving to meet the changing needs of immigrants in Billings
36 a n unco nven t ion al l ife Alaska shapes, inspires nurse practitioner
42 h o p e 2 o n e l ife Closing a Chapter, Leaving a Legacy
featur es
4 6 t i ffi ni gal l an t rel ish es l i fe p os ttransplan t
28
Sister gifts kidney to save her sibling’s life
74 s tri ngs at tac h ed
Three musicians hope to make music accessible to the masses
90 a jo urney towar d p eace & li g ht
Paula Lorenz discovers a deeper sense of grace and grit along Stone Feather Road
yvw holiday
54 e mpty s toc kings
Let’s make the holidays bright for kids in foster care
56 31 years of Ch r is t ma s c h e e r A cherished tradition built on friendship
62 e di ble heir looms
A delicious connection to the women who came before
78 the mag ic is in t h e d etai ls
Rich greenery, gold accents, and timeless touches set the holiday scene
96 y vw ho liday gif t gu id e Discover locally owned gift ideas perfect for the season
78
1 20 a li t tle h ol iday spar kle Give vintage crystal a beautiful new life this Christmas
home and garden
1 10 ti me less l iv in g
Thoughtful design creates a peaceful haven for generations to gather
in every issue
68 f lavo rs to savor : The Waiting Room 70 ta s te o f t h e val ley: The Holiday Kitchen Helper 86 fa shi o n: A Little Extra 1 06 kare n g rosz : Assigned Seating 12 YVW MAGAZINE
ISSUE 157
NOVEMber/ DECEMber 2026
110
m eet the STA FF
Te r ry P e r k i n s Sales Executive
t r i sh scoz z a r i
Sales Executive / Writer
JA N Pu r se l l
Design
Photography
N i co le B u rte l l Distribution
we
Sales Executive / Writer
da n i e l s u l l i va n
Sales Executive
m e l a n i e Fa b r i z i us
gay le s m i t h
K a r i K a i se r Sales Executive
Michele Pedersen Photography
k ay l a g r ay Social Media
sue olp Copy Editor
ou r commun ity partn ers
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 13
a
14 YVW MAGAZINE
t r a He f o r
the
d l or W
SOMETIMES, the most extraordinary stories begin with a simple desire to
help. A television anchor finds purpose in feeding children in a small Ugandan village. A nurse practitioner dedicates decades to caring for Alaska’s Indigenous people. Another woman opens her heart to immigrants building new lives in Montana, while a physician assistant takes her skills across the ocean to bring healthcare and hope to Africa. And for nearly 20 years, one woman has used the non-profit she built from the ground up to bring clean water, education and healing in the aftermath of conflict. Five women who remnd us that a heart for service knows no borders. ✻ NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 15
16 YVW MAGAZINE
Feeding Children, Fueling Fueling Futures Futures TAWNYA RUSH HAS TURNED HER PASSION FOR FOOD INTO A POWERFUL MISSION written by JULIE KOERBER photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN & TAWNYA RUSH
AS TAWNYA RUSH speaks of her love for Uganda, she be-
gins with a distinct and visual image. Over 15 years ago, she remembers sailing into Kisima Island, Uganda, with her now-husband, Peter, by her side. It’s a small fishing village ravaged by poverty, genocide and disease. As the couple watched the approaching shore, they witnessed a slew of children running excitedly to greet them. “It’s overwhelming,” Tawnya says. “When you’re coming off the boat, and you see the kids running from the village in. There is a swarm of kids along the bank, waving and screaming. How could you not love that to start your day?” Peter may have led her here, but knowing she is helping to provide critical meals to children in need keeps her coming back. You might recognize Tawnya as the face of “Hello Montana” on Billings’ ABC and FOX television stations. She’s the cheery voice who, for two minutes a day, gets her finger on the pulse of Magic City happenings and causes. But when the studio lights fade, something else lights her soul on fire — the power to bring people together around food.
“I took family recipes, cooked and shared them,” Tawnya says of the show she started while working in Casper, Wyoming. “When I moved to work in Denver, I took the segment down there and expanded it. That sparked my philanthropic work.” From time to time, she’d interview people who were not only feeding people locally, but thousands of miles away overseas. Featuring Colorado’s former Governor Bill Ritter and his wife, Jeannie’s work feeding the people of Zambia earned her an Emmy Award. When Haiti suffered a catastrophic earthquake in 2010, Tawnya connected with a gentleman who had a feeding program there. Going on a mission trip to help the country pick up the pieces ignited her passion to feed those in need. Not long after she returned, she sat down at the anchor desk to interview a man who was serving as a volunteer with a nearby teen mentorship program. That man was her future husband, Peter Vogel. “It was the funniest thing because I looked at my colleagues and I remember saying, ‘I think he is pretty cute. Let’s go back and look at the tape,’” she says with a laugh. Days later, after Peter embarked on a mission trip to Uganda, he dropped her a note. “He emailed me from Africa to thank me for being on the show and said ‘Hopefully, I’ll see you again.’”
TAWNYA INTERV IEWS MARIO LOPE Z, CEO OF BILLINGS SYMPHONY
It was a passion that began while growing up as a farm girl in Thermopolis, Wyoming. She remembers the savory recipes cooked by her grandmother and the meals her mother fashioned around nearly every holiday. “My mom made such special recipes on special days, whether it was a 4th of July picnic or our Valentine’s Day spaghetti dinner with her homemade sauce, it was really special,” she says. When her broadcast career took off, she infused those special dishes into her work with a segment she called “Meals in a Rush.”
PHOTO OPPOSITE PAGE: TAWNYA & PETER
Peter also recalls that moment. “I was immediately smitten with her,” he says. Not only did the two kindle a relationship, but Tawnya was at Peter’s side when he planted the first formal feeding program in Uganda that would serve as the backbone for his nonprofit. On Uganda started with a simple promise to feed 45 children every
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 17
day and to partner with HELP International to build a school. “Over the years, Tawnya and I have planted, funded and administered feeding programs that now feed 1,000 kids daily,” Peter says. The couple is in talks to add another school to the program, which would put food in the mouths of 300 more children. During COVID 19, when Uganda schools and the feeding program were shut down, Tawnya and Peter funded an Emergency Food Insecurity Response - providing over three tons of corn and beans to feed two island communities in Uganda East Africa. The coronavirus crisis would have pushed several thousand people to the brink of starvation unless these meals were provided. “I see his passion and how much he loves what he does and loves the kids,” Tawnya says. “That’s what nurtures my soul. It gets you on a different path.” On a trip in 2025, Tawnya experienced a life-changing moment. As members of the community were singing and dancing in praise, she spotted a beautiful woman in a yellow dress walking toward her. “I saw something come full circle,” Tawnya says. Leah was one of the little girls Tawnya met on one of her first trips, back in 2010. “She started going to school because she got her one meal of the day. She graduated and is now a teacher there. She has grown into this beautiful adult, and it all started with her going to that school. She has flourished.” With emotion in her voice she adds, “That was really cool to see.” Leah’s story is a bright light in what could otherwise be seen as 18 YVW MAGAZINE
dark and devastating. Peter explains that the community of TAWNYA & LEAH 30,000 “is known as one of the largest slums in Uganda, and is made up largely of survivors I SEE HIS PASSION of war, genocide and famAND HOW MUCH HE LOVES ine from all over East AfriWHAT HE DOES AND LOVES ca who sought refuge and settled in what is called THE KIDS. THAT’S WHAT Masese.” It’s a place that is NURTURES MY SOUL. IT too often defined by what GETS YOU ON A it lacks, he adds. There is no electrical grid, no mail service, no sanitation, and nothing but dirt roads.
DIFFERENT PATH. — Tawnya Rush
“I’ve seen bloated bellies, and I’ve seen children just sitting on the street,” Tawnya says. One experience is burned in her memory. “There was this mom, her kids came around the corner. They were standing there and she said to me, ‘You take.’ I said, ‘Peter, what is going on?’ He said, ‘Just sit here. She is asking us to take (her children).’” The woman had two sons around the ages of 5 and 7. “Something really tugged at my heart strings with that,” Tawnya says. “When you look down a row of people who are in desper-
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 19
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT
ON UGANDA VISIT
cultureprep.com AND SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM TO LEARN HOW EVERY DOLLAR RAISED IS USED IN THE EFFORT TO FEED CHILDREN.
ation. They don’t have shoes. They don’t have clothing. You see children running around naked. It stays with you. You think, ‘We are just not doing enough.’ We are. It’s just kid by kid by kid.”
en, children’s health and nutrition have improved and parents have been able to breathe easier knowing their children are being fed.
Both Tawnya and Peter feel an intense responsibility to the children they serve. They know that each meal is more than that. It’s a lifeline to a better future.
While On Uganda was something Peter launched, if you ask those who are on the ground working, Tawnya has definitely earned the title of “partner” in the effort.
“There are times when you say, ‘Okay, we’ve got six months of funding ahead of us. We have got to figure something out.’ You don’t want to let anyone down,” Tawnya says. “Food feeds the mind, body and souls and in order to learn, you have to focus, and it’s harder on a hungry stomach.” When Tawnya makes the trek back to Uganda, there are members of the staff who have become like family. There is Richard, the program’s director. Stricken with polio in his teenage years, for many years he carried the stigma of living and working with a handicap. And there’s Betty, whose ever-present smile and giving nature never ceases to amaze Tawnya and Peter. She’s affectionately known to all as Head Cook and Mama.
“Tawnya has done far more than feed children in Uganda. She has nourished hope,” says Ronny Sitanga, the International Director for H.E.L.P. International, a nonprofit that sends student volunteers to fight global poverty through sustainable developHER MEALS ment initiatives. “Her meals have become HAVE BECOME MORE more than food — they are a powerful THAN FOOD — THEY ARE message to every child that they are seen, valued and worth investing in.” A POWERFUL MESSAGE TO
EVERY CHILD THAT THEY ARE SEEN, VALUED AND WORTH INVESTING IN. — Ronny Sitanga, International Director for H.E.L.P. International
“Betty is a refugee from Sudan that came down and found her way to this village in Uganda. She started as a cook, with her babies going to school there,” Tawnya says, adding that even with her children grown, “It’s kept her employed.” During the 27 years On Uganda has been serving in the region, enrollment at the school has increased, drop-out rates have fall20 YVW MAGAZINE
In time, Tawnya would love to partner with local nonprofits to raise funds not only for the Billings community but help send a bit of generosity abroad.
“Hunger does not discriminate,” she says. “I get to have the platform in television to share these stories on a broad scale.” She’d like the program to expand to other communities and down the road, she says she’d love to live in Uganda year-round. Doing this work, she says, helps her to open her eyes to see how blessed and lucky she genuinely is. “There’s a saying, when you get caught up in yourself,” she says, “go serve.” ✻
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NATIONS TO NEIGHBORS IS EVOLVING TO MEET THE CHANGING NEEDS OF IMMIGRANTS IN BILLINGS written by SUE OLP photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN
ON A FALL AFTERNOON, 16-year-old Teo stands in the
basement of Peace Lutheran Church in midtown Billings, ready to help eight younger students with their tie-dying project. His help comes in handy just a few minutes into the art project, when volunteer instructor Heather Gaitonde begins to provide step-by-step instructions. One of the boys doesn’t completely understand Heather’s words, so Teo jumps in and translates them into Spanish. The young boy nods in understanding, and the kids start dying their shirts in vivid colors. Teo, a sophomore at a Billings high school, is employed part time in the afterschool program for Nations to Neighbors Montana (H2N), a faith-based nonprofit in Billings that works with refugees and other legally-present immigrants, both adults and kids. He also takes a martial arts class twice a week, is enrolled in a mentoring program at H2N and harbors a dream to go to college. That’s something NANCY that Teo (his name changed to protect his WAS FIRST identity) wouldn’t even have considered FEATURED IN last spring. YVW’S MAY/ JUNE 2022 The youth, who had emigrated from South ISSUE America to the United States with his mom a few years before, battled anxiety, had few friends, found it hard to get up early for school and his uneven attendance affected his grades. “And then I met Lacey at the Y, like a sign of God in a random moment,” he says. Lacey Stovall is N2N’s youth services coordinator. She was at the Billings gym to help a few of the youths she works with through N2N’s afterschool program, some of whom had mentioned Teo to her. She introduced herself to him and told him a little about the program. “I said we have some fun together, we have some rec as a group and we also tutor and help you with your grades,” Lacey says. “And he said, ‘Well to be honest, I think I need that.’”
In one month, Teo turned things around and passed all his classes. He gives all the credit to N2N. “When I started being here, everything in my life changed, like the opportunities I get, the people I meet, the people I get to spend my time with,” Teo says. The afterschool program is just one of many ways N2N helps people coming from difficult circumstances, hoping for a better life in the United States. Its work has evolved over the past five years since its founding, says Executive Director Nancy Van Maren. But the reason for its existence hasn’t changed a bit. Nancy often smiles during an interview, but she grows passionate as she points to biblical verses that sum up the group’s mission. Genesis 1:29 says that “we’re all made in the image of God,” she says, adding there’s no asterisk excluding people of color or certain races or nationalities. “So, we keep trying to respond to needs and trying to be flexible to respond to emerging needs,” Nancy says. Flexibility has certainly been a critical part of the organization’s success since it first began serving people in late 2021. When Nancy and N2N was first featured in YVW almost five years ago, the nonprofit’s focus was on the Afghan humanitarian parolees arriving in the United States after the fall of Kabul in August 2021. N2N’s work in early 2022 was spent helping the evacuees, in their first three months here, find housing, jobs, enrolling their children in school, getting required medical appointments and providing a cultural orientation. In March 2024, Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains took over the work of a resettlement agency in Billings. That freed up Nations to Neighbors to shift its focus to other ways to help clients from an expanding number of countries with something Nancy calls “the long welcome.”
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 23
THIS MURAL IS DESIGNED BY MICHAELA DOWEN, AN ARTIST WHO WORKED FOR NATIONS TO NEIGHBORS FOR SEVERAL MONTHS. SHE PAINTED THE MURAL WITH HELP FROM THE KIDS INVOLVED IN N2N’S PROGRAMS
IMMIGRATION LEGAL SERVICES, UNLIKE WHAT SOME PEOPLE THINK, IS A WAY TO HELP IMMIGRANTS ADHERE TO THE LAW. IT’S NOT HELPING THEM FIND A WAY AROUND THE LAW. — Nancy Van Maren
“It really takes longer than 90 days to acclimate and integrate in the community,” she says. Language barriers, child care, transportation and continued acclimation to the culture can take a long time to accomplish. For adults, classes were offered to help them hone their English-speaking skills. For parents working toward early economic self-sufficiency, the nonprofit decided it made sense to focus on their children. “We started our summer immersion and integration program with three kids, one from Syria and two from Venezuela,” Nancy says. “We ended the summer with 12 kids.” That number jumped to 19 in 2025 and 21 youths from multiple countries this past summer, with each student assigned a mentor to help them succeed. An afterschool program for youth from 24 YVW MAGAZINE
fourth through 12th grade was introduced fall of 2024 for two different age levels, along with a youth mentorship program for teens and young adults ages 15-24. The summer and after-school programs take place at Peace Lutheran Church. Another big step came in the spring of 2025, when N2N opened a community center downtown, thanks, in part to a large financial donation by former Mayor Bill Cole and his wife, Ann. Both adult ESL classes and after-school tutoring for youth are now housed at the center, as are the administrative offices and a gathering space. In October, the center also became the site of a new suite of offices for N2N’s newest initiative, an immigrant legal services program. The latest project, along with a new focus, came out of yet another shift that caused N2N to move in a new direction. In 2025, a series of executive orders suspended the U.S, Refugee Admissions Program, which supported refugee resettlement, and
then drastically cut the number of refugee admissions into the country from many countries. The board of N2N decided to pivot to three new priorities, Nancy says, to serve the clients who are already here really well, to expand the category of immigrants it serves and to offer a new, very needed service.
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“Immigration legal services, unlike what some people think, is a way to help immigrants adhere to the law,” she says firmly. “It’s not helping them find a way around the law.” As of October, H2N was still working to get the service up and running. Under the umbrella of Immigrant Connection, a national organization, it has trained and is seeking federal approval for two accredited legal representatives to begin offering legal aid. Equally exciting, Nancy says, the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, in September, awarded N2N $293,000 over three years to fund the hiring of an immigration attorney. Jeremy White, Senior Program Officer for Civic Engagement & Commu-
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nity Services at the Murdock calls the work Nations to Neighbors is doing critical in supporting refugee families in Billings, adding that “immigrant legal services fill a real gap for this community.” “This support helps them meet a need that’s especially acute in an underserved part of Montana,” he says. “We look forward to seeing the positive impact of safety, stability, and family reunification on individuals and communities.” N2N is still working to hire an attorney, who will focus both on family and humanitarian issues. In recent months, Nancy has heard from an increasing number of clients who are desperate for legal help, and has had to refer them elsewhere. “To have (the Murdock Foundation’s) support for this really critical need is huge,” Nancy says. “I can be a really hard worker and I can devote myself to working long hours for the benefit of people, as long as I feel there are other people cheering us on.” She feels that support coming in many other ways, as well, from community donations and grants, as well as from local churches. Nancy is equally grateful for the many volunteers who help with various aspects of N2N’s work. And she relies on her faith, which gives her strength to help some of the most vulnerable people in Billings and beyond. “The need propels me, and prayer is super important to me. And community support,” she says. “As soon as I feel like I’m in this with other people, I get huge energy from that.” Teo, the high school sophomore, is grateful, too, for the help he has received from N2N’s staff and volunteers. One who helped 26 YVW MAGAZINE
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT
NATIONS TO NEIGHBORS MONTANA VISIT
nationstoneighbors montana.org
Friday, December 4, 2026 // 11 AM – 8 PM Mark your calendars—one day only! Winterfair at the YAM will coincide with the annual Holiday Stroll and December ArtWalk in downtown Billings. The event features rows of artisan vendors offering a variety of handmade goods, festive entertainment and refreshments all day. WinterFair is a cheerful opportunity to start your holiday shopping locally with one-of-a-kind gifts that directly support our creative community!
(L TO R) ABBY BIGG, LEGAL ASSISTANT, NANCY VAN MAREN, FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, LACEY STOVALL, YOUTH SERVICES COORDINATOR, AND BETH EPLEY, SCHOOL ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR
his journey, a retired attorney, mentored Teo over the summer, helping him accomplish goals like perfect attendance at his two volunteer jobs over the summer, consistently going to the gym and learning how to talk with other people and how to make people laugh. Asked if he’s still working on that last bit, he smiles. “I would say so, yes.” Teo now works part-time for N2N in the afterschool program, and thanks to his mentor’s words of encouragement, is considering going to college. Teo also has another aim in mind. “My goal now is to be a little part of the big thing, to help other people like me who might be in a situation like I was,” Teo says. “To make it better. So other people can live experiences I live.” ✻ SUE OLP, writer
Sue Olp worked for many years as a reporter at the Billings Gazette, covering everything from healthcare and education to county government, tribal issues and religion, not to mention plenty of human-interest stories. Now retired, she is a freelance writer and enjoys gardening, reading and spending time with her family, including her grandchildren.
