Spring 2017
D OW W NTOWN N TOWN
Your comprehensive guide to Downtown Billings
Welcome to downtown Billings!
BILLINGS FAMILY YMCA Serving healthy minds and bodies in downtown Billings Page 7
featuredstories
citycenter
Family Thai: Sharing smiles at Imperial Thai Cuisine.............10-11 Live Music Shapes You: The Pub Station Expansion ................................12-13
Seasonal Events..................................................... 4-6 Calendar.............................................................. 16-17 Style Watch ......................................................... 18-19 Feast! .................................................................20-23 Arts & Culture .................................................... 24-28 dotORG ..............................................................29-30 Backlot ..................................................................... 31
We invite you to visit downtown Billings, the heart of our city! From banking to retail to entertainment and nightlife, downtown bustles from sun up to sun down. Cradled by the Rimrocks, downtown Billings is a regional draw attracting visitors and enamoring its residents with state-of-the-art dining, retail, arts & culture, education and unparalleled healthcare. In downtown you’ll find a wonderful mix of locallyowned and -operated businesses. Our merchants prepare their store fronts with you in mind, and invite you into their shops to peruse their diverse retail offerings. You’ll love the personalized customer service you receive from our downtown businesses. Join us in supporting local, small business by shopping, playing and staying in the heart of our city. Stroll the vibrant streetscapes that lead to our award-winning museums, cafés, pubs and restaurants, and you’ll know that you are exploring Billings at its best. You won’t be disappointed with our Historic District along Montana and Minnesota Avenues, which offers retail and cultural venues during the day, and turns into the hot spot to be at night with taverns, restaurants, tap rooms and tasting rooms. Need directions to our downtown cinema? Can’t find your hotel? Need a bike? Ask one of the Business Improvement District’s Ambassadors, the Purple People, for directions or ask one of our dedicated-to-downtown bike cops to assist you. Let us help you discover downtown. You’ll find more information and much more in this issue of Destination Downtown and our Downtown Guide and Directory, available at downtown businesses. Whether you are here for a day, a week, or a lifetime, enjoy all that downtown Billings has to offer! We are so pleased to welcome you.
Lisa K. Harmon
feast From Good Earth Market’s ham, apple and brie sandwich to Log Cabin Bakery’s breakfast burrito, downtown Billings has food and drinks to satisfy anyone’s palate.
Executive Director Downtown Billings Alliance Destination Downtown is a special advertising section of The Billings Gazette. Access Destination Downtown at www.billingsgazette.com/specialsections General Manager Dave Worstell
Special Sections Coordinator Spencyr Knatterud
Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau
Content Editors Tara Cady Tiffini Gallant Marlisa Keyes Jaci Webb
Advertising Manager Shelli Scott
pages 20-23 Cover photo by Casey Page of The Gazette Staff
DOW D WN NTOWN TOWN
Your comprehensive guide to Downtown Billings
Looking for something to do? See the calendar of events on pages 16-17
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The Rex would like to thank the Billings community for their tremendous support for the last 34 years. It has been a pleasure serving this great town and state. Closed until further notice.
Please Fill Out a Guest Form at www.ClarkMarten.com
ArtWalk Downtown Billings begins its 23rd season with this year’s spring ArtWalk event. Celebrate the creative talents of local artists by taking a stroll through the downtown streets on Friday, May 5 from 5 to 9 p.m. Step into a variety of galleries, museums and studios to observe and purchase artwork, meet the artists and enjoy refreshments and live music. Visit artwalkbillings.com and check out their Facebook page for more information. May 5, 5-9 p.m. Downtown Billings
Courtesy of YAM
Spring ArtWalk
HANNAH POTES, Gazette Staff
Seasonal Events
Art Auction 49 It’s cold outside, but it’s even cooler at the 49th annual Yellowstone Art Museum art auction on Saturday, March 4 at 5 p.m. Proceeds from the ice-themed fundraiser support exhibitions and educational programming for 2017. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, dessert and cocktails while bidding on artwork, and peruse the galleries featuring 141 artists from across the nation. Purchase general admission tickets at the door or visit artmuseum.org for more ticket information. March 4, 5 p.m. Yellowstone Art Museum
Spring Home Improvement Show
LARRY MAYER, Gazette Staff
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“Let’s all go!” means only one thing to Billings residents – the Spring Home Improvement Show is just around the corner. Rimrock Productions organizes the much anticipated event, bringing artisans and community members together in what is promised to be the largest show yet. Explore the latest and greatest in the home industry and enjoy activities that are sure to be fun for the whole family. See the list of vendors and raffle prizes at billingshomeimprovementshow.com. March 3-5 Montana Pavilion & Expo Center at MetraPark
Purple 5K Donate your spare time to benefit Spare Change for Real Change during the annual Purple 5K run. The race begins at 9 a.m. on Sunday, April 2 in Grand View Park. Proceeds support local organizations that work to alleviate homelessness in downtown Billings. Root for the racers, or sign up to race or volunteer at downtownbillings.com. April 2, 9 a.m. Grand View Park
St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Celtic Street Fair
CASEY PAGE, Gazette Staff
Attend the 2017 Wine & Food Festival – the wine and culinary event of the season. Commemorating its 25th anniversary, the festival serves as a fundraiser for the Montana State University Billings Foundation. From May 15 to May 20, food and wine enthusiasts gather to sate their palates during events that boast eclectic fare and vino from around the globe. Proceeds help students achieve excellence by funding scholarships and programs. Details are available at winefoodfestival.com. May 15-20 Various Locations
HANNAH POTES, Gazette Staff
Wine & Food Festival
At the top ‘o the mornin’ on Saturday, March 18, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style. Follow the sound of Irish dance music to the center of downtown, where you’ll find Celtic festivities for the 34th year in a row. Watch the parade and enjoy street food, cloggers, live music and entertainment. Don’t forget to wear green or risk a pinch from a local leprechaun. Find the parade line-up and vendor map at downtownbillings.com. March 18, 10 a.m. Downtown Billings
Montana Women’s Run
Gazette Staff E
A Family Mexican Restaurant Serving Lunch & Dinner
Gracias Gracias Amigos Amigos
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No guys allowed (except to come cheer) at the Montana Women’s Run on Saturday, May 13. Witness this gathering of ladies running to support health, fitness and programs for women and families. For 36 years, women from around the region unite in this great cause as they run, walk or even wheelchair toward the finish line. Learn more and register online at womensrun.org. May 13, 8 a.m. Downtown Billings
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Visit Our Newly Remodeled
DOWNTOWN LOcATION 17 North 29th Street
DOWNTOWN – 17 North 29th Street HEIGHTS – 1403 Main Street WESTEND – 1223 Grand Avenue
259-8930 245-2151 652-5156
LAUREL – 216 1st Avenue South HAVRE – 335 1st Street
628-4117 265-1852
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Mothers warm up before a stroller fitness class.
BRONTE WITTPENN, Gazette Staff
Billings T Family YMCA Serving healthy minds and bodies
By MARLISA KEYES mkeyes@billingsgazette.com
he turnstile of Billings Family YMCA is worn out from shuttling people of all ages inside the gym at 402 N. 32nd St. The Christian-based nonprofit gets between 1,500 and 2,000 entry card swipes a day from an active 10,000-member roster that swim, use gym equipment, attend after-school education programs and play in its dodgeball and volleyball leagues. What makes the Y work are staff and a board of trustees who pride themselves on expecting an inclusive atmosphere within its diverse community, said CEO Kim Kaiser.
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BRONTE WITTPENN, Gazette Staff
Teacher Cinda Paynter shows preschoolers how a magnet works during Childwatch, the YMCA’s childcare program.
Other kid-friendly downtown destinations Yellowstone Art Museum Wise Wonders Children’s Museum Western Heritage Center Billings Public Library Moss Mansion Kids can participate in a range of fun activities, like this water exhibit, at Wise Wonders Children’s Museum. HANNAH POTES, Gazette Staff
Robyn Horgdal, marketing and communications coordinator, points to four framed pictures of YMCA’s core values hanging on Kaiser’s wall: Caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Each person is expected to live by those words, Kaiser said. “We’re not expecting too much,” she said. “The YMCA is building character.” Teaching those values begins with the Y’s youngest members, many of whom come from broken homes. “Sometimes this is the safest
place after school,” Horgdal said. Kaiser says partnerships with Yellowstone County individuals and businesses are crucial to maintaining and updating the YMCA’s heavily-used building and equipment to meet the community’s needs. The Y has used donations to purchase new mats and a gymnastics bar for the Thomas Kids’ Gym and two pieces of exercise equipment for the Pete and Lois Hoiness Kids Fitness Center so adults can exercise while children use Wii Fit or play air hockey. Scheels and the Mary Alice Fortin
SAVE THE DATE
Sign up children and teens for these spring activities hosted by Billings Family YMCA.
