M c G o u g h & C o ... W h e r e M o n ta na G e t s E n g ag e d www.McGoughandCo.com
131 Central Avenue Whitefish, MT 59937 406-862-9199
W W W. M C G O U G H A N D C O . C O M 1 3 1 C E N T R A L AV E N U E W H I T E F I S H 406-862-9199 800-862-9199
406contents DESIGN 20. AMERICAN COUNTRYSIDE Wright’s Furniture
Fashion 26. IN MONTANA The Village Shop
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30. MACKENZIE & BENJAMIN October 8, 2016 36. LINDSEY & MICHAEL August 27, 2016
30...
food & flavor 42. THE ROMANCE OF SAKE 44. SCOTTISH BEEF PIE 46. GOOD LIBATIONS TOUR 48. LEMON MERINGUE PIE 50. LENTILS, LEGUMES & LEGENDS
History
54. ELLEN BAUMLER Montana Historical Society
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Checking In
Cover Girl
w o m a n publisher
Cindy Gerrity
cindy@montanasky.net
business manager Daley McDaniel
daley@montanasky.net
executive editor
Kristen Hamilton
kristen@hamitupstrategies.com
design
Sara Joy Pinnell
sara@mrsandmrpublishing.com
KATIE LATIMER
Kadie is a Montana Native raised and living in the Flathead Valley. In 2014 Kadie competed and won the title of Miss Montana USA. The title has given her many opportunities through modeling and public speaking.
She since then has hung up the crown and Medical Aesthetician working at Dermatology Associates. In her free
focused on her career as a
time she enjoys getting outdoors and exploring the endless adventure
Montana has to offer. Her
passion for travel has taken her all over the place, but
Montana will always be home.
H a i r : C h r i s t i n a S t e v e n s w i t h 33 B a k e r Makeup: Britlee Penney with La Vita e Bella Dress: J Scott Couture F l o w e r s : C o n r ad F l o r a l V e n u e : L o dg e a t W h i t e f i s h L a k e Photo By: Dina Remi Studios ( w w w . d i n a r em i s t u d i o s . c o m )
Business Girl
photographers
Daley McDaniel Photography Alisia Dawn Photography Scott Wilson Photography Kelly Kirksey Photography David Clumpner Photography Tori Pintar Photography Dina Remi Studios Carrie Ann Photography
Published by Skirts Publishing six times a year 704 C East 13th St. #138 Whitefish, MT 59937 info@406woman.com Copyright©2017 Skirts Publishing
View current and past issues of 406 Woman at
W W W . 4 0 6 W O M A N . C O M
Want to know about great events, open houses, and more? Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/406 Woman
JEN EUELL
Jen is the Program Director for the Woman’s Foundation of Montana and is works hard for all women of Montana but is especially passionate about paving the way for our youth. Read PowerHouse Montana, Mentor Mondays, and her inspiring story in our business feature this issue. P h o to B y : S c o t t W i l s o n P h o t o g r a ph y ( w w w . s c o t t w i l s o n - p h o t o g r a ph y . c o m )
406 Woman is distributed in Bigfork, Columbia Falls, Kalispell, Missoula, Whitefish and every point in between. Check out www.406woman.com for our full distribution list. Have a great story idea or know someone that we should feature? Email us with your comments & suggestions. Interested in increasing your business and partnering with 406 Woman? Check out www.406woman.com.
Love, not hate – makes America great. Love, not hate – makes America great.
Whether you are man or a woman; democrat or republican; black or white; the marches across the nation on January 21st couldn’t have gone unnoticed. Cities everywhere were touting record turnouts and in our very own state capital where I heard they were hoping for a couple thousand people, over 10,000 showed up and showed their support for women!
I happened to be in Park City working an event and was hoping to get a glimpse of the march there and maybe even jump in and chant “Love, not hate – makes America great” for a short bit. Well the event I was working happened to be the Sundance Film Festival and it was opening weekend so needless to say a bit of star power was in town. Organizers were thrilled that Chelsea Handler agreed to lead the march and standing with her were a few strong women in their own right including Jessica Williams, Kirsten Stewart, and Charlize Theron. Again organizers expected maybe 4,000 so when over 8,000 people showed up following a huge snowstorm that made travel difficult at best, the verdict was success. All I know is this Montana gal was moved beyond words. Actually I was moved to tears as the crowd made its way down Main Street. Not because of the stars that lead the march but because I felt a wave of love coming my direction that wasn’t about to be stopped. Love for women, love for humanity, and love for all (whether or not they believed in the cause). As the group passed, someone waves me in and I happily jumped in and joined the chanting…”Love, not hate – makes America great.” I’m so proud to be a woman and to support other woman and their stories through 406 Woman magazine. Thank you for taking this journey with us!
“I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.” MLK Stay Warm & Enjoy the Beautiful Snow!
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What you’ll find in this issue
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Two wonderful weddings with amazing photography! Mackenzie and Benjamin were married in Big Sky with images captured by photographer Tori Pintar on October 8, 2016. Lindsey and Mike were married in Polebridge on August 27, 2016. Their special day was photographed by David Clumpner.
Brian Eklund writes about the Restoration of the Glacier National Park Lodge Murals on page 18. Refurbished murals are currently on display throughout the valley at the Hockaday Museum of Art in Kalispell, O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish, Lake County Courthouse in Polson, and Park Side Credit Union in Whitefish.
Meet
Allison Linville…
Our Talented 406 contributors C. Claude Basler, D.C.
Family chiropractor, allowing you to express your true potential
Erin Blair
Licensed esthetician and owner of Skin Therapy Studio
Cris Marie Campbell
Master certified Martha Beck coach and consultant, co-owner of Thrive! Inc.
Kristan Clark
Co-owner of Bestow Heart and Home, designer and writer.
Susan B Clarke
Faculty at The Haven Institute for 20 years and co-owner of Thrive! Inc.
Brian D’Ambrosio
Accomplished writer and newly published author of “Reservation Champ’
Jen Euell
Program Director for the Women’s Foundation of Montana
Kari Gabriel
Exec Dir or Flathead CARE plus wildlife rehabilitator and educator
Kalispell OB/GYN Doctors & Practitioners
Board certified OB/GYN professional offering expert advice
Marti Kurth
Public relations and marketing expert for organizations in the arts and music
Allison Linville
Community Relations Coordinator at North Valley Hospital
John Miller, DDS
Specializing in general dentistry, Dr Miller provides expert advice
Carole Morris
Instructional Specialist, Author and Adjunct Professor. The proud mom of two perfect children and grammie to three flawless grandchildren.
Kelly O’Brien, Esq.
Business law specialist with Measure Law Office, P.C.
Brianne B. Perleberg
Founder of I Want Her Job and Senior Consumer Marketing Manager at NASCAR track Phoenix International Raceway
Profession:
Community Relations Coordinator at North Valley Hospital
Resides:
Whitefish, MT
Notable Accomplishments:
Received an MFA from the University of Montana, worked as Editor-in-Chief of CutBank Literary Magazine, worked for the Forest Service in a “first career” as a wilderness ranger and firefighter.
My workweek always includes:
Interviewing specialists from a variety of backgrounds for articles.
Kristen Pulsifer
Writer, editor and owner of Whitefish Study Center
My favorite outdoor activity is:
Karen Sanderson
Every weekend you’ll find me trying to:
Wine expert and owner of Brix Bottleshop in Kalispell
Lucy Smith
Executive Director of the Flathead Community Foundation, believes that everyday philanthropy is changing the world
Mary Wallace
Mother of three and grandmother to two, is still trying to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up..
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Cycling and running in summer, snowboarding in winter. Spend time outside and also work on personal writing projects.
When it comes to electronics, I can’t live without: I can live without electronics.
My bucket list includes doing this in the next year:
Floating the entire Grand Canyon, competing in an Ironman 70.3 triathlon.
American Countryside By Wright’s Furniture
Wright’s Furniture is excited to welcome a new collection inspired by the most beautiful examples of American countryside. This collection imparts a stunning combination of styles and an authentic American character. It features bedroom, dining, home office and accent furniture crafted of flat-cut rustic white oak veneer.
This traditional style display cabinet
is made with hardwood and poplar solids, white oak veneers, seeded glass, metal and mirror. It features two lightly seeded glass doors with metal fretwork, four adjustable wood-framed glass shelves, mirrored back panel and one light controlled by three-intensity touch switch. The storage and display features make this cabinet functional in many different spaces. Stand one alone or bunch them together side by side.
This unique cocktail table
features left and right sliding tops, one liftlid in the center equipped with a lock option, removable nine cell wine storage, removable trays on both sides and casters. It's multifunctional features are cleanly hidden when closed to resemble an aged wooden trunk.
This Rustic Country
style bench features a unique metal frame, hardwood solid slat top and timeworn saddle brown finish. Can be used in many different spaces, from the end of a bed to the dining room.
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This beveled mirror
is 32 3/4"W, 43 1/2"H, 2"D. It features hardwood solids, mirror and resin.
“We love the representation of the American Countryside through a mix of Rustic, Industrial, Farmhouse and Traditional style elements.”
– Alana Wright
This castered game chair
features wood, fabric back, leather seat and bronze nail head trim. The back of the chair is wood veneer. This particular chair works with a game table as well as a desk but is also available as an dining arm chair, dining side chair, bar stool and counter stool. -All styles are available from Wright’s Furniture in WhitefishPlease visit our 60,000 sq. ft. showroom or view or website at www.wrightsfurniture.com.
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villageshopwhitefish.com
201 Central ave. whitefish Montana 59937 - 406.862.3200
We love winter in Montana
However, it seems the longest of seasons and always finds us looking forward to the coming of spring. It's arrival means the days grow longer and our pant length can get a bit shorter. We also have the opportunity to switch up our shoes, all the better to show off our new fashionable hem lines! Here are a few options currently "springing up" at The Village Shop. Located at 201 Central Ave. in Whitefish.
Above Photo from left to right:
Seven For All Mankind cropped bootcut, $198 Seven For All Mankind Josaphina slim boyfriend, $158 Citizens of Humanity Jazmin Ankle Slim Straight, $218 Citizens of Humanity Rocket High Rise Skinny, $238
Above photo clockwise:
Frye Naomi Pick Stitch Shootie, grigio, $328 Frye Ellie Mule, taupe, $248 Frye Addie Double Zip Bootie, natural, $378 Frye Ivy Slip On, grey, $198
Photo on right clockwise:
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Free People Mont Blanc Sandal charcoal, $178 Free People Phantom Mule grey snake, $262 Free People At Ease Loafer navy, $103
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Mackenzie & Benjamin October 8, 2016
Photographed by Tori Pintar Photography Location In the mountains of Big Sky, Montana
Who are you? Mackenzie Flahive-Foro: I am a best
friend, outdoor enthusiast, naturalist, lover, goal-setter, adventurer, planner, nurturer and opportunist. I (we) fiercely value all our relationships and the quality time we get to spend with the ones we love recreating, eating good food, drinking good beer and seeking out new experiences. I’ve never been the best or solely committed to one thing. Instead, I wanted to try it all and excel at it all. My business card reads ‘Activities Manager’ for a private mountain club in Big Sky, so luckily I get to enjoy and share the many activities that I love, in the state that I love, on a daily basis.
Benjamin Johnson : All I need is the love
of my life, skis and fly rod. I live life day-by-day in pursuit of happiness. I value my family, my community and the simple life. Mackenzie and I share the same values, which is why our relationship is so strong, and we have created a meaningful lifestyle together.
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How did you meet?
Halfway through his undergrad, Ben left Missoula to complete a NOLS course in Patagonia and to work for Outward Bound before returning to finish his degree. We both played club rugby for the University of Montana. During the time Ben was gone, Mackenzie had become friends with his teammates. We had unknowingly crossed paths many times before in the Forestry Building, on float trips, at the climbing wall and rugby socials before developing a relationship. Upon his return, we finally connected and instantly knew that we had a similar passion for life. We still get wierded out by the ‘you were there too’ moments. We were meant to be together eventually. We starting dating my senior year of college and spent three seasons long-distance while we both continued pursuing our separate lifestyles and careers in the wilderness - Ben as a ranger and outward bound instructor, and Mackenzie on trail and fire crews. Naturally,
we occupied our winters together skiing and working in Big Sky where we have built a life for ourselves and now live year-round.
The Proposal?
Mackenzie loves seeing the baby bison on Ted Turner’s Ranch in the spring, so we headed down the Gallatin Canyon to Spanish Creek with no definite plans. When we realized the herds were far from access, we decided to walk down the Storm Castle road along the Gallatin River instead. We stopped at a boulder in the river to observe the spring run-off and birds on display. Ben was sitting behind me so I could use him as a rest while we spotted Hooded Mergansers, American Dippers, Osprey and King Fishers. Before I knew it a ring appeared in front of me, as Ben promptly said ‘whatever you do, don’t drop it in the river.’
What is love?
Mackenzie: Love is another adventure you commit to. It’s finding your best friend and
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We ended the ceremony with the entire wedding party helping to ‘tie the knot.’ It was a truly unique and beautiful celebration. partner in life; someone that challenges you because they know you even better than you know yourself at times.
Ben: True Love is finding the soul’s counterpart in another. (I heard that line in a movie once).
What do you love most about each other?
Mackenzie: Everyone knows Ben. He has a contagious smile and personality that radiates genuine compassion and happiness. I admire the way he always finds the good in every one he meets. His positivity inspires me everyday. Ben: Her love of life and desire to never waste a minute of any day not exploring.
When did you know you were in love?
Mackenzie: I knew I was in love with Ben when we left for our first summer apart embarking on three months of little to no cell service. He was driving to the Boundary Waters where he worked as an Outward Bound guide as I was headed to Trego,
Montana where I worked for the Forest Service on the Trail Crew. I cried more than I expected to. He called me along the way still cheerful after he received not one, but two speeding tickets within an hour. It was so ridiculous, yet it made me smile, and somehow I just knew I loved his crazy ass living life in the fast lane. Ben: I’ve always known I was in love with Kenz. There have been multiple occasions and moments, which continue still today, where I am made aware of how lucky I am to be with the love of my life. Also, March 15th 2010.
Wedding Details
Ben’s father Jay was our officiant and surprised us with the ceremony. We just wrote our own vows while he wrote the rest. Jay ended the ceremony with the entire wedding party helping to ‘tie the knot.’ It was a truly unique and beautiful celebration.
Honeymoon plans
Queensland, Australia exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Diving, camping, wildlife viewing, jungle cruising, all followed by the All Blacks vs. Ireland game in Chicago!
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Lindsey & Michael August 27, 2016
Photographed by David Clumpner Photography Location Polebridge, Montana
Who are you?
Lindsey West: I am an attorney in Whitefish. I am originally from Houston, Texas, but moved to Montana four years ago, largely because I wanted access to public lands and to be surrounded by an environmentally conscious community. I couldn’t have found a more wonderful place to call home. Michael (“Mike”) Hromadka: I am a plastic surgeon in Kalispell at Glacier View Plastic Surgery. I also moved to Montana four years ago (the same month as Lindsey!). I love the outdoors, and I am an avid mountain biker, snowboarder and tri-athlete.
How did you meet?
Mutual friends introduced Mike and me. Two of our closest couple friends cooked Ethiopian food for us. Halfway during dinner, I went into the kitchen to get water refills for everyone. Mike followed me in there, and we stayed in the kitchen talking for the rest of dinner. We were engaged six months later!
The Proposal?
On January 30th, 2015 we went to the North Fork for a day of skiing. We skied to Bowman Lake in Glacier on our backcountry setups (it was too icy for cross country skis!). The lake was frozen and we were the only ones there. Mike grabbed my hand and took me out to the lake. He got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. It was one of the best moments of my life and only mountains were our witness. We eloped nearly a year later on December 4, 2015. But we wanted to celebrate with all of our loved ones, so we had a wedding and exchanged our vows August 27th, 2016.
What is love?
Lindsey: Man, this is a really hard question. Love is a feeling, a state of being, where you are elevated to your highest self, without ego, without desire, without the need for anything. It is the understanding that you are
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not the most important person in the world. Being in love is to be in this elevated state. It is appreciating the stillness in his hug, the joy in his smile, the beauty of his body, and the sounds of his breath. Love is the cure for sadness and the disinfectant of hate. It is the best part of being alive, and I am so blessed to have it. Mike: Love is an unconditional respect and understanding of each other. It is a feeling of admiration and connection that grows over time as you understand who your partner really is.Â
What do you love most about each other?
Lindsey: I love Mike’s adventurous spirit and never-ending desire to grow. He is the most brave person I know. He is constantly yearning for challenges and seeking them out. Even though he has a pretty grueling day job, he wakes up at the crack of dawn and is out pushing his body to the limits on his days off.
Mike: I love Lindsey's huge heart, her sweet nature, beautiful smile, great attitude about life, and love for nature. I can always see her
with a big smile and happy attitude, which can be felt by the people around her.
When did you know you were in love?