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28 YVW MAGAZINE
planting seeds of
Hope ONE JOURNEY. THOUSANDS OF LIVES CHANGED.
written by LINDA HALSTEAD-ACHARYA photography by HEATHER LYTLE
MORE THAN TWO DECADES AGO, Heather Lytle
planted a seed of hope in 72 African children. Today that seed has flourished into her life’s mission — a mission that has bettered the lives of tens of thousands of young Africans. And it all began when she sought a meaningful way to celebrate her graduation from nursing school. Locals might know Heather from her time as a nurse and later nurse practitioner at Billings Clinic Same Day Care and the former Express Care. Others have likely heard her speak at one of the area churches that support Hope of Africa, the mission she started so many years ago. Many in the area have donated to her cause and dozens have even traveled to Africa to further the mission. Heather’s story mimics the story of “If you teach a man to fish.” In her case, she inspired confidence and hope in a handful of young African children who have gone on to inspire those same qualities in so many others. “It’s truly changing lives,” Heather says. “It’s working, it’s super encouraging and it’s growing exponentially.”
FROM THE GROUND UP Hope of Africa’s reach boggles the mind. Besides leadership training, the organization offers a broad array of opportunities — from farming to construction to classes in the prevention of human trafficking and so much more. Lessons are not limited to skills training but include spiritual development and character building. Montanans have been involved from the ground up. What started by word-of-mouth has grown into an extensive network of supporting individuals and churches.
REALLY, THIS IS A JOURNEY THAT MONTANA FARMERS AND RANCHERS AND MONTANANS AS A WHOLE HAVE RALLIED BEHIND. THEY ARE VITAL TO US. —Heather Lytle
Hope of Africa is based on a simple but powerful mission: the nonprofit strives to transform communities by raising Christ-centered leaders who will pass on that sense of hope and can-do spirit to the generations that follow. That transformation happens with education, training opportunities and entrepreneurship — all supported through ministry. While the mission began in South Africa, it’s since spread to Uganda. Through youth-to-youth mentorship, Hope of Africa has provided training for tens of thousands of village children. Where three volunteers ran the ministry at its start, now nearly 30 paid staff are supported by an army of interns, volunteers, vocational students and board members.
“Really, this is a journey that Montana farmers and ranchers and Montanans as a whole have rallied behind,” Heather says. “They are vital to us.” One of them is Jon Brown, owner of the Billings-based Kingdom Builders of Montana, who will be leading his second team to South Africa this fall. He first heard about Hope of Africa through Faith Chapel and was inspired by the organization’s mission and struck by what Heather has accomplished.
“There is a true revival happening with that community and God has placed Heather there for a purpose beyond what I think she even realizes,” he says. “People are changing within the Hope of Africa umbrella and when people change, families change; when families change, communities change. Big things are coming to that region.”
A HEART TO DO SOMETHING MEANINGFUL Heather’s tie to Africa traces back to 2003, when she graduated as a licensed practical nurse from the College of Technology in Great Falls. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 29
HEATHER WITH THE AFRICAN CHILDREN’S CHOIR
“I had a heart to do something to celebrate my graduation,” she says. About that time, the 72-member South African Children’s Choir had come to sing at her church.
“When we moved, it was a pioneering experience,” she says. “We had to rally as a family. We were pounding fence posts, collecting rocks.”
“These were children 6 to 10 years old,” she says. “They had been picked for their vulnerability, not just their musical talents.”
The experience ingrained in Heather a strong work ethic — qualities that have served her well since. She adds that her “oldest child” traits — her attention to detail and her knack at problem-solving — come in handy as well.
When Heather refers to “vulnerability,” she explains that the children were mostly orphans whose parents had died of HIV. Many came from Swaziland, the epicenter of the world’s highest concentration of HIV.
“A lot of what I learned (growing up on the land) has translated well to rural Africa,” she says. “Supporting your neighbors and even just the farming itself. It requires team building and delegation — which I use every day.”
“These children shared their stories,” she says. “They were really moving.” They were so moving that she decided to travel to South Africa to see how she might help.
Above all, she relies on her faith, on God.
She planned to stay three weeks. That three weeks grew into her life’s mission. Today, she lives most of the year in Africa, punctuated by a few weeks in the United States and back in Montana where she rallies supporters, raises donations and enlists volunteers for work projects in Africa. “I’m able to do this work because the partners in Montana help keep this going,” she says. It’s evident that Heather would rather talk about future possibilities than the past. But the past reveals some of the keys to the organization’s success. Raised on a dairy farm in rural upstate New York, Heather was 12 when a family trip to Yellowstone National Park in 1991 proved life-changing for her father — and hence for the family. Drawn to the West, he bought a place outside Choteau and traded dairy farming for ranching. Heather is the oldest of seven siblings and the only daughter. Needless to say, they all pitched in. 30 YVW MAGAZINE
“At key moments, he answered some prayers that were miraculous,” she says.
WORLDS APART When Heather first arrived in South Africa, she came face-toface with a country where HIV had ravaged the adult population, leaving behind a world where children became adults. And fast. “There were 12-year-olds who were heads of households,” she says. “HIV was not just something you read about. It was faces and names.” From the get-go, her fresh-out-of-school nursing skills proved invaluable. Almost immediately, she was thrust into a medical support role in rural villages where children lived in extreme situations. “Hardship can either grow you or defeat you. There is no ‘plan B’ in that environment,” she says. “They (children) are resilient.” She tells of one 8-year-old who transported her sick mother and
AMI & HEATHER
infant brother, by wheelbarrow, to her grandmother’s house. The trip took three days, but ended badly. Within 24 hours of their arrival, her mother died of HIV and her brother died of dehydration. Left with a grandmother too elderly to offer much support, the girl essentially lived by her own devices. Sadly, her story is only one of many. Heather also quickly came to realize that Africa not only faced staggering health problems, but an economic situation that choked its young population. “Every year, 11.7 million African youths enter the work force, but there are less than four million jobs,” she says. Seeking to address the root causes of poverty and hardship, Heather focused her efforts on job training and entrepreneurship.
A PROVIDENTIAL DELAY When Heather’s first three weeks in South Africa neared an end, she was asked to stay longer. “Seeing the conditions of these people, I prayed ‘God, if I can be a voice for the voiceless, show me what I can do,’” she says.
more than two years working and studying at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, and followed that up by taking online classes and clinicals to become a family nurse practitioner several years later. All while parenting African children in her home. “It was wild,” she says. “We had 12 students living with us fulltime and we had 20 more being tutored after school and having dinner with us each night.”
Heather, a “broke college student” at the time, stayed on, waiting on standby for an affordable return ticket. The weeks-long delay proved providential.
The ‘we’ Heather refers to includes Ami Shetler, a colleague she met while working at Mayo Clinic. When the two became friends, Heather’s passion for the vulnerable youth in Africa rubbed off on Ami.
“During that month, I got to know the kids more and I fell in love with them,” she says. “I realized this wasn’t just a short-term thing.”
“Her vision challenged me to consider how I could use my own gifts and experience to serve in a different way,” Ami says.
In the intervening years, Heather’s life has bounced back and forth from Africa to the United States — and always back to Montana. She earned her RN in Bozeman in 2011, later spent
Ami, who currently works in Billings Clinic’s Endocrinology Department, went on to spend a year in Africa. She feels the experience shaped her and her view of service and purpose.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 31
THE HOPE OF AFRICA UGANDA TEAM
“It was truly life-changing,” she says. “Leaving what I considered my ‘dream job’ to serve orphaned youth taught me that sometimes the greatest opportunities in life come when we are willing to step outside what feels safe and comfortable.”
A CERTAIN SPIRIT OF AFRICA Stepping outside what feels safe has been a life choice for Heather. Through it all, the land and the people keep pulling at her.
hoped that they’d take those skills back to their villages. But she figured that, with such credentials, they’d be drawn to the city. “Over 50% wanted to go back to the village to help their families,” she says. “That was a radical moment for me.” Today, some alumni are running medical clinics, one earned a degree in chemical engineering, others are teaching and yet another even sits on South Africa’s Department of Higher Education.
While Hope of Africa grew in South Africa, that same seed of “There’s a certain spirit of Africa that extends to community and hope jumped borders into Uganda. Heather explains that severteamwork and focus,” Heather al Ugandan youths had toured says. “People can survive withwith the original African Chilout each other in the United dren’s Choir and later, two by States; it’s an individualistic two, they had come to live and culture. In Africa, survival relearn with her in South Africa. THE ORGANIZATION ALLOWED ME TO quires your family and everyBy their own initiative, and unone pulling together to have baSTART FROM SCRATCH. THE AIM OF THE beknownst to Heather, a group sic necessities.” The culture is of Ugandans pooled their monFARM IS NOT ONLY TO HELP ME AND based on the traditional African ey and “adopted” 18 children to philosophy of Ubuntu, which MY FAMILY, BUT TO HELP AND INSPIRE run programs similar to those literally means “I am because in South Africa. OTHER YOUNG PEOPLE IN MY AREA. we are,” she says. —Selby, a graduate of Hope of Africa & farmer “It was teenagers and young Heather lights up when she adults doing it,” she said. “They talks about the African children didn’t even tell me for three — some of them now adults — years.” who have benefitted from Hope of Africa. She tells how the first class of students graduated from With the purchase of a small parcel of land there, Ugandan a sense of despair to a sense of hope. And how they — and each youths split their time between studying and working. Those stusuccessive class — continues to share that sense of hope. “We dents who can’t afford tuition can cover their fees by working on created leadership teams of children,” she says, giving them purthe farm, Heather explains. pose to think beyond themselves. “The end goal is to equip them with a trade.” Heather’s goal for students has always been for each to graduate Hope of Africa was just hitting its stride when COVID-19 turned with a university education, a rare accomplishment. Less than the world upside down. The pandemic caught Heather in the 1% of their peers go on to earn college degrees. Her first class United States and sent the African youths back to their villages. shattered that statistic, with 75% earning university degrees in teaching, engineering, business management and more. Heather 32 YVW MAGAZINE
“The schools and churches had shut down. And for 18 months I wasn’t allowed to go to Africa,” she says. “I wasn’t sure we would survive that. I thought the entrepreneurial dream might die with the direness of the situation. But the kids were the light.”
PRAYERS ANSWERED With months to reflect, Heather decided to devote herself fulltime to Hope of Africa. And then, as she pondered how to expand the ministry, a providential “crossing of paths” took place. A Canadian businessman, attending one of her presentations in Florida, was struck by what she had to say. “He was about to retire and had been praying for an opportunity like this,” she says. The opportunity came in the form of a vacant bank building in South Africa that the organization had previously rented. When it came up for sale, the businessman made the down payment and volunteers worked side-by-side with African youths to renovate the building into spaces that fit Hope of Africa’s needs. Just this past year, the 13,000-square-foot bank was transformed into a craft center, conference room, bakery and food co-op. In the coming months, a team from Faith Chapel in Billings will travel to Africa to finalize a kitchen and dining space for a coffee shop. “It took longer, but it’s worth it,” Heather says. “They get on-thejob training. We provide the apprenticeship.” Meanwhile, the dream keeps unfolding. When 67 acres came up for sale, Hope of Africa seized on the opportunity to purchase it.
HEATHER & MAR THA
TO LEARN MOR
E ABOUT
HOPE OF AFRICA VISIT
hopeofafrica youth.com
“In 2024, it was literally bush,” Heather says, describing how eight boys with eight machetes hacked away at the vegetation to clear just a few acres. Then she smiled. “We still don’t have a tractor.” Last year, students harvested 14,000 heads of cabbage from the acreage, some of which were used in the 80,000 meals served at a drop-in center. This summer, the garden was set to top that harvest by another 2,000 head.
PASSING IT FORWARD Selby, a graduate of Hope of Africa, currently manages the farm. But before he attained that position, he’d learned about farming from a Hope of Africa alumnus. At first Selby used that training to start his own farm in the village. “The organization allowed me to start from scratch,” he says. “The aim of the farm is not only to help me and my family, but to help and inspire other young people in my area.” Martha, another alumnus, found confidence through Hope of Africa’s branch in Uganda. Training as a teacher, she was eager to share that self-assurance. When she prepared for her first day of class, she planned for 100 students. Instead, 300 showed up. “So, she decided to teach them about being generous,” Heather says. Thinking creatively, Martha asked each child to bring a sweet potato and a piece of firewood to class the next day. The children followed her instructions, which resulted in enough to feed the growing number of children.
SELBY
ters of Hope of Africa, to express her thanks to the local churches and individuals who have made the organization thrive. And as she prepared to return to Africa, she reported that more than a dozen Billings residents had signed up to help with projects this fall. She emphasized that Hope of Africa utilizes just about any skill a volunteer might offer — from making crafts, to teaching business skills, marketing, computer literacy, baking, catering, construction and even waiting tables. “I am really grateful for the people without whom this story would not be possible,” she says. Then she smiles as she thinks back to the African children she met as a just-graduated nurse in Great Falls, Montana. “I just saw the potential,” she says. “The first step was the journey with the 72 children and helping their dreams come alive — and dreams that were not selfish dreams. They inspire me in every way, which is why I can keep going.” ✻
This past summer, Heather was back in Billings, the headquarNOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 33
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36 YVW MAGAZINE
an unconventional
L ife ALASKA SHAPES, INSPIRES NURSE PRACTITIONER
written by LINDA HALSTEAD-ACHARYA photography by MERV COLEMAN & MARY ELLEN DOTY
MARY ELLEN DOTY describes herself as “unconventional.” She’s also a risk-taker with a tenacious drive.
Those traits served her well during her 19 years as a nurse practitioner in the Alaskan bush. Those same characteristics also inspired her business, Wilderness Medical Staffing, which, too, was a bit unconventional. “Who starts a business with no money and they’re an empty nester? Most people my age are retired,” she says with ainspire laugh. kin g anyone see er to eri can s t has the pow te wit h Na tive Am ona ting rea d tha es. ” . It wil l res “A cap tiva com mu niti pos e in life Am eri can a dee per pur wh o ser ve Na tive ER LEAD LTH se and tho KOTA TRIBAL HEA KER , DAKOTA /NA —KE NNETH SMO
In fact, Mary Ellen declines to state her age, due to the way the business world perceives “more mature” women. But she has no quit in her. She not only continues to run her thriving business, but DICINE AGA IN, MEANI NG IN ME FORWA RD. ONE SEE KING time Y A WAto ND she recentlyFORTHIANY made recount E—A HOP S BOO K OFFERS leaders , and focus, her adventures in ah coubook ow rage, rhythm entitled ine at 50 Bel inder that wit extraordinary. Medic edom.” rem ul ething “A powerf cess—but fre som suc t ld jus bui “Medicine atedisccan50 Below.” h creates not CS wt OMI with purpos gro RON ed MET iplin CH AT trap ped clini cian s feel cs, man y g on 19 erst affe d clini way . Dra win out and und rs ano ther to 50 s plun ged Belo w offe ined by burn icine at 50 wor ld stra tem pera ture Med ical here rt. ws how med —w a hea sho y In ges its ary Ellen Dot Alas kan villa that has lost ote s—M tem dep end rem mile sys in of a s who in dred titio ner pati ents ider for hun nurs e prac s and the prov cian only clini yea rs as a n the both can rev ive she was ofte belo w and com mun ity mor e than nom y, and supp ortin g purp ose , auto Staf fing , now assi stan ts. ss Med ical phy sicia n oir of Wild erne on them . ners , and , this mem e prac titio the crea tion ple and land sicia ns, nurs nce insp ired the peo phy erie en ka’s exp Her ion- driv for Alas y to recl aim cian s read cs with miss p resp ect clini clini dee l for and rura , 150 ility a path icine —an d clar ity, hum med with ful tten ning Wri mea prom ise of rev eals the ’d lost . thou ght they purp ose they
t HEAD COA is proof tha NDE R, CEO AND NE SUSKO, FOU — SHA NNON BYR
titio ner and nurs e prac rs adv anc ed spe nt 19 yea DOTY is an fing . She as the MARY ELLE N Med ical Staf ges —of ten Wild erne ss ing Alas kan villa foun der of in rem ote efor e build are s—b lthc mile hea of dred s deliv erin g es mor e ider for hun now serv prov that ical y and only med fing com pan tana nati ve driv en staf cs. A Mon lives a miss ionrvat ion clini , she now l and rese ful med icine than 150 rura for mea ning advoca te colli e, Jac k. pass iona te her bord er with tana in Mon
Starting with a description of her first flight into a remote Alaskan village, Mary Ellen’s story is enough to snag the reader from the get-go.
“It wasn’t that I was unused to small O R E AT LEARN M OM EDICALSTAFFING.C communities,” WILDERNESSM she writes. “I had grown up on a ranch in Montana, 20 miles from town (Roberts), so far out that we celebrated traveling salesmen.” But Alaska’s bush smacked of an entirely different level of re-
moteness. “The only way in and out was a bush plane or a two-day trip by small boat. Period. No roads, no ferries. Nada,” she writes. Mary Ellen describes her panic as the bush pilot, who she feared might be experiencing a hangover, prepared to drop her, her husband and her 5-year-old son into the “middle of nowhere.” “I was scared to death at what I’d committed to, a two-year loan repayment program from Indian Health Service. The deal came with one caveat only: I had to stay here.” That’s how Mary Ellen was introduced to Tanana, Alaska, a village “MEDICINE AT 50 of roughly 375 native AthabasBELOW: A MEMOIR can Alaskans. Over time, however, her panic was replaced OF HEALTHCARE, by a deep appreciation of and HEALING, AND fondness for the indigenous HOPE IN REMOTE people. Not only did that two ALASKA” years stretch into 19 years in ON AMAZON remote Alaskan villages, but her role as a nurse practitioner eventually morphed into “Wilderness Medical Staffing.” YOU CAN FIND MARY ELLEN’S BOOK
But to back up … Mary Ellen grew up in Roberts where she lives today — in the same house on Willow Creek, where her grandfather homesteaded in 1892. She left Roberts to study pre-med at Carroll College, but her life took an abrupt detour when she married at 19 and soon exchanged studies for motherhood. The detour was short-
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 37
Give the gif t of the ar ts this holiday season! THE WIZ Monday, November 9 A MERRY ROCKIN’ CHRISTMAS STARRING MICHAEL CAVANAUGH Saturday, December 5 JERSEY BOYS Tuesday, January 5 Wednesday, January 6 THE SLOCAN RAMBLERS Thursday, January 7 JAZZREACH: CELERATING MILES DAVIS WITH METTA QUINTET Thursday, January 14 INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT Thursday, February 11 HERVÉ KOUBI - SOL INVICTUS Wednesday, February 24 AQUILA THEATRE DR. JEKYLL & MR. HYDE Saturday, March 27 THE BARRICADE BOYS Saturday, April 3 BOTH SIDES NOW: THE MUSIC AND LIVES OF JONI MITCHELL AND LEONARD COHEN Saturday, April 17 BEETLEJUICE Wednesday, May 26 Ticket vouchers are available for purhcase at the ABT Box Office. Quality time and experiences are the best gifts of all!