Stroller fitness instructor Brittney Doyle does burpees near her daughter, Lily, 1.
BRONTE WITTPENN, Gazette Staff
Foundation made substantial donations to a capital campaign that resulted in a $1 million upgrade to the family locker room in 2016. The area includes private cabana spaces so parents can help their children before and after using the pool and gym. Updates include handicap accessible features, making it easier for people to maneuver around the building. Horgdal points to a countertop, sink and soap dispenser located in the Scheels Family Locker Room and lift chairs for pool and hot tub access. The YMCA’s goal is to develop and sustain healthy bodies and brains. That means offering Active 6, funded by the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, to local sixth graders and structured kids’ fitness classes including yoga, Zumba and Fit Kids. If children aren’t regular exercisers by sixth grade, they become sedentary adults, Horgdal said. The YMCA’s after-school lineup includes STEM, 30 minutes of math, reading, exercise and homework, and a recently BRONTE WITTPENN, Gazette Staff updated Tech Center with computers and Instructor Melissa Graves helps Noelle Bunting, 3, touch her toes to the bar during Rock Tumble iPads. “We have a ton of stuff for families and Roll gymnastics. kiddos,” Horgdal said. For more information, call (406) 248-1685 or visit billingsymca.org.
Tiny Tots Soccer Date & Time: March 4, 11, 18 and 25; April 1, 8 and 15; 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Location:FlanaganGymatYMCA&PioneerPark High School 6x6 Co-ed Dodgeball Date & Time: March 17, 24 and 31; April 7, 14, 21 and 28; 5:30 p.m. Location: Fortin Gym Three on Three YBA Basketball Tournament Date & Time: March 17 and 18; time to be announced Location: YMCA Spring NFL Flag Football Skills Day Date & Time: March 25; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Castle Rock Park Spring NFL Flag Football Date & Time: April 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; May 6, 13 and 20; visit Ygametime.com for game schedules Location: Castle Rock Park Ready, Set, Spike! Youth Volleyball Date & Time: April 11, 13, 18, 20, 25 and 27; May 2, 4, 9, 11, 16 and 18; 6 p.m. Location: Fortin gyms YMCA Track and Field Date & Time: April 19, 21, 26 and 28; May 3, 5, 10, 12, 17 and 19; 5:30 p.m. Location: Wendy’s Field at Daylis Stadium Tiny Tots T-Ball Date & Time: April 29; May 6, 13, 20 and 27; June 3 and 10; 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Location: Pioneer Park Zumba for Kids Date & Time: March 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; April 5, 12, 19 and 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31; 6:30 p.m. Location: Atwell-Link Cardio Studio Kids Yoga, ages 3-5 Date & Time: March 4, 11, 18 and 25; April 8, 15, 22 and 29; 9 a.m. Location: Dance Studio Kids Yoga, ages 6-10 Date & Time: March 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30; April 6, 13, 20 and 27; 6:15 p.m. Location: Dance Studio Kids Yoga Date & Time: March 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28 and 30; April 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25 and 27; 4 p.m. Location: Dance Studio Fit for Life, ages 5-8 Date & Time: March 6, 14, 21 and 28; April 3, 10, 17 and 24; May 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; 5:30 p.m. Location: YMCA racquetball courts Fit for Life, ages 9-13 Date & Time: March 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29; April 5, 12, 19 and 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31; 5:30 p.m. Location: YMCA racquetball courts
Family Thai
Sharing smiles at Imperial Thai Cuisine
LARRY MAYER, Gazette Staff
By TIFFINI GALLANT tgallant@billingsgazette.com As the story goes, a man said to Buddha, “I want happiness.” Buddha said remove the “I,” that’s ego, then remove the “want,” that’s desire. Now all you are left with is happiness. Happiness for each and every customer is the goal at Imperial Thai Cuisine. Even the carefully selected orange and brown paint colors are meant to inspire a sense of joy and comfort in feng shui. But nothing is more comforting than the food – some recipes have been passed down through generations. In just six months’ time, the restaurant has put a smile on many faces.
Dream team When Aram and Kanda Garcia took a family drive through downtown Billings on Independence Day last year, they hadn’t yet dreamed of owning a restaurant. The couple had recently moved to Montana from Las Vegas where they helped at an eatery operated by Kanda’s mother. Seeing the “For Lease” sign in the window at 216 N. Broadway sparked the idea of having a place of their own. They stopped the car, peered through the windows and called about the property right away.
For only $10, enjoy the lunch buffet of traditional Thai, Mongolian and Chinese favorites.
11 “We thought (the location) was perfect,” said Aram, who now co-owns Imperial Thai Cuisine with his wife, Kanda. The couple gave special consideration to their competitors, noting that they wanted to respect other Thai restaurants in town with regard to location. But they are glad to see a share of the downtown traffic. “I know there’s a lot of working people downtown who are on the go,” said Aram. To cater to the customer, Imperial Thai Cuisine promises fast and friendly service. Aram says he and his father-in-law are the primary servers. One of his three children occasionally assists, too. In the kitchen, Kanda and her sister prepare menu items. In less than an hour, the team have a full assortment of food favorites ready for the lunch buffet crowd. “We are always happy,” said Aram of his familial team. “It makes it easier when you’re working with a crew you love.”
Tradition with a twist The Imperial Thai Cuisine menu is relatively small, but the food packs some big flavor. “We have a little of everything – of course, authentic Thai,” said Aram. He adds that they wanted a menu that diners are comfortable with, including clear descriptions and prices. With traditional Thai dishes and Mongolian and Chinese favorites, there is something for everyone. Customers are quickly discovering how much they enjoy the food. “We can’t take mussaman curry off the buffet,” said Aram. They tried to remove it once, but popular demand brought it back almost immediately. The dish is comprised of Thai herbs and spices blended in a mild chili paste with potato, onion and carrots before simmering in coconut milk. It became a local favorite right away. If your mouth isn’t already watering, battered and deep-fried chicken in a sweet and spicy chili sauce might do the trick. Dubbed the “Bangkok Dangerous” by Aram himself, it’s a twist on traditional Thai that Kanda made up. It’s Aram’s favorite, and it’s the most requested menu item to date. The level of spice in every meal can be customized, too. Heat ranges from level 1 to 10, with one being the mildest and 10 being the most spicy. Aram recommends you don’t start with a 10 your first visit. People with the largest appetites can participate in the Imperial Pho challenge.
LARRY MAYER, Gazette Staff
The fusion menu, friendly staff and wall colors are meant to put a smile on customer faces.
happy,” said Aram. The team loves feedback. If you like or don’t like something, be sure to let them know. With a five-star rating across all of their online platforms, it’s likely you’ll have good things to say.
Growing home
LARRY MAYER, Gazette Staff
Imperial Thai Cuisine is located at 216 N. Broadway. The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Those who dare to dine on this monstrous bowl of broth, noodles and vegetables earn bragging rights and free appetizers during their next visit. If they finish the dish, that is. “Ninety-one customers have ordered (the challenge) – only 15 have finished it,”
said Aram. Although they’ve started to establish a list of fan favorite foods, Aram and Kanda want to keep the menu fresh. Each month, they introduce one or two new items to the buffet. “We try our best to make everyone
Aram and his family love Billings, and they are here to stay, though he and his wife are not from the United States. They met in Las Vegas and spent a lot of time in the Big Sky state. “Everyone is so friendly,” he said. He is impressed with the downtown culture and says it “just feels right” to be in the Magic City. Looking ahead, the couple would like to expand to a second location and say the West End is on their radar. “We are hoping to grow with the community,” said Aram. “We want to be here forever.” But they are happy with their current location and loyal clientele. Aram says his favorite part of running the front of the restaurant is seeing regular diners return with their friends. The Imperial Thai Cuisine website states, “It’s not just food, it’s an experience.” And Aram wants every visit to be just that. “We want (customers) to feel at home,” said Aram. “The smiles make it worth our while.”