Lindsey: I knew pretty soon. Maybe three weeks after we started dating. I had never met a man like Mike. He was so polite, he would call every night at 9 p.m. and we would talk for hours. He was non-judgmental, liked good music, was an amazing cook and was so damn handsome. I was hooked pretty early. Mike: I knew I was in love with Lindsey after our first camping trip in the North Fork.
Wedding Details
We had our ceremony on land we own in the North Fork – Four miles north of Polebridge. It was special.
Fun Fact
The guy who introduced us in Missoula (Steve Pulito) married us! It was so heartwarming.
Honeymoon
We went on a weeklong backpack through Glacier National Park, starting at Kintla Lake and ending up almost arrested in Canada.
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The Romance of
Sake
Written by Karen Sanderson, Brix Bottleshop
Once we turn over the new year, many of us turn over a new leaf on eating healthier, exercising, and taking care of our bodies. In my own quest for optimum body health, I recently learned of the fascinating health benefits of sake. Did you know that sake is a “blue zone” beverage? Blue zones are specific geographic areas of the world where people live longer lives. People in all zones drink alcohol moderately and regularly. Believe it or not, the moderate drinkers even outlive the non-drinkers! Japan is home to several blue zones.
WHAT IS SAKE?
First thing’s first, it’s saw-kay, not saw-kee. Sake is a Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. It contains only two ingredients: water and rice. Sake has been consumed in Japan with meals and religious ceremonies for centuries, and it is known to have tremendous health benefits. The processing is quite interesting in that it relies 100-percent on the details of the rice.
HOW IS SAKE MADE?
Rice to make sake is different from rice we eat with meals. Sake rice is grown specifically to make sake, and it is never eaten. Sake rice is harvested in the fall and sent to brewing facilities for processing. First, the rice is polished in a mill that slowly shaves off the outer layer of rice. The amount of milling determines the quality of the sake. Next, the fine white powder is washed off and the rice goes into tanks of water to soak. The water purity and mineral content is key to making premium sake. The most popular water source in Japan is called "Miyamizu" and attracts the most producers to its region. During the soaking process, the absorption rate of the rice determines how long the rice will soak. Next, the rice is steamed. All rice has a percentage of its batch go through “Koji.” Here, Koji mold is added to a portion of the rice to grow. It goes back to its original batch later. Once the rice is steamed, yeast is added to start the fermentation process. Over the course of a few days, more water and rice is added to the tanks and the Koji rice gets added back in. The fermentation process takes approximately 30 to 40 days. Finally, the rice is removed from the liquid and pressed through a fine mesh. After the sake is pressed, it goes through filtration, bottling, pasteurization and maturation. Most sakes are aged for six months prior to release. Sometimes, distilled alcohol is added. All sakes contain premium and non-premium sake. The more premium, the higher the value. What makes rice premium? The more a sake rice is milled, the higher the quality you will get. In other words, the more polished, the more refined. About 70-percent of sake brewed in Japan is made as table sake. In order to be labeled premium, (tokutei meishoushu, or “special designation sake”) at least 30-percent of the grains must be polished away. In premium grades of sake, (those above table sake “futsuu-shu”) three classifications have been made with rice only and are milled 30-percent or higher. You can recognize these by the word “junmai”. These high grades have not added distilled alcohol.
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Vine Connections, America’s No. 1 sake importer, developed a system for deciphering sake styles. On the back of each sake bottle, they list the brand, product name, grade, flavor profile, origin, rive variety used and brewery facts.
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SAKE
COMMON MYTHS ABOUT SAKE
1. Some Like it Hot. We do not. Contrary to popular belief, good sake should be served chilled. Serving it hot will mask the nuances and exacerbate the alcohol. Inferior sakes are served hot to mask their less savory qualities. 2. Sake is low acid. True, sake lacks tartaric and malic acids found in wine. However, a high level of amino acids are found in sake, which makes it a perfect food-pairing beverage. 3. Sake is as shelf stable as wine. Actually, once opened, premium sake will remain fresh for one to two weeks. Premium sakes should last for months in a refrigerator. 4. Sake is high alcohol. Some sakes can have up to 20-percent alcohol. However, most range between 10 to 14-percent.
5. Sake should be drank out of little cups. By all means, if you prefer a cup, use a cup. However, if you spend $30 to $40 on a bottle, you might prefer using a wine glass to be able to smell the subtleties. Side note: Pouring sake from a jug into small cups comes from the symbolic nature of refilling a friend’s cup over and over again. Traditional sake drinking necessitates that sake should always be poured for you by a friend or loved one.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF SAKE 1. Gluten free. 2. Sulfite free. 3. No tartaric acid, the chief cause of heartburn in wine. 4. All sake is fermented to dry. It may seem sweet, but sake contains no sugar. 5. Sake contains amino acids. These are beneficial for brain function and strengthening the immune system. Amino acids also help liver function. 6. Peptides in sake help prevent forgetfulness. 7. Sake helps increase blood flow and increases effectiveness in dissolving thrombi, aiding in preventing cardiac infarction. 8. Sake helps increase hormone levels in women, helping keep osteoporosis at bay. (drinking three to four glasses/week)
FOOD PAIRING
Most people associate sake with sushi. But guess what? Sake is a perfect companion to many other foods as well. We recently hosted a sake food and wine pairing at Brix. Our caterer brought foods specifically for pointing out how diverse sake can be. We were impressed! Here are a few of our favorites sake-food pairing ideas sent to us by a representative of Vine Connections:
SNOW MAIDEN: Great with sweet and sour Thai flavors, spicy shrimp tempura roll, sweet/spicy chicken wings.
SHARED PROMISE: Curried chicken salad, marinated beets with orange and balsamic vinegar.
LIVING JEWEL: Mild, tart goat cheese. SWORD OF THE SUN: Prosciutto wrapped melon and figs with balsamic vinegar.
WANDERING POET: Asparagus with aioli would be perfect. TEARS OF DAWN: Brie or camembert cheese. PEARLS OF SIMPLICITY: Salty, mild cheese like feta or halloumi. STAR FILLED SKY: Rich, nutty aged gouda. BLOSSOM OF PEACE: Mild blue cheese. Interested in learning more about sake? Spring is a perfect time to choose a sushi restaurant for your date night. Saketume in Bigfork and Wasabi Sushi Bar and Grill in Whitefish both offer sake samples on their menus. The Blue Samarai Sushi Bar on Main Street in Kalispell is another exciting addition to the Flathead’s sake scene. If you decide to try sake at home, Brix Bottleshop and Markus Foods also carry a wide variety of premium sakes. We look forward to talking sake with you soon!
Kanpai! (Cheers!)Karen
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Scottish Beef Pie By Carole Morris
Meat filling: INGREDIENTS
1 ½ pounds of peppered beef loin (cut into small cubes) 3 medium chopped onions 2 tsp salt 2 large potatoes, cubed 2 medium carrots, diced 1 cup of shredded medium cheddar cheese
This recipe is a classic and fun to change up. My mother was born and raised in Scotland, and one of the best cooks I’ve ever known. If she was still alive, I’m pretty sure that she would say Beef Wellington also originated in Scotland. Let me give you a mental visual of the original Beef Wellington… it was a hunk of beef wrapped in a dough of flour and water (boring). Consequently, instead of Beef Wellington—we are sharing a recipe that truly is Scottish, Cornish Pastry.
Instead of meat served semi-raw and wrapped in pastry, our recipe is made with seasoned meat cut
up into squares and mixed with onions and potatoes, then rolled up into individual servings.
We add a twist to this recipe by adding the Bordelaise sauce that is usually served with Beef Wellington. You are going to love this meat pie, it is a perfect
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1 tsp red pepper flakes 6 tbsp. of melted butter Mix all ingredients together in a bowl and set aside.
Pastry:
INGREDIENTS 2 tsp of salt 1 ½ tbsp sugar 3 cups of flour 1 cup cold butter ½ cup cold water 1 (large) egg yolk 1 tsp lemon juice In mixer (using pastry flat beater) mix together the salt, sugar and flour. Slice the butter into thin slices, then slowly add it to the flour mixture. When the mixture resembles pea sized lumps, turn off the mixer. Whisk together, in a separate bowl, cold water, egg yolk, and lemon juice. Add this mixture, slowly, to the flour mixture until the dough is mixed and stays together.
Lightly flour table surface, and form dough into a ball. Roll from the center (of the dough) out to the corner until you have a circle approximately 1/8 inch thick. Cut the dough into eight circles for individual pies. Place 1/8th of the filling onto the top center of each oval (leave a one-inch border around it). Moisten the top edge of the pastry with water, then fold bottom half over to make a half moon. Press the edges together and seal with a fork. Make a slit on the top of each pie to allow steam to escape. Heat oven to 400⁰
Next: Whisk 1 egg and 1 tsp. of water together in a small bowl. Brush the top of each pie with egg mixture and bake on cookie sheet for approximately 30 minutes (until golden brown). Serves 4
Bordelaise Sauce: INGREDIENTS
1 ½ cups water
¾ cup red wine 2 tbsp finely chopped onion 2 tsp beef bouillon (granules) ½ tsp thyme (crushed). 1 bay leaf 3 tbsp butter (After ingredients have simmered for 20 minutes, mix 2 tbsp. corn starch with ¼ cup water) In a saucepan combine all ingredients (except corn starch mixture), and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer for 20 minutes, remove bay leaf. Slowly add corn starch mixture until desired thickness is achieved. Serve in gravy boat.
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Good Libations Tour Photos by Carrie Ann Photography
O'Brien Byrd, Columbia Falls serial entrepreneur, takes us on a cocktail tour worth pulling up a stool for!
Classic cocktails are making a comeback in a huge way. And we can't complain. Libations made with fresh ingredients, quality spirits and time tested techniques.
First Up: The Mule Kick / Glacier Distillery, Coram, MT Bar Host : The Fraternal Order of Eagles, Columbia Falls, MT The Story: The mule is arguably the most important animal contributing
to the settlement of the west. When man's ambition exceeds his ability, it is up to the lowly mule to shoulder the weight and move things along. Whether hauling materials to build the Great Northern Railroad or packing supplies to the Sperry Chalet, the stalwart mule toils without complaint. Sometimes man and a mule alike just need a swift kick to get moving, but in the end the job gets done. Here's to stubbornly pursuing your dreams!
Tasting Notes: The natural spiciness of the rye in Mule Kick whiskey
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is set alight with an infusion of hot peppers and given a savory depth with fresh garlic and dried peppercorns. Perfect for adding a kick to your cocktail!
The Recipe: 2 oz. Glacier Distillery Mule Kick Whiskey, ginger beer to taste, splash of pineapple and lime.
The Sponsors: O’Brien’s Liquor & Glacier Distillery
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Lemon Meringue Pie By Carole Morris
It’s citrus season in California, which means I have the perfect reason for making this mouth-watering pie. Just looking at a lemon meringue pie, conjures up images of sunshine-yellow happiness. On the other hand, viewing the fluffy golden meringue can instill an anxiety attack in a cook who is trying imitate the picture in their cookbook. Do not fear the meringue… you can make it. Just follow the directions below.
Pastry for a single crust Preheat oven to 4500
3 tbsp. flour (all purpose)
1 ¼ cup flour (all purpose)
3 tbsp. cornstarch
½ tsp salt
1 ½ cups sugar (granulated)
1/3 cup shortening
Dash of salt
4 tbsp. cold water Mix together flour and salt (with a pastry blender). Next, mix in shortening until the pieces are the size of small peas. Sprinkle (1 tbsp. at a time) water over the mixture and mix with a fork. Form dough into a ball. Lightly flour flat surface, then place dough in the middle. Roll out dough from center to edges— forming a circle of about 12 inches in diameter. Ease pastry into pie plate, and trim off edges and depress with a fork or your fingers.
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Lemon filling
Prick with fork tines, the sides and bottom of the pastry. Bake for approximately 10 minutes (until golden brown). Cool to room temperature. oman.com
1 ½ cups water 3 egg yolks (save the egg whites for meringue)
two more minutes. Remove from heat, add butter, lemon peel and lemon juice. Gently stir all ingredients together, and set aside.
Meringue
Preheat oven to 3500
3 egg whites (room temperature) ¼ tsp cream of tartar ½ tsp vanilla
2 tsp lemon peel (finely shredded)
6 tbsp. sugar
1/3 cup lemon juice
For fluffy meringue, egg whites must be a room temperature before you beat them.
In a saucepan combine the following ingredients: flour, cornstarch, sugar and a dash of salt. Slowly stir in the water, cook and stir over medium heat until thickened and bubbly. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for two more minutes. Remove from heat. Separate egg yolks from whites and set aside whites for meringue. With a wire whisk, beat egg yolks slightly then (by teaspoon) slowly add one cup of hot mixture into egg yolks. Next, slowly add egg yolk mixture into saucepan stirring until well blended. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and cook for
In a mixing bowl, combine egg whites, cream of tartar and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer for one minute, until soft peaks form. One tablespoon at a time add sugar, beating on high speed about four minutes. Meringue is done when stiff, glossy peaks are formed and all sugar is dissolved. Immediately spread meringue over pie—sealing to the edge of the pastry, to prevent the meringue from shrinking. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Lentils, legumes & legends By Dr Austine Siomos
Montana winters, as far as I have experienced so far, are breathtaking, enticing and worthy of legends. They are also lengthy. Winter is the time for good stories, from family legends to Salish mythology, and from the Lewis and Clark Expedition to Mully’s Moguls. It is the cozy fires, winter festivities, night skiing, and most importantly good food that punctuate the long periods of darkness and bring people together.
One of my favorite winter foods are lentils. They are colorful and are packed with protein and fiber. In Italy, they are served on New Year’s Eve after midnight. Their coin-like shape represents luck and prosperity. They are often served with a spicy pork sausage to signify abundance. Lentils are part of the legume family. Legumes are grown primarily for their grain seed, called a pulse. Legumes are notable for containing symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria. For this reason, they are integral in crop rotation. There are countless types of legumes, including beans, peas, garbanzo beans, lentils, and even peanuts. Yes technically peanuts are not a nut at all but are a legume! The Italians have the right idea with their lentil reverence. The value of legumes has been studied for centuries. One of my favorite nutritional studies is the Blue Zones. You may have read or heard about these before. In these five regions of the world, people live the longest and healthiest lives. Dan Buettner and his colleagues have studied and described these cultures, and although they are geographically distant from each other, they have some common aspects, including significant legume consumption in all five blue zones. Any nutritional discussion of legumes naturally brings up the topic of protein. Protein is one of the three macronutrients. The other two are fat and carbohydrates. A macronutrient is defined as a class of chemical compounds that humans consume in the largest quantities and which provide humans with the bulk of energy.
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Many people, including even professionals in medicine, are not aware of the variety of sources of protein that are available. I reassure patients and their families of two things:
1. Almost all vegetables contain protein. For instance, broccoli and Brussels sprouts contain
about 4 grams of protein per cup. Four grams may not sound like a lot but see below for how much protein we actually require! Many people are also surprised to know that most fruits provide protein too. Fruits usually contain between one and four grams of protein per cup, with avocados and berries having the most. So if you eat five fruits and vegetables per day or more, you may already be getting at least 25-percent of your daily protein requirement just from fruits and vegetables. Legumes and lentils are excellent sources of protein. Most lentils contain about 20 grams of protein per cup, which is one third of an adult’s daily requirement. And a cup of garbanzo beans (chick peas) contains as much protein as a chicken breast (about 40 grams)! Nuts, seeds and microgreens have high levels of protein, and high quality meats, dairy and eggs are also sources of protein. Whole grains usually contain between five and 10 grams of protein per cup, and there are now even widely available high protein pastas made from beans!
2. I don’t usually use numbers when talking about nutrition, because eating should be enjoyable and natural. However, in the case of
protein requirements, it is nice to know what children, teenagers and adults actually require. I usually reassure families that protein deficiency is extremely uncommon in our society, and as long as people are eating enough calories, they are almost always getting enough protein.
3. The amount of protein most people require is
about 0.36 grams per pound of ideal body weight. This usually amounts to 60 to 70 grams of protein per day for an adult. The recommended daily protein for children depends on age:
6 months old
0.6 grams per pound per day, which is usually about 9 grams of protein
10 years old
0.41 grams per pound per day, which is about 30 grams of protein
Girls age 9-13
34 grams of protein per day
Girls aged 14 – 18
46 grams of protein per day
Boys aged 14 – 18
56 grams of protein per day
Adolescent athletes:
0.45 – 0.68 grams per pound per day Even in extreme body builders, numerous studies show no benefit to protein intake over 0.75 grams per pound.
Luscious
lentils
Lentils are beautiful, filling, and packed with protein and fiber. This recipe will fuel you through your winter activities.
INGREDIENTS:
family} Lentils and legumes
So why are lentils and other legumes so good for longevity? There must be reasons why these are daily diet staples for all of the longest living people in the world. And scientific studies are contributing to knowing these reasons.
stop taking medications after changing their diet! Even in type-1 diabetics, they are able to decrease the amount of insulin they give themselves simply with regular bean consumption.