All upcoming events on the ABT website!
38 YVW MAGAZINE
E N A BUSH PLAN HER CREW O D AN E N AG LE LL EL MARY ASKAN VI A REMOTE AL EN ROUTE TO
TANANA, ALASKA, 150 AIR MILES FROM FAIRBANKS, WHERE MARY ELLEN SPENT HER FIRST 5 YEARS
lived. Divorced at 25, she enrolled at Montana State University to earn her RN, after which she went on to the University of Missouri-Columbia to become a nurse practitioner. And that’s when she made her fateful decision. Fresh out of school, with a young family and a sizable debt, she signed on for two years in Alaska to pay off her loan. Though her introduction to life in a remote village jarred her sensibilities, almost immediately she and her family were overwhelmed by the earnest welcome they received. She was also struck by the Athabascan culture. “They’ve been in that area for 12,000 to 20,000 years,” she says. “They’re so much a part of the land and the river and the wildlife.” During her first weeks in the village, she witnessed a “giveaway potlach,” which opened her eyes to a distinctly different perspective.
Mary Ellen grew to love the place “beyond words” and credits the Athabascan women for the support that kept her focused. “They stood beside me, held me up and believed in me,” she says. “When I was overwhelmed, it was the women who encouraged me and challenged me with ‘if not you, who?’” She learned quickly that she’d be filling a pivotal role as the lone provider in Tanana. Nurse practitioners in Alaska and many states are allowed to practice without a physician’s oversight, she explains. They fill a vital role.
THEY STOOD BESIDE ME, HELD ME UP AND BELIEVED IN ME. WHEN I WAS OVERWHELMED, IT WAS THE WOMEN WHO ENCOURAGED ME AND CHALLENGED ME WITH ‘IF NOT YOU, WHO?’
“Nurse practitioners are completely independent and privileged,” she says. “We do everything but surgery.” In Tanana, she provided care for whatever came in on a given day, from dressing wounds to treating a virus, diagnosing cancer to diabetes education. When she arrived, conditions were dismal.
— Mary Ellen Doty “Honor in that culture is more “There was no supervision, no acabout what you can give than what countability,” she says. “There was you can get,” she says. “There is no so much abuse and generational hoarding or ‘me first’ there. Survivtrauma — but no one would say al in this climate (it really did reach anything.” -50 degrees!) depends on everyone helping everyone else. It She devoted five years to her practice in Tanana and 10 more in would be unheard of to turn someone away who needed shelter, other small villages before returning to the “lower 48” where her food or care.” son — then college-age — was attending the University of MonThe Athabascan culture also venerates its elders. tana and her daughter, her firstborn, was living and working in Billings. “The older a person gets in this culture, the more they are revered and the more ‘visible’ they become,” she says. “They are With Mary Ellen’s change in locale, came a change in her job more heard, always leading the tribe with their experience and description. She quickly discovered that working in one of the wisdom.” state’s large, corporate healthcare facilities did not fit her vision of what health care should be. She’d followed her passion to care NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 39
I HAD A DREAM ONE NIGHT THAT THIS IS WHAT I SHOULD BE DOING. FROM THERE, I DIDN’T LOOK BACK. — Mary Ellen Doty
for people, not to play a numbers and dollars game. Rankled by the for-profit approach, her brief stint in corporate healthcare taught her a lesson. “It was disastrous,” she says. “But I think I’m so thankful for that disaster in my life. Thank God for kicking my ass.” In fact, he “kicked her ass” back to another small village on Prince of Wales Island in Alaska. This time, she signed on for a six-week gig that lasted three-and-a-half years. It was there that she borrowed an idea from the North Slope and turned it into “Wilderness Medical Staffing. She’d seen providers come and go from Alaska’s remote villages and wondered how to remedy the situation.
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“Clinics and hospitals would recruit and recruit and get someone in for loan repayment and they’d leave after two years,” she says. “They couldn’t keep people out in the bush. And if the village only had one provider and they lost that provider, then they had nobody.” Then the idea struck her: why not offer a service of rotating providers, where they would work a month or so on and then a month or so off?
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40 YVW MAGAZINE
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“Why hasn’t medicine caught up with that?” she asked.
says. “From there, I didn’t look back.”
She started the business in 2010, staffed with a couple of girlfriend nurse practitioners and herself.
It wasn’t long before Mary Ellen realized that what worked well for Alaska, would also work well in small towns in the rural west. Hardin, Harlowton, Baker, Ekalaka, Scobey, Circle — those Eastern Montana communities have the same problem maintaining health care providers, she says. By 2013, she was back in Montana, but this time on her own terms.
“We had the worst website,” she says, laughing. “There were two pictures and a phone number to call.” Having no business background, she hired a shoestring relative as a business coach. His advice? “He told me to ‘hire up,’ to hire people smarter than myself,” she says. The business started slowly as she recruited at conferences. But in short order it took off. She believes its success is summed up in its simple mission statement: improving lives in rural communities. “You have to make money, but when you put the patient first, you know you’re going to succeed,” she says. What started by word of mouth now enjoys a steady influx of providers. “They just come through the door because they’re done with corporate medicine, they’re done with seeing a patient every seven minutes,” she says. The business took off so quickly that, in no time, it consumed Mary Ellen’s life. Overwhelmed and wondering what direction to take, her next steps were guided by a series of events and the clarity of vision she’d absorbed from her time in the bush. “I had a dream one night that this is what I should be doing,” she
Today Wilderness Medical Staffing counts roughly 100 providers who fill in at 150-200 clinics. And that’s not counting the two dozen-plus employees who take care of administrative details. Now working half-time, Mary Ellen has time to contemplate her future. “Wilderness Medical Staffing is like a kid that has gone off on its own and doesn’t need me as much as it used to,” she says. She hopes never to retire and sees herself as always a part of the business she fledged. “However, I do feel like I’m at a crossroads, like there’s more to be done,” she says. “I don’t yet know the direction or location, but as long as I’m standing, I want to be instrumental in delivering medicine to those who need it most.” ✻
LINDA HALSTEAD-ACHARYA, writer A long-time resident of the Columbus area, Linda Halstead-Acharya enjoys spending time and learning from her rural neighbors. She has a degree in wildlife biology but for the past 25 years has pursued a career sharing other people's stories in print. She loves riding, writing and traveling.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 41
42 YVW MAGAZINE
Hope Life 2 one
CLOSING A CHAPTER, LEAVING A LEGACY written by JENNIFER ALBRIGHT photography from NADINE HART
WHEN NADINE HART began ministering care to Ugan-
ity Model (PRESM). Rather than providing short-term aid, the organization invested in systems designed to last — clean water sources, agricultural training, nursery schools, village health teams, and income-generating programs. “The goal of the model was to provide hope and the ability to rise out of poverty — a ripple effect as a hopeful result.”
“Many families had lost their husbands, brothers, girls and boys. Women were abducted and brutalized,” she says, reflecting on those early days.
THE “HART” BEHIND THE HOPE
dans nearly two decades ago, she found communities devastated by the Lord’s Resistance Army. Survivors fled with just the clothes on their backs. Nutrition was dire. Families survived day to day. At the time, Nadine provided healthcare at an infant orphan care center deep inside the war zone.
Clean water was nonexistent. “People were drinking muddy pond water,” Nadine says. “Nearly all were ill from a variety of diarrheal diseases, malaria, respiratory diseases and more. They stood in long lines in the rain to receive healthcare from our teams.” She knew unless a framework was created to help long term, change would never fully take root. “We realized that no matter how many people we treated, without clean water, health education and nutrition, they would fall sick quickly after we left,” Nadine says. NADINE’S In 2007, her Billings-based nonprofit Hope 2 One Life was born, and the first water wells were drilled.
STORY WAS FIRST FEATURED IN YVW’S JUNE/JULY 2010 ISSUE
Fast forward to 2026, and you can see Nadine’s fingerprints all over the area, thanks to H20, as it’s fittingly called. But, after nearly two decades of humanitarian work in Uganda which touched thousands of lives, H2O is entering its final chapter. It is leaving a lasting legacy behind.
Since those early days, water systems have been repaired, nursery schools built and supported, agricultural programs created and expanded, and new boreholes drilled in communities where former child soldiers are now rebuilding their lives. The work remains true to the organization’s original mission: to empower Ugandan communities to rise out of poverty with dignity and independence. The model has been described as both a hand up and a bridge to long-term sustainability. “We are proud of our community development model,” Nadine says of the Post-War Recovery Empowerment and Sustainabil-
Behind every project was one steady presence: founder Nadine Hart. Nadine’s vision shaped the mission, and her perseverance carried the work through years of challenges, growth and transformation. True to her nature, Nadine is quick to recognize the many others who have stood alongside her. “So many people have supported the efforts of Hope 2 One Life and our mission to provide clean water, healthcare and educational resources for impoverished people,” she reflects with deep gratitude. “Their generosity is now flowing, literally, into the daily lives of people in Uganda.” Among the collaborators is Tom Osborne, chairman and president of H2O and a professional hydrologist whose expertise guided the drilling of many of the organization’s wells. His memories of Uganda are vivid and deeply personal. “One memory I’ve never forgotten is connected to a drip irrigation project on this farm in central Uganda, where refugees from the LRA war had found refuge,” he recalls. “A group of women learned from us how to drip-irrigate tomatoes and grow them during the dry season when not much else was growing. One woman said that this was the first money she had ever earned in her life, and for the first time because of that, she did not have to ask her husband whether they could buy salt for their household.” The moment stayed with him. “It struck me how powerful that was, considering salt is one of the cheapest ingredients on the planet” he says. “But it showed the depth of poverty, and how even small projects can have a life-changing impact.” NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 43
TOM OSBORNE
YOU NEVER KNOW ALL THE GOOD THAT THIS BROUGHT PEOPLE THERE, BUT WE CAN ASSURE YOU OF THE POSITIVE IMPACT IT HAS HAD, AND WE THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS. — Tom Osborne
For Tom, the work in Uganda holds a spiritual weight.
recalls. “It would be a community event with singing, dancing, speeches and sometimes a feast. In subsequent years, we returned to these villages and learned that the incidence of disease had gone down. Children were healthier, doing better in school, and invariably people took good care of this resource.”
“I received much more from the people there than I could ever give them,” he says. “After my experience as a young man in the war in Vietnam, I always had a prayer in my heart that I be given an opportunity to bring peace to the world. That happened in 2007, after meeting Nadine and learning of her mission work in Uganda.”
WHY NOW?
He further describes the joy of seeing thousands of people benefit from a single hand-pumped well, and the pride he felt on behalf of the donors and sponsors who made those wells possible.
“After 19.5 years, it is time to allow the communities we served in Uganda to stand on their own,” she says.
“It was always very humbling to be honored by the people of these villages, following the completion of a new water well,” he 44 YVW MAGAZINE
When asked why the organization is winding down, Nadine points to several factors, including her health. But true to her spirit, she shifts the focus back to the communities that H2O has helped.
Nadine’s own health challenges influenced the decision. Since undergoing delicate brainstem surgery in 2020, complications have left her with significant nerve damage, pain, and ongoing
medical needs. Unable to work, she has spent years navigating recovery. “It’s been long, complicated, difficult and without a cure,” she says, adding that she’s trying each day to stay positive. The retirement age of H2O’s board members also had an impact on the timing. Thankfully, the transition was gradual and carried out with the help of the Agape Community Foundation for Development, allowing programs to be completed and communities prepared to continue independently.
LOOKING FORWARD
2 2D DEECAD CADES ES OF OF
Hope 2 One Life THE NUMBERS TELL THE STORY ➦ Drilled 16 deep-water wells, installed 3 solar-powered wells, and completed 3 well repairs.
As H2O winds down, the organization celebrates its collaboration with the Montana-based nonprofit End Child Soldiering, whose mission closely aligns with H2O’s. The final wells drilled — three deep-water wells — were completed thanks to the help of End Child Soldiering.
➦ Built and supported the Emmanuel Clinic, which now serves 600 primary school students.
For Tom, handing over this part of the mission came with intense gratitude for all the hands and hearts from Montana, Wyoming and beyond who helped make it all possible.
➦ Trained 45 village health team members, who were later integrated into Uganda’s Ministry of Health.
“You never know all the good that this brought people there, but we can assure you of the positive impact it has had, and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts,” he says. For Nadine, the future is about healing, peace and trust within the communities she helped empower. “So much love and effort was put forth by many volunteers, Uganda mission teams, donors, supporters, and prayer warriors over the years,” she says. “I look forward to hearing the Ugandans and communities we served are doing well, and I look forward to peace, strength and healing for myself.” ✻
➦ Provided health resources to orphan care centers and to schools serving deaf, blind and disabled children. ➦ Distributed bio-sand filters to households and schools.
➦ Introduced the PRESM model to 10 villages. ➦ Trained 92 farmers in Farming God’s Way. ➦ Supported livestock, fisheries, beekeeping and drip-irrigation projects. ➦ Launched 14 start-up businesses. ➦ Trained 80 people on the Neema Development business model. ➦ Supported teacher training in six villages, with 17 teachers completing their certification. ➦ Helped more than 30 women launch tailoring and craft businesses. ➦ Provided youth programs and school supplies. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 45
update
46 YVW MAGAZINE
e f i L s e h elis RPost-Transplant
Tiffini Gallant
SISTER GIFTS KIDNEY TO SAVE HER SIBLING’S LIFE written by LINDA HALSTEAD-ACHARYA photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN
THE FIRST THING that struck me was their hearty laugh-
As the sisters describe the transplant process through their different perspectives, their stories are frequently punctuated by their full-throated laughter. But that laughter occasionally breaks into choking sobs. Emotions still simmer close to the surface. Tiffini remembers all too well the excruciating pain, the prayers for a miracle, the fear that she’d not survive to raise her son. Mikala can’t shake the memory of watching her vivacious older sister suffer.
ter. From both of them — Tiffini Gallant and her sister Mikala Christensen. I’d interviewed Tiffini a year ago for Yellowstone Valley Magazine, but this time I hardly recognized the young mother. This time she stood tall and spoke with a robust voice — so drastically different than the woman I’d met 11 months earlier. Back then, she was wracked by an excruciatingly painful kidney disease that left her barely able to rise from her chair. In between interviews, Tiffini had received the new kidney she had so desperately sought. The priceless gift, which came from Mikala, gave Tiffini a new life.
“It was very hard seeing this person who was so bright and beautiful and adventurous being ripped away,” Mikala says. “Seeing her come back — it’s so rewarding for me, that I could help bring The thre her back. It’s been like two coml ives o f e pletely different people, like a light switch.”
Tiffini Gallant FIGHTING PAIN, DEFYING ODDS , AND written by LINDA
ADVOCATING FOR THE GIFT
HALSTEAD-ACH
ARYA photog
THAT COULD SAVE
HER LIFE
Tiffini is six years older than Mikala, half-sisters born of different fathers. It was Tiffini’s father who carried the dominant gene for PKD, TIFFINI’S STORY a disease that typically flares up as WAS FIRST a person ages and is rarely so severe FEATUREDIN as the form that attacked Tiffini. YVW’S Diagnosed at the age of 12, Tiffini’s JAN/FEB 2026 PKD was manageable for years, alISSUE though it sporadically sent her to the hospital. Her condition took a quick downturn, however, after she gave birth to Holden. Her doctors expected her health to rebound as time passed. Instead, it continued to worsen. raphy by DANIEL
SULLIVAN
TIFFINI GALL
Now, Tiffani can ride bikes and jump on the trampoline with her 6-year-old son, Holden. She can eat items, like salt, coffee and even beef jerky, that before had been definite no-nos. Today she lives with a host of other restrictions — many related to the immunosuppressant drugs she’ll have to take for the rest of her life — but they seem inconsequential compared to her previous state. 26
YVW MAGAZ
INE
And the icing on the cake? She was hired back to her dream job at A&E + SMA Design, the very firm where she was working when a massive cyst in her kidney burst, sending her to the hospital and leaving her life ever-changed. “They always told me they wanted me back,” she says. “That makes me feel valued and very fortunate. It’s still a little surreal, to be honest.”
live a third.
ANT has lived
two lives so far. She hopes to parents carried Tiffini’s first the gene. To life spanned ered then that everyone’s surpris her mostly-typica her biological womanhood. father was asympt e, it was discovHer l childhood into rare kidney diseasesecond life came on with young omatic with “He had gone a vengeance, PKD. stole her health through his when a the energy she in her mid-30 entire adding that he’s can muster, suffering sympto life not knowing it,” she the young mother s. Now, with all live a third life says, ms now. — but it all depend is determined PKD is a chronic to s on a donate d disease kidney. Today, Tiffini that causes uncont id-filled cysts lives on rolled growth and flows depend in constant pain — the Americans live the kidneys. It’s estimated of fluseverity of which ing on that roughly with when ceived her PKD, of which ebbs 500,000 ymptomatic. monthly lidocain she last reabout 50 percen The other half, the University e t remain ashowever, will in their 50s. of Utah Hospit infusion at Tiffini, who City. The once-ac al in Salt Lake exhibits a particudevelop kidney failure larly aggress month-to-mon tive 37-year-old now lives of the disease ive form th , has already had one kidney disease has robbedas she seeks a match. The removed and PKD IS A CHRON is her of her health, and her marria remaining kidney.now facing failure of her IC her job ge. KIDNEY DISEAS
Although she finds most comfor “happy place” — a cushy rocker t in her place — she by the fireis no couch potato. two weeks of the month that During the moderates her the pain, she’s workin infusion educate and encourage organ g hard to Not only is donorship. she but she hopes seeking her own salvatio n, her efforts will for others. offer new lives
E BY FLUID-FILLEDMARKED ABOUT 500,000 CYSTS. AMERICANS HAVE PKD; ROUG HLY SHOW NO SYMPT HALF WHILE THE REST OMS, DEVELOP KIDNE OFTEN Y FAILURE IN THEIR 50S.
