Holiday2014

MERRY MARTINIS GET INTO THE SPIRIT

SCENTS OF THE SEASON A BRIDGE TO CHRISTMAS PAST

TO THINE OWN SELF BE TRUE: ARE YOU WHO YOU WANT TO BE?

HOOP DREAMS

MEET THE YOUNG MAN WHO NEVER, NEVER, NEVER GAVE UP

PLUS OUR 4TH ANNUAL MOST INSPIRING PEOPLE

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 1

When it’s your heart, minutes matter

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Billings Clinic’s average time for heart attack intervention is 38 minutes faster than the 90-minute national goal.* *October 1, 2013 – September 30, 2014

Call 9-1-1 billingsclinic.com/heartrisks 2 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

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MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 3

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4 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

FEATURES

holiday 2014

64 sCENTS OF THE SEASON

A bridge to christmas past

by KATHLEEN hARRIS

68 aNGELS OF THE HEART

Every act of caring is a reminder there are angels among us.

by sHELLEY vAN aTTA

79 mOST INSPIRING PEOPLE OF 2014 mEET 10 PEOPLE WHOSE QUIET ACTIONS MAKE BILLINGS A BETTER PLACE

by ALLYN Hulteng, Brittany Cremer & Brenda Maas

73

Holiday SYmbols decoded

by Julie green

76 cHARLIE BROWN cHRISTMAS TREE by jIM gRANSBERY

90 WALKING FENCES

by PETE Critelli

93

transformers

To thine own self be true

by SUSAN AUSTIN

MERRY MARTINIS • SCENTS OF THE SEASON • 4TH ANNUAL MOST INSPIRING PEOPLE • TO THINE OWN SELF BE TRUE • HOOP DREAMS

102 Hoop dreams

Meet the young man who never gave up

MERRY MARTINIS GET INTO THE SPIRIT

SCENTS OF THE SEASON

by ROB ROGERS

A BRIDGE TO CHRISTMAS PAST

TO THINE OWN SELF BE TRUE: ARE YOU WHO YOU WANT TO BE?

HOOP DREAMS

MEET THE YOUNG MAN WHO NEVER, NEVER, NEVER GAVE UP

PLUS OUR 4TH ANNUAL MOST INSPIRING PEOPLE HOLIDAY 2014 MCDEC2014COV.indd 1

11/25/2014 8:29:15 AM

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 5

DEPARTMENTS

HOLIDAY 2014

RIVER TO RIMS

IN EVERY ISSUE

8

11 2014 magic gift guide

EDITOR’S LETTER

F U N, FA C I N AT I NG f I ND S

9

19

GIVING BACK

24

ARTIST LOFT

26

ELEMENTS

28

MEDIA ROOM

cONTRIBUTORS

107

SEEN AT THE SCENE

111

C H A R I TA B L E G I F T S GO FA R

M att U suriello

A long w inter's night

b O O K S, M O V I E S, M U S I C

& W E B RE V I E W S

DATEBOOK

114

SIGNATURE SECTION

LAST WORD Why Magic City?

F INE LIV ING

30 36

MONTANA PERSPE C T IVE S

c H R I S T M A S C OM F OR T

GREAT ESTATES

47

LEGENDS

epicure

51

PHOTO JOURNAL

55

i’M JUST SAYIN’

e p i - curious

4 3 LIBATIONS

m E RRY M A R T I N I S

nostalgic holiday ads

w I N T E R S P L E ND OR

M O V I E S A RE M Y M U S E

TRAVELOGUE

58

winter wonderland

b IG s K Y adventures

6 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

In the early 1880s, immigrants and adventurers came in droves to seek their livelihood on the verdant land along the Yellowstone River. The hastily constructed tents and log cabins made it appear as if Billings materialized overnight – thus earning the name “The Magic City.” Today, as the largest city in Montana, Billings proudly retains its ‘Magic City’ moniker.

As for Magic City magazine, we promise to continue our mission to uncover all that is unique and wonderful and changing in this great community ... and we guarantee a few surprises along the way.

HOLIDAY 2014 I VOLUME 12 I ISSUE 5

Michael GulledgE Publisher 657-1225 editorial

Allyn Hulteng Editor-in-chief 657-1434 Bob Tamb0 Creative Director 657-1474 Brittany Cremer Senior Editor 657-1390 Brenda Maas Assistant Editor 657-1490 Evelyn Noennig community liason / assistant Editor 657-1226 photogra phy/ videogra phy

Larry Mayer, James Woodcock, Casey Page, Bob Zellar, hannah potes A dvertising

Dave Worstell General manager 657-1352 Ryan Brosseau Classified & Online Manager 657-1340 Shelli Rae Scott SALES MANAGER 657-1202 LINSAY DUTY ADVERTISING COORDINATOR 657-1254 MO LUCAS Production/Traffic Artist 657-1204 C ontact us: Mail: 401 N. Broadway Billings, MT 59101 editor@magiccitymagazine.com F ind us online at www.magiccitymagazine.com F ind us at various rack locations throughout Billings: Billings area Albertsons I Billings Airport I Billings Clinic Billings Gazette Communications I Billings Hardware I Big Frog of Billings Curves for Women I Evergreen IGA I Gainan’s I Good Earth Market Granite Fitness I Kmart I McDonald’s (select locations) neecee’s I Paxson's Flooring (Miles City) I Pita Pit Reese and Ray’s IGA (Laurel) I Sidney Airport I Stella’s St. Vincent Healthcare I The Y I Valley Federal Credit Union (Downtown location) Western Security Banks (Downtown location) I Williston Airport Yellowstone County Museum I Plus many other locations Subscriptions are available at the annual subscription rate of $29 (5 Issues).

Single copy rate $4.95. Mail subscription requests and changes to address above, ATTN: Circulation Magic City Magazine is published five times a year by Billings Gazette Communications Copyright© 2014 Magic City Magazine All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written consent is prohibited.