Intestinal health: Legumes are a unique
largest nutritional study in the world and has been going on for more than 50 years now. Published data from this study demonstrate that bean consumption is associated with greater nutrient intake, lower body weight and a smaller waist circumference.
group in that they provide plenty of our two most filling compounds: protein and fiber. Greater dietary fiber intake prevents constipation, reduces inflammation, promotes healthy intestinal bacteria, and decreases the risk of colon cancer. Colon cancer is the second most common fatal cancer in the United States. Countries with the highest legume intake have the lowest rates of colon cancer.
Heart health: Cardiologists know that a
Live longer: Multiple studies (the Blue
Health benefits of legumes Healthy weight: The NHANES study is the
higher resting heart rate in adults is associated with higher risk of cardiac disease. A randomized controlled study in 2012 demonstrated that people who ate a cup of beans once a day for three months had a significantly lower resting heart rate. Studies also show improved cholesterol profiles, decreased blood pressure, and decreased risk of heart attacks and strokes in people who eat legumes. In fact, in eastern medicine, chick peas (garbanzo beans) have been used as a natural treatment for high blood pressure for more than two thousand years!
Zones, the FHILL study) demonstrate that legume intake is consistently associated with a longer life.
In people who already have type-2 diabetes, regular consumption of beans has been shown to work as well as diabetes medications, and some patients have been able to completely
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Soak the two types of lentils separately in water (completely covered) or broth for 1-2 hours.
2. Add one bay leaf to each lentil pot and simmer
for about 20 minutes, until tender. If you keep them in separate pots they will maintain their unique and vibrant colors
3. Drain well and discard the bay leaves. 4. Slice the mushrooms, leeks and zucchini. 5. Sauté the zucchini and leeks in olive oil, garlic and turmeric for 2 minutes
6. Add the mushrooms and sauté for another minute. (For crunchier vegetables sauté for less time.)
7. Combine the vegetables and the two types of lentils.
Diabetic health: An interesting study in
2012 involved two groups of overweight women. For eight weeks, one group ate a calorie restricted diet, and the other group at five cups of beans per week without intentionally changing anything else about their diet. Amazingly, both groups improved equally in weight, markers of pre-diabetes such as fasting glucose and HbA1c, and in cholesterol profile.
· 2 cups each of two types of lentils (contrasting colors are fun. Here I use beluga lentils and red lentils. If you only have one type of lentil, use four cups). · 8 cups of water or broth (mushroom or vegetable) · 2 bay leaves · 2 cloves of garlic · One lunch sack full of mushrooms · Two leeks · 3 zucchini · 2 tablespoons olive oil · Two lemons or limes · 1 teaspoon ground turmeric · Salt and pepper · Optional: 4 ounces pecorino or goat cheese and 2 cups of walnuts, plus any dark leafy green garnish
8. Zest the lemons or limes into the lentils and squeeze the juice in too. Dr Austine Siomos I am a pediatric cardiologist. I trained first to become a pediatrician and then specialized in the study of pediatric hearts. I see children from before they are born until they are ready to see an adult cardiologist. I am passionate about the health of all children and families. My goal for all children is to promote healthy habits and avoidance of those types of heart disease that are generally considered to be adult problems.
9. Season with the turmeric, salt and pepper. 10. If you are using walnuts, roast them with a little honey or maple syrup
11. When you are ready to serve the lentils, add the
walnuts and pecorino or goat cheese and any dark leafy green garnish just before serving.
12. Enjoy!
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Copperleaf Chocolat company 239 Central Ave. Whitefish Mt. 406-862-9659
Things We Love Locally Made Artisan Chocolates, Mary Frances Beaded Purses, Scarves, & Time Tested Books.
history}
ELLEN BAUMLER
Ellen Baumler By Brian D’Ambrosio
Self-disciplined. Self-directed. Curious.
These three words perhaps best describe Ellen Baumler, the Interpretive Historian at the Montana Historical Society. Since 1992, Baumler has made a career out of creating interpretive signs for historical sites in Montana, developing and writing walking tours of historic districts, successfully submitting National Register nominations, writing and reviewing roadside historical markers for the Montana Department of Transportation, and sharing Montana’s heritage with students of all ages across the state.
All that is in addition to authoring miscellaneous articles and books such as “Montana Chillers: 13 True Tales of Ghosts and Hauntings” for young readers, “Dark Spaces—Montana’s Historic Penitentiary at Deer Lodge,” and most recently "Haunted Helena: Montana's Queen City Ghosts." “I could never get burned out on history,” said Baumler. “When I started working with the sign program in 1992, I had the opportunity to work in a position that was new and that gave me the chance to synthesize history. I was allowed to make it into something.” Baumler now ranks as a legitimate historical detective.
She said that her career as a historian is a tutorial in “self-education.” It has also been a sustained lesson in taking initiative, gathering data and organizing information, as well as learning the appropriate means of identifying, finding, retrieving, sorting and exchanging information. Baumler is indeed one busy bee.
“If I am not traveling or speaking, my day consists of answering public queries, researching signs or programs, writing workrelated articles, attending meetings in the community and with other staff. It’s an organized chaos. There is so much to learn.”
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Haunted Helena
In her spare time, Baumler has made a hobby out of investigating the history behind Montana's paranormal activities and haunted places. Her writing includes seven books and numerous magazine articles that share the silliest, strangest, and interesting stories from her research into Montana history. Shortly after moving into her first home in Helena, built in 1888, Baumler and her husband began hearing hissing, static-filled radio broadcasts “whenever someone was sick or moved furniture.”
She later learned that in the 1910s, Helena's first radio operation occupied an entire room, and people came from all over town to hear the crackly broadcast, she wrote in her new book "Haunted Helena: Montana's Queen City Ghosts." Her family and her guests have “felt tapping on their right shoulders,” “heard golf balls in the hallway” and “seen a hat fly across the room” on multiple occasions.
From her own experiences with the mystical, Baumler began to look into Helena, "a place of secrets, nestled in its crooked bed along the famous gulch.” Baumler writes: "Besides a colorful history, Helena has a clandestine past of layered energy, where shadows lurk in darkened doorways, intense emotions linger and roaming spirits leave no footprints." In the earliest days of the gold-mining town, Baumler said, the ghost stories began.
The book journeys to old buildings, cemeteries and streets. Early Helena residents spoke of the “Hanging Tree” in an area where unexplainable occurrences continue. "The vigilante mentality and violent beginnings leave their marks on any community that springs from these kinds of roots," said Baumler.
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ELLEN BAUMLER
“There is so much that we don’t know and that we will never know,” said Baumler. “Each project— whatever it is I’m getting into—is like a blank page, and it is a great deal of fun to fill it up. We will never make all of the discoveries. But it is exciting when we do.”
Chinese in Helena, Montana
One of the historian’s great strengths is the ability to understand how people have existed, acted and thought in the past. History involves coming across and intuiting the past's otherness and learning to understand unfamiliar structures, cultures and belief systems. These forms of perception shed important light on the influence of the past on the present. One of Baumler’s current passions is interpreting the Chinese-Montana experience.
Nearly all of the buildings associated with Helena’s earlier Chinese and red-light districts have been demolished. Chinese homes and businesses eventually fell victim to Urban Renewal programs, and traces of Chinese culture disappeared.
“Helena was one of the most ethnically diverse places in the West in the 1860s,” said Baumler. “Urban renewal in the 1970s and 80s destroyed approximately 235 buildings. People still mourn the loss of those structures and find it traumatic to think about. But, I really try not to focus on that. I prefer to celebrate what we have – and we still have a lot.” Montana Territory’s first federal census, taken in 1870, records the population of Helena at approximately three thousand. Chinese residents made up 10 percent of the territorial population and more than 20 percent of Lewis and Clark County’s residents. By 1930, Lewis and Clark County had only 87 Chinese residents.
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“Today,” said Baumler, “the only Chineseassociated building still standing in Helena is the Yee Wau Cabin, which stands across the alleyway south of the Caretaker’s House.”
Reeder’s Alley
Baumler said that Bannack Ghost Town and Helena’s Reeder’s Alley are two of her favorite cultural relics in Montana. Reeder's Alley was built in the 1870s by a Pennsylvania brick and stone mason named Louis Reeder. Miners first staked their claims along Last Chance Gulch in 1864. Reeder was just one of the many newcomers who descended on Helena for financial or business opportunities. Louie arrived in town in 1867 and quickly signed on to help erect Helena's first brick courthouse.
By 1963, Reeder’s Alley housed antiques, pottery, glass, and book shops as well as a cookie store, and the Bear Mouth Country Store, which raised funds for the local Florence Crittenton Home. After several ownership transfers in the 1970s and 1980s, the Reeder’s Alley properties were donated to the State of Montana. “To have the properties in Reeder’s Alley that we do is truly amazing for Helena,” said Baumler. “The property links us back to the very beginnings of a town founded on the gold rush. Very special.” (Reeder's Alley is situated in the southwest corner of downtown.)
History is no simple solution; it is a complex and open debate. And the historian such as Baumler must understand problems inherent in historical records, be aware of a range of viewpoints, appreciate problems involved in interpreting often incomplete material, as well as respect the limitations of knowledge. “There is so much that we don’t know and that we will never know,” said Baumler. “Each project— whatever it is I’m getting into—is like a blank page, and it is a great deal of fun to fill it up. We will never make all of the discoveries. But it is exciting when we do.”
Intrigue guides Baumler through her work and career and it should continue to do so for quite some time. “When I retire, I’m sure that I will still be here playing around in the archives,” she said.
Baumler is merrily enamored with what she does. Indeed, Helena’s architectural uniqueness and historical prowess provides her with a daily opportunity to see, study, and apply history. And Helenans – and many throughout Montana, in fact – appreciate her for it.
“I recently had someone say via social media that I was a ‘rock star of history’,” said Baumler. “I like that description. I really like that.”
Going To The Sun Gallery Proudly presents our featured artist
Dallen Lambson
Dallen Lambson, is a well known wildlife artist from Idaho
whose work can be found internationally in Cabelas, Bass Pro, Sportsman's Warehouse and others. His oil paintings depict his passion for the great outdoors. He enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with his family when he is not painting.
visit our showroom to see his beautiful work.
406 contents featured 8. JEN EUELL Women's Foundation of Montana
406 man business 14. BRACH THOMSON Big Fish little sea
18. THE RESTORATION Glacier National Park Lodge Murals
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24. MAKE YOUR TRIP AROUND THE SUN FUN!
health
28. MARTHA RUIZ I Want Her Job
34. CANCER SUPPORT COMMUNITY 36. THE BARRE CLASS 38. HOSPITAL PHARMACY 40. PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE
Legal
32. ESTATE PLANNING in Times of Uncertainty
46. ASK THE SKIN COACH sunblock
non-profit
48. HEALTH SCREENINGS
54. CHANGED LIVES The Cooper Family
50. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE HEALTHY?
56. KEEPING OUR KID’S DRUG & ALCOHOL FREE
52. NODS, WAVES, SMILES, & REAL-LIFE COWBOYS
Published by Skirts Publishing six times a year
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704 C East 13th St. #138 Whitefish, MT 59937 info@406woman.com Copyright©2017 Skirts Publishing
View current and past issues of 406 Woman at W W W . 4 0 6 W O M A N . C O M
featured} By Mary Wallace Photo by Scott Wilson Photography
All for the good of Montana women and girls WOMEN’S FOUNDATION OF MONTANA
Today’s Montana woman likely goes about her day-to-day schedule of being a working mom, a single mom, a college student, or a career professional not even thinking about the struggles in her life. Many know what the struggles are - some big ones such as low wages, child care, balancing work and family; and some not so big, such as the school fundraiser, the astronomical power bill, to get milk on the way home. They know, but there is not really time or energy to dwell on it. Luckily, there is an organization that has been working toward building a brighter future for Montana women and girls since 2000 – the Women’s Foundation of Montana.
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According to the www.WFMontana.org website, “The Women’s Foundation of Montana works to make positive systemic change in our state through our strategic grant investments, collaborating with others to advocate for policy change and advancing our own initiatives.” SO! What, exactly, does that look like? The Women’s Foundation of Montana grants funds to programs and projects that directly affect women and girls in our state. They provide resources for women, wage negotiation workshops, apprenticeship and educational programs, resources and tools to help women become economically stable or to start a business; entrepreneurial leadership programs, mentorship programs, and advocacy for systems and policy change that will benefit women in our state. It all sounds very forward thinking and maybe just a wee bit out of reach for the average Montana woman described above. But never fear! A couple years ago, hoping to reach as many Montana women as possible, they formed a handful of small focus groups to determine what women in
our state need. One resounding answer was more networking opportunities. Out of this grew the newest and one of their most popular components, PowerHouse Montana, www.powerhousemt.org and Mentor Mondays.
Mentor Mondays events are organized by PowerHouse members in each community and can choose to follow a suggested format provided by the statewide organization, or can include a meet and greet, presentation, workshop, or platform of their own choosing. Check www.facebook. com/powerhousemt/ to view upcoming Mentor Mondays in or near your community with current listings in Billings, Bozeman, Great Falls, Helena, Kalispell, and Missoula - typically the last Monday of the month across the state.
The Women’s Foundation of Montana encompasses several elements:
GRANTMAKING: The Women’s Foundation of Montana has given out more than $750,000 in grants to fund projects, programs, and individuals since its inception in 2000. In 2016, the Foundation granted $83,000 in funds for the
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The Women’s Foundation also helps educate our policy makers and businesses about issues that not only affect women, but have an effect on our economy. For instance, Montana is facing a labor shortage. Montana, as well as many other states, has a large percentage of the population nearing retirement. Who will fill those jobs? following: mentoring programs, wage negotiation workshops, STEM programs, policy and strategy development work on a paid leave bill for 2017, an equal pay summit in Butte, the Missoula YWCA GUTS program, coaching for women entrepreneurs, recruitment and support programs to increase the number of women involved in non-traditional trade programs (mechanics, welders, etc), and financial education conferences for women, among others. Check the www.wfmontana.org website for details on how and when to apply for the Spring 2017 round of grant opportunities.
RESEARCH & EDUCATION: The Foundation initially funded the first Status of Women in Montana Report in 2002. It has remained a sponsor of this report since. The Status of Women report tracks political participation, employment and earnings, social and economic autonomy, reproductive rights and health and well-being for women in our state. The report is pretty telling with one key piece of data from the 2015 report being that Montana scored a “D” in equal pay, with Montana women making approximately 75 cents on the dollar compared to what men earn. Data for our state from 2015 can be found at http:// statusofwomendata.org/explore-the-data/statedata/montana/. The Women’s Foundation also helps educate our policy makers and businesses about issues that not only affect women, but have an effect on our economy. For instance, Montana is facing a labor shortage. Montana, as well as many other states,
has a large percentage of the population nearing retirement. Who will fill those jobs? Millennials and younger typically tend to want to leave the state seeking better pay and/or more affordable living after high school or college. The Women’s Foundation is also exploring and developing data to help women make better educational choices based on what future jobs are coming up in our local workforce and businesses, and to make better policies to attract and keep good employees. POLICY CHANGE: The Women’s Foundation has facilitated events toward policy and system changes in regards to women, such as equal pay summits and focus groups that can bring information to lawmakers and businesses to facilitate better work conditions and better wages for women in our state. The Equal Pay for Equal Work Task Force is one example of this. Additionally, the Foundation advocates for legislative policies that will gradually bring women more power and opportunities in the workplace. One legislative policy they have been working toward is the Fair Paycheck Act, which will hopefully lead to more transparency about the pay rate for each particular job position. Often women are hired at a different rate than men and don’t even know it because discussing pay with co-workers is strongly discouraged. The Fair Paycheck Act will end this enforced secrecy and allow women to better negotiate their salaries. MENTORSHIP/NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES: Aside from PowerHouse Montana and Mentor Mondays, the Woman’s Foundation also supports
and/or facilitates other workshops, leadership seminars, events such as the Penny Conference (on women’s financial issues), the empowering Athena Conference in Bozeman, and groups, such as the Women’s Foundation Dream Team. Check the website or Facebook page to learn about upcoming opportunities, including a Women, Money and Power Workshop by WFM Board Member Kim Shappee planned for this spring in the Flathead.
The Woman’s Foundation of Montana was formed approximately 16 years ago. According to Foundation Program Director Jen Euell, in 1999, a remarkable woman named Merle Chambers sought to build a permanent resource for women and girls in Montana where her family’s oil business had previously operated. Through the Chambers Family Fund, she offered to gift a $500,000 endowment to the Montana Community Foundation if a matching amount could be raised. The Women’s Foundation was formed and worked very hard to eventually meet the challenge in January 2005. The initial $1 million permanent endowment was established to create a source of capital to advance women’s economic independence and build brighter futures for Montana girls.