HANNAH POTES, Gazette Staff
Hundreds pack the brand new ballroom to see Hairball perform on Saturday, January 28.
‘Live music shapes you:’ The Pub Station expansion
By JACI WEBB jwebb@billingsgazette.com The Pub Station Ballroom opened with a capacity crowd for Hairball last month, and owners Ann Kosempa and Sean Lynch are keeping the shows coming. Their 800-person venue features risers in the back for improved viewing, a stripped-down urban vibe with an open steel beam ceiling and a repurposed wood palette backbar. The schedule is packed with a diverse range of shows in coming months, with Lucero booked for Feb. 25, “An Evening with Dawes” on Feb. 26, Martin Sexton on March 1,
and Skillet’s “Unleashed Tour 2017” on March 2. Check 1111presents.com for the full schedule.
Tears of gratitude Kosempa and Lynch put out the call for volunteers over a weekend in January to help grout the huge tile floor, and Kosempa said she almost cried when two showed up. But mostly the owners enlisted the help of their staff, including sound man and local musician Reid Perry and marketing coordinator Kerry Sherman. Sherman’s mother made a pot of chili and volunteers and staff worked to prepare for a final city inspection.
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HANNAH POTES, Gazette Staff
Hairball performs for a packed crowd in the new ballroom at the Pub Station.
Kosempa and Lynch, a married couple who co-own the Pub Station and Pub Station Ballroom, were in a similar position in 2014 when they tried to pinpoint their original opening date. As soon as the 400-person Pub Station opened in the former Jefferson Lines bus station in November 2014, the bands started coming — and so did the crowds. Lynch said he hosts 200 shows a year between the Pub Station, the Babcock Theatre, and a new music series that launched last summer at ZooMontana. Bands and their agents come to Lynch looking for dates to fill in between shows in other markets. Billings is gaining a reputation among music fans and agents for a strong live music scene. “I think we’ve changed Billings, but I also think that Billings has evolved,” Lynch said. Since returning to Billings in 2001 after a stint in Portland, Lynch and Kosempa began working on developing a music venue and producing live shows.
HANNAH POTES, Gazette Staff
Pub Station owners Sean Lynch and Ann Kosempa opened the new ballroom at the Pub Station.
just before Stapleton blew up on the national scene, winning a pair of Grammy awards and numerous CMA awards. Local music fans still marvel that Stapleton played the Pub Station. “We couldn’t have picked a better time for that show,” Lynch said. The Pub Station shows run the gamut from country and bluegrass to pop, rock and metal. Keeping the programming diverse makes the fans happy and also spreads out the music draw so the Pub doesn’t burn out one demographic. Lynch credits the support of Billings live music fans for making the Pub Station so successful. “If people didn’t show up, we wouldn’t be doing this,” Lynch said. One of Kosempa’s favorite memories was the ZooMontana concerts last summer, featuring the Summerland Tour with Sugar Ray and Everclear and country star Jon Pardi. “We have a lot of good relationships with local nonprofits,” Kosempa said. Just through word-of-mouth, the Ballroom has already been booked for several nonprofit events, including a Relay for Life fundraiser. Hubba Hubba performed at a fundraiser for the Yellowstone County Animal Shelter on Feb. 10.
Solid business
Their business plan was to expand the Pub Station into a larger venue in five to seven years, but business has been so solid, they did it in under three. Lynch has been producing concerts since he was 17 and a student at West High School. He recently purchased a movable stage from Montana State University Billings that he used to perform on as a teenager. The stage can be expanded or taken down when the Ballroom is booked for other events, like weddings or nonprofit fundraisers. Kosempa and Lynch plan to expand the staff from the existing 22 employees to 30 to manage the new larger space. When acts aren’t big enough to fill the 800-person Ballroom, sliding doors between the venues will be closed and the Pub Station will host the show. Keeping the programming diverse and being able to make a profit on beer and wine sales helps the business survive, Kosempa and Lynch said. “Our shows are an experience, a memory,” Kosempa said. “Live music shapes you. If Get ‘em while they’re hot you want a perfectly controlled environment, One of the most memorable shows for stay home and play music. When you are Lynch was hosting Chris Stapleton in 2015 here, you are part of the experience of music.”
ries, o t S g n i l Tel nds, i M g n i d l Bui tion! a n i g a m I Powering
2822 Montana Avenue Billings, Montana www.ywhc.org 406-256-6809
Bringing the Excitement of the Performing Arts to Big Sky Country
For your tickets: 406.591.9535 • NOVAbillings.org
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! ABT Box Office: M-Sat, Noon-5p.m. (406) 256.6052 | www.albertabairtheater.org
AMY GRANT MAY 17 • 7:30pm
ARTrageous: MAY 18 • 7:30pm
The Magic Flute at Alberta Bair Theater Opera by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
February 25, 2017
James and the Giant Peach Book by Roald Dahl, Adapted by
SUDS Written by Steve Gundersen, Bryan Scott
David Wood
May 12–27, 2017
Improv Open, March 3 & 4, 2017
March 10–19, 2017
The Big Brass
Written by Nora and Delia Ephron
One-Act Operas: The Scarf and Speed Dating The Scarf by Lee Hoiby Speed Dating by Michael Ching April 28 & 30* and May 6 & 7*, 2017
Winter Carnival, March 3, 2017
Call: 252-3610 Visit: billingssymphony.org
Love, Loss and What I Wore March 31, April 1–9, 2017
& Melinda Gild
School of Rock, July 21-30, 2017
Tuesday - Saturday 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. February through December Featuring Western and Native American artifacts from the Yellowstone River
Rex Richardson, trumpet March 11 | 7:30 PM | Alberta Bair Theater Louis | Armstrong | Ha Haydn dn
Valley and a brand new exhibit now open: “Rip-Roarin’ Good Time: Sin in the Magic City”
Looking for something to do? Turn to pages
16-17
for the calender of events
HUNGRY?
Turn to pages
20-21
and get your fix with
FEAST!
Programs for the Entire Family!
Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, Going Forward, Looking Back, 1996
Jaune Quick-to-See Smith: In the Footsteps of My Ancestors Exhibition on view March 23–July 16, 2017
www.artmuseum.org 401 North 27th Street Billings, MT
Contributing to the quality of life in Billings!
Connecting people to place (406) 294-5099 7026 S. Billings Blvd. Find us on Facebook
MARCH Tuesday, 14 Menopause the Musical, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, 15 – Tuesday, 21 NAIA Women’s Division I National Championships, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Wednesday, 15 Jobs Jamboree, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday, 16 Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughers, Alberta Bair Theater, 9:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. High Noon Lecture Series – Montana Fireball: the Wild Ride of Billings’ Mayor Willard Fraser, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m. Sugar, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 17 Montana RV-Boat & Powersports Show, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sugar, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.
FEBRUARY Friday, 24 Eastern A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 9 a.m.8 p.m RV and Boat Show, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Huff’s Antique Show & Sale, Montana Pavilion at MetraPark, 5-8 p.m. Saturday, 25 Eastern A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 9 a.m.8 p.m Huff’s Antique Show & Sale, Montana Pavilion at MetraPark, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. RV and Boat Show, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Two-Color Watercolor with Jason Jam, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mozart’s The Magic Flute, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 26
Friday, 7 Love, Loss, and What I Wore, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. PBR, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:45 p.m. Saturday, 8 EggstravaganZOO, ZooMontana, 10 a.m.4 p.m. Billings Symphony Gala, Northern Hotel, 6 p.m. PBR, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 6:45 p.m. Love, Loss, and What I Wore, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Comedy BeCAUSE, Alberta Bair Theater, 8 p.m. Sunday, 9 PBR, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 1:45 p.m. Love, Loss, and What I Wore, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m.