By her own descrip tion, Tiffini grew until the age up as a “norma of 12, when l country kid” a rare form doctors and of pneumonia nearly took her baffled her life. “I had no sympto ms and then I was on death’s doorstep,” she A chest scan says. to assess her lungs reveale cysts coverin d an unrelat g both of her ed kidneys. The ney disease diagnosis: polycysmass of or PKD. As in most cases, tic kidthat meant one of Tiffini’s
Tiffini survive d her bout with and went on pneumonia to live a fairly normal life — punctuated by an occasio nal brief stint the hospital. in There was no known treatm for the pre-tee ent n, other than blood pressur drugs and a low-sodium diet — the under-e standing being that hances the develop high blood pressure enment of cysts. She was advised sports, but otherw against participating in her peers, attendi ise lived a life similar to ng school and of her future. dreaming ing the Navy She had her and becoming heart set on a police officer. joinPoised to make that dream come one percent true — she’d of recruits — tested in the her world implod her PKD made top ed when she her ineligible was told for the Navy. “My whole life was shattered,” she says. Then, while attending college dream — her , a nephrologist dream to have dashed her children. other JANUA RY/FEB
RUARY 2026
27
By last year, Tiffini was living with one kidney. The other, diseased and enlarged to roughly five times the size of a normal kidney, had already been removed. She was making monthly trips to Salt Lake City for lidocaine infusions to ease the pain. And then, last summer, she got the call that finally offered her a glimmer of hope. When tests indicated her second kidney was functioning
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 47
TIFFINI AND HER SISTER MIKALA
Years of Hope, Health, & Healing FOR 50 YEARS, Tumbleweed has provided second chances, and it’s only been possible because of you. Your generosity has helped young people find stability, hope, and a path forward. Together, we’ve built a legacy of care and opportunity.
Thank You
for standing with us!
48 YVW MAGAZINE
EXCLUSIVE
ONLINE CONTENT CONTENT ONLINE from our
COMMUNITY’S COMMUNITY’S MOST TRUSTED TRUSTED MOST EXPERTS! EXPERTS!
! e n i l n o s Visit u
Joy changes everything.
TIFFINI WIT
H HER SON , HOLDEN
below 20 percent, she celebrated. That was the threshold needed to put her on the list for a kidney transplant. “It’s really hard to get people to understand why I wanted my kidney to fail,” she says. “But I knew I had to get sicker before I could get better.”
But one by one, they were eliminated from consideration. “I only thought you’d need to have your blood and tissues tested,” Tiffini says. “But there are so many factors that would make someone ineligible.”
Meanwhile, Mikala passed through the And that’s where Mikala comes in. In basic screenings in a matter of months. fact, Mikala had But still, both been awaiting sisters had the call ever been cautioned EACH YEAR, ABOUT since she was 6 against being 27,500 TRANSPLANTS years old, when too hopeful. ARE PERFORMED IN THE UNITED STATES, her sister was BUT ONLY AROUND “They say no first diagnosed. one is your do10% INVOLVE A LIVING “We’ve talked nor until you’re DONOR about it since actually on the childhood,” Mioperating takala says. ble,” Tiffini says. Tiffini was told it might take years to find a donor and another year-plus for that donor to proceed through the pre-operative testing. As the months passed, dozens of people responded to Tiffini’s highly public plea for a kidney. Some of them were Facebook contacts, others were perfect strangers.
Throughout the process, Tiffini allowed Mikala the grace to back out. Of the 27,500 transplants performed annually in the United States, only about a tenth come from a living donor. In Tiffini’s case, a “live” donation would give her the best chance long-term.
This season, consider a gift that keeps joy alive. Supporting the adventure, confidence, and belonging that lift not only our participants, but their families and caregivers all year long. All proceeds help Eagle Mount provide adaptive year-round recreational opportunities for over 700 children and adults with disabilities in our community.
406.969.2949 eaglemountbillings.org Eagle Mount Billings • 501(c)(3) • EIN 84-1370933 Gifts are tax-deductible.
G O. G I VE . SE RV E . S H A R E NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 49
During her “paused life,” Tiffini worked on a manuscript she entitled “Ouch!” In the book she addresses the often-neglected mental health, relational and financial aspects of living with chronic pain. She presented her talk
“FINDING PURPOSE IN PAIN” for TEDxBillings this past October, which will ultimately be uploaded online.
kidney, which Tiffini describes as a “cystic football.” It was almost unbearable. The June 16 transplant surgery proved to be much easier, she says. Post-surgery, she lived in Salt Lake City for eight weeks — two weeks shy of the typical transplant recipient — as her doctors adjusted her meds and she recovered her strength. By August, she’d returned to her Laurel home. By late September, she was set to resume her career as a writer at A&E. While her life returned in a rush, it comes with strict rules. She’s got a binder that dictates what she can eat, what she can and cannot touch, when she’s required to quarantine and under what conditions she must wear an N-95 mask. For the first year post-transplant, she’s only allowed to have four people total into her home (we conducted this interview outside) and at the office, she wears a mask and her desk is located far from the flow of traffic. Never again can she eat sushi or enjoy a restaurant buffet. And if she craves a salad? All fresh produce must be washed in vinegar, she says. Despite the many restrictions, Tiffini can hardly believe what her future now holds. “Coming out of survival mode, I’m just really excited to be in living mode,” she says. “I’m just feeling some semblance of normalcy, really. I’m getting better and stronger every day in every way.” Even as Tiffini’s remaining kidney continued to decline, she actively promoted kidney donation — for herself and for others — and provided what care she could for her son. Her biggest hurdle? Raising the $10,000 they required for her to undergo the transplant. “I had to have that in the bank because I needed to prove on a dime that I could relocate to Salt Lake City for eight to 10 weeks and maintain my rent and bills here,” she says. As a donor, Mikala had requirements, too. Not only was she advised to alter her diet and undergo physical tests, but her mental health was evaluated as well. The transplant surgery itself kept her in the hospital for only two days; she stayed on a couple more just in case of infection. “It was easier than I thought it’d be,” Mikala says, pointing to the four-inch incision above her navel. Tiffini underwent two operations, separated by only a few days. The first took place on June 11, to remove the remaining diseased 50 YVW MAGAZINE
Meanwhile, her role as mother has become doubly important. Several years ago, Holden, too, was diagnosed with PKD. She frequently turns to the advice she was given back then. “I was told ‘who better to show him how to live a life with PKD than you?’” Tiffini says. As the sisters share laughs, they mention the T-shirts they had made to celebrate their sharded kidney. Mikala’s reads “I shared my spare.” Tiffini’s reads “I run on spare parts.” And then the tone turns more solemn as Tiffini reflects back to the day she learned that her second kidney had failed. “I called Mikala, sobbing, and asked her if she still wanted to save my life,” Tiffini says. “Now here we are a year and a half later, and she did.” “And I’d do it all over again,” Mikala adds, telling how a rush of happiness hits her when she least expects it. “It fills me with joy.” ✻
In emergencies, just say
“Take me to St. V’s”
When it comes to the unthinkable, we’ve thought of everything. You’re typically not prepared when an emergency happens. St. Vincent Regional Hospital offers the highest level of quality emergency care in the region, with a level 1 trauma center, regional HELP flight program, pediatric emergency services, and extensive trauma surgery capabilities. So whether it’s a serious accident or a critical health event, if you’re having an emergency, don’t delay care. When the unthinkable happens, just say, “take me to St. V’s.”
St. Vincent Regional Hospital Learn more at svh.org/trauma
THE COUNTDOWN TO
NOV 27 - DEC 31
A MAGICAL TRADITION F O R T H E W H O L E FA M I LY Join us in Billings for a magical holiday experience at ZooMontana, presented by TDS Fiber! Enjoy more than 15 million dazzling lights, large-scale displays, wagon rides, photos with Santa, cozy S’mores Tents, and more. Experience Holiday Nights transform ZooMontana into a winter wonderland and make unforgettable holiday memories with the whole family!
PRESENT S
EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC H OL I D AY-N I G H T S . CO M
N O V 2 7 - D EC 31
2026
LET’S MAKE THE HOLIDAYS BRIGHT FOR KIDS IN FOSTER CARE FOR MOST CHILDREN, Christmas morning is filled with
2.
But for a child in foster care, the holidays can feel very different.
3.
anticipation — the rustle of wrapping paper, the excitement of seeing what Santa brought and the comfort of knowing there will be something waiting beneath the tree with their name on it.
Right now, nearly 500 children are in the care of the state through foster care in and around Yellowstone County. Many have already experienced more change and uncertainty than any child should have to face. And when the holidays arrive, there can be another question quietly weighing on their hearts: Will there be something for me? This holiday season, Yellowstone Valley Woman wants to help make sure the answer is yes. In partnership with the Montana Department of Child and Family Services, we have gathered the names and holiday wishes of children in foster care. And you can help us make a difference. By sponsoring a child, you can take a wish from a list and turn it into a moment of joy. To help, simply purchase the requested items, leave the gifts unwrapped, and clearly label each gift with the child’s name and the stocking number listed below. Let’s fill the holiday season with hope, kindness and the unmistakable message that no child in our community is forgotten.
1.
Mason is a 6-year-old boy who loves LEGO sets, Hot Wheels and anything involving dinosaurs. He enjoys building things and playing outside. He wears a boy’s size 6 and a size 12 in shoes.
54 YVW MAGAZINE
Ava is a 4-year-old girl who loves Bluey, all kinds of dolls and playing pretend. She especially loves the color purple and anything with sparkles. She wears a girl’s size 5T and a size 11 in shoes. Jackson is a 10-year-old boy who loves Pokémon, Minecraft and playing soccer. He enjoys collecting Pokémon cards and building with LEGO bricks. He wears a boy’s size 10 and a size 4 in shoes.
4.
Lily is a 7-year-old girl who loves Barbie, Squishmallows and arts and crafts. She enjoys drawing, making bracelets and playing with her friends. She wears a girl’s size 7/8 and a size 2 in shoes.
5.
Noah is a 3-year-old boy who loves trucks, Paw Patrol and playing with anything that has wheels. He is especially excited about fire trucks and construction vehicles. He wears a boy’s size 3T and a size 9 in shoes.
6.
Emma is a 9-year-old girl who loves Taylor Swift, LEGO Friends and really doing anything artsy. She enjoys music, dancing and spending time with her friends. She wears a girl’s size 10 and a size 3 in shoes.
7.
Eli is a 5-year-old boy who loves Spider-Man, Hot Wheels and anything to do with dinosaurs. He enjoys building forts and playing outside. He wears a boy’s size 5T and a size 11 in shoes.
8.
Sophia is a 12-year-old girl who loves makeup, art supplies and cozy things for her room. She enjoys listening to music, drawing and spending time with her friends. She wears a girl’s size 12/14 and a size 6 in shoes.
9.
Henry is a 2-year-old boy who loves Sesame Street, trucks and musical toys. He loves animals and carrying his favorite stuffed puppy everywhere he goes. He wears a boy’s size 2T and a size 7 in shoes.
18.
Grace is a 3-year-old girl who loves baby dolls, Bluey and pretend play. She loves pushing her dolls in a stroller and having tea parties. She doesn’t have a tea set but would love one for her pretend parties with her stuffed animals. She wears a girl’s size 3T and a size 9 in shoes.
10.
Harper is an 8-year-old girl who loves Squishy Dumplings, Squishmallows and anything crafty. She enjoys making bracelets, coloring and playing games with her siblings. She wears a girl’s size 8 and a size 1 in shoes.
19.
11.
Wyatt is a 7-year-old boy who loves LEGO sets, Nerf toys and anything related to superheroes. He enjoys building and playing outside with his friends. He wears a boy’s size 7/8 and a size 1 in shoes.
20.
12.
Mia is a 5-year-old girl who loves Disney princesses, Barbie and Play-Doh. She loves dressing up, playing pretend and anything pink. She wears a girl’s size 5T and a size 12 in shoes.
13.
Owen is a 9-year-old boy who loves sports, Pokémon and remote-control cars. He loves to shoot hoops and enjoys being outside whenever he can. He wears a boy’s size 10 and a size 3 in shoes.
14.
Ella is a 6-year-old girl who loves Hatchimals, stuffed animals and LEGO Friends. She enjoys reading, coloring and playing make-believe. She wears a girl’s size 6/7 and a size 13 in shoes.
15.
Lucas is an 11-year-old boy who loves gaming, LEGO and basketball. He enjoys building complicated LEGO sets and playing Fortnite with his friends. He wears a boy’s size 12/14 and a size 5 in shoes.
16.
Chloe is a 10-year-old girl who loves KPop Demon Hunters, jewelry-making kits and Squishmallows. She enjoys music, crafts and would love to add a cool and colorful light to her room. She wears a girl’s size 10/12 and a size 4 in shoes.
17.
Caleb is a 4-year-old boy who loves Paw Patrol, monster trucks and dinosaurs. He is always building something and loves playing with toy tools. He wears a boy’s size 4T and a size 10 in shoes
Logan is a 12-year-old boy who loves sports, Pokémon and gaming. He especially enjoys football and basketball and would love something he can use outdoors. He wears a boy’s size 14/16 and a size 6 in shoes. Nora is a 7-year-old girl who loves Barbie, art sets and stuffed animals. She enjoys painting, coloring and making things for her family. She wears a girl’s size 7/8 and a size 1 in shoes.
21.
Carter is a 6-year-old boy who loves Hot Wheels, LEGO and superheroes. He enjoys racing his cars and building new creations. He wears a boy’s size 6 and a size 13 in shoes.
22.
Riley is an 11-year-old girl who loves crafts (Diamond Dot kits are her favorite), books and cozy things. She’d love a fuzzy blanket or a beanbag chair to deck out her room. Purple is her favorite color! She wears a girl’s size 12/14 and a size 5 in shoes.
23.
Cooper is a 5-year-old boy who is a little rough and tumble, He would love a remote-control vehicle to use outside on the dirt ramps he loves to build. He enjoys playing outside and building things. He wears a boy’s size 5T and a size 12 in shoes.
24.
Zoey is a 9-year-old girl who loves Barbie and KPop De-
mon Hunters. She also loves to make jewelry. She can also be found singing wherever she goes, so a karaoke microphone might be a fun gift. She wears a girl’s size 10 and a size 3 in shoes.
25.
Bennett is a 10-year-old boy who loves Minecraft, LEGO sets and basketball. He enjoys building, playing sports and anything involving a challenge. He wears a boy’s size 10/12 and a size 4 in shoes. ✻
FOR ADDITIONAL EMPTY STOCKINGS VISIT
The list will be updated continuously throughout the season to make sure new children in the foster care system aren’t forgotten this Christmas.
yellowstonevalleywoman.com/stockings
Drop Off Locations Once you fill a stocking, feel free to drop the unwrapped gift labeled with the stocking number at one of the locations below by Dec. 18:
CHILD & FAMILY SERVICES
IRIS SALON
2525 4th Ave. N. Ste 309
1579 Mullowney Ln.
CENTURY 21 HOMETOWN BROKERS 1605 Shiloh Rd.
Visit ou at Mead r tree o for addit wlark io Christm nal as wishes
BOOTHILL INN
MEADOWLARK BREWING
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31 Years of
Christmas Cheer A CHERISHED TRADITION BUILT ON FRIENDSHIP written by JULIE LOVELL photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN
56 YVW MAGAZINE
ON THE FIRST SATURDAY of December, a group of longtime friends gathers around a beautifully decorated dining room table in Billings to kick off the Christmas season. There are cookies, holiday cheer, a festive lunch — and then things get serious. For 31 years, these women have gathered for their annual cookie and ornament exchange, a beloved tradition built on friendship. But when each woman brings out the wrapped ornament she brought to exchange, friends become fierce competitors. There is plenty of stealing and strategizing in pursuit of the one ornament each woman would love to take home.
“They just want to visit, figure out what everyone is doing in their lives and hear how their families are,” Connie says. “We’ve all been through a lot. We’ve had people who have had cancer in our group, had babies, kids growing up and getting married … it’s just a lot. We get to reconnect and encourage each other.” Each year, Connie spends about a week decorating her entire house, so her guests feel the Christmas spirit the minute they walk through the front door.
“She puts up three trees, the bathrooms are decorated, the bedrooms are decorated. She puts up her Dickens Village which is probably 50 to 60 houses,” Sharon says. “The “It’s cutthroat,” party host Connie Duneman says nativity collection has got to be pushing 30 to 40 WHAT BEGAN AS A with a laugh. “They will do just about anything to different nativities. We all pitch in and help her get that ornament. There is no friendship when GATHERING HAS BECOME A wherever we can, but it happens because Connie that happens; it’s off the table.” keeps it going.” Roberta Fox has attended every cookie exPartygoer Kim Wallila agrees. “Connie has such change since the beginning. “These friends a gift of hospitality and makes everyone feel are just very special to me,” she says. “Some of so special and loved,” Kim says. “She takes so them I don’t see maybe more than at the cookie OF FRIENDSHIP, much time decorating her home. It’s like you’re exchange, but we just love each other, and we going into a Christmas museum. Every inch is COOKIES, & CHRISTMAS have the best time together.” decorated so beautifully, and there’s just a spirit of ORNAMENTS calm and joy and celebration.” When Connie and her sister, Sharon Weatherwax-Ripley, decided to host their first Christmas cookOver the years, the number of friends gathering around the ie exchange back in 1995, they had no idea it would become table has fluctuated. Some years, as many as 16 friends squeeze a time-honored tradition for their friends. Delicious Christmas around Connie’s beautifully decorated table. In recent years, the cookies and lovely Christmas tree ornaments make the gathergathering has been limited to 10 women, so everyone has time ings more special, but the recipe for the party’s success lies in the to visit. treasured friendships these women have developed over the last three decades. The women who attend the party often hunt for ornaments year-
31 Year Tradition
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 57
round, searching for something special that will be a hit during the ornament exchange. One guest visits Germany often and finds her ornaments there. “If your ornament gets stolen several times, it’s a compliment,” Sharon says. “One year, somebody took their own ornament back because they loved it that much.” As the battle begins, each woman chooses a wrapped ornament. Once she unwraps it, she can keep it or steal another friend’s ornament. There’s plenty of stealing, wheeling and dealing, and sometimes a little trickery, Connie says. “Sometimes people try to team up, which is not supposed to happen,” she says. “They do these little hand signals that say, ‘I can take that one and then we’ll exchange.’” One year, Connie took desperate measures to try to keep her friends from stealing an ornament she loved. “Connie tried to lick an ornament, thinking that would keep us from taking it,” Sharon says with a laugh. “It didn’t work.” Several of the partygoers are retired educators and years ago, a guest brought an ornament featuring one teacher’s school picture. That ornament, with teacher Kim Wallila’s photo, is still exchanged each year. “It’s such a fun, silly part of the day,” Kim says. “It’s exciting and terrifying because who wants to see their face on an ornament? But it’s fun to see it. It’s kind of like the token booby prize every year.” 58 YVW MAGAZINE
Each guest also brings a dozen cookies for every other partygoer. Both sisters love baking and Sharon once owned a bakery, but their guests aren’t pressured into making the perfect cookie. Connie bakes the same cookie recipe year after year — Sunflower Seed Cookies — and it’s become a favorite with the ladies and their families. “When I get home, those are the ones that I put in the freezer where my husband can’t find them,” Sharon says. For these dear friends, the annual party is a can’t-miss event. The year that party-goer Carolyn Story was due to deliver a baby around the holidays, she made sure she was ready for the cookie exchange. “She chose a cookie that she could freeze and baked her cookies before she went into labor so, just in case the timing was rough, she would have them,” Sharon says. These days, several of the friends who gather for the annual party are retired. The oldest is 83 and the youngest is 60. Every year, Connie asks herself if the party is worth all the hard work. Every year, she answers yes. “It’s a lot of work and every year I say, ‘What am I doing?’” Connie says. “But then they get here and we’re so excited so see each other and they’re excited to see the house is ready. They’re always happy to be here, even if life is hard.” Connie’s and Sharon’s love for Christmas stretches back to childhood, when their mom always made sure the holiday was extra special. As Connie looks back on three decades of gathering dear NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 59
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friends around her table, she also thinks about the future. Her daughter, Madison, often helps her mom decorate for the party and Connie would love to see her carry on this holiday tradition. “Madison wants to learn how to do it so she can host her friends,” Connie says. What’s the secret to hosting a great cookie exchange party? Connie says it helps to start small and limit the guest list, so everyone gets a chance to visit. She also recommends celebrating early in December because guests are more relaxed and less busy than later in the holiday season. She says not to stress about baking fabulous cookies. Instead, focus on the laughter and love of great friends gathered around the table. But when it comes to exchanging ornaments, prepare for combat. “It can be brutal!” Connie says with a laugh.