What’s on the Foundation wish list? Euell says they are always seeking Montana women who are passionate about the Foundation’s mission. They need volunteers on their Advisory Committee; volunteers, mentors, and organizers for community PowerHouse Montana groups; volunteers for the Entrepreneurial Dream Team Leadership Board;
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JEN EUELL
ambassadors for the Foundation and their programs; and some great grant seekers!
“Anyone who thinks what we do is exciting should contact me,” says Euell. Alternately, if someone wants to seek help and resources from the Foundation, the best place to start might be the PowerHouse Montana website. There, one can find both a mentor or be a mentor, job opportunities, advice about educational opportunities, advice about starting or growing a business, information for grant opportunities for women’s and girl’s programs, and much, much more.
The Women’s Foundation of Montana is based in Missoula and is a non-profit component fund of the Montana Community Foundation, which provides a great deal of support for the administration and financial recordkeeping of the Women’s Foundation. The Foundation is lucky to have a dedicated Advisory Committee, Americorp VISTA volunteer Sarah Korn, and a multitude of volunteers. Jen Euell, the Program Director is the only paid staff. Euell’s bio on the Powerhouse Montana site (yes . . . she is both a mentor and a mentee in the group) lists her as a policy changer, strategizer, public speaker, talent scout, visionary leader, team builder, program developer and trailblazer with specialties in fundraising, human services and non-profit work.
Jen Euell was born and raised on a small farm east of Billings. She attended college at both MSU in Bozeman and UM in Missoula. With a degree in Journalism in hand, she headed to Chicago to pursue a career as a broadcast journalist, and that’s when she discovered that she really hated living in a big city. Asking herself some hard questions, she discovered that what she had REALLY wanted to do was to tell the truth, to change thinking and change lives. Back to college she went – this time majoring in social work and women’s studies.
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Prior to joining the Women’s Foundation, she was the program director of the Student Assault Resources Center at UM, worked as a night coordinator for the Domestic Violence Shelter at the YWCA in Missoula, and became involved in Women’s Voices for the Earth. She co-founded the YWCA “GUTS!” program (Girls Using Their Strengths), which later became a grantee of the Women’s Foundation of Montana. And she’s a member of Montana’s Equal Pay for Equal Work Task Force. Trailblazer indeed! Even with all she is involved in, her personal bucket list involves someday starting her own business – one that will both make money AND provide a social benefit. She believes that women are our biggest untapped resource. Her life mission is to figure out how Montana women can be successful and create opportunities in our state that will make it possible for our daughters to live and thrive here in the future. She also wants to travel and is looking forward to exploring other places in the world with her family – starting with a trip to visit family in the Cayman Islands this upcoming summer. Euell currently lives near Florence with her husband John, daughter Amelia, and dogs Lucy and Gertie. Any advice for the women Jen works so hard to support? “Think about what’s possible and how you can grow toward that,” says Euell, “Create a powerful strategy and then bring in those who can share your passion and your mission.”
And lastly, “When you come to a fork in the road and you have to choose …always, always choose the path that has the most life and the most heart in it - no matter how crazy it might seem.” (Mind you, this mantra once landed Euell a brief stint working on a fishing boat in Alaska … but THAT is a story for another time.)
Big fish
little sea
Brach Thomson By Mary Wallace
You might say that our 406 MAN has always had music, theatre, and the arts in his blood. After spending every summer in his memory involved in the Playhouse productions, Brach’s family moved from their home in Great Falls to live in Bigfork full time in 1978. He attended school in Bigfork, pursuing all the usual high school endeavors such as basketball and band. Despite the fact that Brach’s parents spent his childhood advising he and his brother to “stay out of the arts – get a real job,” both sons didn’t fall far from the Thomson family ‘arts’ tree. Brach’s brother, Gavin, is a skilled technician for Cirque du Soleil productions in Las Vegas. And Brach has come full circle and works together with his parents to operate the Bigfork Summer Playhouse. Brach aspired to become a musician after he graduated from Bigfork High School. He politely listened to the ‘Big Fish in a Little Sea’ reality check advice he received from his parents and then promptly headed off to the University of Nevada-Reno (on a trumpet scholarship, no less), where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music. He spent several years involved in musical arts in Nevada, operating the Yamaha School of Music and founding the Keybanger Music School in Reno. He music directed for several theatre programs, including the Nevada Repertory Theatre, the Reno Hilton, the Truckee Meadows Community College, the Reno Little Theatre, and the Actory. He performed with the likes of Toni Tennille, Ann-Margaret, Charo, and Juice Newton, among others.
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In 2001, he and his family moved back to Bigfork so he could join the Playhouse team. Why did he decide to return to the small town
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of his youth? With a shrug, Brach admits it was always part of his desire to return home. Early on during his dating relationship with his future wife, Lisa, he actually told her that, “If you don’t think you can live in Montana, we should probably call this off right now.” Luckily, she was on board for pursuing the sweet life in our beautiful Flathead Valley. He finds himself wearing multiple hats - everything from Associate Producer, Company Manager, Music Director, Keyboard Accompanist, and Music Director. He is also the Human Resources Manager, Orchestra Conductor, Playhouse Webmaster and Janitor. One of his hats that is dearest to his heart is that of the Artistic Director and Producer of the Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre. The Children’s Theatre program puts on six productions during the school year. While it is a commitment for the kids, it is quite
unique in which the whole production runs on a two-and-a-half-week turnaround time from auditions to opening curtain. The kids audition and attend rehearsals for two weeks after school every day from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. They come from as close as the Bigfork community and as far away as Kila and Ronan. For Brach, this often means 16 hour days. He sheepishly admits that he loves every minute of it. There are certain challenges working with 40 kids at once to pull together a formal production (complete with music) in such a short time frame. Brach says the children all have an attention span of ‘about as long as whatever age they are’.
He is tough with the kids and expects a LOT from them. They are expected to be courteous and lend a hand wherever possible. No matter how big or small their role is, they agree
Can you IMAGINE what BIGFORK would be without the BIGFORK SUMMER PLAYHOUSE?
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BRACH THOMSON
(along with their parents) to be part of the set-up and tear-down for each performance. In return, he coaches them not only on theatre and acting, but also on how to troubleshoot any complications that come up while they are on stage, how to improvise when another actor suddenly forgets a line (which happens to nearly every single actor at one time or another), and that they should never settle . . . always give their best and beyond!
His philosophy for working with children is that if you don’t expect them to be outstanding, they will give you mediocre. He ALWAYS expects outstanding, and that is what they aspire to give! The kids not only do the set design and construction, they do all the lights, music and technical activities. He coaches every aspect of each production. His favorite part is watching them hit the stage when it all comes together. The kids take over and bring the show to their audience. He also loves the comradery of the parents when the show is over and they all throw their hands (and small tools) to striking the set and putting the theatre building back to rights. At the time of our 406 Man interview, Brach was into the second week of PINOCCHIO – NO STRINGS ATTACHED rehearsals, which was playing the last two weekends of January 2017.
Aside from the Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre during the school year, Brach’s involvement in the logistics and administration of the Playhouse is a year round activity. He works closely with his parents to maintain the
business; choose the productions; hire set designers, technical crews and costuming staff; and procure supplies, materials and scene furnishings and inventory. They also procure lodging for the entire team that arrive from out of town for the summer and handle athousand-and-one other details, large and small. Once the producers have chosen the plays they will present for the upcoming summer schedule, the work begins in the spring with securing the best talented actors and performers for the season.
It says a great deal about the caliber of the Bigfork Summer Playhouse that the program enjoys a nationwide esteem in the theatre society. The professional actors that have come for the summer have often been advised by their peers to give the local production program high priority. “If Bigfork calls, ‘you should definitely go there,’ they’ve been told,” Brach said.
Brach enjoys going on their annual audition tour, which sounds a lot like speed dating for acting talent. They review 150 to 200 auditions per day where the performers each have 90 seconds to sing a few bars of a song and recite several lines of a monologue they have prepared. There are four audition venues they attend each year – the Midwest Theatre Auditions in St. Louis, the U of M event for Montana/Idaho students, the UPTA Auditions in Memphis, and the SETC Auditions on the east coast. The actors are hired for the entire summer and take part in most or all of the summer productions.
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But for the Thomson family, the program may not have survived. For more than 50 years, Brach’s parents, Don and Jude Thomson, have been the guiding force behind this valuable community resource. The Thomson’s first joined the Playhouse team in 1964. Don designed and built scenery and appeared on stage, and Jude was originally involved with directing the orchestra. Early on, they had lived in Great Falls, but brought the whole family to Bigfork every summer to run the Bigfork Summer Playhouse. The Playhouse was originally operated out of a community hall that stood where the Playhouse is today and belonged to the Eastern Star. Brach’s parents purchased the community building in 1974 to preserve the future of the Bigfork Summer Theatre. Sadly, the building was eventually deemed a fire hazard and it had to be torn down. Nonplussed, the Thomson’s formed the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts Foundation and then donated the hall and real estate to the Foundation. With much community support, the new Bigfork Summer Playhouse was built and opened in 1988. Don, who still designs and builds sets, is the producer for Playhouse, active in dayto-day activities, and is instrumental in the success of the children’s theatre program. Jude has been a major force in the auditioning and selection of the theatre company. She oversees the box office and front of house for the Playhouse, and recently retired her role as musical accompanist and orchestra director for musical productions. The Playhouse is home to the Bigfork Summer Playhouse, the Bigfork Community Players, and the Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre programs.
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BRACH THOMSON
Aside from the Bigfork Summer Playhouse and Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts activities, Brach is also involved in the community serving as a board member for the Bigfork Chamber of Commerce and the Bigfork ACES program, which is an after school and summer camp program (and SO much more) in Bigfork. One of Brach’s favorite hats is that of Mr. Mom. He loves that his job (despite the sometimes 16-hour days) has allowed him to spend time with his kids, get them breakfast daily, and get them to school. Even though his children are not interested in pursuing a career with the Playhouse or theatre at this time, they both have been involved in many of the productions throughout their youth. Brach currently resides in Bigfork with his wife, Lisa, who is a Math teacher at Flathead High School. Their son, Kyle, is majoring in Business at Carroll College, while daughter, Jenica, is a sophomore at Bigfork High School. She wants to become a librarian, but still currently assists with the Children’s Theatre program.
Brach’s bucket list is short and sweet. Always a theatre lover, he would like to go to London and take in as many theatre shows as possible – not on the crew, but as an audience member this time. His first love is piano, and he would love to have more time to devote to playing. He is content, for the moment, to get his piano fix by playing for Playhouse productions in the meantime.
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For more information, please visit bigforksummerplayhouse.com.
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Putting History Back in the Public Eye
The Restoration of the Glacier National Park Lodge Murals By Brian Eklund Sponsored by Parkside Credit Union
The ageless appeal of the 1.6 million acres of Glacier National Park has inspired visitors since humans first inhabited part of what would become the state of Montana. Rising above the vast eastern plain, the peaks of Glacier reach to the sky and beckon visitors from all over the planet. Louis Hill, President of the Great Northern Railway, played an important part in spreading the word about America’s “little Switzerland” and attracting explorers out west through art to experience its breathtaking, unspoiled landscapes. Commissioning artists such as John Fery, who became the most famous of the Glacier National Park artists, Hill decorated railway stations and his grand lodges with large paintings that celebrated Glacier’s mountains, lakes, forests and wildlife.
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For the Glacier Park Lodge in the Montana town of East Glacier, Hill had intended to hire Fery to paint murals that would fill the long horizontal spaces above the wainscoting, but instead chose to expedite the process by commissioning a muralist. The murals appear to be created from photographs and were painted using water-based casein on canvas that had been stretched on panel. The paintings were not signed or titled and were left behind in history with no record of the artist’s identity. The only identification on the panels were numbers and locations written on the backs designating where they were hung in the lodges. The scenic panels covered hundreds of square feet and appeared in a 1939 Glacier Park Lodge inventory as “51 watercolor panels.” All of the Glacier Lodges were remodeled in the 1950s with the updated design requiring removal of the murals except where a select few were left to provide “needed color accents.” Hastily cut from the moldings, removed from their panels, and carelessly rolled, the murals
were discarded as garbage. Hearing of the historic artwork tossed onto the front lawn of the Glacier Park Lodge, Leona and Robert Brown of East Glacier’s beloved Brownies Grocery retrieved fifteen of the murals and stored them at their home. Years later, the orphaned works were discovered in a corner of the family’s Kalispell garage by the Brown’s granddaughter Leanne and her husband Alan Goldhahn. The family was going to haul the dusty, water damaged canvases off to the dump, but Leanne suggested to her mother that they might want to save them. Returning to their hometown of Bozeman, the Goldhahns were advised by a local artist to show the collection of rolled-up murals to Jim Brown, owner of The Old Main Gallery. He immediately recognized the value of the murals, and offered to store them while he researched their origins. Contacting Great Falls’ C.M. Russell Museum and the University of Montana in Missoula, Jim spent nearly a year seeking a connection to John Fery or the identity of the mystery muralist.
business} All of the Glacier Lodges were remodeled in the 1950s with the updated design requiring removal of the murals except where a select few were left to provide “needed color accents.” Hastily cut from the moldings, removed from their panels, and carelessly rolled, the murals were discarded as garbage. Hearing of the historic artwork tossed onto the front lawn of the Glacier Park Lodge, Leona and Robert Brown of East Glacier’s beloved Brownies Grocery retrieved fifteen of the murals and stored them at their home.
Jim Brown concluded his research efforts as more than a little disappointed because he was unable to name the artist or determine any new information. He offered an option of selling the murals to private collectors, but Leanne felt it important to keep the collection together and continue their history in the public eye. The next idea was to donate the surviving fifteen murals to a museum, and Brown suggested the Hockaday Museum of Art in Kalispell with its mission focusing on preserving the artistic legacy of Glacier National Park. Leanne fondly recalled visiting the Hockaday on her trips to Kalispell to enjoy the exhibitions featuring the historical art of Montana. She contacted Executive Director Elizabeth Moss in 2012 regarding the possible donation of the
murals there. The Hockaday accepted the murals from the Goldhahns with the stipulation that the murals be displayed in public places as a memorial to Robert and Leona Brown, the couple who had rescued the murals decades earlier.
Seeing the unsavory condition of the murals, the Hockaday committed resources to begin the daunting task of restoring all fifteen works. Donors have been very generous, launching a long-term project that has strengthened community ties and attracted the attention of faraway individuals who have offered clues in solving the mystery of the muralist’s identity.
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Instrumental in the restoration process is art conservator Joe Abbrescia, Jr. of Kalispell, whose father was himself a well-known artist of Glacier National Park. Abbrescia noted that the mural restoration project was indeed special, as larger art pieces such as murals are usually never seen again once they have been damaged. Abbrescia has completed a lengthy, complicate, and expensive process through which seven of the murals have been restored to their former glory. To do this, he first built a new support onto which the mural may be mounted. Once the canvas is fairly flat and cleaned from any dirt or debris, the process commences to reduce the appearance of any damage. The casein used on the murals is extremely fragile, adding to the level of difficulty in addressing water damage, scratches, wall paint splatters, creases and cracks. Greg Smith at Kalispell’s Frame It was commissioned to build the frame and order the Plexiglass cut to fit the piece. Depending on the length and the amount of damage, it can take two to three months of work to complete the restoration process and framing on one mural. Two of the refurbished murals are on display at the Hockaday Museum of Art, two at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish, one at the Lake County Courthouse in Polson, and one just recently installed at Park Side Credit Union's Whitefish branch.
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The Hockaday’s efforts to restore the murals and put them back in the public’s eye have been covered statewide with stories engaging generations of Montanans. Twelve-year-old Ethan McCauley
read about the O’Shaughnessy Center installation in a January issue of The Missoulian, and it inspired him to embark upon a mural restoration fundraising project to achieve his Eagle Scout rank. Amassing more than $11,000 in donations from his many presentations and letters, Ethan exceeded all expectations and enabled the conservation of the largest mural thus far.
The Hockaday Museum of Art is extraordinarily grateful for their donors’ support and continues its commitment to restore the remaining murals and display them in public places throughout Montana. If you’re interested in becoming a donor to support these efforts, please contact the Museum at 406-755-5268.
The Hockaday Museum of Art is located in the cultural district of downtown Kalispell at 302 Second Ave East. It is housed in a 1904 Carnegie Library building that appears on the National Register of Historic Places. The Museum is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, open year-round, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A wheelchair accessible entry and elevator are provided. For more information, please visit www. HockadayMuseum.org or call 406-755-5268.