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 7

Brittany Cremer

The Giving Season A couple of years ago, I left work late heading home for the evening. It was a frigid day in December, and the roads were thick with freshly fallen snow. My route that night included stopping to check on my parents’ house as they were spending the holidays out of town.

Turning off the arterial onto the narrow lane, my compact car sank further into the unplowed snow.

Slowly I made my way up the street, sliding awkwardly between deep ruts that were hidden under the fluffy mantle.

Finally reaching their driveway, I tugged hard on the steering wheel attempting to pull in. The car lurched and then slid hard, landing hood-first into deep snow along the curb. My attempts to back out to the road only made the tires sink – I was completely, utterly stuck. To make things worse, I didn’t have a shovel or cat litter, and the only footwear I had were the high heels on my feet.

I was reaching for my mobile phone when out of the blue two young men appeared at my window. Motioning for me to put the car in reverse, the pair pushed and rocked, straining against the slick surface until with a hrruph, the front broke free from the snow pile and the car eased back into the street.

Cracking my window, I thanked the young men profusely.

“No problem!” one said cheerfully, and the pair disappeared into the falling snow.

Angels among us

Most of us have been the recipient of an unexpected act of kindness. Whether it was a friend or a stranger, someone reached out in a thoughtful way with no expectation of receiving something in return.

In that exchange, a beautiful moment of grace occurs between the giver and the recipient, where empathy and

humility converge. Instantly we are reminded of our deep connection to one another, and to something greater than us both.

Inside this issue of Magic, people from across the city share their stories of unexpected acts of kindness.

These heart-warming vignettes are a testament to the compassionate and generous community in which we live. May their stories also remind us that it isn’t the size of the kindness, but the act itself that matters.

Inspiring souls

If you live here, you already know that Billings is ripe with amazing individuals. Movers and shakers, community volunteers, people who overcome great obstacles and those who want to change the world all call Billings home.

In keeping with tradition, we are pleased to share our fourth-annual Most Inspiring People. These individuals represent a cross-section of our community, and it’s likely one or more have inspired you.

From a 9-year-old who is well on his way to raising $19,500 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation to a woman who has devoted her life to bringing art to life, and a couple who spent six months serving children in Africa to a music teacher who has infused a passion for jazz in young teens – these people prove that anything is achievable if you put your heart and soul into going after your dream.

Pass it on…

This holiday season, while we enjoy merriment and mirth with those we love, let us also remember to have a grateful heart for kindnesses big and small. And if you have the opportunity, make the effort to reach out to someone in need.

No gift under the tree can outshine a selfless act of generosity, and the glow of goodwill will last long after the tree comes down.

From all of us at Magic City Magazine — ­ have a Merry Christmas and peace-filled 2015.

8 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Allyn Hulteng Editor-in-chief editor@magiccitymagazine.com

developed her communication skills early, once racking up a $174 bill calling 1-900-SANTA in an effort to unsuccessfully acquire Moonshoes™ and a pink corvette. Before becoming Senior Editor of Magic, she channeled her creativity and drive into a B.A. in print journalism from the University of Montana (Go Griz!) and a M.S. in Public Relations from MSUB—melding her two loves, writing and people.

Brenda Maas Whether she’s chasing down resources or one of her three sons, Brenda Maas sees each day as yet another story to tell. She has been writing and reporting since cut-and-paste was en vogue. Recently, she and husband, Brett, opened a local custom garment store as yet another new adventure. She now has a new venue for recording other people’s quotes.

Evelyn Noennig has spent most of her life in the Magic City.

She's passionate about the community and the people who make Billings a great place to live, work and play.

As Community Liaison for Magic, Evelyn will be engaged in discovering the individuals and their stories that make Magic distinctly local.

You just never know where you may find her, volunteering, attending or coordinating an event for the library…she’s everywhere.

Bob tambo

attributes the longevity of his 30-year commercial art career to many novenas to the Blessed Virgin and is still amazed he gets paid for what he does.

Though he daydreams of switching jobs with Anthony Bourdain and playing guitar with Jackson Browne, Bob would never trade spending time with his wife Kit and constantly pampering his two tiny canine children, Jack and Jill.

c o ntri b ut o rs

Pete Critelli

has been a resident of Carbon County for 20 years and is an active member of various city and county boards. He is a published cartoonist and a past winner of The New Yorker Magazine cartoon caption contest. He, his wife, and their working stock dog, take every opportunity to be out in the high country.

Susan Austin has lived and worked across the western U.S. and continues to travel extensively. With a B.A. in Communications and an M.A. in Anthropology, specializing in Archaeology, she’s led a dual-career life as both a professional communicator and as an archaeologist. There is no place too far, or history too far back, for this girl.

Jim Gransbery

is a retired agricultural and political reporter of The Billings Gazette. Since 2008, he has spent his time teaching, writing magazine articles for regional publications and working on short fiction. He also looks after the well-being of his wife, Karen, who has made the whole trip possible.

Karen Kinser While loving the wizardry of words, Karen also loves travel because of that present-moment sense, which travel conveys so well, that each day is a gift to unwrap. Other passions include hiking, gardening, photography and entering recipe contests. Both she and her husband are fascinated with factory tours, literary landmarks and seeking restaurants mentioned in novels— just to see if they exist.

Rob Rogers’ spirit animal is Val Kilmer. He’s been writing news and features since he won a spot on his elementary school’s biweekly newspaper with an opinion piece on why “Magnum P.I.” needs to exist in the real world. He probably still believes everything he wrote in that piece. He lives in Billings with his wife and three daughters. Before staking his future on freelance writing and at-home parenting, he was the education reporter for The Billings Gazette.

Kathleen Harris

is the marketing director for Billings Catholic Schools, covering enrollment management, fundraising, public relations, website management and social media for the school system. Alongside a life devoted to her now college-aged children, she enjoys both writing and travel as the means to get to know a place, and exploring the food and wine of any given destination.