APRIL
Jam at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 4-9 p.m. ArtWalk, downtown Billings, 5-9 p.m. Well-Strung, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Funky Bunch, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 6 Princess Day, ZooMontana, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dollar Day, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Drawing as a Conversation, Yellowstone Art Museum, 1-3:30 p.m. Festival of One-Act Operas, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 7 Festival of One-Act Operas, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Monday, 15 – Saturday, 20 MSUB Wine & Food Festival, check www. winefoodfestival.com for schedule of events Wednesday, 10
MAY
events
Downtown Billings
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Wednesday, 1 Lights! Camera! Math!, Alberta Bear Theater, 9:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Thursday, 2 – Saturday, 4 Southern B Boys and Girls Divisional Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Friday, 3 Spring Home Improvement Show, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion, 12-8 p.m. Sugar, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Funky Bunch, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 4 Spring Home Improvement Show, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Winter Carnival, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 12-4 p.m. Art Auction 49, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5 p.m. Sugar, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Venture Improv Open, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Auggie Smith Presents, Alberta Bair Theater, 8 p.m. Sunday, 5 Spring Home Improvement Show, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sugar, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. Wednesday, 8 YAM Teens, Yellowstone Art Museum, 3:30-5 p.m. Jake Shimabukuro, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 9 Sugar, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 9 – Saturday, 11 Boys & Girls Class B State Basketball Tournament, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Friday, 10 Sugar, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. James and the Giant Peach, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 11 Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-noon Salt on the Rims: A Jimmy Buffet Experience, MetraPark Expo Center, 7 p.m. Billings Symphony: The Big Brass, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. James and the Giant Peach, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Sugar, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 12 Sugar, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. James and the Giant Peach, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m.
MARCH
RV and Boat Show, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m.-5 p.m Huff’s Antique Show & Sale, Montana Pavilion at MetraPark, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Saturday, 1 Rescued and Reclaimed, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dollar Day, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Venture Improv, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Love, Loss, and What I Wore, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 2 Purple 5K, Grand View Park, 9 a.m. Love, Loss, and What I Wore, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. Tuesday, 4 A Year with Frog and Toad, Alberta Bair Theater, 9:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Thursday, 6 Gallery Talk: Dr. Leanne Gilberston of MSU Billings, Yellowstone Art Museum, 6:307:30 p.m. Garrison Keillor, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m.
APRIL
James and the Giant Peach, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. FAM at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5-7 p.m. Saturday, 18 St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celtic Street Fair, downtown Billings, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Montana RV-Boat & Powersports Show, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sugar, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. James and the Giant Peach, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 19 Montana RV-Boat & Powersports Show, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. James and the Giant Peach, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. Monday, 20 Kari Jobe, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, 22 The Naked Magicians, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 23 Opening Reception for Exhibitions, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, 25 Heritage Playapalooza!, Western Heritage Center, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Adult Art Education Bead Embroidery, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday, 30 Black Violin, Alberta Bair Theater, 12:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Billings Chamber Annual Breakfast, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7-9 a.m. Friday, 31 Rescued and Reclaimed, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Funky Bunch, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Love, Loss, and What I Wore, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, 5 Princess Day, ZooMontana, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
MAY
Wednesday, 12 YAM Teens, Yellowstone Art Museum, 3:30-5 p.m. Saturday, 15 Montana Women’s Expo, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday, 20 High Noon Lecture Series – Historic Restaurants of Billings, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m. Copyright for Artists information session, Yellowstone Art Museum, 6:30-7:30 p.m. The Foreigner, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 21 Billings Market Association Show, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. The Foreigner, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 22 Billings Market Association Show, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. The Foreigner, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Dierks Bentley, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:30 p.m. Billings Symphony: A Mass for Peace, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 23 Billings Market Association Show, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The Foreigner, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. Thursday, 27 After 5 – Unplugged, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5-8 p.m. Forbidden Broadway, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. The Foreigner, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 28 A Wild Affair, ZooMontana, 5:30-10 p.m. The Foreigner, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Festival of One-Act Operas, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 29 Harlem Globetrotters, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. The Foreigner, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Festival of One-Act Operas, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Jozef Luptak Quintet, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 30 The Foreigner, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. Billings Community Band’s spring concert, Alberta Bair Theater, 3 p.m. Festival of One-Act Operas, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. YAM Teens, Yellowstone Art Museum, 3:305 p.m. Thursday, 11 Book-signing with artist Theodore Waddell, Yellowstone Art Museum, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Arsenic and Old Lace, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 12 Arsenic and Old Lace, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. SUDS The Musical, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 13 Montana Women’s Run, downtown Billings, starts at 8 a.m. Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-noon Raven’s Café d’Art Mother’s Day Brunch Special, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Arsenic and Old Lace, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Venture Improv, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. SUDS The Musical, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 14 Raven’s Café d’Art Mother’s Day Brunch Special, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Arsenic and Old Lace, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. SUDS The Musical, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. Thursday, 18 High Noon Lecture Series – The Beartooth Highway: A History of America’s Most Beautiful Drive, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m. Artageous, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Arsenic and Old Lace, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 19 Pictograph Cave Tour, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10-11 a.m. FAM at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5-7 p.m. Arsenic and Old Lace, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. SUDS The Musical, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 20 Moss Mansion’s Heritage Home Tour, various locations in Billings, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Adult Art Education Cola Pen Drawing Workshop, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.4 p.m. Arsenic and Old Lace, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. SUDS The Musical, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 21 Arsenic and Old Lace, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. SUDS The Musical, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. Thursday, 25 After 5 – Unplugged, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5-8 p.m.
StyleWatch Photos by Casey Page of The Gazette staff
18
Summer adventures await in this always in-style Tribal Jeans jacket, soft white My DBSH T-shirt and Tribal Jeans camouflage skirt. After the sun sets, add some bling with a sapphire and clear teardrop necklace. Pair your outfit with cute Eric Michael espadrilles in beige or black for extra kick. Available at Cricket Clothing Co. Jacket: $198 T-shirt: $36 Skirt: $89 Necklace: $42 Shoes: $119
It’s time for lunch on the patio and a day of shopping with girlfriends. Layer this Foxcroft NYC blue print blouse over a white Lilla P sleeveless T-shirt for a crisp touch. Slip on a leather tassel necklace, slingback twill Eric Michael shoes and trim Contour 360° AG jeans to complete your look. Available at Cricket Clothing Co. Blouse: $79 T-shirt: $59 Necklace: $29 Shoes: $89 Jeans: $198
Let warm breezes dance through quirky Happy Art Studio’s hand-painted resin leaf and bird earrings and matching necklace. A sterling silver spiral ring with amethyst stones at each end from Pam Orient delicately decorates your hand. Available at Magpie Jewelry Gallery Earrings: $46 Necklace: $118 Ring: $80
There are times when only wearing bold accessories will do. Earrings by Lauren Tobey are cast from pomegranate pods in sterling silver and inset with eye-catching tiger eye stones. Three is the magic number in this dramatic Heather Hanley brass and sterling silver necklace. The loopy chain sets off the oblong pendants with circle cutouts. Available at Magpie Jewelry Gallery Earrings: $130 Necklace: $149
Let your hair down and mix things up a bit with jewelry that radiates confidence. Combine these Pam Orient chunky sterling silver rings together or pair them with your other delicate sparklers to set off the bands’ rustic scrapes and nicks. Available at Magpie Jewelry Gallery Rings: $80 each
Always open Sundays 12 – 4 Travel with a bit of Montana jewelry that gives an edgy nod to the state’s verdant hillsides. Beaded copper wire highlights a green patina copper cuff by Missoula-based Moondance Jewelry. Adorn yourself with a spiral steel pendant necklace made from a salvaged car body and leather string by Pyper Hugos and Jarrod Eastman of Bozeman. Available at Magpie Jewelry Gallery Cuff: $49 Necklace: $88
Shop Local, Shop Downtown 2814 2nd Avenue North Billings, MT 59101
406-259-3624
A directory of the best food Downtown Billings has to offer.
3024 2nd Ave. N. The way to your heart begins with your stomach, so fill it with quality organic food. Good Earth Market’s Deli and Cafe offers up healthy lunch options like this ham, apple and brie sandwich. A glass of freshsqueezed juice and a cup of homemade soup is a nice start to the meal.
Jake’s
HANNAH POTES, Gazette Staff
Guadalajara
Gazette Staff
Good Earth Market
Stella’s
CASEY PAGE, Gazette Staff
Feast
LARRY MAYER, Gazette Staff
20
17 N. 29th St.
2701 1st Ave. N.
2525 1st Ave. N.