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“What makes it special is just catching up with friends,” Sharon adds. “It does feel like the start of the holiday season. We’ve wondered if we’re getting too old for this, and do we really need all these cookies? The answer is no, we’re not too old and yes, we do.” ✻
JULIE LOVELL, writer Julie is a former Billings news anchor who loves sharing positive news stories. After spending a decade in Georgia, her family is happy to back home in Montana. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her volunteering for special needs organizations, stretching her faith and getting reacquainted with the joys of life under the Big Sky!
S u n f lowe r S e e d
Cookies ~Recipe from Connie Duneman
1 c. white sugar 1 c. brown sugar 1 c. margarine 2 eggs 1 t. vanilla extract 2 c. flour ¼ t. salt ½ t. baking powder 1 t. baking soda 2 c. oatmeal (old fashioned, uncooked) 1 c. sunflower seeds 1 c. shredded coconut DIRECTIONS: Cream white sugar, brown sugar
and margarine together until light in color. Add eggs and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Sift together the flour, salt, baking powder and baking soda. Add to mixture. Stir in oatmeal, sunflower seeds and coconut. Drop on a greased cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees until brown. If you’d like thicker cookies, add a half cup of additional flour.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 61
edible
Heirlooms A DELICIOUS CONNECTION TO THE WOMEN WHO CAME BEFORE written by STELLA FONG photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN
DURING THE HOLIDAYS, the sweetest gifts are often not
tucked beneath the tree but made by hand in the kitchen, where flour dusts the counter, familiar aromas fill the air, and recipes carry memories from one generation to the next. For Lenette Kosovich, the gift was Grandma Olga Lemoine’s ravioli, tender parcels tucked beneath a blanket of savory sauce. For Renee Coppock, it was her Grandma Olga Moomey’s Snickerdoodles, warm with cinnamon and sugar and the sweetness of holidays remembered.
Grandma Olga’s cooking reached beyond the family table. “Olga also made her ravioli sauce for restaurants around Great Falls, including Johnny’s in Belt and Howdy’s in Great Falls.” Renee’s memories of her Grandma Olga reach beyond Snickerdoodles, too. Her grandmother lived just down the road in Owaneco, Illinois, and was an important presence in her life. “I received all my grandma’s recipes when she passed away,” Renee says. “My grandma helped me learn to cook and sew.” At Christmastime, her grandmother transformed homemade cookies into presents. “My grandma made several types of cookies each Christmas and packed them in old coffee cans wrapped in Christmas paper for gifts,” Renee says.
Tw o g r a n d m o t h e r s named Olga. Two beloved recipes. And two gifts that, long after the holidays have passed, continue to nourish both heart and memory. For Robin Hanel, those treasured gifts come from two generations of women in her family. Her heart warms when she makes the Peanut Butter Fudge passed down from her grandmother, Marie L. Roe, or a batch of Raspberry Jam from her mother, Elizabeth “Betty” Roe. With each stir of the spoon and each familiar taste, she keeps their recipes — and a little piece of them — alive in her own kitchen.
Robin
Lenette
These women have found their own ways to preserve the recipes entrusted to them. Robin and Renee gathered treasured family recipes into cookbooks, creating collections to pass along to future generations. Lenette chose a different kind of keepsake, framing her grandmother’s handwritten recipe in a shadow box — a reminder that sometimes a precious inheritance can be written on a simple page in a notebook. For Lenette, making ravioli is also a way of carrying on her Italian heritage. “Without fail, we have had these ravioli at every Christmas since I remember,” she says. 62 YVW MAGAZINE
Renee
It is a tradition Renee continues today.
Robin preserved her family memories in a cookbook aptly titled “Cherished Kitchen Memories,” dedicated to her mother. In it, she writes: “Your kitchen has provided many memories beyond your cooking to include card games, conversations, radio waves of work and much more. Everything in your kitchen is YOU and we all come ‘Home for Christmas.’” Ravioli and Snickerdoodles, fudge and jam — each is more than something delicious to eat. They are edible heirlooms, handed down with love, carrying the tastes, traditions and memories of the women and times that came before. Whether preserved between the pages of a cookbook or written on a piece of paper or hung on a wall, these recipes offer something lasting: a way to bring those we love back to the table, one bite at a time. ✻
Snickerdoodles
FROM RENEE
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 63
Peanut Butter Fudge & Raspberry Jam FROM ROBIN
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 65
FOR THE WRITTEN RECIPES, SCAN THE QR CODE TO TRAVEL TO OUR WEBSITE.
Ravioli
FROM LENETTE
OLGA ALSO MADE HER RAVIOLI SAUCE FOR RESTAURANTS AROUND GREAT FALLS, INCLUDING JOHNNY’S IN BELT AND HOWDY’S IN GREAT FALLS. — Lenette Kosovich
STELLA FONG, writer
Stella divides her time between Billings and Seattle and is the author of two Billingscentric books, Historic Restaurants of Billings and Billings Food. Her writings have appeared in Big Sky Journal, Western Art and Architecture, the Washington Post as well as online at lastbestplates.com.
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The
m o o R g n i ait
FLAVORS TO SAVOR
W
68 YVW MAGAZINE
STEP INTO ANOTHER ERA written by STELLA FONG photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN
IN THE CENTER of downtown Billings, there’s a secret place to sip a spirit and gather with friends. But please — keep this just between you and me.
After stepping into Doc Harper’s Tavern, at 116 N. Broadway, and moving immediately to the right, I whisper the secret entry code through the small, grilled peephole set into the bookcase. I smile to myself when I realize the code is written on a blackboard in pink chalk. I enter a seductive jewel box of a bar called The Waiting Room. A silvery tin ceiling glimmers overhead, while a richly stained, wood-paneled bar beckons. Behind it, bottles of spirits glow like precious jewels, their amber, ruby and emerald hues illuminated from within. Overhead, wine glasses hang like crystal ornaments, catching the light and adding shimmer and sparkle. I settle into the intimate glow, slipping onto a seat at the bar. The Waiting Room feels deliciously clandestine — a glamorous little secret where I can linger over a beautifully crafted drink and imagine, just for an evening, that I’ve stepped into another era.
Visit The Waiting Room DOC HARPER’S TAVERN 116 N. BROADWAY DOWNTOWN BILLINGS
“I’ll have a New York Sour,” I tell bartender and mixologist Andy Gregory, who helped open The Waiting Room. “I don’t usually see this on the menu.” Gregory creates the whiskey sour with bourbon, lemon juice, Angostura bitters, red wine and egg white. Listed under Prohibition Style Cocktails, the drink arrives in three distinct layers: a deep-red layer of wine floating atop the golden-yellow sour, all crowned with a frothy cap of egg white. Barb’s Tini and Bruce’s Manhattan are available in The Waiting Room, while my favorite, the Spicy Martini, is served only at Doc Harper’s Tavern. On this newer, clandestine side of the bar, guests can order bread and a nut mix, but there is no full food menu. Barb and Bruce Harper opened Doc Harper’s Tavern nearly a dozen years ago as a martini and cocktail lounge with a sophisticated, big-city flair. The tavern is named for Dr. Robert Dana “R.D.” Harper, a longtime country doctor and Bruce’s father. At the beginning of last year, the space next door became available. “We had the first right of refusal after the barbershop closed,” Barb says. They immediately took over the space and hired architect Kim Olsen of O2 Architects to transform it. “We wanted more of a cocktail lounge vibe in The Waiting Room.” Gold-upholstered banquettes line the walls. A black-and-white painting by Mike Martin, depicting a gentleman and a flapper sipping martinis, dominates the back wall and sets the tone for The Waiting Room. In the back corner, a small cove provides an intimate, semi-private space for up to four people. “People come over here more dressed up,” Barb says with a smile. “This is a good destination for date night.” And it is just as inviting for a date with a loved one, an evening shared with a few dear friends, or simply some time spent enjoying your own company in The Waiting Room. ✻ NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 69
THE
y a d i l o H
KITCHEN HELPER TIPS AND DELICIOUS RECIPES FOR EVERYTHING FROM TURKEY DAY TO CHRISTMAS MORNING.
I AM HERE TO HELP. Think of me as your holiday helpline, with some suggestions and recipes that you’ll want to tuck away for this holiday season. My resource is Bernie Mason, who was Yellowstone County family and consumer extension agent for decades. If it’s your job to bring the turkey to the holiday gathering, Bernie has some great tips.
TASTE OF TH E VALLEY
written by KAY ERIKSON
I was watching Sara Moulton on PBS when I learned that mashed potatoes can be prepared ahead, saving time and
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frustration. Bernie reached into her wealth of recipes for Make Ahead Holiday Mashed Potatoes to give the spuds some “zhuzh.” For those looking for recipes to serve a fast-yet-special breakfast treat for those stay-over holiday guests, again Bernie to the rescue with Fastest Cinnamon Buns — no yeast, so no proofing. Enjoy the holidays and take lots of photos. The moments will be gone before we know it. Enjoy! ✻
Turkey Travels
The first tip from Bernie Mason is to make sure the turkey is fully cooked. And minimize travel time, ideally to less than an hour. A suggestion she has is to consider buying a turkey breast. It still needs to be fully cooked, but is smaller to transport. A large crock pot can be a good way to transport it — just be sure the lid is properly sealed and wrap the edge with layers of heavy aluminum foil. Fit the crock pot in a box and wrap it with towels so it doesn’t accidentally tip during transport. If it’s a full turkey, after making sure it is fully cooked, let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes before fully slicing. Put the sliced meat in a large container with some broth in the bottom to help keep the meat moist. Be sure to wrap the container with foil and put it in one of
those large, insulated food carriers with lots of towels wrapped around the food container. You can also bring cold turkey to your gathering and reheat it once you arrive. Simply slice up the fully-cooked turkey and refrigerate. It’s important that the turkey stays below 40 degrees. When ready to travel, place the container with the sliced meat in a cooler or insulated food carrier with lots of ice and ice packets. (Be sure to keep meat and the types of ice separate.) Once at your location, place the meat in a baking dish with broth or gravy, cover with foil, and bake in a 325-degree oven for about an hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Things to remember: if transporting hot turkey, it needs to remain above 140 degrees during transport. And, if it’s cold turkey, pack it with ice packs and keep it below 40 degrees.
MAKE-AHEAD HOLIDAY
Mashed Potatoes ~Recipe from Bernie Mason
SEASONED BUTTER ½ c. butter, softened 1 T. thinly sliced green onions 1 t. finely chopped fresh garlic ¼ t. salt POTATOES 8 c. (about 4 lbs.) peeled potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces 2 t. salt 3 oz. cream cheese, softened and cut into chunks ¾ c. milk Paprika and chopped parsley, if desired DIRECTIONS: Combine the butter, sliced green onion and chopped garlic in a small mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed until well mixed. Keep at room temp.
Place potatoes in a 4-quart saucepan or Dutch oven. Cover with water; add 2 teaspoons of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce to medium. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender (15-18 minutes). Drain. Place potatoes in a large mixer bowl. Mash potatoes on low speed. Increase speed to medium. Beat, gradually adding cream cheese, ¼ cup of milk and seasoned butter until smooth (1 to 2 minutes). Place potatoes in a 3-quart microwave safe casserole. Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
MICROWAVE INSTRUCTIONS: Just before heating, pour remaining ½ cup of milk over the potatoes. Cover and microwave on high for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes until heated through. Let stand 10 minutes. Sprinkle with paprika and chopped parsley. Makes 10 servings. OVEN INSTRUCTIONS: Preheat to 325 degrees. Pour remain-
ing ½ cup of milk over the potatoes. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Stir and continue baking for 20 to 30 minutes until heated through. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 71
FASTEST
Cinnamon Buns ~Recipe Bernie Mason, yields 12 buns
DOUGH ¾ c. cottage cheese (4% milk fat) ⅓ c. buttermilk ¼ c. granulated sugar 4 T. unsalted butter, melted 1 t. pure vanilla extract 2 c. unbleached all-purpose flour, more for rolling 1 T. baking powder ½ t. salt ¼ t. baking soda FILLING 1½ T. unsalted butter, melted 2/3 c. packed light or dark brown sugar 1½ t. ground cinnamon ½ t. ground allspice ¼ t. cloves 1 c. chopped pecans GLAZE Scant 2/3 c. confectioners’ sugar 2 to 3 T. cold whole or low-fat milk 1 t. pure vanilla extract DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray the sides and bottom of a 9-to-10-inch springform pan with non-stick cooking spray.
MAKE THE DOUGH: In a food processor, combine the cottage
cheese, buttermilk, sugar, melted butter and vanilla. Process until smooth, about 10 seconds. Add the flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda and pulse in short bursts just until the dough clumps
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together (do not overprocess). The dough will be soft and moist. Scrape the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead with floured hands, about 4 or 5 times until smooth. With a lightly floured rolling pin, roll the dough into 12x15-inch rectangle.
MAKE THE FILLING: Brush the dough with the melted butter, leaving a ½-inch unbuttered border around the edges. In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, allspice and cloves. Sprinkle the mixture over the buttered area of the dough and pat gently into the surface. Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the sugar mixture. Starting on the long edge, roll up the dough jelly-roll style. Pinch the seam to seal and leave the ends open. With a sharp knife, cut the roll into 12 equal pieces. Set the pieces, cut side up, in the prepared pan. They should fill the pan and touch slightly, but don’t worry if there are small gaps. Bake until golden brown and firm to the touch, 20 to 28 minutes. Set the pan on a wire rack to cool for 5 minutes. Run a spatula around the inside edge of the pan and remove the springform ring. Transfer the rolls to a serving plate.
MAKE THE GLAZE: In a small bowl mix the confectioners’ sugar, milk and vanilla to make a smooth glaze. It should have a thick but pourable consistency (add up to a tablespoon more milk, if necessary. Drizzle the glaze over the rolls. Let stand for 15 minutes and serve.
KAY ERICKSON, writer Kay has spent her professional career in public relations and broadcast news, currently at Yellowstone Public Radio. Her journalism degree is from Northern Illinois University. Her passions include her family, sports and food. Her mom and an aunt taught her the finer points of cooking and instilled a love of good food and family mealtime.
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5 s g n i r t S 2 d e h c a tt A THREE MUSICIANS HOPE TO MAKE MUSIC ACCESSIBLE TO THE MASSES
written by BROOKE WAGNER photography byDANIEL SULLIVAN
FOR PAIGE DRISCOLL, making music has never been
simply about playing the right notes. It’s about the magic that happens when people come together to create something none of them could create alone. An engineer by trade, Paige grew up in Billings before heading to Bozeman for college. She participated in the symphony during her time there and discovered a love of playing the viola not only for other people, but with other people. “The viola can be kind of a monotone instrument,” Paige says, “but playing in a group lets you find extra layers to add to the music.” For a viola player, those layers are especially important. The instrument’s melody often lives in the middle of the music, filling in harmonies and creating richness between the higher and lower voices.
who might not otherwise have the opportunity to play.
Lauren’s older sister, Natalie, is also a musician and played with fiddling groups around Billings. The three women were already getting together for something completely unrelated to music — a book club — when a fairly obvious question eventually surfaced. Why weren’t they playing together?
THE GROUPS’ NAME IS
SILVER and GOLD STRINGS A PLAY ON THE MONTANA STATE MOTTO (ORO Y PLATA)
So perhaps it makes sense that Paige found her way back to music through relationships. Longtime friend Lauren Griffen has been part of Paige’s life since childhood. The two grew up doing ballet together and later played in an orchestra together. Music was a big part of Lauren’s family, as well. Her mom, Kathy Griffin, has long been involved with the Billings Symphony Orchestra, and music outreach has also been her mission, trying to get instruments into the hands of children
PICTURED OPPOSITE PAGE: LAUREN, NATALIE & PAIGE
The trio was born, playing at first for their book club meetings or for friends. One favorite arrangement highlighted music from the movie “Jurassic Park,” following a showing at a local theater. Eventually, the group thought, “Why don’t we share what we’ve got with not just our friends, but our community too?”
But first, the group needed a name. Consisting of two violins and a viola, all three members of the trio wanted to highlight their Montana roots. Although they each had a creative side, they were all equally pragmatic so they created a Google Doc to list names they liked. Each would initial their favorites until the list was whittled down to the top five or so names. Paige laughs as she recalls, “It basically came down to which name was easiest to pronounce, and which rolled off the tongue the best.” They landed on “Silver and Gold Strings,” a play on the Montana state motto (Oro y Plata). The group gives the women an opportunity to introduce people
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 75
to string music in a way that feels approachable — one thing that is particularly important to these musicians.
That’s why Paige delights in seeing listeners of all ages connect with the music, whether it’s a familiar piece or something they are hearing for the first time. It may be the first time a younger child has even seen a viola or violin in person.