Julie Green’s lifelong passion has always been writing, and she considers herself lucky it has also become her profession. She is the owner of Box 117 Creative, which offers freelance writing and marketing services for small and mediumsized businesses. A native of Cowley, Wyoming, Julie loves spending time with her husband Dave as well as their son and daughter.

DOWNTOWN 502 2 N 30TH ST | 245-6434

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 9

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THE LIST

PERSON OF INTEREST

GIVING BACK

ARTIST LOFT

MEDIA ROOM

ELEMENTS

Holiday

THE

FUN, FASCINATING FINDS WE THINK ARE GREAT

LIST

We made our list and checked it twice—here are our picks for everyone from the fashionista to the weekend-er…well, everyone except those on the Naughty List. That’s your job.

COMPILED BY BRENDA MAAS MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 11

Fashionista Bling’s the thing Jewels are never wrong.

Try this 18-carat white gold circle pendant, set with sapphires and accented with diamonds. It’s the real deal!

Available at Clark Avenue Jewelers Prices vary

Just a swing’in Dress for the holidays—and all season long—in this intricate lace-edged cami and high-low croqueted sweater in cabernet. It is sure to put some sass into your stride.

Available at Northern Boutique in the Northern Hotel $56

All the rage Warm up your boots this season with these winter-white knits from Miss Molly.

Accented with lace and buttons, you dress up, or dress down— either way, you will be noticed.

Available at Northern Boutique in the Northern Hotel $34

Step right up In these boots by Jeffery Campbell, you will stand tall and look great!

Casual enough for a day at the office, yet sleek enough to go out for the night.

Available at Bottega $330

Loosen your grip Just clutch it instead.

Crafted by Danielle Nicole, a 13-inch chain gives this handbag dual-use.

Gold accents provide just enough bling.

Available at Bottega $68

12 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Back in Black… …and silver, and gold, and burgundy. Brighten– up your holidays with this chevon sequined mini-skirt by Banana. Then, dress it down for a day in the office. Versatility rocks!

Available at Western Ranch Supply $38

Power-broker Truly timeless

A classic case

Few things make a statement like a Rolex watch. For more than a century, these classic pieces have kept time with precision.

Wherever you go, go in style with a leather attaché case from Torio. The secure snapbuckle front keeps important papers safe while the zipper closer and expandable sides provide space for files or laptop.

Available at Goldsmith Gallery Jewelers Prices vary

Available at JASONS $495

Your True Color No nicks For the discerning, yet modern, man, try this traditional safety razor shaving set.

Consider it an intimate and caring—yet incredibly smooth—gift.

Jewelry uniquely designed by you!

Available at Prohibition Clothiers $75

Mellow out Like fine wines and smooth cognacs, great cigars and pipe tobacco smokers take the time to reflect on the richness of life. Try this sleek pipe by Savinelli, and as always, enjoy in moderation.

Available at Stogie’s $115

Failure to duplicate Scent is unique. So, why be like the others? Try Hugh Parsons for a spicy and sophisticated step up.

Available at Desmonds $70 each

Always open Sundays 12 – 4 Shop Local, Shop Downtown 2814 2nd Avenue North

259-3624

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 13

CULTURE BUFF Local flavor When in Rome…

Or, in this case, Paris. Wear the scarf that fits the scene—a horizontal landscape of the city’s skyline. Made of 100 percent modal (a fiber from beech trees), this true-to-life “scarfscape” is a walking piece of art.

Available at Bottega $92

Meeting and studying local artists is a great way to simultaneously learn about your region and art.

Start with this oil “Red Lodge With Gleaming Sun” by Kira Fercho.

Available at Frame Hut & Gallery $345

Savor maturity Age equals exquisite taste in this vintage bottle of 2008 Lateral. A blend of merlot, cabernet Franc, cabernet sauvignon, malbec and petite verdot, this red has inviting notes for tart cranberry with aromas of dried tobacco leaf combined with plums and hits of cocoa, cream and caramel.

Available at The Wine Market & Deli $43

Northern lights Celebrate winter’s most beautiful feat of engineering–the snowflake—with a 10-year series of Waterford Crystal. A different hue for each year. Shine on!

Available at Gainan’s Price varies

Garden goddess

Tickets! Get your tickets!

There’s no need to travel. Billings has become a regional mecca for theater and the arts. Choose from Alberta Bair Theater, Western Heritage Center, Billings Studio Theater, Yellowstone Art Museum, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, the Babcock and Billings Symphony & Chorale for local cultural events.

Available at box offices or online Prices vary

14 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Who knew a vegetable could morph into a work of art? Created

by Laurie Wertman, this “Pot of Dreams” would even impress Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother.

Available at The Frame Hut & Gallery $285

young-at-heart Where’s my fork?

Akin to a child, the artisans at Girl Ran Away with the Spoon like to color outside of the lines.

With imagination that has no bounds, they craft truly unique jewelry from vintage flat wear and repurposed metal. Seconds, anyone?

Available at Northern Boutique $42

Hide-and-seek This timeless game takes on new meaning if you have the DJI Phantom Aerial UAV Drone Quadcopter for GoPro. Take a remote-control flying machine and add video capability for a “big boy toy” that will make even the grandparents drool with curiosity.

Available at Amazon $480

Ready….pull!

Life is too short to have a serious coffee mug.

Fire up your morning with this “Big Shot” shotgun shell mug. For a bonus gift, pair it with 12-gauge coasters—a true unisex gift!

Available at Pazzazz Gifts $16 for mug $25 for set of (4) coasters

The Frame Hut & “Gift” Gall ery is Ready for Your Holiday Shopping!

Thowback Taste the flavors of childhood with candy, gum, soda and ice cream from days-goneby. Pick and choose from bulk bins, plus savor the sweetness at the vintage soda fountain.

Available at Candy Town USA Prices vary

Mum’s the word Not any longer if you have this cute cube of “Table Topics.” Ask questions like “When is it ok to spy on your kids?” to get the conversation flowing—perfect for families, friends and acquaintances.