Keep a napkin handy for the mouth-watering flavor in these fajitas. Zesty lime and cilantro meld with chicken or beef, bell peppers, tomatoes and onions in each forkful. Start with salsa and tortillas to set a south-of-theborder mood.
Seconds anyone? This juicy 8-ounce baseball-cut top sirloin steak taken from a center cut of premium beef is topped with balsamic vinegar and blue cheese. It’s enough to satisfy a hearty appetite, but you may want to order one more. The dish comes with creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
For a nutritious and delicious brunch, look no further than Stella’s. This downtown Billings favorite is serving up specials like this stuffed tomato salad. Fresh ingredients, a homemade roll and tuna salad make for a dining delight.
Log Cabin Bakery
LARRY MAYER, Gazette Staff
Gazette Staff
Pug Mahon’s 3011 1st Ave. N.
2401 2nd Ave. N.
It doesn’t have to be St. Patrick’s Day for you to enjoy Irish fare and fun. But don’t leave your appetite out of the festivities. Enjoy the “world’s best” pork chop sandwich. The flavorful family recipe will have your taste buds dancing a jig with every bite.
Start your morning with a Log Cabin breakfast burrito. The tortilla is stuffed with a yummy mixture of sausage, bacon, ham, eggs and a blend of cheeses. Top it off with salsa and sour cream. Have a cup of orange juice or coffee while you wait for the most important meal of the day.
The Rocky® Lightweight Commercial Military Boot combines Rocky’s most advanced lightweight features with the durability and performance needed in combat or competitive operations.
• Padded collar • Rubber midsole • Leather and CORDURA® combination upper • Removable Rocky Airport comfort insole • Aggressive multi-directional rubber outsole • GSA-approved item • Speed lace eyelets and NATO hooks • Water-resistant and fast drying materials • 8 Inches in height • Fully compliant with: DA PAM 670-1 (dated 31 MAR 2014) • Toe and Heel tread locks are reinforced with stitching and less than 2” in height • Lightweight: 18 ounces SKU#5197
Regularly $17995
Doc Harper’s
BOB ZELLAR, Gazette Staff
The Rex
BOB ZELLAR, Gazette Staff
NOW ONLY
2401 Montana Ave.
116 N. Broadway
You don’t get more Montanan than a meat-and-potatoes meal at The Rex. This sizzling sirloin is wrapped in bacon and piled high with spicy onion crisps, blue cheese and a mouth-watering rosemary glaze. Amp up the flavor with a delightful dip, like a cognac Dijon mustard or mushroom sauce.
Looking to add a little spice in your life? Then this drink is just what the doctor ordered. The spicy pickle martini offers a savory spin to a classic cocktail. It’s sure to kick-start your night out on the town and keep you coming back for more. Cheers!
6995
$
While they last
Still Downtown after 36 years! MAIL ORDERS WELCOME 1-800-653-8528 • Gift Certificates • We Sell Hunting & Fishing Licenses
10 NORtH 29tH BILLINGS, Mt • M-F 9:00-6:00 • SAt 9-5:30 • SUN 12:00-5:00 eddie@go-armynavy.com
The Rex closed its doors Feb. 15. A sale is anticipated.
Casual Cuisine
Feast
B-Town Grill 115 N. 29th Street (406) 969-6328
A directory of the best food Downtown Billings has to offer.
Bernie’s Diner 19 N. Broadway (406) 867-6767
Featured restaurants are marked with a shaded box.
Back Porch Deli 207 N. Broadway (406) 254-9519
The Burger Dive 114 N. 27th St. (406) 281-8292
Café Italia 2417 Montana Ave. (406) 896-9700
Soup and Such 2716 Third Ave. N. (406) 294-0148
Cham Thai & Cuisine 2916 First Ave. N. (406) 256-1812
Stacked: A Montana Grill 106 N. Broadway (406) 534-8702
Ciao Mambo 2301 Montana Ave. (406) 325-5100
Stella’s Kitchen & Bakery 2525 First Ave. N. (406) 248-3060
Don Luis 15 N. 26th St. (406) 256-3355
Coffee/Specialty Shops
Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant 17 N. 19th St. (406) 259-8930
Café Zydeco 2503 Montana Ave. (406) 248-3440
Big Dipper Ice Cream 100 N. Broadway (406) 534-2350
Crazy Mary’s 1404 6th Ave. N. (406) 252-0089
Broadway Deli & Café 313 N. Broadway (406) 281-8568
Denny’s 501 N. 27th St. (406) 256-7335
Brockel’s Chocolates 117 N. 29th St. (406) 248-2705
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit 2519 Montana Ave. (406) 969-3909
City Brew 1131 N. 27th St. (406) 294-4620
Dude Rancher Restaurant 415 N. 29th St. (406) 259-5561 Good Earth Market 3024 Second Ave. N. (406) 259-2622 Harper & Madison 3115 10th Ave. N. (406) 281-8550 Hog Wild Cafe/Party Pig Catering 204 N. 22nd St. (406) 839-3154 Lisa’s Sandwich Den 2908 First Ave. N. (406) 252-4282 McCormick Café 2419 Montana Ave. (406) 255-9555
22
Rockets Gourmet Wraps & Sodas 2809 First Ave. N. (406) 248-5231
Perkins 825 N. 27th St. (406) 248-8320
Ebon Coffee Collective 2712 2nd Ave. N. (406) 431-4522 Le Lustré Cakes 2719 First Ave. N. (406) 702-1211
Guido’s Pizza 3005 First Ave. N. (406) 259-1041 Imperial Thai Cuisine 216 N. Broadway (406) 696-3330 La Tinga 113 N. 30th St. (406) 969-8828 Mamacita’s Café 304 N. 19th St. (406) 252-9950 NaRa Restaurant 3 Custer Ave. (406) 245-8866 Sarah’s Mexican Food 310 N. 29th St. (406) 256-5234
Log Cabin Bakery 2401 Second Ave. N. (406) 245-0389
Shanghai Village 2926 Second Ave. N. (406) 245-6887
MoAV Coffee House 2501 Montana Ave. (406) 672-4784
Wild Ginger 2713 Montana Ave. (406) 252-4486
Rock Creek Coffee Roasters 124 N. 28th St. (406) 896-1600
Fast Food
Starbucks 27 N. 27th St. (in DoubleTree) (406) 252-7400
Burger King 520 N. 27th St. (406) 245-7911
Velvet Cravings 225 N. Broadway (406) 294-0308
Hardee’s 608 N. 27th St. (406) 259-3344
Pita Pit 2813 Second Ave. N. (406) 245-7482
Ethnic Cuisine
Jimmy John’s 122 N. Broadway (406) 281-8282
Pug Mahon’s 3011 First Ave. N. (406) 259-4190
The Athenian 18 N. 29th St. (406) 248-5681
Kentucky Fried Chicken 719 N. 27th St. (406) 259-2641
Fine Dining
Lilac 2515 Montana Ave. (406) 969-4959
Doc Harper’s 116 N. Broadway (406) 200-7177
Thirsty Street Brewing Co. 3008 First Ave. N. (406) 969-3200
TEN 19 N. Broadway (406) 867-6767
Hooligan’s Sports Bar 111 N. Broadway (406) 259-3328
Tiny’s Tavern, Inc. 323 N. 24th St. (406) 259-0826
The Rex 2401 Montana Ave. (406) 245-7477
Last Chance Pub & Cider Mill 2203 Montana Ave. (406) 534-8918
Trailhead Spirits 2314 Montana Ave. (406) 969-1627
Commons 1882 404 N. 30th St. (406) 254-1882
Walkers American Grill & Tapas Bar 2700 First Ave. N. (406) 245-9291
Montana Brewing Co. 113 N. Broadway (406) 252-9200
Uberbrew 2305 Montana Ave. (406) 534-6960
Sports Bars - Bars - Pubs
Double Tree Montana Sky 27 N. 27th St. (406) 252-7400
Angry Hanks 20 N. 30th St. (406) 252-3370
Monte Bar & Casino 2824 First Ave. N. (406) 259-3393
Yellowstone Valley Brewing Company 2123 First Ave. N. (406) 245-0918
The Fieldhouse 2601 Minnesota Ave., Suite 3 (406) 534-2556
The Bookie 3011 First Ave. N. (406) 245-4900
Jake’s 2701 First Ave. N. (406) 259-9375
Carter’s Brewing 2526 Montana Ave. (406) 252-0663
Juliano’s 2912 Seventh Ave. N. (406) 248-6400
Daisy Dukes 222 N. Broadway (406) 201-8725
Bistecca at the Granary 1500 Poly Drive (406) 259-3488 Billings Petroleum Club 27 N. 27th St.- 22nd Floor (406) 252-6700 Bin 119 119 N. Broadway (406) 294-9119
2713 Montana avenue Downtown Billings 406-252-4486
The Pub Station 2502 First Ave. N. (406) 894-2020
Dining, Dining
Shopping &
Entertainment
Experience
BILLINGS ITALIAN PUB Full liquor license
CLOSE CLOSE
Nonprofit Fair Tra
de
406 Kitchen & Taproom 1207 N. 27th St. (406) 245-5985
Building Communities Worldwide Jewelry • Baskets • Textiles • Clothing • Instruments • Music Kitchenware • Pottery • Chocolate • Coffee • Tea www.globalvillagebillings.org • 259-3024
406.591.9535 • 2317 Montana Ave www.NOVAbillings.org
OXFORD
Billings’ Oldest Antique Shop One of a Kind Gifts Galore! Historical to Collectible
HOTEL
35 Years at 2411 Montana Ave 248-2094
Art & Gift Boutique Custom Picture Framing
AVENUE Billings’ Favorite
Celebrating 30 Years!!