“Everyone can relate to string music. It’s a way for people of all ages to share an experience of beauty,” Natalie says. Paige adds, “One thing I’ve become really passionate about after Exposing the community to string music has become a starting to play again as an adult is that classical kind of mission for Silver and Gold Strings. The music can feel a little scary and stuffy.” She trio has played at weddings for friends, a wants to change that. The group’s reperfundraising event for Eagle Mount and toire might include Mozart, Haydn or WinterFair at the Yellowstone Art Handel, but it often just as easily inMuseum. In time, they hope to enEVERYONE CAN RELATE TO cludes a recognizable pop song or tertain at one of the upcoming Artmovie theme. Walks, particularly as the colder STRING MUSIC. IT’S A WAY FOR months bring opportunities for PEOPLE OF ALL AGES TO SHARE There’s something especially fun, the kind of cozy, intimate settings Paige says, about watching an authat suit a small string ensemble AN EXPERIENCE OF BEAUTY. dience suddenly recognize what so well. — Natalie they’re hearing. That’s the magic, she says, of live music. Playing as a trio is also a very different experience. “There’s a heightened “You’re more of a participant in the perforsense of responsibility because you’re the mance with live music. There’s so much that only person playing your part,” Paige says. In an comes from witnessing it — seeing the movement, orchestra, musicians still have to practice and know noticing the way the musicians look at each other, and existing their music, but there’s a bit of a safety net. If you miss somein the same space as the performers,” Paige says. “A recording thing, chances are another musician is playing the same part. you can play over and over and it’s the same, but every time you In a trio, there’s nowhere to hide. But that vulnerability creates witness live music, it is different.” connection. “You end up forming a relationship with the other 76 YVW MAGAZINE
Zoo Lights
B e au t y & t h e B e a s t
Take time out of the holiday shopping frenzy, pack up the family in the car and enjoy a magical holiday light display during ZooMontana’s Zoo Lights.The display will be open in December - the 7th-8th, 14th15th, and 20th-24th from 5pm to 9pm each night. z o o m o n t a n a . o r g
Billings Studio Theatre presents “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Junior,” January 10th-13th. Brainy and beautiful Belle yearns to escape her narrow and restricted life including her brute of a suitor, Gaston. Belle gets adventurous and as a result becomes a captive in the Beast’s enchanted castle! Dancing flatware, menacing wolves and singing furniture fill the stage with thrills during this beloved fairy tale about very different people finding strength in one another as they learn how to love.b i l l i n g s s t u d i o t h e a t r e . c o m
C h a s e h aw k s R o d e o Touted as one of the best rough stock rodeos in America, the Chase Hawks Rodeo takes place in the Rimrock Auto Arena on December 22nd.Top cowboys and stock come straight from the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas to compete right here in Billings, Montana. And best of all, it’s for a great cause. The Chase Hawks Memorial Association works to bring comfort and assistance to families during times of tragedy and crisis.m e t r a p a r k . c o m
F R i n g e F e s t i va L Venture Theatre presents its Fringe Festival, January 18th-19th and 25th-26th.The festival features four nights of shows featuring local and regional performing artists of all types including dance, standup comedy, theater improv, one act plays, musicals, performance art, spoken word/poetry, and puppetry.v e n t u r e t h e a t r e . o r g
souL stReet danCe This high energy show comes to the Alberta Bair Theater on January 19th and presents a new era in dance, while pushing the artistic boundaries of street dance. Soul Street concerts consist of a mix of movement that will keep you at the edge of your seat. The music is combined with an electric mix ranging from hip-hop to classical. It’s a show that will make you laugh and keep audiences of all ages entertained.
a C o n C e R t F o R t h e w h o L e Fa m i Ly
To h a v e y o u r e v e n t s l i s t e d h e r e , e m a i l
Billings Symphony presents its Family Concert on January 26th at the Alberta Bair Theater. Four time Grammy nominees, “Trout Fishing in America,” will perform along with the Billings Symphony. Trout Fishing in America is a musical duo which performs folk rock and children’s music. b i l l i n g s s y m p h o n y. c o m
jessica@billings365.com
the Sp s ’ t o t i t H
members of the group,” she says. “It’s like, ‘Youcooked missed that Fresh meals bar, and I’ve got you.’ It’s a lot more intimate.”
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baked goods “It’s so special to be able to play with my sister and one of my best friends,” Lauren adds. “It feels really good to play • Daily specials with two people who I feel comfortable with and really • Home of the $250 care about what we’re doing.”
CAFE
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Wherever they may find themselves playing, Silver and openmusic mon-Fri Gold Strings hope people discover that making with 6am to 2pm other people still feels buffet a little bit like coming home. lunch
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located in Billings 2443 Frontage “We all have full-timelivestock jobs outside of Silvern. and Gold,” Lau- rd ren says, “and I love being with two women who prioritize our mission and our performances even with other big commitments in their lives.” ✻
BROOKE WAGNER, writer Brooke is a music therapist and proud parent of three wonderful kids. She’s passionate about using the power of music to support healing and connection. When she’s not working or spending time with family, you’ll likely find her curled up with a good book, trying out new recipes in the kitchen, or sipping a warm cup of herbal tea.
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Magic Details
THE
IS IN THE
RICH GREENERY, GOLD ACCENTS, AND TIMELESS TOUCHES SET THE HOLIDAY SCENE written written by by JULIE JULIE KOERBER KOERBER photography photography by by DANIEL DANIEL SULLIVAN SULLIVAN
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DRAPED IN RICH GREENS with hints of gold and splash-
es of regal red, this space decked out for Christmas Eve dinner evokes a timeless sophistication. Polished, yet approachable, this holiday décor demonstrates how a few intentional choices can transform everyday spaces into festive experiences. Walking into this home, you’ll see the showstopper of the room — a monochromatic Christmas tree — which anchors the home’s holiday table. Decked out in green and gold, this slender 9-foot tree is full of interesting textures from gold dipped pinecones and velvet wired ribbon to crystal iced berries and gold textured baubles set throughout. “I actually think it’s the best place in the whole house to have the tree because you can see it from all directions,” says Jim Gainan, of Gainan’s Midtown Flowers. His design team brought this entire creative vision to life. Not far away near a roaring fire is the home’s conversation space. It’s here that Jim decided to add a small pop of red. Roses set in a decorative bowl in a pavé design are the perfect accent and height for this area meant to share company. “It’s a bouquet you are meant to look down on,” he says. “You’ll notice the color red builds as you move toward the kitchen.” When it comes to holiday décor, magnolia leaves are having a moment, and this space shows them off perfectly. The leathery leaves adorn nearby tables and are set into wreaths.
“We did that mantle by simply laying the magnolia leaves on it,” Jim says. “It’s not a garland. For interest, I added some gold leaves as well.” A few steps away, at the dining room table, small faux olive trees and Italian Ruscus, with its sleek evergreen leaves, provide the perfect backdrop to Christmas Eve dinner. Hand-painted dishware doesn’t display a holiday theme, but, Jim says, that doesn’t matter. “This is an example of how a dish you love can be used for Christmas,” he says. It looks holiday-inspired when paired with napkins folded into Christmas tree shapes, vibrant red roses and black-accented Waterford, which could be called a black-tie version of drinkware. Another interesting twist is the fact that the dinnerware doesn’t match. “We have smaller, more intimate gatherings now. We don’t need 16 place settings. But you could have four place settings that are different but combinable,” Jim says. For the kids of the family, the kitchen island is their hot spot. Santa reigns supreme here in hand painted dishware. Not only do the dishes give a nod to the homeowner’s Italian roots, they’re perfectly playful. Overhead, a chandelier adorned with keepsake Christopher Radko ornaments glistens in the light and are out of the reach of little hands. “This is an example of what you could do to make any chandelier NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 79
Napkins folded into trees or bows become miniature decorations of their own, especially when finished with jeweled napkin rings
PEOPLE NOTICE THE LITTLE THINGS, LIKE THE NAPKIN FOLD. IT’S THE DETAILS. IT ALSO CREATES THE MOST ENJOYABLE EXPERIENCES. — Jim Gainan
a decorative moment,” Jim says. “It might be family heirlooms, mercury glass or something you want to see with all the detail. It’s a fun way to showcase them.” On this table and throughout the home, you’ll find an interesting holiday decorating hack. Combining fresh stems with quality faux flowers. It offers the best of both worlds: the beauty of living blooms with a little more staying power during the busy holiday season. “So technically, all you need to do is change out four gladiolas each week and change the water,” Jim says. When preparing a meal, he suggests making food part of the presentation. Here, all the ingredients for a spatchcock chicken are in view and ready to boil and roast. With grandma’s heirloom Bet80 YVW MAGAZINE
A festive cake from Josephines Signature Sweets provides a sweet finishing touch, reinforcing the idea that food and presentation are part of the overall holiday experience
Dress up a chandelier by displaying heirloom or collectible ornaments. Not only will they be in full view but will be out of the reach of pets or little hands
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 81
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A rolling bar cart keeps the spirits close. Here you’ll find one of the latest trends, a whiskey wedge glass. It features a freezable glass with a silicone ice wedge designed to slow melting and maintain drink temperature and flavor
ty Crocker cookbook, it serves up more than a delicious meal. “It takes a little bit more preparation, but the whole idea of this is that you have this next to the pot and grandma’s recipe book,” Jim says. “It’s part of the nostalgia. Throughout the home, you’ll see proof that Christmas décor isn’t meant only for the living room. Here, you’ll find MacKenzie-Childs holiday cannisters along with vases and mugs in her trademark patchwork design. Not far away, in a guest bath, is another Christmas moment which is as simple as some holiday hand towels, festive drinkware and a small vase full of red berries and roses. Even the kitchen sink is dressed for the holidays. A berry garland sits behind the sink. Here, washing dishes can become part of the sensory experience when the kitchen is filled with the scent of Fraser fir. “People notice the little things, like the napkin fold. It’s the details. It also creates the most enjoyable experiences,” Jim says. The beauty of this home’s holiday decorating is that it doesn’t rely on a single statement piece or a collection of new purchases. Instead, it brings together traditional colors, layered greenery, meaningful heirlooms, favorite dishes, and small details that reflect the people who live there. Here you’ll see that the best holiday homes are the ones that invite everyone to pull up a chair, share a meal, linger a little longer, and make memories that last well beyond the season. ✻
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 83
Holiday Trends toTry CHOOSE TWO OR THREE complementary shades and
repeat them throughout your home. Layering different finishes, such as metallic ornaments, frosted berries, and natural greenery, creates visual depth. Don’t stop at the living room. Festive towels, holiday mugs, small arrangements, and special ornaments bring Christmas cheer to every corner of the home. Mix and match favorite dishes, glassware, and chargers instead of purchasing a completely new set for the holidays. Repeated
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colors, complementary finishes, and a coordinated napkin treatment will make different pieces feel intentional. Look beyond traditional pine garland. Magnolia leaves, olive branches, and other textural greenery can deliver an understated elegance. A favorite decorative bowl can easily become the vessel for a holiday floral arrangement. Simply place a floral container inside, add floral foam, and cut the stems to a consistent length for a level, even finish. ✻
Wishing You a Safe Thanksgiving and a Blessed Christmas Season FROM THE BLIND GUY TEAM
Curtis, Tabitha, Kade , Malena, Blake, Tatu m
FREE
Installation & Estimates
, Ethan and Carla
AW N I N G S | B L I N D S | S H U T T E R S | S U N S C R E E N S | M O T O R I Z AT I O N 406-655-1611 | Billings@BlindGuy.com | www.blindguybillings.com
a r t x E
written by GLEA LAHR photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN
A LITTLE
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THE FINISHING TOUCHES THAT MAKE HOLIDAY STYLE SHINE
ACCESSORIES ARE THE secret weapon for elevating even the simplest
outfit, and the holiday season is the perfect excuse to have a little fun with them. Think colorful sneakers paired with everyday denim, a great pair of cowgirl boots topped with a chic hat, or a statement handbag that instantly adds polish. A faux fur coat brings a touch of luxury — and a little extra warmth — to any holiday look. And never underestimate the power of jewelry. Layered necklaces, statement earrings or a stack of bracelets can be the finishing touch that pulls an entire outfit together. This holiday season, as you shop for the perfect gift for someone special, don’t forget to treat yourself, too. After all, some of the best holiday finds are the ones you can’t wait to wear. ✻
ABOVE: Cheeta scarf, $32 Latice handbag, $269 Gold diamond flower necklace, $129 Victoria sneaker, $159 All from Cricket Clothing Co. OPPOSITE PAGE: Snow leopard coat, $149 Sage green fringe shoulder bag, $149 Sage green layered Grace necklace, $38 All from Neecee’s
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 87
Brown suede cowgirl boots, $125 Olive maxi dress, $58 Burgundy cowboy hat, $125 Yippie Coyote necklace, “Rein It In,” $225 Yippie Coyote necklace, “Purple Spur,” $300 All from Retro Cowgirl Boutique
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Accessories
m a ke e v e r y t h i n g b et te r
GLEA LAHR, writer With more than 20 years as a cosmetologist and makeup artist, Glea has dedicated her career to helping women feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. She believes beauty and fashion are about expression and confidence. She has a passion for making women feel seen, empowered and inspired through the artistry of style and makeup.
Celebrate the season with a little extra puppy love
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 89
ENTERPRISING Woman
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A J o u r n e y to wa r d
Peace & Light PAULA LORENZ DISCOVERS A DEEPER SENSE OF GRACE AND GRIT ALONG STONE FEATHER ROAD written by TRISH ERBE SCOZZARI photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN
PAULA LORENZ’S ambition and fierce drive landed her in
Between the experience in Minneapolis and a New York fashion trip, her passion for fashion grew. Merchandising made a great fit for an ambitious young woman. The retail store sector filled her 80-hour work weeks for decades.
Owner of Stone Feather Road, a Billings boutique with Mountain West influence, Paula attributes her strength to her German heritage, growing up on an Iowa farm, the oldest of four sisters, and being born under the zodiac sign of Leo. The mix has served her well in life and business, but it was after the heartbreaking loss of her first-born child, she discovered a deeper sense of grace and grit.
“At the height, when I exited the multi-store area,” Paula says, “I was running 43 stores with about 700 people under my direction.”
the fashion industry at an early age. Her work ethic and pursuit of excellence propelled her to success, but it’s her devotion as a mother that defines her.
“It brought it down to a very simple formula for me,” Paula says. “And that was what was most important, the core of my family and how to protect them. It gave me a deeper grit that is palatable, and I own it.” She adds, “Anything that falls out of that circle of what I view as acceptable, then I’m going to challenge it and take it head on. It made my circle smaller, but very strong. Whether it’s my family or my crew, or the people who I see need that help, I’ll fight hard.”
Initially, her fashion focus encompassed jewelry design. “I wanted to be a jewelry designer when I was a senior in high school,” Paula says, “but that really never happened. Store operations were the segue that made sense for me.”
IT BROUGHT IT DOWN TO A VERY SIMPLE FORMULA FOR ME AND THAT WAS WHAT WAS MOST IMPORTANT, THE CORE OF MY FAMILY AND HOW TO PROTECT THEM. IT GAVE ME A DEEPER GRIT THAT IS PALATABLE, AND I OWN IT. — Paula Lorenz
That determination molded her into an accomplished businesswoman who traces the spark that started it all back to the 1970s, when she was in junior high school. “I’d buy the inlaid faux leather pants and I would have the stacked platform heels,” Paula says. “I edged into fashion and then I blew right into it with fashion merchandising as my choice in college.” A two-year fashion program in Ellsworth, Iowa, caught Paula’s attention. “It was awesome,” she says. “We did 10 weeks on-thejob training.” When the college leadership asked Paula where she wanted to go, she chose Minneapolis, where she trained with a retail chain for two months.
After fashion school, she landed a job with Seifert’s Women’s Clothing in Iowa. “It was the only store in town I where I wanted to work,” Paula says. “I went in and the manager told me she didn’t need any people.” Talking with acquaintances she made in her horse show days, Paula heeded their advice to go back to Seifert’s and ask for Lana Jones, the district manager. But when she got there, Lana had already returned to her base store in Waterloo, Iowa. The next day, Paula drove to Waterloo.
“I’d been told Lana was blonde, had a ponytail and wore pink lipstick and pink nails,” Paula says, with a smile. “So, I walked up to her and said, ‘you’re Lana,’ and she said, ‘yes, I am.’ I told her I had talked with the (store) manager who said they’re not hiring. ‘But you’re going to want to hire me,’ I said, ‘because I can sell and I can merchandise, both, and I want a job.’” She was hired the next day. Paula says the training set the groundwork for how she models her business today. She shares this experience with her adult NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 91
“We opened our first store in Minneapolis, which was in the Mall of America,” Paula says. “It was called Timbuktu Station and I was part of that for several years.” Paula and her husband, Gary, moved to the Chicago area with Gary’s financial corporation. She didn’t miss a beat. She interviewed with a headhunting firm in Chicago.
PAULA AND HER DAUGHTER BELLA
children, Charles and Bella, and with anyone seeking work. “When you’re looking for a company to work for,” Paula says, “A, you want a company that you like, and that you like the people. B, you need to have a company that has some kind of a vision of where they’re going so that you can rise with them. And, C, you better get in and work your tail off and work as hard or harder than anybody in the business, and you’ll rise to the level you want.” At one point, Paula teamed up with one of the Seifert owners and launched a new women’s specialty clothing business.
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During the interview Paula was asked if she had ever thought of being a headhunter or a recruiter. Paula replied, “I’ve done that for the last 20 years,” she says, with a twinkle in her eye. From there, it was off to New York for a second interview, where Paula was hired as a head hunter for the Kenser Corporation. “They specialized in retail placement,” Paula says. Years later, another move back to Minneapolis with Gary brought an opportunity for Paula to call her own shots. She began recruiting workers for footwear and clothing giant Nine West. When Nine West merged with Jones of New York, Paula became the company’s corporate recruiter. “I launched my own business to do their executive recruitment,” she says.