Available at Calayla $25

1430 Grand Ave.

245-9728

www.framehut.com www.FAcebook.coM/TheFrAMehuT

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 15 Mon-Fri 9-6 • Sat 10-5

weekend-er Racy “lacey” Lace is hot this season, and so is this dress. For a show-stopping experience, wear this MissMe creation to the ball.

Every day should be the weekend.

Town & country This pea coat is the one! Made of 75 percent reprocessed wool, this a timeless style.

Schott N.Y.C. has been manufacturing outerwear since 1913 for a reason—they do it right.

Available at Billings Army Navy $200

Available at Western Ranch Supply $89

Step on up!

As much a shoe as a slipper, these comfy weekend-ers from Giesswein are composed of a slip-resistant and waterproof outsole plus100-percent boiled wool uppers for temperatureregulation year-round. Be prepared to leave the house with your slippers on.

Available at Desmonds $134

Form & function What’s a weekend without jeans? Really soft, comfortable jeans—like the Rock & Roll Cowgirl and Cowboy jeans.

Available in a variety of sizes, washes and styles, these jeans hit the magical mark of comfort + style.

Available at Shipton’s Big R Women’s: $75-95 Men’s: $70-75

A Montana must-have No matter what type of vehicle you drive, the Husky WeatherBeater floor liners are an automatic. These car-mats-on-steroids contain spills and dirt, plus they are custom-designed to each make and model. They could last longer than your car.

Available at Auto Trim Design $89-179

16 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

2015 lincoln navigator 5LMJJ3JT7FEJ04162

This holiday season, discover whaT The new lincoln is all abouT. #wishlist

2015 MKc

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2015 lincoln MKX

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1) With 100A Equipment Group. Not all buyers will qualify for Lincoln AFS Red Carpet Lease. Payments may vary; dealer determines price. Cash due at signing is after $1,000 Owner Loyalty (PGM #33261) which is available to customers who currently own or lease a 1995 or newer Ford, Lincoln or Mercury vehicle OR $1,000 Competitive Conquest Bonus Cash (PGM #30055) which is available to customers who currently own or lease a 1995 or newer non-Ford/Lincoln/Mercury Motor Company car, SUV, or light duty truck. 2) Owner Loyalty and Competitive Conquest Bonus Cash are not compatible. $1,250 Owner Loyalty (PGM #33261) is available to customers who currently own or lease a 1995 or newer Ford, Lincoln or Mercury vehicle. $1,250 Competitive Conquest Bonus Cash (PGM #30055) is available to customers who currently own or lease a 1995 or newer non-Ford/Lincoln/Mercury Motor Company car, SUV, or light duty truck. Not all buyers will qualify for Lincoln AFS financing. 0% APR financing for 60 months at $16.67 per month per $1,000 financed regardless of down payment (PGM #20299). 3) Program #20299: Not all buyers will qualify. Lincoln AFS limited-term APR financing. Not all Lincoln MKX models may qualify. $1,000 Owner Loyalty (PGM #33261) is available to customers who currently own or lease a 1995 or newer Ford Motor Co. vehicle. Owner Loyalty and Competitive Conquest offers are not compatible. For all offers, lessee responsible for excess wear and mileage over 31,500 miles at $0.20 per mile. Lessee has option to purchase vehicle at lease end at price negotiated with dealer at signing. Take new retail delivery from dealer stock by 1/5/15. See dealer for qualifications and complete details. Vehicle shown may have optional equipment not included in payment.

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 17

I Inspired nspired

byM ontana.

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18 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

M-F: 10 am to 6 pm • SAT: 9 am to 5 pm 1524 24th Street West 406.294.1717 • thejoyofkids.com

The Original Magnetic Block

What Will You Build?

GIVING BACK

CHRIS RUBICH

Charitable gifts go far

Charitable organizations depend greately on the generosity of community members. This

season as you consider making a donation, please think beyond the amount of the check to the men, women, children and animals who will be touched by your gift.

And just in case you've ever wondered exactly

what your donation of $100, $1,000 or $5,000 was funding, we've spelled it out for you. Your generous contribution will bring joy, safety, warmth, encouragement, empowerment and hope to those less fortunate. Is there any greater gift?

HUNGER $100 •

•

•

Food boxes for 10 families from the Billings Food Bank Suggested donation for 25 meals for a homebound senior citizens from Meals on Wheels or a senior at a Senior Dinner Program site Meals for 42 homeless people at Montana Rescue Mission

$1,000 •

•

10,000 pounds of food for sack-lunch and backpack-lunch programs from Billings Food Bank Meals for two to three days for 420 people at Montana Rescue Mission

$5,000 •

•

•

Two scholarships to the Fortin Culinary Job Skills class at Billings Food Bank Startup funds to expand Meals on Wheels between Billings and Laurel One-tenth of the cost of essential dining-room and kitchen repairs at Montana Rescue Mission

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 19

GIVING BACK

BY CHRIS RUBICH

HOMELESSNESS

SENIOR CITIZENS

$100

$100

•

•

•

• Money management services from Big Sky Senior Services to protect a vulnerable senior from predators • 20 rides by Adult Resource Alliance of Yellowstone County for individuals unable to drive or use the city bus to shop or visit a family member in the hospital or nursing home

A microwave for veterans living at Volunteers of America’s Independence Hall Shelter for one client for five days through Montana Rescue Mission A hot meal a week for 100 needy teens through Tumbleweed Runaway Program

$1,000 •

•

•

Bedding for 20 veterans at Independence Hall Curriculum costs for a year of classes in Montana Rescue Mission programs A month of staffing the 24-hour teen crisis line at Tumbleweed

$5,000 •

•

•

Veterans’ instructional fees, hygiene items, medications and more through the emergency fund at Independence Hall A commercial dryer for doing laundry at Montana Rescue Mission Create a one-bedroom living pod in the Tumbleweed teen shelter

$1,000

KIDS $100 •

•

•

Financial-literacy classes for 15 teens at Boys and Girls Clubs of Yellowstone County Supper for one child for three months at Friendship House Swim lessons for a low-income family for a season at the Billings Family YMCA

$1,000 •

•

•

Eight weeks of mentoring for 10 Boys and Girls Clubs members.