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Make Your Trip Around the Sun Fun! Written by Susan Clarke
The start of a new year is a wonderful time to think about goals, dreams and the longrange direction for your life. I, Susan, love taking time toward the end of the year to reflect, review and celebrate the year ending. That quite naturally leads to looking ahead, to dreaming, scheming and imagining what’s possible for this trip around the sun! Now, if I am a fan, CrisMarie is all-out freaky aficionado of the process! Years ago at a new year’s event my friend, Peter, was doing Rock & Stone readings for the upcoming year. CrisMarie jumped at the invitation to get a reading. She sat at his table and started sorting through the rocks and stones. She had them all out and was creating quite a beautiful, if not Jackson Pollack-like, design for the upcoming year! She took her time, and like any true artist working with a blank canvas, would play, pause, play, pause until finally sitting back and saying, “Yes – this is the year I have planned.” I wish I had a picture, it was gorgeous.
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she take a more refined and focused approach to the rocks. Initially CrisMarie looked crushed. However, she did not stay there long. She considered the invitation to play small and focus, but without much hesitation said, “No, this fits – read as much as you feel comfortable, and I’ll work through the rest.” Flash forward to 2017. As we gathered with friends to create our vision boards on January 1, there was one significantly larger piece of poster board. I could see CrisMarie’s eyes light up with the possibilities. Hours into the process, I think she may have had a moment of doubt, but not for long. The final vision board reminded me of the rock reading filled with color, inspiration, purpose and possibility. (Pictured above) As her partner in life and business, I am sometimes intimidated by her reach and the large stage on which she wants to play. But now, sixteen years into the journey along side her with similar New Year visions under my belt, I love the joy, commitment and purpose she puts into designing a master piece for the year ahead. I also love that she goes for it. It’s not a piece of art that hangs on the wall reflecting a life unlived. No, there may have been a couple years where a board remained on the wall because it wasn’t a living breathing reality. But not many! Now me, I am not quite as committed. Don’t get me wrong, I am a dreamer and love looking ahead. But my strength is much more in the immediate moment. I see ahead and live much more moment to moment,
meaning I can get distracted and weave all over the place between January 1 and December 31. However, I have learned a few things over the years that have ensured that I can keep up and support our shared efforts. Actually, the challenge of a visionary masterpiece is that when the colors aren’t quite right or the picture gets a bit distorted, the artist, CrisMarie, can let her perfectionism be a cause for doubt or fear of failing when the real-life experience isn’t all that close to the art on the wall. Well, that is where I am masterful. I am pretty darn good at finding the possibility in what is and reframing, refreshing and getting back on track. Together we make a pretty good team! Some of the pieces we’ve both learned about breaking through procrastinating, distracting and poor performance have become a simple and practical path for traveling around the sun and making it fun!
So maybe you did not kick off the 2017 like us, and you haven’t really thought much about what you want from this year. No worries, it’s still early and you can still play. Plus, this little tool can apply to big picture planning and smaller projects.
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Finding what makes your heart sing and your mind click lies in your willingness to feel and feel deeply. To laugh loud, cry whenever, sing, scream, be afraid and be brave – all these feelings are the fuel for life. No amount of just thinking will ever get you there without that messy under-belly of emotion, e-motion, meaning energy in motion! Let’s get started
Making That Trip Around The Sun Fun is a three phase cycle:
1. Passion 2. Plan 3. Participate
Fifteen years ago, I took a university program for writers. During the class, the teacher, a New York Times bestselling author, shared her trade secret! She shared this:
It’s simple, and when you get the hang of the cycle it’s a way to break through big obstacles, simple stalls, distractions and setbacks!
“All it takes is, ‘Once upon a time….. and then… and then… until one day ……. the end.’ Do that over and over, you’ll learn to write a great story. Use the structure to play, to learn, to write business articles, novels. Behind any great piece of writing is this simple structure!”
Passion is the fuel for making things happen. When I say passion, I am talking about emotions and feelings - that touchy/feely inner essence of who we are as humans being!
It’s so true. Even these 406 articles are examples. You don’t read the “once upon a time” and each of the phrases. But, when I’m stuck and the deadline is upon me, that’s the structure I use, and it works!! Who knew?
Find Your Passion
Finding what makes your heart sing and your mind click lies in your willingness to feel and feel deeply. To laugh loud, cry whenever, sing, scream, be afraid and be brave – all these feelings are the fuel for life. No amount of just thinking will ever get you there without that messy under-belly of emotion, e-motion, meaning energy in motion! What is it that shifts your deep feelings into energy in motion or action?
For CrisMarie the color, a blank poster board and stage (she’s an actress) bring her to life. Maybe you aren’t an artist and don’t like a blank canvas. No worries there are many ways to think about your passion, purpose or big picture. I’m different. For me, I start with reflecting on moments and times when I felt my heart sing, my mind click, and my soul left feeling satisfied. I recall recent moments and historical moments that remain loud. I take some time and I breathe into those moments, I write about them, and I share them. Equally important is enjoying listening and discovering those moments that others have collected. All this feeds my imagination and makes it so easy to kick into moving that emotional energy into imagining, dreaming and scheming for my life ahead. The real key is getting into the energy of passion and possibility: Dreaming, imagining, discovering what is out there beyond making money, pleasing others, and your day-to-day responsibilities.
Make A Plan
I hate planning, so this is not my favorite stage of the cycle. However, what I know to be true is that with structure I do much better at reaching my big dreams. I play well when I have some clarity about the basic parameters of the playing field and create steps that are realistic to move me forward. I really got the importance of structure when I started writing.
What’s Working?
Brainstorm all the things that are going well for you, making you feel good and helping you move forward?
What’s Not Working?
Brainstorm all the things that are not going forward, don’t feel good and obstacles for you accomplishing your goals
What Needs To Change?
Brainstorm what you want to do differently, what support you need to feel better and move forward or simply let that goal go at least for now
Reset and refresh as needed.
So when planning, break it down: think beginning, middle and end. Don’t try to plan the whole year. Think about short engaging storylines. Think what is most important right now, this quarter or this week.
Most times it’s not about the plan but how you refuel, recover and reconnect back to your passion and it’s importance.
Tell your story for quarter one, quarter two, quarter three, and bring it home strong for that last run!
Working with a Real Example
Once you have the story lines, look and ask your three questions: · What are three steps that will get me moving? (Beginning) · What support/resources will help me stay on track? (Middle) · What will I do to celebrate? (End)
Participate
Now you are ready for the fun part! Making your big move! Let’s face it, many of us start strong, and are all-in and fully committed. However, it isn’t easy to maintain that pace over 365 days. Staying on course takes discipline, effort, courage and heart. To be successful you’ll need to have regular check points. When you take the time to check in, you will need to be really honest with yourself. I know for me I need feedback. Straight, honest reflection from key people I know won’t holdback if I am so busy weaving and distracting that I have gone way off my intended plan. So check in with the structure and storyline on a regular basis, weekly, monthly, quarterly and see if you are still fully committed. If not, step back, get a piece of paper and ask three questions and brainstorm the answers.
It’s a cycle that repeats as you go.
Sometimes you may have a goal, like making more money. Because last year you went into debt and you had to pull from savings (okay that was my year). So you put piggybacks and large checks on your vision board to spur you on toward ensuring you get out of the red. Well, I don’t know about you, but the whole, “I-want-to-get-out-of –debt” goal offers very little inspired action or fuel for the year ahead! It’s the most common goal we hear in the business world. If it is all about the numbers there is no heart in it and just isn’t going to make the trip around the sun fun! Here’s how I tackled it this year. I started writing and asked myself, “Why do I want a better financial year?” Because I love the freedom in my life I get from having my own business. Because I want to have the means to offer programs to people who can’t pay, but I can only do that if I am doing okay myself. Because I really do believe what we do is valuable, and if I want people to sign up, I have to do the work, market and let people know – we’re here, we know how to help you and here’s the value you’ll get! Because I want to be able to get another ski pass and take a vacation with friends. Because I want to be able to freely write a check to what matters most to me each month and give back to my awesome community
Now I am beginning to get inspired and making money seems like fun. Passion achieved!
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Next up Plan: What can help me make more money?
I love teaching and coaching, speaking, writing and working with teams. My heart sings and my brain clicks. But if I want to do that, I have to market more and get in front of people.
·Set up structures like weekly meetings with other team members (or family) to keep you on track. ·Each day take five to ten minutes to connect to what’s most important for you to complete today.
I hate marketing and selling but with the As I said earlier I’m immediate. So any day’s right fuel, I get it and I become excited and happenings can take me completely off my start to make things happen. course and everything goes out the window. with this article, I got all the way to Beginning: I start to brainstorm how I can Even the end and heard there was fresh powder market in a way that works for me on the mountain. I was just about out the door when I remembered – finish strong!
·Map out a three-month marketing plan (short hop) for my new online program ·Increase my exposure through blogging, articles, and Facebook (love these)
Plus, I travel to work with teams and lead Come Alive and Couples Alive at The Haven. So any regular rhythm is obliterated with travel and new experiences. Admittedly, this is my weakest link. Thank goodness, this is where CrisMarie is a master! So she’s helping me.
·Be consistent with my message helping This year, I have myself a Day Designer! Each week I look at what my quarterly goals people get unstuck (challenging) are and figure out what I need to get done ·Pick up the pace closer to the program launch date
Middle: What support and resources do I have:
·My thrive! Team, CrisMarie, Rachel Starr and Codi Quick ·Friends who like and share my posts, blogs and articles ·Colleagues who know my work and will refer people
End: How will I celebrate? When I’m doing what I need to, I will:
to move those forward. Each morning, I brainstorm a list of what’s important while I schedule my day, and then pick my top three.
Plus, I have set up a structure with my team to pull me back when I get off track. CrisMarie and I have Monday meetings where we review our quarterly goals and figure out our joint to-dos. Plus, we have weekly meetings with our team on Tuesdays to figure out who needs to do what. Finally, I know I’ll get distracted, go offroad. So I accept that about me. I’ll get there soon enough. As a result of a little more effort, a little bit of editing, the bigger picture for 2017 and my trip around the sun will be much more fun!!
·Take a morning off to ski (winter) or play golf (summer) ·After a webinar or talk, go out to dinner at our favorite restaurant, Wasabi’s in Whitefish ·In the end if we hit our target, plan our vacation Okay now I am liking the structure and I am ready for action! Now, for the third step in the formula where the rubber meets the road.
Participating
This is the day-to-day making it happen. So often we plan but don’t take the daily little bits of action that’ll get us there. Again structure here is helpful – short, medium and long-term.
·With your goals, check in weekly to see how you’re progressing or if there is something that’s completely fallen off your radar.
CrisMarie Campbell and Susan Clarke are Life Coaches and Business Consultants. They work with professional women, leaders and teams and couples in business.. Their focus is on improving relationships and getting clear on what you want to create. Check out their individual programs BUILD YOUR MOJO and BE BRAVE at www.thriveinc. com under Services. They’re also offering an in-person 3 day retreat FIND YOUR MOJO IN MONTANA this May. Watch their TEDx Talk: Conflict – Use It, Don’t Defuse It! on YouTube. Contact them to consult with your business, coach you, or speak at your next event at thrive@thriveinc.com.
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Martha Ruiz I Want Her Job:
of PricewaterhouseCoopers, Oscars Balloting Co-Leader By Brianne B. Perleberg
This article originally appeared on IWantHerJob.com.
While you’re sitting down to read this interview between work emails and cups of coffee, Martha Ruiz is in Southern California memorizing the names of this year’s Academy Award winners. Along with her Oscars balloting co-leader, Brian Cullinan, the two will be the only souls who will know the answer to the fill-in-theblank statement: And the award goes to … This is Martha’s third year in the prestigious position at PricewaterhouseCoopers, the well-known audit and assurance, consulting and tax services firm, which has had a relationship with the Academy for 89 years. She’s the second woman and first Latina woman to have this role. Now, with two Oscars ceremonies under her belt, Martha is prepping to represent the firm again this year for the prestigious engagement.
“It goes without saying that it’s a privilege,” Martha says. “When I think about the small group of partners we’ve had in this role – only 13 others during the 83 years we’ve been doing the tabulation process, that’s a pretty small group. It’s exciting to be one of the partners that has this responsibility.”
Read on to hear more about the Oscar's balloting process, how Martha has risen through the ranks at PwC and more on that famous briefcase she'll carry to the awards show in February.
What was your first job out of college?
PwC was actually my first career job! I did have an accounting job when I was going through school for my undergrad. Once I graduated I studied for my CPA exam as I knew I wanted to work in accounting. I wanted to join firms and make sure I had my credentials, which is that second part once you obtain your accounting degree.
I got through the exam, and wanted to join of the Big 6 firms at the time – PwC being one of them. But, I then realized I wanted to go to grad school and at that point became a full-time student. I focused my interest in specializing in tax. Once I wrapped up graduate school I interviewed with all the big firms and decided to go with PwC. I’ve now been with the Firm for 19 years.
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What are some of the career steps you took that led to your current position as the Oscars balloting co-leader? It’s a combination of things, and there might be some luck thrown in there, too! But kidding aside, my client base is in entertainment and media. I work within “the industry” because many of my clients are entertainment and media clients. So, having that as a backdrop, I clearly knew PricewaterhouseCoopers did work for the Academy. I became involved in some of the tax work for the Academy and through that relationships were built with the organization. Some of the partners I worked with who mentored me, made recommendations when there was an opportunity to have someone join the Oscars balloting team.
I joined the team about 13 years ago and was able to prove myself and demonstrate the things we need for this engagement with one of our marquee clients. We’ve had a relationship with the Academy for 88 years as their audit firm, and we’ve been doing the balloting for the past 82 years.
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MARTHA RUIZ
Personally, I think it’s a privilege to be asked to take on this role – period. But, certainly representing the firm as a female, and as a Latina, is great. It demonstrates the inclusion of PwC. The company is about providing diverse experiences, about incorporating and including everyone, and this is no exception. With all this in mind, we make sure there is a focus on this relationship and our confidentiality, as well as what it stands for and the tradition. All of these things – the discretion, the confidentiality, the integrity, the process – has a high degree of responsibility. For as much as we know, there is virtually nothing we can say about it, and we know that.
What did it mean to you to be the first Latina woman to hold this job? Personally, I think it’s a privilege to be asked to take on this role – period. But, certainly representing the firm as a female, and as a Latina, is great. It demonstrates the inclusion of PwC. The company is about providing diverse experiences, about incorporating and including everyone, and this is no exception. It’s an exciting moment that I’m privileged to be a part of. It’s a significant role, and one that I don’t take lightly.
What is it like to work at PricewaterhouseCoopers? What is the culture like?
The average age for our firm is 27 years old. We definitely have a young group of really bright, passionate people who you can tell are very energetic about what they do. I’ve been here for several years, and I’ve seen various degrees of generations come in, and each brings something new – different views and perspectives. I’m privileged to be a part of an organization that focuses on that – bringing the best and the brightest.
Do you have other clients in addition to the Academy, or do they have your full-time focus?
Someone asked me just yesterday what the week is going to look like as we head closer to the day of the show. I walked through a series of events that will take place, but then I had to interject and say, “Well, we also have some additional client work.” So yes, I do! I spend a lot of time on this engagement, but I do have other client commitments, and I equally spend my time with them. It’s different work;
my focus is taxes, so I do a lot of consulting and planning in the entertainment and media space. The Academy is a client that right now is what I’ll call my “day job” for a second. It takes me out of our tax technical world, and it allows me to kind of do things in a different way.
The fascinating part is when I realize in the days leading up to the show that myself, and my co-leader, Brian, will be the only two who ultimately know something that the whole world is waiting to find out. I won’t lie; that was a fascinating phase in the process last year when I did it for the first time.
What is a typical ‘day in your life’ as you’re prepping for the Oscars? What does the process involve?
It’s an interesting process. Members can vote until 5 p.m. Tuesday prior to the Oscars. Once the polls close, Brian and myself will begin the counting process. Then, beginning Wednesday Brian and I will start with a category, find out who the winner will be for that category, and then we begin memorizing who those individuals are and what their achievements are for their specific category. Once we reach the end of the week, we’ve completed the entire process. At this point, we sit down and make sure we have the entire winner list memorized. We don’t write anything down. There are no flashcards. We want to make sure we keep everything clean and confirmed. At some point on Friday we will begin quizzing each other. And that may even lead into Saturday, depending on how timing goes. At that point, an interesting step takes place.
People will often say, “You know you need to have the envelopes and cards prepared, so surely the printer who creates the cards must know who the winners are.” But, what many people don’t know is that there is a printer who creates the cards and the envelopes with really nice paper, but what they actually print out is a card for each of the nominees. So, when we get to the end of the week, Brian and I have completed our count and
memorization, and we will then start selecting the right card and will include that card in the envelope. We then officially seal the envelope, and when we’re done we have 24 envelopes that are ready to go on Sunday!
We read that you and Brian actually take separate vehicles with the locked briefcases and then take separate routes to get to the award show. Is this correct?
That’s right. We each have someone from the LAPD who will escort us, take us to our undisclosed location that will have the envelopes and briefcases safeguarded in the safe locked up. Security will ensure that they are protecting the briefcase. The security isn’t necessarily to protect us, per say, but rather the briefcase with its envelopes inside. Their job is to assure they get to the show.