STONE FEATHER ROAD IS LOCATED AT 2525 MINNESOTA AVE STE 2 SHOP ONLINE AT:
stonefeather road.com
“Shortly after that, we had our first child,” she added. “Gary and I were married a long time before we made that decision. And along came John Russell. He was everything and more, and I continued to work from home. Life was good, really good. I did work with several other companies, building my business.” Two years later, the couple’s second son, Charles, was born when the family was in the process of making another move to the East Coast. “That’s when our world flipped,” Paula says, in a low-clipped tone. When Charles was 2 weeks old, John Russell, who had just turned 2, was diagnosed with cancer. Paula shut down her business overnight. “My sister came in and closed the books and it was done,” Paula says. “I was fulltime taking care of my two boys. Our lives contracted to just Charles and John Russell.” Every day was a gift, she says. The family made the most incredible memories because life was compacted into the moment. “You just have to wrap around what you
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can do, right then and there,” Paula says. “Tomorrow doesn’t matter. Yesterday certainly doesn’t, but in that moment, there’s magic, and that’s what we did. So, to that end, we didn’t spend it in darkness, we spent it in light.” John Russell was 3 years and 8 months when he passed away. A couple of years later, daughter Bella was born. “When Charles and Bella were in school full-time, that’s when I started to think, I’ve got this drive and energy, and so I toyed with jewelry design,” Paula says. She created a small collection of handcrafted accessories and sold them at various outlets and art shows. Her signature colorful leather cuffs, embellished with turquoise and other precious stones, became her breakout success. By now, the family of four had returned to Iowa and bought a farm. It was here that the name Stone Feather Road took root. “It was the beginning of a vision that moved into place,” Paula says. She and her two children hit the road, selling the jewelry at various trunk shows and western stock shows. Eventually other products, like Stone Feather Road cowhide leather bags, became part of their inventory. “Gary helped with the shows as the business grew,” Paula says. “It’s always been a family effort.” By the time Bella was barely a teenager, she was helping her mom at the big rodeo and stock shows in Las Vegas, Cheyenne and San Antonio. “I got up to the point that I traveled 176 days a year on the road doing shows,” Paula says. “That was my business model.” Paula had also opened a storefront in Cedar Falls, Iowa in December of 2016, which she and the family maintained until after their move to Billings over four years ago. Stone Feather Road opened in the Magic City nearly three years ago at 2525 Minnesota Avenue. “We’ve always loved the mountains,” Paula says. “And Gary was asked to move to Billings in a corporate acquisition, due to his expertise in finance and banking.” The family motto is, “All for one and one for all.” Bella works along-side her mom in the store. She attended fashion merchandising school at Colorado State University and graduated from MSU-Billings last year with a business degree. Bella’s online presence provides a contemporary sense of style to the store’s nationwide customers and her razor-sharp business acumen has expanded an already powerful venture. When it comes to national shows, Gary and Charles help with set-up and tear-down. When it comes to customer service, it’s a family affair. From a determined young woman who insisted she was the right person for a job to the founder of a thriving Billings boutique, Paula has always forged her own path. But the greatest measure of her success isn’t the stores she’s managed, the business she’s built, or the miles she’s traveled. It’s the family who travels this Stone Feather Road with her — and the grace and grit she carries every step of the way. ✻
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HolidayGift Guide
PUT SOME HOLIDAY MAGIC CENTER STAGE! Immerse yourself in new experiences and explore the best in the performing arts. Tickets to shows like A Christmas Carol, JERSEY BOYS, International Guitar Night, and so many more make the perfect gift — filled with music, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Share the joy of the holiday season with those you love and create memories that last long after the curtain falls. Visit Alberta Bair Theater: ABT Box Office, 406.256.6052, and AlbertaBairTheater.Org
EXPERIENCE A LITTLE MAGIC THIS SEASON WITH THE GIFT OF LIVE MUSIC Tickets to the Billings Symphony are perfect for a romantic date night, a new experience for your family, or simply making unforgettable memories. Experience the joy of the symphony and enrich your life through music. Get your tickets online at billingssymphony.org or call 406-252-3610
GIVE A LITTLE CREATIVITY! Introducing Watercolor Books and Paint sets. Beautifully creative, wonderfully soothing, and SO much fun! Perfect for first-time painters and seasoned pros alike. $26 & $28, respectively, with varied themes available. A delightful gift for kids, teachers, office gift exchanges, or anyone who could use a little color in their world! A little paint, a little peace, and a whole lot of JOY! Find them at Neecee’s in Shiloh Crossing.
THE ART OF GIFT GIVING YAM STYLE! Visit The Yellowstone Art Museum and discover a unique supply of ornaments, art supplies, stocking stuffers, books, scarves, jewelry, cards, and more! They feature local Montana-owned businesses such as B.Yellowtail, Cool Water Jewelry, Veronica Candle Co., Rock Creek Soaps, and more. You are sure to find the perfect gift for loved ones and art enthusiasts of all ages. YAM members at the Benefactor level and above receive 10% off all YAM Store Purchases! Yellowstone Art Museum, 401 N 27th Street, Billings. ArtMuseum.org
ALWAYS BE PREPARED with the DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Inflator. Be Johnnyu-on-the-spot and fill up that low tire, sports gear, or camp mattress. This lightweight, portable inflator offers three-power source options and automatic shut-off. It’s the ideal gift for $169.99. Get it today at Shipton’s Big R, located at 2600 Gabel Rd. and 1908 Main St. in Billings.
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GIVE A LITTLE WESTERN SPARKLE THIS CHRISTMAS!
GIVE THE GIFT OF HAPPINESS Treat the people in your life to a gift they will truly enjoy! Gift cards are available in any denomination and can be used for facials, lasers, Botox, skincare products, and more! Stop by Billings Dermatology & Aesthetics at 2294 Grant Rd, or call us at 406-294-9660.
Spurwest Jewelry offers stunning Western-inspired pieces that make the perfect gift for the cowgirl in your life. Beautiful gold and silver buckle earrings and necklaces. Find something special at Western Ranch Supply this holiday season. $58.00-$98.00. 7305 Entryway Dr, Billings or online at westernranchsupply.com.
TWO WAYS TO GIFT AT CASUAL SPACE! Shop Montana-made goods and gifts or give the experience of pottery painting. Ready-to-paint pottery items like mugs, plates, and decor items to create a piece to last a lifetime. Gift certificates available! Casual Space, 601 24th St. W., 406-6901468
A LITTLE HOLIDAY ROMANCE Romantic, playful and elegant come to mind when looking at these two beauties from Wacoal and Rya! The Wacoal Chemise is a beautiful black sheer creation inlaid throughout with cream lace — the perfect nightie or slip! The Rya Chemise in camelia color with matching robe adds a whole lot of elegance with a satiny feel. Stop by TLC Lingerie at 1400 Broadwater Ave in Billings, MT and give the gift of these two timeless beauties that will keep on giving all year round.
Expert skinca
re your fam
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ADD MORE MERRY TO YOUR HOLIDAY HOME With Thymes Frasier Fir. Inspired by the fresh scent of a just-cut forest, crisp fir needles blend with cedarwood and sandalwood to create a timeless, welcoming fragrance. From candles and diffusers to luxurious body care and home essentials, e a ch prod uct bri ng s the warmth, beauty, and spirit of the season. From $12.95. Available at Gainan’s Flowers - M i d town, He i g hts a nd gainans.com.
EXPERIENCE MONTANA Deck the tree with these whimsical ornaments that encourage us all to “Experience Montana.” There’s something for everyone in all kinds of hues that will help the holidays sparkle and inspire the beholder. Find them at Kennedy Glass located at 2409 2nd Ave. N. or by calling 406.245.3788.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 97
GIVE THE GIFT OF THE SNUG & THISTLE BOUTIQUE Your invitation to break up with boring. Whether you’re looking for a cozy holiday sweater or an all-out wardrobe refresh, we are your local destination for curated cozy, standout fashion, unique jewelry, and artful gifts that spark instant joy without the luxury price tag. Best of all, each purchase helps to fund community good works and our local girls’ mentoring program. Sweater shown, $38. Find The Snug & Thistle at 3178 Gabel Road, Suite 2, or online at thesnugandthistle.com.
MONTANA MADE CHRISTMAS Give the gift of Montana made, hand poured, unique concrete candles with fragrances specific to the Big Sky! After the candle is burned, plant the dust cover in the concrete pot and wildflowers will bloom. These make the perfect MT gift for the holidays. Only at Rustic Mountain Furnishings! 2905 Millennium Circle #4, 406-652-0100
SLIP INTO COMFORT With our Ariat men’s and women’s square-toe slippers! Ladies appreciate the softness and design. The men value the fine comfortability and easy foot access these slippers provide at just $74.95. What a cozy way to say, “I love you.” Fill your holiday shopping list at Shipton’s Big R, located at 2600 Gabel Rd. and 1908 Main St. in Billings.
JUST WHAT THEY WANTED With a gift card to Northland Automotive, someone is sure to be very happy this holiday season! From protective floor liners, chrome and stainless accessories, running boards, toolboxes and grill guards, to truck bed covers, spray in bedliners, and window tinting, towing hitches and much, much more! We sell and install all of the trusted brands and have 140 years of combined industry knowledge. Northland Automotive, where they sell everything but the Truck. 1106 S 29th St W, (406) 245-0595, www.northlandautomotive.com.
UNIQUE HOLIDAY FINDS
COFFEE, CRAFT & COMMUNITY. Thoughtfully prepared coffee, pastries made in-house, and a commitment to quality in every cup. That’s Black Dog Coffee House. Gift cards in any amount make the perfect gift with three locations to serve you! 3115 10th Ave N, 1528 24th St W or at 2147 Poly Dr. inside the Roots Garden Center. 98 YVW MAGAZINE
We feature unique gift ideas from around the world. A cultural fixture of downtown Billings for nearly 40 years, Global Village is a not-for-profit, fair-trade shop that’s helping artisans from all over the world receive a fair wage and sustain their way of life. These handcrafted pieces of traditional Peruvian jewelry feature real butterfly wings. Global Village is now located at 2819 2nd Ave. N.
STYLE & COMFORT
SOMETHING UNIQUE! For some people, giving something unique, something you can’t get anywhere else, is the essence of gift-giving. For more than 40 years, Toucan has dedicated itself to finding these very things from local and regional artists: pottery, paintings, jewelry, glass, greeting cards, weaving, textiles, paper, sculpture, and more. This is the Art of the Everyday … for Everyone! Come find the perfect gift at Toucan at 1002 2nd Ave. N. in Billings. ToucanArts.com
Give the gift of style and comfort from The Base Camp! Discover beautiful layers, cozy textures, and timeless pieces that make everyday dressing a little more special. From the embroidered Charlie B jacket, $174, and cozy Charlie B top, $89, to Jess & Jane pants, $79, and a classic Wallaroo hat, there's something for every woman on your list. Enjoy a fun, relaxed shopping experience with friendly service and FREE gift wrapping! Proudly Montana family-owned and operated for over 50 years. The Base Camp, 1730 Grand Ave., Billings.
ART THAT CAN CALL ANYWHERE HOME! This truly unique handmade art is ingeniously crafted on Nepalese handmade paper as well as custom options on other papers, a variety of images and hanging hardware options! It is a forever gift for ALL to enjoy! Davidson Design at 2228 Grand Ave, 406-656-9540
GRAB YOUR FRIENDS. DEAL YOURSELF IN. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to brush up on your skills, Queen Ten Card Room, Billings’ premier poker destination, is the perfect place to gather friends and enjoy the excitement of playing at the table. This welcoming, professionally run card room makes it easy to discover why poker is more than a card game — it’s about the people, strategy, and thrill of the next hand. Perfect for corporate team building or your next group gathering. Enjoy our rooms at The Red Door Lounge and The Squire Lounge. Contact Racquel Kaelberer at 406-600-7348 for more information.
TIMELESS FINDS Give her a gift that is as beautiful and timeless as she is. At Veldt Clothing, you’ll find unique jewelry, sweaters, denim, and m o re . Fro m $ 2 0 t o $160. Veldt Clothing where style is their love language. Located at 149 Shiloh Road, Suite 4 or online at veldtclothing.com
OUTDOOR REVIVAL DRINKWARE Offering the best of both worlds for everyone on your list. Whether your dear ones enjoy their favorite beverage steaming hot or icy cold, Revival tackles the temperature. Revival Drinkware offers triple-insulated technology and 100 % stainless steel, starting at $12.99. What a super gift idea for anyone! Shop today at Shipton’s Big R, located at 2600 Gabel Rd. and 1908 Main St. in Billings. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 99
MADE IN MONTANA STOCKING STUFFERS Fresh, Local, and pure describe this premium s e l e c t i o n o f n a t u ra l goats’ milk lotions and body butters. Montana made and perfect for stocking stuffers. They are rich in nutrients and gentle on anyone’s skin. Stock up this season a t Rustic Mountain Furnishings! 2905 Millennium Circle #4, 406-652-0100
WESTERN ROMANCE Nothing says it quite like Montana Silversmith jewelry. The largest selection of this unique and distinctive fine jewelry is at Shipton’s Big R. From earrings and necklaces to belt buckles and bolo ties, there’s a piece or two of Montana Silversmith beauty for everyone on your list. Take the title of a western romantic and choose from the huge selection at Shipton’s Big R, located at 2600 Gabel Road and 1908 Main St. in Billings.
SAY IT WITH SAPPHIRES We love Yogo sapphires! Mined ONLY in Montana they are among the most rare and beautiful gems in the world. Come see their large selection of Yogo sapphires and enjoy up to 50% off through Christmas. Only at Berkman Custom Jewlers, 411 24th Street West Suite 111. When Only the Best Will Do!
QUALITY & CRAFTSMANSHIP Give any room an upgrade with natural stone. These bases or shades add sculptural texture to lighting and can even be illuminated from within for a little added ambiance. Find them at Ethan Allen, 3220 First Ave N.
ELEGANT ENTERTAINING City Vineyard has curated savory holiday charcuterie boards perfect for your festive gatherings. These gourmet cheeses, cured meats, crackers, nuts and spreads are hand-picked for a balance of flavor and texture. Supplies are limited so pre-order yours for Thanksgiving or Christmas festivities today! Order online at cityvineyardwine.com/ shop.
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STYLISH & PRACTICAL Equal parts stylish and practical, these beauties from Arctic Fox & Co. make an especially thoughtful pick. With a variety of colors and patterns to choose from, there’s a scarf style for everyone on your list. Even better? They’re made from 100% recycled materials, making this a cozy gift you can feel good about giving. $45-$49 at SOMETHINGchic, located at 2818 2nd Ave. N. or online at somethingchicclothing.com.
REBUILD & REPLENISH YOUR HAIR Repair your hair from the inside out with Mondo Verde Natural Organic Products. Get it today at Park Place Styling Salon. Visit Tom Quigley today at 801 14th St W, 406245-8188.
FERRELL MEN’S WESTERN SHIRTS Add the punch for that sharp-dressed man status. Starting at only $60, he’ll look like a million bucks and feel like it, too. Give your guy a great-looking, nice-fitting shirt he’ll thank you for over and over. Go Ferrell at Shipton’s Big R, located at 2600 Gabel Rd. and 1908 Main St. in Billings.
GIVE A LITTLE LUXURY ...with custom gift baskets from Plush this season! Thoughtfully filled with cozy favorites, sweet treats, and self-care surprises. Message us to create the perfect gift for someone special! Plush St u d i o s & Me d i c a l Aesthetics. 406-9692018, Plushdayandmedspa.com
TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF STRAINING With the Strucket you will take the stress out of straining and never leave your items soaking for days again – because the Strucket makes life simple and stress-free! $70. Find it at The Yarn Bar, 2909 2nd Avenue North or online at yarn.bar.
OUR FAVORITE BACKPACK!
AROMATIC HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE Give them a unique, aromatic holiday experience with our gift basket of five special holiday soaps, including Crisp Orchard and Sweater Weather. All-natural and handcrafted, made here in Montana from Rock Creek Soaps. Visit their store Monday through Thursday, 10 to 4, at 2319 4th Ave. North or shop online at rockcreeksoaps.com
Meet the Cascade Backpack — our go-to for work, travel and everyday life. Weatherproof and thoughtfully designed, it features an easy-access pop-top opening and oversized water bottle pockets and luggage sleeve. $129. Joy of Living located at 1524 24th St. W., 406-294-1701
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RENOWNED FOR RIBBON At Kibler & Kirch we believe the most beautiful holiday moments are woven together with details. Discover our curated collection of ribbon to elevate your gift-giving, transform your tree, and adorn your home. Beyond s t yl i n g yo u r ow n s p a c e , these exquisite textiles are the perfect gift for the hostess, crafter, or decorating enthusiast. Come see the rich textures, festive colors, and classic patterns to tie your holiday season in signature style. 2807 1st Ave N. or online at KiblerAndKirch.com
GIVE SOMEONE YOU LOVE AN HOUR TO UNWIND The easiest gift on your list. Give someone you love a little time to relax and recharge with a Sanctuary Spa & Salon gift card. Available in spa or online. Call 406.655.1701 or shop online at sanctuarymt.com
LOCAL BEAUTY Local artisan Eloise Oviatt designs these “must have” ornaments with a love for Montana treasures in mind. Her handcrafted ornaments are made in Billings especially for the season. Eloise’s ornaments are the perfect gift idea, a gift for a loved one far from home, or a perfect addition to your tree. Ceramic, glazed, and kiln-fired, these ornaments will bring joy all year round. What could be better than a gift created by a local artist? Starting at $15: The Frame Hut & “Gift” Gallery, located at 1430 Grand Ave.
GIVE LOCAL Located inside the historic Northern Hotel in the heart of Downtown Billings, the Northern Boutique specializes in handcrafted local items that reflect the quiet luxury of Montana. Browse Pendleton blankets, Yogo sapphire jewelry, artisan chocolates and caramels, quality Western jewelry, locally made soaps, home décor, clothing, and unique accessories. The Northern Boutique, at 19 N. Broadway, is open seven days a week for your shopping convenience. Visit us in person or shop anytime online at NorthernBoutiqueMT.com.
KICK IT UP A NOTCH Noble Outfitters men’s and women’s MUDS tall rubber boots. They’re timeless, stylish, waterproof footwear for only $114.99. These rubber boots are purpose-built for any chore. Shop our big selection of MUDS at Shipton’s Big R, located at 2600 Gabel Road and 1908 Main St., in Billings.
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CUSTOM-MADE CHRISTMAS Custom-made yogo sapphire a nd d i a m ond b ra ce le ts by Montague’s Jewelers, starting at $5800. Right: 14 Karat white gold Yogo Sapphire and Diamond alternating Tennis Bracelet - 2.10 carats of diamonds and 2.17 carats of Yogo Sapphires. Middle: 14 karat white gold Yogo Sapphire and Diamond Bracelet - 2.50 carats of Diamonds and .75 carats of Yogo Sapphires. Left Platinum Yogo Sapphire and Diamond Station Tennis Bracelet - 2.04 carats of Diamonds and 2.24 carats of Yogo Sapphires. Montague’s Jewelers, 2810 2nd Ave N, Billings, MT, 406-294-9370.
Santa Day FREE PHOTOS with Santa and his Ponies! Enjoy crafts, hot chocolate, cider and family fun at WRS!