New desks for a classroom at Friendship House New basketballs to serve 380 kids at the YMCA

$5,000 • Create a permanent endowment tor Back-A Kid to attend Boys and Girls Clubs in perpetuity • A used minivan to pick up kids from school and transport them to Friendship House each weekday • New equipment for more than 2,000 kids in tumbling and youth gymnastics at the YMCA

20 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

•

•

Medication-setup help and monitoring by a nurse for 10 seniors for a year from Big Sky Senior Services Scholarships for seniors for an Adult Resource Alliance day or overnight trip

$5,000 •

•

Homemaking from Big Sky Senior Services for a month, allowing for 50 seniors to stay in their homes Minor home-repair assistance to low-income seniors, allowing them to remain in their homes through the Adult Resource Alliance

It’s your home, at last.

HEALTH $100

PEOPLE IN CRISIS $100 • Nine cases of canned vegetables for food boxes from Family Services Inc. • Heat bills for low-income people through Energy Share and District 7 Human Resources Development Council • Stocking hats and gloves for 12 needy people from St. Vincent de Paul • Safe shelter and food for one night for one victim of domestic violence and her children through YWCA’s Gateway House

$1,000 • Rent help for two or three very low-income families to avoid becoming homeless through Family Services • Save families from facing eviction through the Emergency Services Program of HRDC • 100 sets of long underwear for low-income people from St. Vincent de Paul • Improved quality of life and job training skills through the YWCA Employment Training Center to break the cycle of poverty and violence

• Hygiene kits for people who are mentally ill or living on the streets through Mental Health Center’s HUB • A year’s supply of prenatal health brochures for the March of Dimes • One or two speech and language clinical therapy sessions through the Scottish Rite Speech and Languages Disorders Clinic

$1,000 • Backpacks for 50 people on the street from the HUB • Continuing education on prenatal and neonatal issues for health practitioners through March of Dimes • Seed money for a building to house the Scottish Rite Speech and Languages Disorders Clinic

Once you find that perfect place to call home, the next important decision is the financing. So many mortgage options, so little time. We get that. Our goal is to partner with you to help guide you through the loan process and find the best financing to fit your needs. We’ve got the experience and mortgage products that will have you moving into your new home, at last.

Call today, and put my knowledge to work for you.

$5,000 • A commercial-grade stove and freezers for cooking lessons for the HUB diabetes group.

• A year-long grant to put boots on the ground for a March of Dimes neonatal intensivecare unit in Montana

KIMBERLY MACDONALD Mortgage Loan Originator 6 24th Street West Billings MT 59102 Direct: 406.655.1699 Cell: 406.861.0052 kimberly.macdonald@usbank.com NMLS#: 470804

$5,000 • Feed 616 families for a month with food from fresh food rescue partners and Family Services • Support services for pregnant or parenting teens living in transitional housing at Harmony House through HRDC • Rental assistance for 10 families from St. Vincent de Paul • Trained staff to handle 125 calls to the helpline at YWCA’s Gateway House

usbank.com/mortgage

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Visit usbank.com to learn more about U.S. Bank products and services. Deposit Products are offered through U.S. Bank National Association, Member FDIC. Mortgage products offered by U.S. Bank National Association. ©2014 U.S. Bank Association. ©2014 U.S. Bank, Member FDIC.

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 21

GIVING BACK

BY CHRIS RUBICH

ANIMALS

OUTDOORS

$100

$100

•

•

•

•

•

•

25 vaccinations for dogs or cats at Billings Animal Rescue Kare (BARK) 4,000 super worms to feed the amphibians, reptiles and hedgehog at ZooMontana for about two months Five days of canned cat foot for 110 cats at Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter (YVAS)

$1,000 • •

•

Flooring or a steel kennel for a dog at BARK. Seven school enrichment programs about animals for 1,750 kids through ZooMontana Outdoor play-area enrichment equipment for dogs at Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter

$5,000 • A month of veterinary bills at BARK • 150 cases of meat to feed ZooMontana bears, tigers, lynx and wolves for a month • Two kennel containment yards for puppies and dogs able to jump six-foot fences at YVAS

ARTS $100 •

•

•

Sponsor 20 children for a student matinee at Alberta Bair Theater Feed volunteers as they prepare for shows at NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Art education for two classes of school tours at Yellowstone Art Museum

$1,000 • Bring a guest artist or community- outreach program to Alberta Bair Theater • Sponsor a show with props, costumes and more for the Youth Conservatory at NOVA • Education gallery guides for an exhibit at YAM

Hand tools and materials for trail maintenance to correct bicycle-trail washout, drainage and erosion through BikeNet 25 campers from Eagle Mount day camp to canoe at Montana Audubon Center One week of Adventures in Nature Camp at Montana Audubon Center

$1,000 •

•

•

A bench along the bike-trail system through BikeNet 25 disabled residents to participate in the Eagle Mount swim program Naturalist in the Schools visits to and field trips for an elementary classroom for a year from Montana Audubon Center

$5,000 •

•

•

Bicycle trailhead kiosks with maps and other information from BikeNet. Partial payment for a Hoc Bi-Ski for handicap skiing with Eagle Mount Building a nature element in the new Nature Play area of Montana Audubon Center

$5,000 • Sponsor an Alberta Bair musical or other show.

• Sponsor Venture into Schools for NOVA to visit three schools and put on plays with students.