Once we head to the theater, Brian and I will be in separate cars with our security taking separate routes. That is to ensure that if something were to happen to one person – or even if traffic is encountered by one person – the other person can still get there and arrive on time.
When you arrive on site, do you get the opportunity to walk the red carpet?
We do. We actually arrive at the same location everybody else does and with our briefcase in our hands. Contrary to what many people think, they are not handcuffed to our hands! We carry them, and we have our security right next to us watching it at all times. The opportunity to walk the red carpet is very surreal. It’s an exciting opportunity, fun to watch and be a part of, and I like experiencing it from a different lens – being there in person.
What is your role during the ceremony?
The briefcases with the envelopes inside are in our hands at all times. Brian and I each have a complete set of the 24 envelopes. During the ceremony I am positioned on one side of the stage, and Brian is on the other. Depending on who the presenters are and on what side they are coming out of to walk on stage, we take care to deliver the right envelopes to them.
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MARTHA RUIZ
It requires you to stay focused on what category is next, what presenter is coming in from your side, and then you double and triple check. Redundancy is not a problem for us when we’re back there. It’s better to duplicate and make sure everything goes off without a hitch.
As someone who has worked on a team and risen through the ranks at the Firm, what skills would you advise our readers to hone to be a kind of employee that a boss wants to promote and place on their team? That’s a great question.
As I think about many of our students that are coming in and starting their first year with PwC – or even interning here – I notice those who are very passionate about what they do and who are bold enough to express that. I look for someone who has that energy and that drive to want to do things – as big or as small as they may be. Having that energy goes a long way; it’s contagious. You want people like that on your team.
This whole concept of work/life balance has been talked about so much in the media. Do you believe in it? I definitely believe in work/life balance, and I think it means something different for every individual. For me, I realize that it can’t all happen at the same time. I recognize the peaks and valleys with my time, and I mentally prepare myself. I have two kids and a family. I work to keep that communication open with them. They realize the peak times too, and through those times we work together to kind of create our own sense of communication about how we are going to be dealing with things that are going on as a family, in school, etc. When work isn’t so busy, I try to take advantage of spending time at home. I take some time off with family. I try to take two different vacations a year – one with my kids and one without my kids for just my husband and I. It’s a way to recharge It’s a delicate balance.
Your kids must be so proud of you! They’re at a fun age. I have an 11-yearold and a 7-year-old. They definitely
know what I do for work. If we go to watch a movie, I’ll tell her, “Mommy does work for this client.” They have that frame of reference.
A couple of years ago there was a conference I was going to speak that was being held at the Disneyland Resort. I decided to make a weekend out of it, and my husband and I thought it would be fun to surprise the kids. So, I told them, “Mom has to work this weekend, but I was thinking maybe you guys may want to come with me.” They were glad to go, so we took them along. When we arrived and they saw we were at Disneyland, my youngest daughter said, “Wow, Mom! You work at a roller coaster? Wow!” And I said, “Ya, you might say my work is a roller coaster at Disneyland.” It was the funniest thing, and it makes me laugh to this day. The way she phrased it was like, “Wow, if you’re coming home late from work it’s because you were on a roller coaster at Disneyland!” It helped me put things in perspective. When you have kids, if you can share what you do at work at their level, then it’s fun because they get engaged and say the funniest things! If helps you appreciate that, in their own way, they’re listening and watching you and staying connected with what’s going on with you – and vice-versa.
Any hints on who you’re wearing, or is that sealed in a locked box? That’s sealed in a locked box, too!
Brianne B. Perleberg
a born-and-raised Montanan, is the founder of I Want Her Job, an award-winning website empowering women in their career search. She also is senior consumer marketing manager at NASCAR track Phoenix International Raceway. You can follow her on Twitter @ iwantherjob and read more interviews like this on iwantherjob.com.
Now what? Is It Time to Update Your Estate Plan?
Estate Planning in Times of Uncertainty By Kelly O’Brien, Attorney at Law
Since the election of a new president, there has been a lot of uncertainty and speculation regarding his new policies and plans. Many of my estate planning clients have asked me if they should make changes or updates to their estate plan to account for (or otherwise react to) Trump’s potential plans for changes to the federal estate and gift tax programs. While some of the new administration’s proposed changes are quite severe in other areas of the law, much remains to be seen with regard to changes to the federal estate and gift tax code. Review & Update Your Estate Plan if Your Life Changes
In general, I advise my clients to review and make necessary updates to their estate plans after a major change in life circumstances or in the event of a major change to the federal or state estate tax code. Major life changes requiring an update to an estate plan include events like the birth or death of a close family member; a move to a different state or country; the incapacity of a spouse; a divorce or remarriage; or any other major change in asset values.
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“Wait and See”
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not necessarily recommend updating your estate plan based on a change in political climate until we understand more about the changes that will actually be implemented. While there is a lot of speculation as to the changes the Trump administration may make to the federal estate and gift tax exemption amounts, the next phase for federal estate and gift tax remains to be seen. This lack of certainty presents a unique challenge for those individuals and families concerned with potential federal estate and gift tax issues. Ultimately, the best advice I can give to my estate planning clients is let’s “wait and see.” However, certain clients may want to take advantage of the current estate and gift tax rules before major changes are enacted.
What is the Estate & Gift Tax? And How Might It Apply (or Not Apply) To You? While under the current tax code, only a small percentage of the population may actually be subject to the estate or gift tax. Nonetheless, it is important to understand the basics of the estate and gift tax. Estate tax, which is often called inheritance tax or “death tax,” is a tax on the overall estate of an individual upon his or her death. The Internal Revenue Service defines estate tax as the “tax on your right to transfer property at your death. It consists of an accounting of everything you own or have certain interests in at the date of death.” (See http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&Self-Employed/Estate-Tax). Essentially, estate tax
is the tax that surviving family members pay on the inheritance they receive. Gift tax is similar, but it is the tax paid on the gifts transferred during one’s lifetime. Current law provides a federal estate tax exemption of $5.49 million per individual and $10.98 million per married couple (for a death in 2017). Accordingly, if an individual estate is worth less than $5.49 million, then no estate taxes will be paid. Conversely, for estates with a total value higher than the current exemption amount, any amount above the current limit will be taxed at a rate of thirty-five percent or more depending on the taxable value of the estate. The state of Montana does not have a separate estate or gift tax, but many states do have some estate tax. If you own property outside of Montana, it is important to understand the estate and gift tax rules of that state.
What is Likely to Happen Next? The short answer is that we do not really know. The new administration may present any number of options for updating or revamping federal estate and gift tax code. The current political climate may make it difficult to actually make a major change in a short amount of time, but it is highly likely that there will be changes implemented to the estate and gift tax code. The Trump administration had previously stated an
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ESTATE PLANNING
What the new administration actually does in the coming months is difficult to determine. With that mind, the best approach is to utilize the tax code provisions while planning for the coming years in a manner that is flexible and accounts for changes in the tax code. intended goal of completely repealing the federal estate tax. If the new administration completely repeals the federal estate tax it, would mean that all estates regardless of the total value of the estate, would be exempt from paying any tax on the transfer of property upon death.
estate. For example, a revocable living trust may provide for credit shelter or bypass trust options with provisions that can adapt if there are changes in the tax code, or the option to “disclaim” assets upon the death of one spouse. These types of trust reduce the need to speculate as to what the estate tax exemption amount may be during any given While the proposed Trump plan calls for the year and provide a great amount of flexibility. repeal of the estate tax, it does attempt to offset There are also certain irrevocable trusts, such as this change by proposing to also change the tax Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts, or Charitable of capital gain on larger estates. Accordingly, the Lead Annuity Trusts, that may be advantageous plan proposes that for larger estates, the heirs and when the estate and gift tax exemption amounts beneficiaries would not get a “step up” in basis in the future are uncertain. for amounts transferred over $10 million. This is significantly different from the current tax code Utilize the Current Gifting Limits which provides that all heirs and beneficiaries Currently, you can gift up to $14,000 per year, of an estate get a “step up” in basis for property per individual, or a total of $5.49 million during transferred upon death, regardless of the value of your lifetime without any gift tax consequences. the estate. Even though the annual gift limit may increase in the coming years, you still may consider making For example, Bob inherited a house from his annual gifts in 2017 while the annual amount is mother. His mother purchased the property for known. If the total lifetime exemption is reduced $250,000. Upon his mother’s death, the property you, will not be able to take advantage of this high was worth $1.25 million. If Bob sold the property level in a later year. If the change in the federal immediately, then he would not have to pay exemption amount is of a concern to you, taking any tax on the capital gain. However, under the advantage of the lifetime giving will help to proposed Trump plan, if the mother’s home were reduce uncertainty and reduce your overall taxes. part of the capital gain in excess of $10 million then $1 million from the sale would be subject to Seek Advice capital gain tax. Again, my current advice is to “wait and see” While there may not be a complete repeal of the what changes will be implemented in the federal estate or gift tax in the next year, this may be the estate and gift tax code. If the total value of your most likely scenario. With this in mind, those estate is less than $5.49 million (or $10.89 for high-value estates owning highly appreciated a married couple), there is no need to make any property will want to consider the potential changes to your estate plan unless your life has changed dramatically in recent years. Even if the impact of a change to the capital gain tax. total value of your estate is likely to exceed $5.49 million, you may not need to do anything further How Do You Effectively Plan in until the changes are set.
Times of Uncertainty? Plan with Flexibility
With the uncertainty for what is next for the federal tax code, the key to any effective estate plan is flexibility, and regular review of your plan with your advisors. Because some of the current strategies may no longer be available next year, make sure to speak with your attorney, CPA, financial planner, and other tax advisors as soon as possible to ensure you are making the most of your estate plan and gifting strategies.
What the new administration actually does in the coming months is difficult to determine. With that mind, the best approach is to utilize the tax code provisions while planning for the coming years in a manner that is flexible and accounts for changes in the tax code. Talk to your attorney, accounts, financial planner, or other tax advisors about your specific situation, and review your estate plan to ensure that it adequately accounts Contact Kelly O’Brien at Measure, Sampsel, Sullivan & O’Brien, P.C. at (406) 752-6373/ www.measurelaw.com for uncertainty.
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For larger estates, you may want to consider This article is intended for educational and information different trusts that can provide flexibility for your purposes only, it is not intended to act as legal advice.
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A Different Kind of Fight Club By Julie Brempelis Photo by Daley McDaniel Photography
Niam Moody and her mother, Lori, had a fairly typical relationship for a mother and daughter living in different cities. They would keep in touch on the phone occasionally, only to be interrupted by one of life’s happenings like taking the kids to school, running errands, or sitting down to dinner with the family. In these moments, Lori said she would always tell her daughter, “OK, talk later. Call me back!” And like many busy moms raising two sons, Niam admits she almost never would call back until the next time another catch-up session came around. That all changed in August of 2015. Niam called her mother, but it was not to give an update on the kids. It was not to check in with her parents to hear about their recent road trip adventures. It was to share some harrowing news. She had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Within three days, Lori was back in Kalispell by her daughter’s side. What came over the next months was Niam’s fight. It started with major surgery, then chemotherapy treatments, and then radiation. “Life is taken away from you for a while,” Niam explains of her time during treatment.
One of the only constants during this time was Lori; present at every appointment, there to cry with Niam if she wanted to cry, or there to laugh if she wanted to laugh. The two describe some of the good days during treatment when they’d get in the car and just drive. “We’d roll down the windows and belt out songs on the radio, and just drive to drive,” Lori says. Good days during treatment became less and less of an occurrence, so spending them together was worth every minute.
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As Niam’s fight continued, her days got tougher, and she says it was hard to maintain hope that
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treatment was worth the fight. Effort and energy were difficult to muster. That’s when Lori found out about the Cancer Support Community (CSC) and met with its Community Outreach Coordinator, Jennifer Young. Jennifer explained that the CSC provides an encouraging place for everyone affected by cancer to come together in support sessions, activities and events, all free of charge. The next activity was a group knitting session in town. Even though Niam was not well at this point, she was determined to get out there, drawing strength from the small piece of hope she had left.
Lori accompanied Niam to the knitting session to provide support as she had every step of the way. Niam describes the session as very therapeutic, and as a turning point in her journey. “Getting the opportunity to see young women on the other side of cancer was something powerful,” she says of that first knitting session. She was able to peer out of her hurting mind and body, and allow hope to flow back into her life where it had too recently been retreating. Niam and Lori continued to participate in activities with CSC, including an outing called Mending in the Mountains. For this retreat,
women affected by cancer spend time together in Big Sky, Montana to relax, build friendships, support each other and heal together. Since Niam and Lori had become regular attendees of activities and events at the newly opened CSC house in Kalispell, there were many familiar faces at the retreat. Lori remembers a certain moment when all the women got up and danced together to the band playing for them that night. “It was a night of celebration. No one even mentioned the word ‘cancer’,” she said.
The feeling of community was overwhelming for the group of women. Niam fondly recalls, “It was refreshing to get away to the quiet forest and crisp mountain air for a few days and be surrounded by strong, positive, healing women in all stages of their own cancer journey.” She emotionally adds how wonderful the moment of dancing together was. “No one knew each other’s job, their status; nothing like that mattered. We were all there just healing together.”
Heal is exactly what Niam did. After surgery, 16 chemotherapy treatments and eight weeks of radiation, on April 15, 2016, Niam was cancer free.
Photo of Niam and her Mother Lori. Photo Courtesy of Niam Moody.
The feeling of community was overwhelming for the group of women. Niam fondly recalls, “It was refreshing to get away to the quiet forest and crisp mountain air for a few days and be surrounded by strong, positive, healing women in all stages of their own cancer journey.” One day after Niam finished treatment, a few CSC participants were participating in a race through downtown Kalispell. Niam joined her friends, as she was now feeling better and on the other side of cancer. The CSC group walked the course and all completed the race. “I was the last one to cross the finish line, but everyone from CSC waited and cheered me on as I crossed over the line,” Niam explains with a laugh.
Niam continues to reflect that support to other people participating in CSC activities. “I want to be that woman who is on the other side of cancer and give others hope,” she says. Her message for others going through their cancer journey is simple: “Cancer does not have to be a death sentence. Hang on to your hope,” she concludes.
Lori’s unwavering support gave Niam hope at the lowest of times, and brought the two closer than Her feelings of accomplishment, re- ever. “The entire journey was a lief and community with her friends bonding experience a mother never and family must have been beaming wants to go through,” Lori explains. across her face. Niam remembers A terrifying diagnosis resulted in a running into Jennifer from CSC at relationship between mother and the race, who took one look at Niam daughter that has never been betand said, “You’re done, aren’t you?” ter. Throughout the unexpected Done she was. Done with the race. journey, they both found strength Done with treatments. Done with neither of them knew they had. cancer. While reflecting back on some of Niam had won her fight. the dark times gone by, Niam says, The constant support of CSC and its “There were times I wasn’t very participants made an enormous dif- strong.” Her mother immediately ference through all the stages of her replies, “I disagree with you, honey. cancer. Now that she is cancer free, You’re the strongest woman I know.”
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The Barre Class By Delia Buckmaster, PMA®-CPT and bootybarre® Master Trainer
Barre classes have gained a strong popularity over the last few years. As a Pilates teacher, the promise of long graceful muscles and good posture was intriguing. It seems as though there are hundreds of barre methods, so I set forth to find a program with the perfect fit for the studio. Seven years later, our grippy-sock devotees have become addicts and completely satisfied with their results. Why? 1. It’s an effective kick-butt workout 2. It’s available almost anywhere so you are sure not to miss a workout (even in Whitefish). 3. It’s high intensity with less of an intimidation factor as other workouts. Dancing at the barre can be as fun as dancing at the bar but healthier. 4. There’s a ton of variety and programming so you are less likely to get bored. 5. Barre students become barre teachers for a reason. The positive vibes you get from a good barre class are unmatched! Bottom line? Expect strength and definition, endurance, flexibility, posture, and mind-body connection. Here are a few of my favorite booty barre ® exercises to try at home. A fixed ballet barre is best but you can also use a stable surface like a kitchen counter or porch railing.
Grande Battement with Attitude Legs are externally rotated at the hip with outside foot behind the body resting on toe. One hand is on barre and the other on the hip. Brush your foot along the floor and lift your leg forward as high as your flexibility with allow with a slight bend in the knee.
Knee Bend to Side
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Elbow is bent with forearm resting on the barre with outside leg parallel to the side of the body. Place other hand on hip for stability. Bend the knee in front of the torso with the thigh and shin parallel to the floor. Extend the leg back to side, keeping leg parallel.
Knee Bends
Arms shoulder width apart, spine straight, legs are together and bent. Heels can be on floor or lift to the balls of the feet as shown. Bend your knees to lower down, aiming for your thighs to be parallel to the floor.
health} Ball Hip Extension
Elbows bent resting on the barre with your forehead resting on your forearms. Hips facing forward, legs bent, feet parallel. Ball placed behind the knee. Lift the knee and aim for the height of your hip moving the leg up and down.