Saturday, Dec. 5th 11:00AM-1:00PM Western Ranch Supply 7305 Entryway Dr. Billings, MT 59101
DISTRIBUTED BY PEPSI-COLA BOTTLING COMPANY OF BILLINGS
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 103
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PURSE a pa ooza YWCA
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MANAGER OF BISON BLOOM BOUTIQUE
Tucked inside Ace Hardware on Zimmerman, a charming boutique proves style can turn up anywhere. Here you’ll find fashion-forward pieces along with an irresistible collection of unique gifts. We chatted with the boutique’s buyer and manager, to find out what makes this stylish hot spot tick. Q. How did a fashion-forward boutique find its home inside Ace Hardware? A. Our boutique started quite differently than it looks today. We originally began as a kitchen department, but things evolved after our boss attended a buyer’s show. There, someone suggested that we bring in scarves. We decided to give them a try—and they were a huge success! That success sparked an interest in bringing in more unique and giftable items. For a while, we even had a large candy shack. Over time, we shifted more toward clothing and fashion, and it’s been incredibly successful. We’re proud of how far we’ve come and love that our boutique has grown organically along the way. Q. How do you find the fashions that you feature inside Bison Bloom? A. Finding the fashions we bring into the boutique is one of my favorite parts of what I do! I’m always looking for inspiration everywhere I go. I love attending buyer shows and discovering
Bison Bloom
BOUTIQUE
Inside Ace Hardware on Zimmerman
1551 Zimmerman Trail ❖ Billings
new brands and upcoming trends. I also spend a lot of time on social media seeing what’s inspiring people and gaining popularity. I’m constantly noticing colors, styles, and little details that spark an idea. Q. You stock so many things that would make perfect gifts. Tell us about some of the things you have in store for the holidays? A. We’re getting ready for the holiday season and bringing in lots of fun giftable items! We’ll have plenty of stocking stuffers, cozy slippers, lots of unique candles, and this year we’re making some gift baskets that will make it even easier to find a gift! I love finding those special little things that you can pick up for a friend, loved one, or even a little something for yourself. Q. What do you hope people discover when they visit your shop? A. We hope when you walk into our boutique, you discover something that makes you feel good—whether it’s the perfect outfit, a special gift, or a little something you didn’t even know you needed! I want our customers to feel welcomed, inspired, and excited to find pieces that feel like them. Most of all, I love to connect and build relationships, and I absolutely love seeing all our regulars each week.
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apparel★purses★greeting cards★shoes★food jewelry★Montana clothing and gifts ★and much more!
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SEATING SEATING A TEAM BUILDER’S GUIDE TO SURVIVING THE HOLIDAY TABLE
YVW COLUMNI ST
written by KAREN GROSZ
I DON’T LIKE to tell tales out of school, but Paul and I
went to a holiday dinner disaster a few years ago and I still have a bit of stuffing in my bra. (the bread kind, not Kleenex — I took that out at 13). The hostess, well meaning, in love with everything and everyone, had spent the morning doing yoga with baby goats, and the night before with Pinterest and a bottle of wine. She made what she thought were the cutest ever cue cards for conversation. They were cute. The writing somewhat first grader, the designs the same, the meaning heartfelt, the deployment dangerous. The mistake was thinking a grumpy old man, an idealistic college student, a disgruntled middle manager who recently lost his job, and a political activist would each look at those cards and think of warm family conversations. The team builder in me looked for a nibble that might induce severe gastric reactions so my husband and I could go home. (I’d feed it to Paul; sacrifices were in order, his not mine.) Everything was yoga studio pristine, lacking any biological warfare microbes, so there we stood. Sparkling water, jicama sticks and fear were our only compatriots in the situation. (Paul won’t drink sparkling water, so he had even less comfort than I.) I have spent years helping Fortune 500 teams communicate, collaborate and stop rolling their eyes at each other in meetings. I’ve worked with engineers, attorneys, sales teams, and one memorable group of accountants who got very competitive with a paintbrush. None of them prepared me for this holiday dinner. After years of working with people and watching what happens when you put them together,
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I know that the holiday table is the ultimate team-building exercise. You’ve got a bunch of people with wildly different opinions, and a much-anticipated deadline in the oven. (The turkey waits for no one, and no one waits for tofu turkey), and at least one person who hasn’t read the room since 1987. If this is your guest list, treat it like a corporate retreat. With pie.
Step One: THE SEATING CHART IS STRATEGY In team building, we never let people sit wherever they want. Left alone, people cluster with their comfort crowd, and the loudest voices take over, words get lobbed over the bow. It’s the same at a holiday table, thus the stuffing in my bra. Every family has one. The Debater. The over-sharer. The cousin who just discovered cryptocurrency, or a new crime podcast, or both. Do not seat these people next to each other. That’s not a dinner. It’s a cage match with gravy. Instead, sprinkle them. Put the Debater next to the grandma who has heard it all and is unimpressed. Put the over-sharer next to the teenager with headphones. (They both will roll their eyes, which is a great photo op.) Put the Crypto Cousin at the far end, near the kitchen, where he can explain blockchain to the dishwasher. (Unless you like this sort of thing, then let him sit by you.) Most importantly, put yourself wherever you can see the whole table. The head of the table was not a design flaw.
Step Two: GIVE EVERYONE A JOB
And now, a word for my fellow grown-ups of a certain vintage.
The fastest way to calm a restless team is to give them a role. In Canvas Creek it comes with paint; at the holidays it comes with food. No matter the situation, I know that (most) people who feel useful don’t stir the pot.
At some point, many of us retired. Some from jobs. Some from careers. And some of us, including yours truly, have officially retired from BS.
Appoint a Gravy Captain. Name a Keeper of the Rolls. Put the kids in charge of the “What Are You Grateful For” jar. Give your most opinionated relative the job of carving, because it’s hard to argue about politics while holding an electric knife. (Okay, it’s possible. But it’s harder. Also, that electric knife cannot be used as a weapon — you have to think of everything.)
I don’t do drama. I don’t take the bait. When someone at the table starts warming up an old family argument like it’s a leftover green bean casserole, I simply smile, guard the stuffing and say, “I’ve retired from that.” Then I change the subject to pie. Or fishing, which is Paul’s cue to impart a story of the one that got away, which recalculates everyone except the person who can’t imagine hurting little fish. But they’ve usually left at this point.
Step Three: ESTABLISH THE NO-FLY ZONE
It’s shockingly effective. People don’t know what to do with a woman who refuses to engage and a man who tells fish stories. Pie, not drama, always makes a good rally cry.
Before everyone sits down, announce the No-Fly List with a smile: politics, weight, who’s still single, and why someone’s kid dropped out of college to “find himself.” Those topics stay parked in the driveway. We did this one year with sticky notes on the fridge, everyone got to put one thing on a sticky note, add it to the collage, and we let one of the children (again, sacrifices must be made) read them off. No one can argue with the cutest child telling them to behave. Then pipe up with a few better questions. What is your pet’s best trick? What’s something you’d like to try to learn? What’s the worst gift you’ve ever given? Given is very important here, if you say worst gift ever received, the giver, who is probably in the room, may — and this is just experience talking — use the stuffing spoon as a catapult.
Step Four: DESSERT IS A PERFORMANCE INCENTIVE I’m not saying you should bribe your family with pie. I’m saying pie has a long, proven track record in conflict resolution. The hostess, in our dinner gone bad, more quickly than I anticipated, reached the end of her rope. She did not tie a knot in it and hang on, as the kitten posters suggest. No, she picked up the apple pie, dropped it (okay, hurled it) at the floor, and said, “the pumpkin gets it next.”
I went gray, I stopped chasing perfect and I stopped attending every fight I was invited to. My Garmin sleep score has never been happier. Go ahead and retire from the things that make you launch stuffing.
THE REAL GOAL What I’ve learned from years of building teams and family dinners: Nobody remembers whether the dips were homemade or whether the tablecloth matched the napkins. (Actually, at my house, they would remember if they did!) They remember whether they felt welcome. Whether someone asked them a real question and listened to the answer. Whether they laughed. The best teams, the best dinners, aren’t the ones with no personalities. They’re the ones where every personality has a place at the table. So make your seating chart. Skip wine and Pinterest. Assign your Gravy Captain. Post the No-Fly List. And if all else fails, cut the pie early. From my table to yours, happy holidays, friends. ✻
KAREN GROSZ, writer
Quiet reigned. And then laughter. No one wants to see an innocent pumpkin pie sacrificed.
Karen Grosz is a local Team and Leadership Development coach and motivational speaker. She owns Canvas Creek Team Building, is the author of “What’s Next” and “Quiet Leadership” and founding voice of the Facebook group “I’ll Help”- Billings. You can find more from Karen at karengrosz.life.
Step Five: REMEMBER, SOME OF US ARE RETIRED. THIS IS GOOD.
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START AND END YOUR DAY
BEAUTIFULLY.
Thoughtfully designed surfaces bring beauty, function and lasting style to the spaces you use every day.
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Thoughtful design creates a peaceful haven for generations to gather
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A L i t t le H o l i day S parkle Give vintage crystal a beautiful new life this Christmas
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timeless
WHEN THE OWNERS of this newly built West End home
began envisioning its interior, they had a clear sense of how they wanted it to feel. As grandparents, they imagined a welcoming retreat where multiple generations of family could gather, share time together and create lasting memories. More than beautiful spaces, they wanted a home that evoked emotion, tranquility and an overall sense of peace. Achieving that feeling required a thoughtful, gentle approach to every design decision. 110 YVW MAGAZINE
That’s where Jessica Hannesson, owner of Hannesson Home Interior Design & Cabinet Studio, and her team came in. Working closely with the homeowners, they brought their vision to life, creating a serene and inviting environment that feels true to the family who calls it home.
s7 LIVING THOUGHTFUL DESIGN CREATES A PEACEFUL HAVEN FOR GENERATIONS TO GATHER
written by GAYLE SMITH photography by NATHAN SATRAN
CAPTURING THE VISION When Jessica and the Hannesson team began working with the homeowners, they started with a wish list. At the top was a desire to create a deeply personal home that would welcome their grown children and grandchildren while providing a beautiful, comfortable foundation for family life. “We wanted to convey who they are as people and to give them a great place to gather,” Jessica says.
The homeowners envisioned a functional yet relaxed space, with an interior that felt timeless. Once the parameters were set, Jessica and her team went to work to create a timelessness transcending the generations. The next step was creating a comprehensive design plan. Bringing together interior design, cabinetry, lighting, and flooring, the four-person Hannesson team collaborated to create a cohesive vision — one that would transform the homeowners’ wishes into a warm, inviting place to gather. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 111
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THE KITCHEN At the heart of the home, Jessica and her team carefully selected materials and finishes to dress this kitchen in soft and serene tones. “To give the kitchen its overall feel, we used rift-cut white oak for the cabinetry, taking the cabinets all the way to the ceiling for a timeless look and feel,” Jessica explains.
Brass cabinet pulls, faucets and lighting introduce a touch of warmth and understated elegance, while an open shelf above the kitchen sink adds character and a relaxed, inviting feel. A simple yet elegant island, paired with quartzite countertops and backsplash, completes the design, bringing natural beauty and subtle sophistication to the heart of the home.
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A LIVING SPACE FOR EVERYONE
THOUGHTFUL, UNIQUE, PERSONAL TOUCHES
Everything about the family’s living space invites relaxation. From the beautifully woven upholstery and generously cushioned chairs to the charming poufs, the soft color palette creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Custom arched cabinetry throughout the home adds a distinctive, personal touch while providing valuable storage. These oneof-a-kind features bring architectural interest and reinforce the home’s soft, inviting aesthetic.
“We wanted the family gathering space to be practical and relaxing at the same time,” Jessica says. “Furniture you can curl up on, yet sophisticated in its shape — structured, but still soft.”
“The arched cabinets are a great way to add visual interest and continue the overall tone of softening the spaces,” Jessica says.
With multiple generations sharing the home, durability was just as important as comfort. “An important aspect of the furnishings is that this lovely fabric performs well against stains,” Jessica adds. A built-in, double-sided fireplace separates the living and dining areas, while providing a cozy focal point that enhances the warmth and inviting feel of the space. 114 YVW MAGAZINE
Thoughtfully curated textures add another layer of warmth and character. Brick on the dining room wall, decorative sconces, and woven fabrics create a pleasing mix of materials. Throughout the home, a blend of metal finishes — including stainless steel, gold, and black — adds depth and contrast while maintaining a cohesive design.
y t i l i b i s Pos
P OW E R I N G
VI SI T W W W. Y VE C. COM FOR M E M BE R R E BATE S A N D MO RE
OUR TEAM WANTED TO HELP THEM CAPTURE TRANQUIL MOMENTS... IT’S REALLY ABOUT A FEELING — A SPACE THAT MAKES YOU FEEL SOMETHING. — Jessica Hannesson, owner of Hannesson Home Interior Design & Cabinet Studio
Stay Inspired
THE MASTER EXPERIENCE The master shower continues the home’s signature arched design with an exquisite, custom-made glass door. Inside, hand-polished marble tile is an elegant touch while a quartz bench provides a durable, easy-tomaintain surface.
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“The shower took a lot of expertise and precision,” Jessica explains. “We brought in a quartz fabricator and a specialized plumber to make sure it was done correctly.” The result is a tailored space where thoughtful craftsmanship and practical materials come together seamlessly.
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THE WALLPAPER IS ACTUALLY CREATED FROM A MURAL. THE ARTIST PAINTS THE ORIGINAL, THEN A HIGH-RESOLUTION PHOTOGRAPH IS USED TO TURN IT INTO WALLPAPER
A ROOM WITH A VIEW
ALL THE RIGHT TOUCHES
Stepping into the powder room just off the kitchen feels like entering a place of enchantment. Deep, moody hues and rich green wainscoting envelop the space, while gold fixtures introduce an elegant, romantic touch.
Additional arched built-in cabinets and drawers, painted a rich Deep Ridge blue, frame a sliding door set against a vertical shiplap wall leading to the mudroom. The cabinetry adds both character and practical storage while reinforcing the home’s signature architectural details.
“It’s like a jeweled box,” Jessica says. “The wallpaper we used is actually created from a mural. The artist paints the original, then a high-resolution photograph is used to turn it into wallpaper. You can see the actual brushstrokes.” The result is an intimate and bold retreat where artistic detail and dramatic color transform a small space into something truly memorable.
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Thoughtful touches continue throughout, with coordinating door hardware and light switches selected to complement the overall design. These carefully considered details contribute to the home’s distinctive, one-of-a-kind character.
THE RESULTS Every family is unique, and creating a home that reflects that individuality begins with understanding how its members live, how
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(406) 259-3426 2850 Grand Ave, Billings, MT Zach Wilson, Owner rockymountainglassmt.com info@rockymountainglassmt.com
they want to feel in their surroundings, and what they hope their spaces will offer. These insights are the lasting treasures of a thoughtfully designed interior. “Our team wanted to help them capture tranquil moments,” Jessica says. “People can’t always put into words the emotion they want a space to evoke. It’s really about a feeling — a space that makes you feel something.” For this family, that feeling is one of peace, serenity, and the enduring warmth of being together. ✻
Sam Van Dyke Home Loan Consultant NMLS# 776569
1516 Main St. • 2522 4th Ave. N • 990 Grand Ave. • 725 Henry Chapple St. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 117
AN ARCHED ALCOVE AND WOOD PANELED WALL LEADING TO THE BASEMENT GIVES AN ORDINARY SPACE CHARM AND BEAUTY.
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YOUR DON’T HAVE TO.
406-652-1010 1730 S. 48th St. W. • Billings 118 YVW MAGAZINE
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hannesson2 A NEW HOME FOR
HANNESSON HOME INTERIORS and Made for Home will celebrate their grand opening on Saturday, November 7, at 475 Henry Chapel in Billings. It’s the public debut of the new space and the holiday collection, which features timeless pieces for gathering, gifting, and making your house feel like home this season. Stop in, or shop online anytime at madeforhomehh.com. ✻
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Grand Opening
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November 7
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Ho
GIVE VINTAGE CRYSTAL A BEAUTIFUL NEW LIFE THIS CHRISTMAS
HAVE A COLLECTION of crystal or cut-glass bowls just sitting
around with no real purpose? Give them a little imagination — and a magical new life! This is a simple and beautiful craft for a night with friends, and the finished trees make wonderfully unique handmade gifts. You can even personalize each one to match a friend’s style, holiday décor or collection of treasures.
LO OK WHAT WE FO UND
written & photography by LOVELY HITCHCOCK
Collect cut-glass bowls in assorted sizes and shapes that will create a tree-like silhouette when stacked. Clear crystal is classic and elegant, but don’t be afraid to mix things up. Try incorporating green or red glass, or create an entire tree from green pieces for a little extra Christmas color.
What you will need... • A sturdy candle holder for the base, or a slim crystal vase • Optional: Paint or use Rub ’n Buff to change the color of the base
• Clear Museum Gel
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• An assortment of cut-glass bowls in various sizes that will create a tree shape when stacked
• A small cut-glass bell or other decorative piece for the top • A small level
A LITTLE MUSEUM MAGIC I like to use Clear Museum Gel, the removable adhesive often used to secure objects in museums and galleries. It’s perfect for this project because it holds pieces securely once they are pressed together, yet it doesn’t permanently stick to the glass. The best part? You can take the tree apart and redesign it whenever you like. Move the bowls around, change the colors, or create an entirely new arrangement next Christmas.
LET’S BUILD! Start with your base. Place a few small dots of Museum Gel in strategic spots, then carefully place your first bowl on top of your candle holder or slim vase. Use a small level to make sure the bowl is sitting perfectly straight before continuing. Add another layer of gel and place the next bowl, gradually working your way upward. Continue stacking until you reach the height you like and your collection begins to take the shape of a Christmas tree. Now comes the fun part — the topper! Try a little crystal bell, a small crystal cup, a vintage salt-shaker cap, or another treasured glass find. The possibilities are endless.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS Play with your arrangement. Experiment with different combinations and placements until you’re happy with the final design of your crystal bowl tree. Hide the adhesive. Strategically place the clear putty toward the back of the arrangement so the attached crystals look seamless and the adhesive remains out of sight. Read the instructions. Be sure to follow the instructions that come with the Museum Gel for proper application and secure placement. ✻
LOVELY HITCHCOCK, writer/photographer Balancing comfort zones with occasional leaps of faith, Lovely embraces life as a mother, friend, craft junkie, foodie, and sporadic gym-goer who now considers simply showing up a victory. A risk-taker yet a problem avoider, fierce yet wimpy, she has recently discovered a love for solo adventures and will always be a pixel shooter.
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With offer claim approval. Offer purchase period begins 11/20/26 and ends 12/24/26. Offer submission period begins 11/20/26 at 9:00 a.m. ET and ends 1/31/27 at 11:59:59 p.m. ET. Must be a legal resident of 50 US/DC & at least retailer (“Qualifying Purchase”). To redeem during the submission period, visit www.ariat.com/holidayrebate and submit the Offer claim form and an image of Qualifying Purchase receipt as prompted. After submitting a val CUSTOMERS WILL RECEIVE A $50 CAVENDER’S REBATE CARD AS THE OFFER ITEM. Excludes tax, cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Limit: 1 claim per person/household. A receipt may only be submitted one (1) time prohibited or restricted by law. Subject to full Terms and Conditions available at www.ariat.com/holidayrebate. Sponsor reserves the right to modify or cancel the Offer at any time. Sponsor: Ariat Inter
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