• Ship an exhibition from a neighboring state to YAM

Community of Giving Resource List Adult Resource Alliance of Yellowstone County (259-9666) Alberta Bair Theater (256-8915) Big Sky Senior Services (259-3111) BikeNet (281-1244) Billings Animal Rescue Kare (BARK) (694-1107) Billings Family YMCA (249-1685) Billings Food Bank (259-2856) Boys and Girls Clubs of Yellowstone County (294-4511) Eagle Mount (969-2949)

22 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Energy Share and District 7 Human Resources Development Council (869-2531) Family Services Inc. (384-0056) Friendship House (259-5569) March of Dimes (252-7480) Mental Health Center’s HUB (238-3652) Montana Audubon Center (294-5099) Montana Rescue Mission (259-3800) NOVA Center for the Performing Arts (591-9535)

Scottish Rite Speech and Languages Disorders Clinic (259-6683) Senior Dinner Program (259-9666) St. Vincent de Paul (252-1855) Tumbleweed Runaway Program (259-2558) Volunteers of America’s Independence Hall (252-4118) Yellowstone Art Museum (256-6804, ext. 226) Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter (294-7387) YWCA’s Gateway House (252-6303) ZooMontana (652-8100)

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MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 23

ARTIS T LOF T

By Britta ny Cremer I PHOTOGRAPHY by James Woodcock

Matt Usuriello The Woodsman

With subtle nuance, artisan and furniture-maker Matt Usuriello designs livable art.

The beauty of his creations—hand-crafted wooden chairs, chests, coffee tables and the like—is intensified by Usuriello’s love and appreciation for his trade.

“I’ve always had a fondness for trees and the outdoors,” Usuriello said.

For him, it’s a solemn place that creates a sense of reverie.

Roots, bark, branches and boughs—that is what the rest of us see when we visualize a tree. Usuriello sees something far more beautiful and acute. He envisions a three-dimensional poem crafted in wood and held in light.

And with nature’s nimble grace, he creates.

Timbered talent

Originally from Upstate New York, Usuriello attended design school in Scotland at the Chippendale International School of Furniture Design.

“I wanted a unique life experience, a touch of travel, but it had to be at an English-speaking country,” he said.

Nine months later, Usuriello left inspired and hungry to see the West.

He followed his cousin to Havre, Mont. for college and continued woodworking while attaining a degree in Water Quality and Environmental Health.

Now, Usuriello humbly hones his craft in the confines of his in-home workshop, splitting time evenly between woodworking and his job as an environmental consultant. Commissioned for pieces he designs from scratch, the fruits of his labor exalt a rich warmness, a quality reserved only for work fashioned by gentle, knowing hands.

Creations in walnut, maple, mahogany, cherry wood and exotic hardwoods line his home.

24 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

“I’m greatly influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement,” Usuriello noted, which originated in England and became quite popular during the turn of the century. Architectural work by Greene and Greene has also directly influenced his work, he added.

These Arts and Crafts-style pieces are more prevalently found in antique shops and estates on the East Coast because that’s where the movement met its heyday in America. As settlers began to move westward, packing solid, heavy furniture was cumbersome, and many of these pieces were left behind.

Wood artisans like Usuriello have ignited new interest in the beauty and authenticity of the movement.

Hidden genius

Melding the traditional with contemporary accents is where Usuriello really shines.

“I appreciate the elegance of more traditional

styles, but like to tweak it just a bit—turn it on its head by adding unexpected elements,” he said.

For example, Usuriello might take a Queen Anne-style China cupboard and inlay the cabinet doors with a contrasting marquetry.

Implementing the rustic beauty of reclaimed lumber is also one of Usuriello’s favorite design idyllics.

Of the many pieces he’s created throughout the years, Usuriello’s favorite was a speciallycrafted corner hutch he designed for his mother.

“My parents put off purchasing a hutch because of the positioning in the home—there really wasn’t room,” Usuriello said. “But I drafted plans for one that would fit perfectly in the corner—made out of oak to match the rest of their furniture.”

Sentimentality is closely related to inspired work, Usuriello noted, while adding that he finds great joy in repurposing nostalgic items like a favorite family tree or barn wood.

Opposite page top: Matt Usuriello holds an architectural model of an entertainment center that he was commissioned to make. Inset: Chess pieces carved

by Usuriello. Clockwise from top left: This beautiful chess table is made of rosewood, satinwood and dyed sycamore with oval fan marquetry. This whimsical guitar chair was done in European yew with maple and walnut details.

Usuriello crafted this jewelry box from Brazilian cherry wood, walnut and curly maple—accented with dovetails. An octagon end table in Usuriello’s home is made from exotic Padauk and box elder maple. Beautiful as stand-alone décor or inlayed into a table or countertop, Usuriello’s weaved marquetry incorporates maple, ebony and mahogany veneers. The shading was done with hot sand.

“Furniture should have character, tell a story—be both beautiful and functional,” Usuriello said. “That’s what I strive for when creating a from-scratch piece.”

Usuriello’s work is not currently on display, but he will happily share his portfolio with those interested in commissioning a piece.

Contact Matt at 406-272-4242 for more information.

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 25

ELEMENT S

BY brenda ma a s

AThese Long Winter’s Night elements will make your night in the best ever.

Take a seat!

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26 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Few things beat the perfect home theater system. But a properly installed system, with a remote that does not require an engineering degree, makes movie night better.

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Try these Golden Age of Hollywood movie playbills to set the mood and call it “Vintage Night.” It’s also a prime opportunity to educate your kids on the “Who’s Who” of Tinsel Town prior to Brad Pitt.

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MEDIA ROOM

BY BRITTANY CREMER

Music

“That’s Christmas to Me” Pentatonix

Book

Crap Taxidermy

By Kat Su This holiday season, give the gift of uproarious laughter (or keep it for yourself and giggle manically on the inside.)

Whether you choose to laugh or cringe at these spectacularly bad attempts at taxidermy, you won’t be able to tear your eyes away from the curiosities inside. It is the most perverse, yet imaginative collection of anatomical reconstructions of the animal kingdom you’ll ever see. Warning: what is seen cannot be unseen.