The Rainbow Bar 2403 Montana Ave. (406) 259-0047
{ beautiful things }
2505 Montana Ave. • 252-0122 www.toucanarts.com
10:00-5:30 Mon.-Fri. 10:00-5:00 Sat.
ANTIQUES
Fresh Seafood, Certified Angus Beef™ Specialties, Spirits, Mon-Fri Open at 11am Sat Sun Open at 4pm
245-7477 2401 Montana Avenue
2822 Montana Avenue www.ywhc.org 406-256-6809
o
Newly Remodeled Still the best drinks in town 2403 Montana Ave. 259-0047
Hours: Mon-Sat 6am-10pm Sun 9am-5pm 2501 Montana Avenue Billings, MT
www.moavcoffee.com
2
Arts & Culture ALBERTA BAIR THEATER Lights! Camera! Math!
A mash-up of math, theater and digital technology blend together for an interactive performance that uses a fun approach to get children learning. The event, presented by Cahoots NI, is recommended for grades three to six. Date & Time: March 1 at 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
Auggie Smith Presents
Need a belly laugh or two? Auggie Smith of Billings hosts headline comedians in this show. Expect two hours of fun with Henry Phillips, Kermet Apio, Dave Dyer and Auggie Smith. Date & Time: March 4 at 8 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
Jake Shimabukuro
Noted for playing Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody,” Schubert’s “Ave Maria” and Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” on his ukulele, Jake Shimabukuro lets his curiosity form his work. He has collaborated with an eclectic mix of musicians such as Yo-Yo Ma, Bette Midler, Jack Johnson, Michael McDonald and Ziggy Marley. Date & Time: March 8 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
Kari Jobe – The Garden Tour
Contemporary American Christian singer and songwriter Kari Jobe began singing at age three. The Grammy-nominated artist’s self-titled album debuted at the No. 3 spot on Billboard’s Christian music chart. Date & Time: March 20 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
The Naked Magicians
Expect naughty and funny with this R-rated magic show that has sold out London’s West End, the United States, Canada and New Zealand. These two cheeky Australian magicians prove that sleeves and pants aren’t required for full-frontal illusions. Date & Time: March 22 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
Educators’ String Musician Workshop Billings Senior High School orchestra director Richele Sitton provides a 20-minute demonstration as a prelude to an ABT performance by Black Violin. Date & Time: March 30 at 5 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
Menopause the Musical
Find out what you have in common with these women who have been entertaining audiences for 14 years. While they shop for lingerie at Bloomingdale’s, four women sing about sex, hot flashes, memory loss, chocolate cravings and all things menopause. Date & Time: March 14 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters
Based on an African folk tale handed down through many generations, this production is recommended for grades kindergarten through sixth. A Märchen tale, it involves a magical land and an underdog who gets a magical boost and a birthright. Date & Time: March 16 at 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertbairtheater.org
Courtesy of ABT
Black Violin performs March 30 at the Alberta Bair Theater.
Black Violin
Wil Baptiste and Kevin “Kev Marcus” Sylvester make the strings fly with a musical blend of classical, hip-hop, R&B and bluegrass. The duo has performed at Bonnaroo, President Obama’s Inaugural Ball and made three Super Bowl appearances. Black Violin has collaborated with P.Diddy, Kanye West, 50 Cent, Tom Petty, Aerosmith, Aretha Franklin and the Eagles.
Date & Time: March 30 at 12:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
A Year with Frog and Toad
The birds return from wintering in the southern hemisphere to find their friends frog and toad still hibernating. While in deep sleep, the amphibians sing about friendship and the year ahead. This children’s performance is for pre-kindergarten through fifth grade students. Date & Time: April 4 at 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
Doktor Kaboom! LIVE WIRE! The Electricity Tour
Get a charge out of electricity’s fundamentals. Learn about safety, Tesla, Edison, lightning, currents, voltage, sparks, magnetic fields and electric generators. The show is recommended for grades four to eight. Date & Time: April 5 at 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
Garrison Keillor
Back in Billings for an encore performance, recently retired host of NPR’s “A Prairie Home Companion,” Garrison Keillor isn’t showing signs of slowing down. Get your tickets early as his 2016 Billings performance sold out. The man with a distinctive voice has earned Grammy, ACE and George Foster Peabody awards. Courtesy of ABT Date & Time: April 6 at Garrison Keillor returns to the Alberta Bair Theater for 7:30 p.m. an encore performance on Location: ABT April 6. Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
Comedy BeCAUSE
The Center for Children and Families presents nationallyknown comedian Jeff Dye, one of the stars of NBC’s “Better Late than Never.” Dye has been featured on “Last Comic Standing,” Comedy Central and MTV. Date & Time: April 8 at 8 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
BILLINGS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA & 25 CHORALE
Forbidden Broadway A wickedly funny musical roast, “Forbidden Broadway” takes shots at “Pippin,” “Les Miserables” and “The Book of Mormon.” It has earned nine Drama Desk awards, a special Tony and See musical roast, “Forbidden Broadway,” an Obie, to name a at the Alberta Bair Theater April 27. few. This show has been on tour for 35 years. Date & Time: April 27 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
Well-Strung New York-based Well-Strung fuses vocals and strings with classical and pop music. The quartet includes violinists Edmund Bagnell and Chris Marchant, cellist Daniel Shevlin and Trevor Wadleigh on Courtesy of ABT Well-Strung, a New York-based quartet, viola. Date & Time: May performs May 5 at the Alberta Bair Theater. 5 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
The Big Brass Courtesy Image
Artrageous
The Artrageous troupe of artists, musicians, singers and dancers mix it up in a tribute to various art forms, pop icons and music. The result: paintings inspired by the performance. Date & Time: May 18 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
ART HOUSE CINEMA & PUB
To view all current and upcoming movie showings at the Art House Cinema & Pub, log on to arthousebillings.com.
BETTER TO GATHER For upcoming classes, log on to bettertogather.com.
BILLINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY
To view classes and seminars offered at Billings Public Library, log on to billingslibrary.org.