T-Arabesque:
Arms are shoulder width apart and upper body is square to the floor. Feet are in first position in line with the knees and hips. Point the leg behind the body. Lift the leg to hip height keeping hips square.
Mermaid Stretch
Sitting with legs bent stacked on top of each other. One hand on the ball, the other hand by your side. Reach the gesture arm towards the ceiling while simultaneously rolling ball away, looking towards the reaching arm.
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Surprising Ways a Hospital Pharmacy Supports Patients By Allison Linville
“Where medicine safety is concerned, we are the last stop to check all of the information. It’s surprising, really, how much impact hospital pharmacists have on the overall patient experience,” said Darlene Bestwick, a North Valley Hospital Pharmacist. She gives an overview about the pharmacist’s role in the patient experience, which includes understanding other medications the patient is on, confirming dosage is correct, checking for drug interactions, and communicating with doctors and nurses about the patient’s condition. “We have to build up the entire picture of what is going on with the patient and the medicine,” she continued. “We’re a critical step in medicine and patient safety. We can prevent errors by being exact and double- and triple-checking everything.” “It’s like night and day, which people may not realize,” explains North Valley Hospital Pharmacist Andrew Matulionis about the difference between a hospital pharmacy and a retail pharmacy. “The day-to-day job description is very different.” While the pharmacy at North Valley Hospital isn’t open to the public for prescriptions the same way that retail pharmacies are, the amount of patient support offered by the pharmacy is a notable – and often overlooked – part of the hospital experience.
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“People are used to pharmacists filling prescriptions, but that’s really not as much of the job here,” Kyle Bitney, another North Valley Hospital Pharmacist, says. “Here at the hospital, we’re getting lab information, looking into things like their kidney function and overall disease state. We are talking directly with the patient, the nurses and the doctors. We’ll communicate with physicians to discuss what medicine and dosage is right for the individual patient. It’s a very individualized process, and we focus closely on each patient even though they may not know it because pharmacy work is so behind the scenes.” Pharmacists at North Valley Hospital are more involved on an individual level than they would be at a larger hospital, which all the pharmacists appreciate. The NVH pharmacists also say they are a sort of jack of all trades at the hospital. “At a small hospital like North Valley, we have to be able to manage a multitude of pharmacy skills, often overseeing them at one time. It takes extreme focus and accuracy, and we pride ourselves on that,” says Matulionis. He continues, “It’s a humbling field, because you primarily have to know what your reference sources are and how to access them quickly. There is an enormous amount of information that we use daily.” For example, Bitney detailed a recent instance of the pharmacy’s role in patient safety. “Just today, we had an allergy to an anesthetic in surgery. The technologists contacted me about an alternate medicine, and I
worked to find something that wouldn’t cross-react. It was rewarding to get an answer to them having used multiple information sources to confirm it was correct.” The pharmacists all enjoy the work they do to ensure patient safety at the hospital. If they have one suggestion for anyone who takes medications, it’s to know your medications. “You would be amazed at the number of people that don’t know what medicine they are on, what dosage, or what it is for,” says Bestwick. “Knowing your medications is the best thing you can do to help yourself, and bring that knowledge with you.” Bitney, Bestwick and Matulionis all agree that it is very helpful for speedy care to keep a list of medications in your wallet with the dosage and the purpose.
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Pelvic Organ Prolapse By Dr. Kasavana
Pelvic organ prolapse, or POP, is a medical condition that many women don’t want to talk about, but can be very important for their quality of life. POP is when one or more of the pelvic organs drop from their normal position. It is caused by the relaxing of tissue that provide normal support to the vagina. Approximately 10-percent of women will develop prolapse at some point in their life. This estimate is likely low as many women never seek medical attention because they do not realize there are treatments for POP related conditions.
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There are different types of pelvic organ prolapse, and the term used to describe the site of prolapse helps describe the organ involved. Cystocele is the term for bulging of the top portion of the vaginal wall and is often associated with the descent of the bladder. Rectocele describes prolapse at the bottom of the vagina, often associated with rectal symptoms and problems with bowel movements. Apical prolapse is the term to describe descent of the inside of the vagina through the vaginal opening. Patients with pelvic organ prolapse often have to modify or change their daily activities or avoid certain movements because of this problem. The risk of developing pelvic organ prolapse increases with the patient's age and number of children, especially those delivered vaginally. Obesity or jobs that require strenuous
physical activity such as lifting also increase a patient's risk of POP. Pelvic organ prolapse is usually diagnosed with a pelvic examination in the office, but occasionally other tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan or MRI can help with the diagnosis.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of pelvic organ prolapse is a bulge or mass in the vagina or a sensation that something is falling out of the vagina. Patients often notice pressure or fullness in their lower belly that gets worse as the day progresses. Other symptoms include bladder problems like leaking urine when coughing, laughing or sneezing, or the sensation of having to urinate constantly. Patients may also have problems with bowel movements or issues with
health} constipation. Some women, when going to the bathroom, need to press on the bulge before they can urinate or have a bowel movement.
Treatment
The good news is there is treatment for most women with pelvic organ prolapse! POP treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and identification of which pelvic organs have prolapsed. Nonsurgical treatments include pelvic strengthening exercises and hormonal therapy. Pelvic exercises are aimed to strengthen the muscles that control urine flow and bowel movements. These are called “Kegel exercises,� and a doctor or nurse can instruct the patient how to perform the exercises. A more advanced treatment for mild prolapse involves a physical therapist prescribing an exercise routine aimed at strengthening the pelvic muscles. Occasionally topical estrogen cream may be prescribed to help strengthen the vaginal tissue in postmenopausal women. Another nonsurgical treatment for POP is with a pessary. A pessary is a device that fits inside the vagina to help push the bulge back into place and hold it there. Pessaries come in different shapes and sizes and are individually fitted during an office visit. They are a viable option for patients who cannot tolerate or elect not to have surgery. Surgical treatment for pelvic organ prolapse involves moving the prolapsed organ back to its
proper anatomic location and strengthening the tissues that hold it in place. There are a variety of treatment options available. Traditionally surgeries were only done with large, open incisions, but modern surgical advances allow most patients to be treated with smaller incisions utilizing minimally invasive techniques. These treatments allow the patient less blood loss, less pain, and a quicker recovery time. An additional procedure for pelvic prolapse is called a sacrocolpopexy. During this surgical procedure, a surgical mesh is used to return the affected pelvic organs to their natural position. The mesh remains in place permanently and often resolves the patient's symptoms. Sacrocolpopexy is often considered the best way to correct pelvic prolapse, resolve symptoms, and provide long-term support for the vagina. Pelvic organ prolapse is a medical condition that can have a profound impact on a patient’s lifestyle and body image. The good news is most of these conditions can be treated, so contact your gynecologist today! Dr. Kasavana is a daVinci trained minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon with a special interest in treating patients with pelvic organ prolapse including robotic sacrocolpopexy. He is currently seeing patients at Kalispell OB GYN and in Eureka at Eureka Health Prompt Care. Call to schedule an appointment!
The good news is there is treatment for most women with pelvic organ prolapse! POP treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and identification of which pelvic organs have prolapsed.
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ask the skin coach
By Erin Blair, Licensed Esthetician + Certified Health Coach
Do I need sunblock in winter?
Q:
I’ve heard that I should wear sunblock every day, even if the sun isn’t shining. It really doesn’t make sense to me to wear an extra layer of product when I’m really in no danger of sunburn. What’s the rationale behind this? If the purpose of sunscreen is to prevent burning, is it really necessary when it’s cloudy or raining?
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A:
Yours is a common question I hear in my skincare practice, so I find myself explaining this daily. Most people have the same mindset as you, and since sunny days outside summer months are rare in our Northern Montana climate, they are putting their skin in harm’s way most of the year.
intensity during all daylight hours throughout the year, and can penetrate clouds and glass.
There are varying wavelengths of ultraviolet radiation, or UVR. Of these, UVB was long thought to be the greater threat to skin health, as it is responsible for burning. However, it’s now understood that the deeper-penetrating UVA is also to blame for aging, pigmentation, and may even initiate cancer. UVA penetrates clouds, glass, and is equally strong all day. This, from skincancer. org helps explain:
UVA, which penetrates the skin more deeply than UVB, has long been known to play a major part in skin aging and wrinkling (photo aging). But until recently, scientists believed it did not cause significant damage in areas of the epidermis (outermost skin layer) where most skin cancers occur. However, studies over the past two decades show that UVA damages skin cells called keratinocytes in the basal layer of the epidermis where most skin cancers occur. (Basal and squamous cells are types of keratinocytes). UVA contributes to, and may even initiate, the development of skin cancers.
Most of us are exposed to large amounts of UVA throughout our lifetime. UVA rays account for up to 95-percent of the UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface. Although they are less intense than UVB, UVA rays are 30 to 50 times more prevalent. They are present with relatively equal
UVA is the dominant tanning ray. And, we now know that tanning, whether outdoors or in a salon, causes cumulative damage over time. A tan results from injury to the skin's DNA; the skin darkens in an imperfect attempt to prevent further DNA damage. These imperfections, or mutations, can lead to skin cancer.
UVA
health} Tanning booths primarily emit UVA. The high-pressure sunlamps used in tanning salons emit doses of UVA as much as 12 times that of the sun. Not surprisingly, people who use tanning salons are 2.5 times more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma, and 1.5 times more likely to develop basal cell carcinoma. According to recent research, first exposure to tanning beds in youth increases melanoma risk by 75 percent.
UVB
UVB, the chief cause of skin reddening and sunburn, tends to damage the skin's more superficial epidermal layers. It plays a key role in the development of skin cancer and a contributory role in tanning and photo aging. Its intensity varies by season, location, and time of day. The most significant amount of UVB hits the U.S. between 10 AM and 4 PM from April to October. However, UVB rays can burn and damage your skin year-round, especially at high altitudes and on reflective surfaces such as snow or ice, which bounce back up to 80-percent of the rays so that they hit the skin twice. UVB rays do not significantly penetrate glass. 1
The moral of the story? Aging and cancer-causing radiation is always a threat and must be prevented by daily use of a broad spectrum (which protects against both UVA and UVB) sunblock of at least SPF 30, every day, rain or shine. 1
http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/uva-and-uvb
Erin Blair, LE CHC owns Skin
Therapy Studio, where she embraces a creative method of treatments, products and coaching to get skin clear... and keep it that way. It's a 'whole person' approach to difficult skin concerns. Visit SkinTherapyStudio.com for more info, and to submit questions for Ask the Skin Coach.
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FOR YOUR HEALTH…
RECOMMENDED WOMEN’S HEALTH SCREENINGS Practicing preventive health throughout a woman’s lifetime is vital in preventing unwanted health issues and incurable chronic diseases. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), made up of primary care providers across the country, suggest evidence based recommendations for female health screenings for women ages 18-65.
·Women ages 25-49 should get tested if they have new or multiple sexual partners or are pregnant ·Women ages 50-65 should continue to get tested for chlamydia if they are sexually active and at increased risk (multiple partners)
Consult with your healthcare provider as screening requirements or frequency may differ based on your personal health history. Below are the most recently recommended USPSTF screening guidelines for blood pressure, cholesterol, chlamydia and cervical, breast and colorectal cancers.
Cervical cancer screenings are recommended to identify changes in the cervix and cancer risk. Current screening guidelines for women ages 21-64 are as follows:
Blood Pressure tests are recommended to identify hypertension. Below are the current screening guidelines for women ages 18-65:
·Women ages 30-64 are encouraged to schedule a pap and HPV test together every five years
·Schedule a blood pressure test at least every two years if you have normal results (lower than 120/80) or once a year if you have blood pressure between 120/80 and 139/89 ·Discuss treatment options with your health care provider if your blood pressure is 140/90 or higher ·For more information on reading blood pressure results visit www.heart.org
Cholesterol tests are recommended to reduce risk of heart disease. Current screening guidelines recommend:
·Starting at age 20, a cholesterol test every four to six years. If you are at increased risk, consult with your health care provider about a recommended screening timeline
Chlamydia tests are recommended to prevent the spread of chlamydia. Current screening guidelines recommend:
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·Women ages 21-30 should get a pap test every three years
·For women of all ages, a pelvic exam is recommended as part of your annual physical
Breast cancer screenings are recommended to identify any type of abnormality in the breast that could potentially lead to cancer. Current screening guidelines for women ages 40 and up are as follows: ·Women ages 40-44 should start a conversation with their health care provider regarding breast exams and mammograms
·Those ages 45 and up should schedule either annual or bi-annual mammograms based on recommendations from their health care provider
Colon cancer screenings are recommended to identify and remove precancerous polyps or signs of early cancer. Current screening guidelines recommend: ·Starting at age 50, women should schedule an appointment with their health care provider to discuss which type of colon screening test is best
The USPSTF provides these recommendations for all women, however it is important to consult with your health care provider to ensure you are meeting your personal screening needs. The Flathead Community Health Center offers a variety of screening services and consultation. To schedule an appointment with a provider to discuss recommended preventive screenings call 406-751-8110.
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Do You Think You Are Healthy? By Dr. C. Claude Basler, DC, Basler Family Chiropractic
Do you think you are healthy? This might be a very open-ended question, yet the question remains? Just because you might “Feel Good” or “Look Good” does not constitute that you are healthy. The fact is that our current model of health that we tend to abide by in the United States is not really about health. A solid majority of our pre-conceived notions of what health is and what it isn’t is beyond a doubt…flawed. Take for instance the entire purpose of the word “Medicine Cabinet.”
Why
on earth would anyone want to have a medicine cabinet? The entire notion of taking a pill, potion, lotion, or something else is not the foundation of health. By routinely taking a medication you are suppressing your bodies innate ability to heal.
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Let’s look at the current model of health. The U.S. is ranked 79th out of 81 in industrialized countries for “Total Health Index” (not healthy). There is no medical or science textbook in the world that defines health based on symptoms or how a person feels. In our society, the main objective is to eliminate SYMPTOMS. We take for granted that our quality of life should be our standard. We have this horrible misconception that if we “Feel Good” or “Look Good” we must be healthy. A lot of us seek alternative ways to become healthy via what our society deems appropriate based on social media and television. Health is simple, let’s not overcomplicate it or sully it with false sales. Feeling good is not good enough. For instance, I could feel good yet suffer from Crohn's disease or any sign or symptom for that matter. Yet, I feel good so therefore I am healthy? That is not the case.
The Infomercial:
Examples of possible
THEY FINALLY HAVE A
variables / people we interact with that we might deem healthy.
PRODUCT THAT HAS YOUR NAME ON IT. YOU SHOULD BUY 2!
THE DIET QUEST: The individual switching from diet to diet searching for that long last hidden gem. The Allergens: The amazingly fit person with remarkable six-pack abs, yet is allergic to every substance on earth.
The Detoxed: Performing the detox on a weekly basis.
The Clear Skin:
#fun?
HAVING CLEAR SKIN COMPLEXION WITH LITTLE TO NO WRINKLES
health} While some of these hold merit, and are okay in moderation, how do you know if it is right for you? How is your body going to be able to process all you want it to? Being healthy doesn’t come in the latest diet trend or magic exercise belt. Being healthy comes from within the body. So, what is right for one person is not in theory right for another. What is wrong with some of these different types of scenarios is that we are always thinking that we should alter our body externally first. Subconsciously, we think that we need to take/ add/eliminate something to alter our body. Just think how easy it is to purchase over the counter medication – we have a perception that we should get instant relief/results from a product. Your quality of life to obtain health must be specific and purposeful for you to obtain results, or else you are bordering insanity. Being healthy is something you strive for every day, it’s hard work and stands alone without external support. To completely understand your quality of health and what it means to be healthy, pay attention to the role of the brain and nerves (central nerve system /CNS). We often think that the brain is used for educational thoughts, writing poetry, and understanding different language’s (complex things). Obviously, those are important, yet first and foremost the responsibility of the CNS is your quality of health. The central nerve system has a primary function in life and that is health maintenance.
Every function of the human body is under the control of the NERVE SYSTEM. Its function is to coordinate all the other organs and structures and to relate the individual to his environment – Gray’s Anatomy Looking to be healthier? Start first and foremost addressing the CNS before you do anything else. If the CNS is free of dysfunction then your life thus will be free of dis-ease, simple. For a healthy and connected CNS allows all tissue cells to flourish upon everything you do in your daily activities positive or negative for your health. Remember tissue cells are the building blocks of life that are constantly being regenerated daily, and are directly controlled via your CNS. Interference with the CNS in the body is always directly or indirectly due to dysfunction in the spinal column. Enter the chiropractor. For a chiropractor does not “give” your body anything nor take anything away (surgery, cutting, stuff like that). The chiropractor removes interference within your spinal column thus establishing 100% physical representation of HEALTH; so anything else you do to assist your body you can properly absorb, process, function, and perform at your optimal potential.