DVD

Downton Abbey Boxed Set

Italian in origin, the word “acappella” means “in a manner of the chapel or choir.” Keep this in mind while listening to internationally-renowned musical group, Pentatonix, whose heavenly harmonies are not of this world.

Perfect harmony.

No accompaniment.

The group of five turns traditional Christmas warhorse melodies into contemporized masterpieces. Expect beat-boxing, nuanced chord sequences and goose bumps.

But because Christmas music is so deeply-rooted in tradition and nostalgia, you can also expect to find go-to holiday jingles like “Silent Night” and “Sleigh Ride.” But also take note of the group’s moving and heartfelt original song, “That’s Christmas to Me.” Kiddos (and adults) will love the “Let it Go” track, an homage to the ever-so-popular movie “Frozen.” And you don’t have to be a composer or music mixer to appreciate the incendiary mix of rhythms and tones in Pentatonix’s version of “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.”

Whether in the car or on the go, your days will be much more merry and bright while listening to “That’s Christmas to Me.”

28 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

It’s compulsively watchable.

Critically-acclaimed PBS series Downton Abbey brings to life all the drama and intrigue of the inhabitants of Downton Abbey, a lavish English country manor and home to the Earl of Grantham.

This set includes every episode of the first four seasons, following the Crawley family and their servants from pre-war England and into the social upheaval of England in the 1920s. The series exudes an addictive combination of romance, heartbreak, blackmail, betrayal and scandal.

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Just like Santa, you’re making a list and checking it twice. But now that you’ve narrowed down your list, it’s time to head to the stores (or your keyboard) to get the best deals. Rated as the top shopping app, Red Laser lets you scan the barcode of a given item to find the best price—anywhere. Opening the app inside a store reveals any available coupons; it also digitally saves all your loyalty cards. The convenience and savings will snowball.

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C H RI S T M A S 30 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Christmas 2013 was extra special for Brian and Tana Ban. It was the couple’s first holiday season in a home they built and designed themselves. With more than 30 years of construction experience, the couple has built and remodeled countless homes over the years for their customers.

So when it came time for them to build their dream home, they had already made their list—and checked it twice.

BY j u l i e g r e e n

I

p h o to g r a p h y b y j a m e s w o o d c o c k

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 31

Boughs and bows

With its spacious floor plan, soaring ceilings and plenty of windows providing natural light, the living room became the perfect backdrop for holiday décor.

“These were definitely the ‘must haves’ on our list,” Tana said. “We like big open areas, high ceilings and a lot of closet space and other storage.”

Against the neutral palette of creams, browns and grays, the deep green pine boughs and red ribbons create an iconic look, further enhanced by glittering lights.

Even the largest tree would look perfect against the bank of windows in the great room, glowing against the crisp winter night.

Plump, overstuffed pillows in the master bedroom and signs on the display cabinets near the downstairs bar celebrate the season with holiday messages. The crackling gas fireplace is the ideal spot for family stockings, while hearths and mantels are transformed into gleaming displays of Santa Clauses, reindeer and other classic elements.

Top: “We like the look of coffered ceilings, and wanted to incorporate them into the design of this home,” says Brian. “In the great room, we used 20-inch and 14inch beams, which was our son Nick’s idea. We planned it so that the ceiling appears to flow seamlessly out onto the patio—basically creating one space visually.”

In the great room the fireplace has a sleek, contemporary design thanks to the use of vertically placed glass tiles and a floating hearth. The mantel above is a contrasting dark wood, banded with metal. Above: A custom “x” design was created as the centerpiece of the kitchen ceiling, which soars 10 feet above the birch plank floors. Tana created a faux finish in the middle that reflects the color and design of the counters. The Bans opted to stain their alder cabinetry midnight black to allow the grain of the wood to remain visible, and also chose a contrasting but complementary creamy white cabinetry for the large center island. The top cabinets stretch to the ceiling to maximize storage. For easier access, the glass-front cabinets include a garage-style door which slides vertically at the touch of a button. Also automated is a flat screen television, which drops down from behind a cupboard. Photography by Gazette staff.

32 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

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Top: The hearth in the great room provides the perfect setting for holiday décor, including a charming selection of Father Christmases. The gas fireplace is even ready for the holidays—the color of glass crystals can be changed to glow amber, red, green and a host of other colors. Center: The Bans selected quartz countertops in lieu of traditional granite because it is durable, has the look and feel of natural stone and comes in many designs and colors. The subway tile used in the backsplash is also utilized behind the stainless steel range and throughout the kitchen. Above: With spectacular 14-foot ceilings and the same plank flooring spanning the main floor, the Bans’ home office demonstrates their painstaking attention to detail.

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MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 33

Custom-crafted

The Bans love Christmas, but wanted to design a home that would shine for all seasons.

Working with their draftsman, Brian and Tana began to see the abstract come to life.

The main floor became a study in style and efficiency, maximizing and seamlessly connecting both indoor and outdoor spaces. Designed for single-floor living, if needed, the upstairs and downstairs is connected by a wide staircase and custom metal banister. The downstairs focuses on entertaining friends and family, boasting a red-carpet-worthy theater room and luxurious guest rooms.

All in the family

“We are a family-owned company, and we approach every project as a team,” Brian said.

“This one was no different. We sat down with our sons Zeth and Nick and talked through ideas that would make our home unique. Everyone brought something to the table that was eventually incorporated into the house.”

The end result, Brian says, is “transitional,” with contemporary elements as well as some that are a bit more rustically-refined. Examples include plank hardwood flooring and thick mantels juxtaposed against cool glass and porcelain tiles.