Billings Symphony Orchestra and Chorale pays tribute to the Brass Band and guest artist Rex Richardson, a celebrated trumpet player. Richardson has been named International Tutor in Trumpet by England’s Royal Northern College of Music. Date & Time: March 11 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 252-3610 or visit billingssymphony.org
A Mass for Peace This work commissioned by the Royal Armouries Museum regarding the Kosovo Crisis in 1998-1999 is as relevant today as it was when composed by Karl Jenkins. The anti-war Mass for Peace includes lyrics from Rudyard Kipling, Alfred Lord Tennyson and Sankichi Toge. Date & Time: April 22 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 252-3610 or visit billingssymphony.org
International Spy Gala Come as your favorite femme fatale, spy or secret agent and try to win a hand at the Billings Symphony Orchestra’s Gala. It’s your choice to dress in black tie for the Texas Holdem Poker Tournament and Mystery Dinner at The Northern. Enjoy a meal by chef Nick Steen and music by Magic City Big Band. Date & Time: April 8; Texas Holdem Poker Tournament at noon; Mystery Dinner at 6 p.m. Location: Northern Hotel Tickets: (406) 252-3610 or visit billingssymphony.org
Don’t Forget
Lunch
visit our open air dining pa down and e m o C cooked with real fr rlor a z z i p l a e e taste ow r s S ee h
Pug’s Pork ChoP
CORNED BEEf, POtatOEs, CaRROts & CaBBagE with sODa BREaD & DEssERt
Sandwich
sODa BREaD March 13-18
Located right between Pug Mahon’s and The Bookie
3005 1st Ave N • 259-1041
Check out our specials on Facebook
259-4190 • 3011 1st Ave N
wE havE
Beef Pasties Every Thursday In March
Gluten Free
Goodies Muffins • Coffee Cake • Pancakes and more to come
2525 1st Ave N • 248-3060
at the Clocktower Inn Downtown Billings Open Mon.-Sat. 5:30am-5pm • Sun. 7am-1pm Breakfast Only
CROOKED LINE STUDIO
For upcoming classes at Crooked Line Studio, log on to crookedlinestudio.com.
NOVA CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Mozart’s The Magic Flute
Rimrock Opera Company and NOVA presents Mozart’s two-act opera, a classic tale of love conquering all. Under the Queen of the Night’s behest, Prince Tamino agrees to rescue her daughter from captivity. Instead, he is charmed by a community led by captor and high priest Sarastro. The opera is sung in German with subtitles and the spoken parts in English. Date & Time: Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org
Winter Carnival
An old-fashioned country carnival for families, Winter Carnival includes food and a performance by the James and the Giant Peach cast. Play bingo, get your face painted, enjoy live music and dress up like a sheep or farmer for the barnyard costume contest. The event is free and a plate of food is $2. Date & Time: March 4 at noon Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org
James & the Giant Peach
Upcoming
issUes
NOVA brings Roald Dahl’s story to life about a magical peach, an imprisoned boy and insects in this delightful tale. James Henry Trotter’s childhood story has a few lessons to teach about conquering fear. Date & Time: March 10-11 and 17-18 at 7:30 p.m.; March 12 and 19 at 2 p.m.
Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org
Love, Loss and What I Wore
Adapted from a play written by Delia and Nora Ephron, this play contains monologues and ensemble pieces about women, clothing and memories. If you’ve ever bought a bra or a prom dress, or have been with someone who has, this will resonate with you. Date & Time: March 31 and April 1, 7, and 8 at 7:30 p.m.; April 2 and 9 at 2 p.m. Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org
lane. Introduce the young ones to tiddlywinks, jacks, hopscotch, marbles, pickup sticks and cowboy roping during this annual event. Date & Time: March 25 at 10 a.m. Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: (406) 256-6809 or visit ywhc.org
Festival of One Act Operas
An unhappily married Miriam uses a bit of witchcraft to hypnotize a postman to fall in with love her in “In the Scarf.” “Speed Dating Tonight” presents its own take on meeting new people at a night club. Date & Time: April 28-30 and May 6-7 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org
SUDS
What’s better than 1960s music and guardian angels who teach a young woman how to find true love in a laundromat? Hits like “These Boots Are Made for Walking” and “It’s My Party” will make your feet happy. Date & Time: May 12-13, 19-20 and 26-27 at 7:30 p.m.; May 14, 21 and 28 at 2 p.m. Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org
THE PUB STATION To view all upcoming events at The Pub Station, log on to 1111presents.com.
WESTERN HERITAGE CENTER Heritage Playapalooza!
Children shake out winter’s cobwebs while learning and playing hands-on games from the past as parents take a walk down memory
High Noon Lecture Series Montana Fireball: the Wild Ride of Billings’ Mayor Willard Fraser Billings Gazette Editor Darrell Ehrlick chronicles the life of eccentric former Billings Mayor Willard Fraser. The colorful politician, who helped create the city’s legacy, died with few enemies, turned a jail into a museum and caned a fellow city council member for mocking him. Date & Time: March 16 at noon Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: (406) 256-6809 or visit ywhc.org
Historic Restaurants of Billings Take a tour of Billings’ early-day eateries with Stella Fong. When the
Don’t forget to aDvertise in... Call Jana Niemeyer for more information at 406-657-1343 Upcoming 2017 issues: May 26 • August 25 • November 22
railroads arrived, so did the food scene. Montana Avenue restaurants served oysters, chop suey and steak, while the Northern Hotel gave a taste of modern comfort. From the 1930s to the 1960s, locals socialized at supper clubs like Skyline, Bella Vista, Elmo and Windmill. Fong will talk about why names like Yegen, McCormick, Schaer and Honaker are still in Billings’ culinary vernacular. Date & Time: April 20 at noon Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: (406) 256-6809 or visit ywhc.org
The Beartooth Highway
A History of America’s Most Beautiful Drive Red Lodge, Cooke City and Yellowstone Park owe their existence to the Depression-era construction of the Beartooth Highway, which rises 10,947 feet above sea level. Historian Jack Axline tells the story of the road’s origins and construction of what late news correspondent Charles Kuralt called “America’s most beautiful drive.” Date & Time: May 18 at noon Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org
YELLOWSTONE ART MUSEUM EVENTS & CLASSES Art Auction 49
The YAM’s annual fundraiser supports future exhibits and education programs. The Art Auction goes big with a gala, silent and live auctions, Quick Draw competition, plus cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Enjoy a catered dinner and dessert buffet. Date & Time: March 4 at 5 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum
Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids Construct and design a sketch book, then fill it with drawings of artworks and other viewpoints from around the YAM. Date & Time: March 11 at 10 a.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: (406) 256-6804, ext. 232 or email artsuitcase @artmuseum.org
FAM at the YAM Make art with your family with the guidance of local artists. Each session is a new adventure. Cost is $6 for member child; $7 for non-member child; free for member adults and $3 non-member adults. Date & Time: March 17 and May 19, 5 to 7 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org
Doodling with Beads: The Art of Bead Embroidery
Tickle your creativity with sewing and beading techniques on fabric. Susan Germer teaches a variety of stitches using an assortment of colorful beads and fabric to create your art. Date & Time: March 25 at 10 a.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: $60 members, $67 non-members. Supply fee is $30. See artmuseum.org for more information.
Know Your Rights: Copyright and Intellectual Property Rights for Artists
Attorneys Bob Griffin, Shalise Zobel, Isaac Potter and Jennifer L. Webber teach artists, writers and creative people the legal tools to protect their work. Date & Time: April 6 at 6:30 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org
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Starting another great year downtown! Open: Mon - Sat, 4pm - Midnight
Environmental Intimacies in Rosane Volchan O’Conor’s Artwork Dr. Leanne Gilbertson, assistant art history professor and Northcutt Steele Gallery director at Montana State University Billings, takes a look at Rosane Volchan O’Conor’s Archaea works. Date & Time: April 6 at 6:30 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org
After5 - Unplugged Enjoy new art, music and drinks at the Yellowstone Art Museum. Be sure to browse through the first floor galleries where works from Montana artists are always changing. Upstairs, expect to discovery contemporary work that makes you think. Date & Time: April 27 and May 25, 5 to 8 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org
ArtWalk & Jam at the YAM
Enjoy free admission, parking and live music while viewing the Yellowstone Art Museum’s current exhibitions. The first drink is free for new members or those who renew their membership. Date & Time: May 5 from 4 to 9 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org
Drawing as a Conversation Artist-in-Residence Robin Earles demonstrates techniques for students to explore their unique language related to art on exhibit at the Yellowstone Art Museum. Designed to teach the student a better understanding of others’ work, the class builds empathy and helps the participant connect with their own abilities. Date & Time: May 6 at 1 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org
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Book-signing with artist Theodore Waddell Painter and sculptor Theodore Waddell discusses a new book about his life and work written by Rick Newby. “My Montana: Theodore Waddell, Paintings and Sculpture, 1959-2016,” includes essays by Pat Williams, Patrick Zentz and Paul Zarzyski. Date & Time: May 11 at 6:30 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org
Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids Share your story through art using layers of acrylic applied to canvas as taught by artist Jaune Quick-to-See Smith. While this class is offered by the YAM every second Saturday of the month during the school year for students ages 5-12, the topic changes each time. Date & Time: May 13 at 10 a.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org
Pictograph Cave Tour Park manager Jarret Kostrba leads an hour-long tour of Pictograph Cave State Park. Space is limited, so register in advance. The tour is free, but donations are welcome. Date & Time: May 19, 10 to 11 a.m. Location: Pictograph Cave State Park Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org
Cola pen drawing workshop Local artist Sarah Behrens Lemon teaches students the finer points of making a calligraphy pen from a soda can. Bring a favorite can, plus $15 for supplies. Date & Time: May 20 at 10 a.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: $35 members, $40 non-members. Sign up online at artmuseum.org or call (406) 256-6804.