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Nods, Waves, Smiles, & Real-Life Cowboys by Dr. John F. Miller DDS
Edit note: Please enjoy this entertaining column from a few years ago from Dr Miller. He is opening up a second location at 115 Commons Way in Kalispell in March so things have been busy in preparation.
I currently have the active role of Father to four children. Which is another way of saying that I’m being taken to school on a daily basis. It has been, and will continue to be, an education. One might suggest that we are raising each other. I’m going for my PhD in…rearing (I have got to be the only person to say that…like ever). My wife asked if I was going to have “the procedure” done. I told her, “Welp, I have a soft tissue laser, the internet, a foggy grasp of reproductive anatomy, and the farmer’s daughter for a wife…so we can probably do it at home.” The negotiations continue. One of my favorite things about parenting is watching kids learn the rules of society; Social Norms, if you will. I tell my friends who do not have children of their own (on some days I refer to these friends as geniuses) to imagine going out in public with four mouths that you are responsible for, all attached to different brains with varying filter levels. If one or more of those mouths goes rogue, the judgment is on you, not the innocent kid.
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Society has, as it seems, placed a lot of value on a nice smile. Famed social scientist and one of my favorites authors, Malcolm Gladwell, has concluded that our smiles have a definite influence on our social mobility. He explains that bad teeth and obesity are part of “the next wave” of physical discrimination in society. In a nutshell, your smile will greatly influence your personal and professional relationships.
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An important component of any relationship, perhaps the most important, is the very first meeting. Also, known as The First Impression! I conducted my own little experiment for this article and Googled “great first impressions.” In 0.34 seconds 46.6 million options were at my fingertips. But, as any Googler knows, you’re only interested in the first page of organic search results. This first page had 10 results from respected sources such as Forbes, Psychology Today, etc. and all were focused on First Impression instruction. Here is the data from reading all 10 sources: 7 reference having a pleasant smile directly, 2 reference physical appearance without a direct reference to smiling, and one was focused on first impressions over the phone so smiling was not applicable.
It is not lost on me that I’m a dentist and that I have a vested interest in your smiles, but this is one of those “don’t hate the messenger” scenarios. My research also taught me that it takes mere seconds for the first impression to be made, and that the first impression is formed entirely off what are labeled Non-Verbal Cues. Remaining in the context of first impressions, important non-verbal cues include posture, eye contact, dress and grooming, your smile, etc. All of these cues have the good and the not-so-good.
The world has had its fair share of Drama recently. Can I get an Amen? Some of this drama has hit us close to home. I can’t remember a time where our friendly smiles and waves were more needed. health}FIRST IMPRESSIONS It is not lost on me that I’m a dentist and that I have a vested interest in your smiles, but this is one of those “don’t hate the messenger” scenarios. We are told to dress for the job you want, and I hope it’s not too cheesy to say, “Smile for the life you want.” Life is full of challenges. Make sure your smile is one of the solutions and not an obstacle. If left unchecked, poor oral hygiene will reveal itself in your smile. I was told a story once about a leader of a business who would schedule prospective employee interviews during lunch. When the interviewee arrived, he would suggest they conduct the interview over lunch somewhere and asked them to drive. He said the individual’s car could tell him more about the person than what was on their resume. For those who don’t know, we moved here from San Francisco. Now, I don’t mean like near San Francisco in the bay somewhere; I mean right in the city. There is a difference in Social Norms between Frisco and the Flathead, as you can imagine. So, when I brought my 5-year-old daughter to Montana, she was not fascinated by those living an alternative lifestyle. Wild hairdos, flashing clothing, tattoos, hipsters. This is what she was
accustomed to. What really got her excited her first few months in Whitefish were the Cowboys. I was excited about slowing things down and falling back into my natural small town routine. This meant that I would greet my fellow residents with a nod and a smile, or a smile and a wave if we passed on the road. “Who was that Daddy,” I would hear from the back seat. “I don’t know, Nayvee,” I would reply. “Why did you wave to them if you don’t know them,” was her follow up. “That’s just the way we do thing in Montana.” It felt good teaching her that lesson, developing her routine. The world has had its fair share of Drama recently. Can I get an Amen? Some of this drama has hit us close to home. I can’t remember a time where our friendly smiles and waves were more needed. If you need a reason to smile, just remember that you don’t just live free in America; you live in Montana where we still smile and wave to our neighbors and we have real-life Cowboys.
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Changed lives
The Cooper Family By Kristen Hamilton
Ever consider providing foster care to a child in need? Child Bridge has a simple and focused mission...to find and support foster and adoptive families for Montana children in need. There are a record number of Montana children coming into foster care…currently over 3,300! Over time, some of these children may need a permanent family. But the journey begins with fostering first. It’s here, that the simple mission of Child Bridge changes lives. Meet a special mom and her two young adult children who are changing the life of a Missoula child. Tell us about your family:
I’m Shelley Cooper, and I may not be what many of you would expect for a foster mom. I decided to embark on a foster/adoptive journey as a single woman, but with lots of family and friend support. I’m the proud mom of two amazing biological children, and I’ve recently adopted a sweet son from foster care. My daughter Kinzie is 21, currently studying Pre-Radiology at the University of Montana and my son is Chase. He is 19, also a student at U of M, and studying Fire and Rescue.The newest addition to our family is my son Christian. This beautiful and lively boy is 19 months old and was adopted on November 22, 2016. When I’m not spending time with my family, I’m the business manager at Camp Mak-a-Dream. I love what I do there, as we focus on bringing hope to children and families who are affected by cancer. Prior to Camp Mak-a-Dream, I worked for nine years at the Community Medical Center in the Pediatric Specialty Clinic as clinic coordinator. So I’ve had a lot of focus on kids and families who are in difficult situations. I’ve just really had a heart for that kind of work.
Where you live:
We live in beautiful Missoula, Montana.
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playing games as just a family or with close friends who are like extended family to us. We also like to do seasonal activities together such as skiing/ snowboarding, sledding, boating, baseball, going to a hot springs or park. We live in such a beautiful place with so many outdoor options…that’s what we prefer.
What intrigued you about adding to your family with adoption?
Honestly, I just felt called to help children have a forever family. Whether its fostering temporarily or adopting, I feel like it’s something I have been called to do. I love it and believe I will continue to care for children who need help…whether it is a temporary safe haven or a more permanent situation. Daughter, Kinzie: “When my mom started fostering, it was something that really changed my outlook on family. Even though I’m a young adult, just bringing other children into our home was a different and eye opening experience for me. When we were given the option to pursue adopting Christian, I definitely was supportive and excited. It seemed like he’d become a natural part of our family already.” Son, Chase: “I always wanted to have a little brother. When Christian was in foster care, I felt like he had become that little brother to me. Over time, I was excited to learn that we could adopt him into our family forever. Even though I felt it for a long time, he’s now officially my little brother!”
How were you introduced to Child Bridge?
Child Bridge presented at my church in Missoula. They shared with the congregation about the shortage of foster and adoptive families to care for children coming into foster care. I had been very interested in that already, and they gave me an opportunity to learn more about how to get involved, trained, licensed and supported.
When did you decide that you wanted to pursue adopting through the foster care system?
I was all in from the beginning really. I decided that I would be available to care for a child as long as God wanted me to and I wouldn’t try to attach any particular outcome to the care of the child. But, I was always open to adopting. Before Christian came into our lives, I cared for three other foster children, and one of them I cared for twice. Additional trauma is heaped on these sweet kids with each move, so I wanted to be available to offer them stability rather than have them move again as long as staying with us was in their long-term best interest.
How was the transition for your family?
From day one, our family has been absolutely supportive and excited to help kids in need of a family. It has bonded us more closely and helped Kinzie and Chase to see just how fortunate we are. It has opened my entire family’s eyes to the great need that is out there, and why we want to be obedient to what we feel we are being called to. I feel like our
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CHILD BRIDGE
“Learning to be open and love someone who is not our biological sibling, but realizing they became part of our family from the minute they walked in - whether they stayed temporarily as a foster child or until we adopted. When our mom started fostering, we were teens, and giving up what we wanted to do wasn’t always easy. But it is worth it to help our mom and to see how close we get with the children too.”
circle of love of immediate and extended family has expanded. Daughter, Kinzie: “I have loved having foster kids in our home and being able to adopt Christian. There are times I know its been a challenge for my mom, and even for me and Chase, like when we are needed to help out. But overall it’s been such a positive thing for our family. Son, Chase: “The changes that this has brought to our family have definitely been good, even though it’s hard sometimes. I’ve learned to open up my space and time and see how much it means to help my mom and be a part of someone else’s life that didn’t have a family.”
What is the most positive change that has occurred in your family dynamic? The most positive change that has occurred in our family dynamic is the ability to expand our circle of love and see the impact it can make. It’s really mind boggling when you let your love out by giving to others.
Can you describe any struggles that you may have had that would help other families looking to adopt? When you become a foster parent, you are entering a world with a lot of unknowns. Be prepared to leave many of your control issues at the door! This has been one of our biggest struggles…the unknowns, and not always agreeing with decisions that might be made by Child and Family Services or the courts for the children. I had to continually remind myself that it’s not about me, and whatever time we have with this child/children can make a big impact.
Patience has also been a struggle because there is so much involved in the process. While some issues seem like they should be an easy decision, they take time.
It’s a continual learning process. Learning to set boundaries with the biological family and knowing how involved to keep the child when we have a routine and busy family life of our own. Kinzie and Chase talk about learning too. “Learning to be open and love someone who is not our biological sibling, but realizing they became part of our family from the minute they walked in - whether they stayed temporarily as a foster child or until we adopted. When our mom started fostering, we were teens, and giving up what we wanted to do wasn’t always easy. But it is worth it to help our mom and to see how close we get with the children too.”
Did you have a strong support system through family and Child Bridge?
My family is amazing. My friends help me so much. And, Christian had a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer who was Christian’s voice in the process. He was outstanding in ensuring this little boy could put his difficult start behind him. Strong support is literally the only way I could have been able to foster and adopt. So many have not only encouraged me when things got challenging, but also have been a support in helping with care when I needed a break or had other obligations. It has been a major blessing. I don’t think I ever could have asked for a more supportive organization than Child Bridge. From the training, working with the state, the process of adoption, the resource and support groups, and really through the entire process, they’ve been with me since the first day that I expressed interest in being a foster parent. My heart is so grateful for Child Bridge because they stand with so many through the ups and downs. For more information on Child Bridge visit www.childbridgemontana.org.
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Keeping Our Kids Drug & Alcohol Free By Kari Gabriel, Executive Director of Flathead CARE Photos courtesy of Kalispell Public Schools
Keeping our kids drug and alcohol free is a lot more difficult than you may think. They have so many opportunities to use that it can be a huge challenge for them to choose not to drink. At Flathead CARE, we work hard to help kids remain drug and alcohol free. We are committed to reducing the use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs by youth in Flathead County through youth development, education and empowerment. We partner with the STOP Underage Drinking in the Flathead Coalition, and the STOP Prescription Drug Abuse in the Flathead to help keep our youth safe. Alcohol continues to be the number one drug of choice among youth in the Flathead Valley, and teen prescription drug abuse/misuse has reached epidemic proportions. Every day, nationwide, 2,500 teenagers begin abusing prescription drugs to get high. Montana teens have the third highest rate of prescription drug abuse in the nation. These are frightening statistics! The early use of drugs and alcohol increases a person’s chances of developing addiction. Remember, drugs change brains—and this can lead to addiction and other serious problems. So, preventing early use of drugs or alcohol may go a long way in reducing these risks. If we can prevent young people from experimenting with drugs, we can prevent drug and alcohol addiction. When kids transition from elementary through middle school, they face new and challenging social and academic situations. Often during this period, children are exposed to substances such as cigarettes and alcohol for the first time. When they enter high school, they may encounter greater availability of drugs, drug use by older teens, and social activities where drugs are used.
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things or take greater risks, may increase teen tendencies to experiment with drugs and alcohol. Some teens may give in to the urging of drug-using friends to share the experience with them. Drugs and alcohol signal the brain to release unusually strong amounts of dopamine. This release of dopamine causes the “high” that teens and addicts seek and makes it difficult to enjoy more normal, simple pleasures. Repeated activation of this reward pathway can lead to addiction.
There are many ways that we, as parents, grandparents, guardians and mentors, can help our kids remain drug and alcohol free. We offer these tips for guidance: Set and enforce standards for your kids by letting them know that underage drinking is unacceptable in your family. Set a good example of healthy living. Become interested and involved in your teen’s activities. Know their friends and their families. Set clear rules, boundaries and curfews.
Despite what teens might tell you, and despite what parents often think, teenagers do care what their parents think about underage drinking and are less likely to use if their parents communicate clearly and consistently on the topic.
Never sponsor an underage drinking party, and do not let your teen attend one. Call parents who are hosting parties to assure there will not be any drinking.
When research-based substance use prevention programs are properly implemented by schools and communities, use of alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs is reduced. Such programs help teachers, parents, and health care professionals shape youths’ perceptions about the risks of substance use. While many social and cultural factors affect drug use trends, when young people perceive drug use as harmful, they reduce their level of use.
Remind them that one bad choice can change their lives forever. They don’t get a “do-over.”
Safeguard your prescription medicine and alcohol by keeping it in a secure place. Teens abuse them because they are easily accessible.
Make sure they know to never get in a car with a drinking driver, and offer to pick them up anytime of the day or night with no negative consequences. Make sure they understand that they can receive an MIP by association, even if they are not actually using. Ask for help for your teen if you believe he/she has a problem with drugs or alcohol.
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Mark Flatau, our Kalispell Public Schools Superintendent, and Flathead CARE Board member, shares his own personal experience with an underage drinking party and the effectiveness of having a parent who was paying attention. Spring break and prom are just around the corner, and then comes graduation. All of these events go hand in hand with underage drinking opportunities for your teen. Know where they are going and who they are going with so that you are armed with the tools to help prevent a tragedy.
Getting Personal about Underage Drinking By Mark Flatau
I still remember my first opportunity to attend a party where I was pretty sure alcohol was going to be present. It was the fall of my 9th grade year in Port Angeles, Washington on a Saturday afternoon when I got the call from one of my friends asking me if I was going to the party at Rod’s house. I knew in my heart that I should not attend if alcohol was going to be present, but I could not quite get those words out of my mouth. Instead I remember saying, “Well, I would go to the party, but I promised my Dad I would go duck hunting with him so…..I guess I will see you on Monday at school,” and quickly hung up the phone so I would not have to have any further dialogue on the topic. What I did not realize was my Dad was standing around the corner hearing the whole conversation and then said to me, “So we are going duck hunting are we, what was that all about?” I sheepishly looked at him and told him about the party and that alcohol was probably going to be present. After listening to me he walked away and returned a few minutes with his hunting jacket on saying, “Well if we are going duck hunting we better go, there is not much light left in the day.” We grabbed our gear and drove the 20 minutes out of town to a local pond and had enough time to get out of the truck, walk to the pond and back before dusk fell. I think he threw his hat in the air and I attempted to shoot it, but I’m pretty sure I missed as usual.
I have never forgotten what my Dad did for me that day. He kept me from telling a lie, but more importantly, he provided a way out of a situation that a 14-year-old did not quite have the muster to say, ”I don’t want to go to a party where alcohol is served.” A big reason for me feeling that way was because of my parents and the standards they set in our home. Parents underestimate the influence they have on their kids when it comes to drinking; in fact, they are the top reason their teen chooses not to drink. Now is always a great time for parents to talk to their kids about drinking. This time of year many teens and families are already making plans for prom. While these plans should be safe and fun events, there is an increased chance of alcohol and other drugs playing a factor, particularly for our seniors. If we, as caring adults, ensured four things (see Deb Schnellman's suggestions on the right) in our kid’s lives, I believe lives will be saved. Saved from possibly an early death but also saved from a life of addiction, remorse and guilt…things none of us want to pass on to our children. Even 47 years later, parents and guardians remain the number one influence on teenagers’ lives when it comes to underage drinking and other drug use. What is the standard being set in your home?? Mark Flatau Superintendent, Kalispell Public Schools & Flathead CARE Board member
Deb Schnellman, Behavior Health Promotion & Communication Manager gives this great advice when it comes to ensuring safe and memorable celebrations and other milestones with our children: Remember that you are the primary influence on your child. Set clear rules about not drinking, and enforce consequences for breaking them. Offer a plan such as hosting and supervising a prom or graduation party. Assure parents the party will be alcohol free. Talk to other parents about postevent activities to make sure alcohol won’t be present. For more information on Flathead CARE’s programs and prevention strategies, contact us at 751-3971, or gabrielk@sd5.k12.mt.us. More prevention strategies and information can be found at: www.drugabuse.gov www.samhsa.gov/prevention www.cadca.org www.drugfree.org/the-parent-toolkit www.preventteendruguse.org/resources.html www.adolescenthealth.org/Resources www.nopetaskforce.org/for-parents.php
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