Courtesy of YAM
The Yellowstone Art Museum features Kootenai and Salish artist Jaune Quick-to-See Smith in an exhibition March 23 through July 16.
EXHIBITS
Date & Time: March 23 through July 16 Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org
Boundless Visions The YAM keeps things interesting by frequently removing and adding pieces from its extensive collection to its first-floor exhibition spaces. Expect to be surprised and delighted with what comes out of the contemporary museum’s Vault storage. Date & Time: Ongoing Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org
Jaune Quick-to-See Smith: In the Footsteps of My Ancestors Describing herself as a “cultural arts worker,” Jaune Quick-to-See Smith uses humor and satire to look at the myths, stereotypes and paradox of American Indian lives and compares those perspectives to American society’s consumerism.
Art in Action: Marking Time
Back by popular demand, this event asks you to leave your mark at the YAM. Draw, sculpt and create pieces from paper to hang on the museum’s walls; it’s art therapy for all ages. Date & Time: March 23 through Aug. 6 Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org
Archaea: Rosane Volchan O’Conor
Colorado-based Rosane Volchan O’Conor uses welded metal wire, mylar and porcelain to tell the story of microscopic organisms that survive in Yellowstone National Park’s extreme heat and cold. She uses floors, walls and ceilings as her canvas, so expect the same at the YAM. Date & Time: March 23-Aug. 6 Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: (406) 256-6804 or visit artmuseum.org
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Downtown Billings hosts annual fundraisers Wine & Food Festival
Montana State University Billings Foundation is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its MSUB Wine & Food Festival with a nod to its past and future, said Jeanne Moller, MSUB Foundation development officer. The Festival is from May 15 to May 20 this year. The week’s events include a home-cooking school, cooking demonstrations and brew master and wine master symposiums. BOB ZELLAR, Gazette Staff Festivities kick off The MSUB Foundation’s Wine & with a bit of nostalgia Food Festival is from May 15 to May 20 and features fare prepared by on May 15 at 6 p.m. executive chefs, cooking courses, at the Rex Restaurant live demonstrations and lots of when five executive sweet and dry libations. chefs headline the guest chef dinner. “Several of our past chefs are returning to Billings to celebrate,” Moller said. They include Billings chefs David Maplethorpe of the Rex and Nick Steen of The Northern Hotel; Seattle chefs Kevin Davis of Steelhead Diner, Blueacre Seafood and Orfeo, and Eric Donnelly of RocakCreek Seafood & Spirits and FlintCreek Cattle Co.; and Bernard Guillas of La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club of La Jolla, Calif. Raghavan Iyer and James Dodge pressent a cooking class
HANNAH POTES, Gazette Staff
Carol Hagan’s “Equus” was the top selling live auction piece last year at the 48th annual YAM Art Auction. This year’s auction is March 4 and features a continuation of Hagan’s series of horses painted on glass.
on May 17, with wine tips from Stella Fong. The events conclude with wine and food pairings at 6 p.m. on May 19 and The Fine Finish on May 20 at 5:30 p.m. in the Normal Avenue parking lot at MSUB. The fine finish begins with a champagne reception followed by a gourmet dinner with Jeremy Goldsmith, executive chef of Gonzaga University’s Sodexo in Spokane. The final night’s activities include an auction with special items commemorating the 25th anniversary, Moller said. MSUB Foundation also will announce plans to establish a new scholarship, she said. For more information, visit winefoodfestival.com or call (406) 657-2244.
49. With an icy theme, the annual fundraiser supports exhibits and educational programs for the year. Lovers of art support the Yellowstone Art Museum by bidding on art donated from 141 artists throughout the United States, including more than 100 from Montana. The exhibition remains open until the auction. Bids can be placed on silent auction items until organizers announce its close on auction night. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. with a Quick Draw, hors d’oeuvres by Tom Nelson Catering and a dessert buffet. The live auction starts at 7:30 p.m. The evening ends with a drawing for a pink emerald and diamond pendant necklace donated by Chris and Paige Montague of Montague’s Jewelers. Advance tickets are $95 per person and $105 at the door. Raffle tickets can be purchased separately and you need not Art Auction 49 be present to win. For more information or to buy tickets visit Be your coolest self on March 4 while attending Art Auction artmuseum.org.
HANNAH POTES, Gazette Staff
Runners cross the finish line at Skypoint during the 2016 Purple 5k run. This year’s event starts at 9 a.m. on April 2.
Spare Change for Real Change Purple 5k Race
Shake the kinks out of your legs and help end the cycle of homelessness by running in the eighth annual Spare Change for Real Change Purple 5k race. The race begins at 9 a.m. Sunday, April 2 at Grand View Park and ends at Skyview Park. Early registrants pay $25. Shuttles to the start begin at 7:30 a.m. from N. 29th Street and Third Avenue North. The Park 1 garage at 2912 3rd Ave. N. is offering free parking on race day. Awards are given for overall male and female racers and fastest male and female runners in each age group. The race benefits the Downtown Billings Alliance’s Spare Change for Real Change program by providing grants for ending homelessness, poverty and addiction. Event packets are available for pickup March 31 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the DBA office, 2815 2nd Ave. N.
CASEY PAGE, Gazette Staff
The basement of Loren Entz’s home at 2416 2nd Ave. N. in Billings features a sofa once used by Ernest Hemmingway and items collected by Entz. The home was on display during the 2015 Heritage Home Tour.
spots in and around Billings during the 19th annual Home Heritage Tour. The May 20 event supports operations at the Moss Mansion Historic House Museum. Admission price includes an informational pamphlet and a pass for entry to each stop. Tickets can be purchased at the Moss Mansion at 914 Division St. or online. Visit mossmansion.org or call (406) 256-5100 for more information.
Runners and volunteers can register at downtownbillings.com.
Comedy BeCAUSE
Heritage Home Tour
Nationally-known comedian Jeff Dye headlines the Center for Children and Families annual fundraiser. Local comedians Mark Dawson and Cody Sutton also will participate.
Whet your interest in Yellowstone County’s culture, history and architecture with a tour of homes, businesses and other interesting
Classic…Casual…Contemporary
The event takes place on April 8 at 8 p.m. at the Alberta Bair Theater. Visit albertabairtheater.org or call (406) 256-6052 for information.
International Spy Gala
Slip into a black tie and tux or elegant high fashion and try your hand at poker during the Billings Symphony Orchestra’s International Spy Gala. Card games start at noon at The Northern Hotel, while the Mystery Dinner begins at 6 p.m. Chef Nick Steen is in charge of the dinner and Magic City Big Band gets you in a mysterious mood. Purchase tickets by calling (406) 252-3610 or visit billingssymphony.org.
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Photos by Larry Mayer of The Gazette staff Before becoming the Pub Station, its location served as a Greyhound bus depot. Now that the Pub has undergone an expansion, look back on images of its predecessor. Pictured here is the front entry of the station in 1983. More than 30 years later, the building maintains much of its former character.
Backlot
Pre-pub Bus Depot
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FT ABT GI TE ICA CERTIF = N BOX CA$H I CE! OFFI
Your SPRING 2017 Performing Arts Palette
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! ABT Box Office: M-Sat, Noon-5pm | (406) 256.6052
www.AlbertaBairTheater.org See inside this issue for MORE performances !
“Musical Hero” ~ Rolling Stone
March 22 • 7:30 pm
JAKE SHIMABUKURO
March 8 • 7:30 pm
BLACKVIOLIN “Unexpected blend of classically trained musicianship and hip-hop beats.” ~ The Miami Herald
March 30 • 7:30 pm
April 6 • 7:30 pm
Garrison Keillor Just Passing Through