Top: A one-of-a-kind bar is one of the most distinctive features in the open downstairs family room. It sits on easy-to-maintain stamped concrete and features a rounded metal front, topped with a glass case. In it, large crystals simulate the coolness of ice cubes into which carefully broken and reconstructed liquor bottles have been placed. The effect is both intriguing and playful, a conversation piece about which everyone comments. The bar is also functional, providing plenty of seating for guests. The space features a built-in fridge, plenty of storage and display pieces for glassware and holiday décor. Center: One luxury touch included in the Ban’s home is a large theater on the bottom level. Stadium seating and a cyclonic fireplace add warmth and comfort, while the highest-quality projection and sound systems provide an almost unrivaled movie- or sports-watching experience.

Left: The 18x18-foot master bedroom is a spacious but cozy getaway for Brian and Tana, who chose to make the most of the glass fireplace by making it double sided. Natural stone surrounds the insert, balanced by a wood and metal mantel and floating hearth. LED lighting is used beneath the hearth to provide ambient lighting—a feature seen throughout the home. The carpeting is thick, adding to the room’s comfort and quiet.

34 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

One of the home’s most dramatic—and surprising—features is the large, open en suite. The size of the glassed-in, multi-head shower is breathtaking, as is the patchwork design created by mixing rich 12 x 20-inch tiles in creams, tans and leathery browns. To ensure the flooring throughout the space is virtually seamless, it was designed without a center drain. It instead incorporates a slight slope that directs water to a virtually invisible slot system. A vanity with plenty of storage as well as his-and-her sinks, along with a large corner tub complete the functionality.

To help further define the space, a gleaming wall of brown subway tiles goes from floor to ceiling.

A host of light fixtures hand-selected by Tana combine to evoke an unexpected, but complementary array of styles ranging from traditional chandeliers to modern pendants. The use of color, art pieces and furniture delineate each space while enhancing the feel of interconnectivity.

Function, however, is always a priority, and the couple’s busy lifestyle was considered in the design and placement of virtually every drawer, cupboard and closet. Energy efficiency was also a consideration, and achieved through the expansive use of LED lighting and other technologies.

“It’s common for people who’ve lived in their house that first year to say they wish they would have done this or that differently,” Tana says. “We haven’t. There really isn’t anything we would change—this is a great home for us, and we look forward to celebrating many more Christmases here.”

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Epi-curious A penchant for travel and global cuisine influences the unique offerings of TEN’s new executive chef

By Allyn Hulteng I Photography by James Woodcock

36 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Epicure Headline: Epi-curious Deck: A penchant for travel and global cuisine influences the unique offerings of TEN’s new executive chef

What do Texas, Russia, Portugal, the Philippines, Kenya and Billings have in common? All are places Allyn Hulteng where Executive Chef Tim Freeman has lived and worked,By: refining his art of global gastronomy.

After more than a decade abroad experiencing different cultures and cuisine, Freeman recently moved to Billings where he brought his diverse blend of ethnic fare to the menu TEN Russia, inside the historic Hotel.

What do at Texas, Portugal, the Northern Philippines, and Billings haveinto in common? are places where Ex “I try to put a little influence from each of theKenya places I have lived differentAll dishes,” Freeman said. ecutive Chef Tim Freeman has lived and worked, refining his

The resulting infusion of flavors is as unique art as of Freeman’s global journey, which began as a young boy global gastronomy. captivated by his mother’s culinary creativity.

After more than a decade abroad experiencing different cultures and cuisine, Freeman recently moved to Billings where he brought his diverse blend of ethnic fare to the menu at TEN in the historic Northern Hotel.

“I try to put a little influence from each of the places I have lived into different dishes,” Freeman said.

The resulting infusion of flavors is as unique as Freeman’s global journey, which began as a young boy captivated by his mother’s culinary creativity.

A Walk in the Woods Called “A Walk in the Woods,” this elegant small plate was literally inspired by a walk in the forest.

“I saw the forest in layers – streams filled with trout, the dirt beneath my feet, short grass and ground cover, low shrubs, taller bushes and aspens and pines reaching to the sky,” said TEN’s Executive Chef, Tim Freeman.

Freeman worked to re-create the experience in a plated layering of ingredients. Mushrooms, root vegetables, trout row and leaves exude the earthy smell of dirt, sweet grass and pungent pine.

“The recipe is quite complex; it takes nearly four days just to prepare the ingredients,” he said. Gastronomic explorers are encouraged to venture to TEN and experience Freeman’s forested feast.

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 37

Duck Proscuitto with Port Reduction and Beet Powder A taste for travel

A native of Texas, Freeman grew up watching his mother put together sumptuous suppers using whatever ingredients she could find in their sparsely-filled refrigerator. “She always amazed me,” Freeman said.

Intrigued by cooking, at age 15 Freeman went to work at a nearby restaurant cleaning dishes and scrubbing the floor. Despite being the lowest position in the kitchen, he relished the fast pace and intensity.

Over time, Freeman worked his way up the ranks. One day the budding chef received some sage advice that changed the course of his career.

38 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

“A seasoned chef told me to experience everything and every cuisine I could while I was still young, and that the greatest experiences would be overseas,” he said.

Taking the advice to heart, Freeman made a bold move – to Russia.

“I had never been there. I didn’t speak a word of Russian. But I learned sensitivity and to be open to different ideas – culturally and in cuisine,” he said.

In the years following, Freeman moved to Portugal, where he helped open a small fish restaurant. Later he moved to the Philippines where he worked as the executive chef at a high-end resort.

Auto Home Business Life Medicare Long Term Care Farm & Ranch Financial Services

Roger L Daniel Insurance 2047 Broadwater 406-252-3411 rdaniel@farmersagent.com Above, Tim Freeman, executive chef at TEN. Photo by James Woodcock

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 39

Starting Sunday, December 14, TEN will be offering brunch.

The menu will feature cuisine inspired by the Deep South, including New Orleans, South Carolina and Georgia.

Along with the sumptuous buffet, diners can indulge in bottomless mimosas and Bloody Mary’s along with live jazz.

Bacon-Infused Bloody Mary 40 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

“I met my wife in the Philippines; we would scuba dive every day before I went to work. It was paradise.”

As content as Freeman was in the Philippines, he began to feel a familiar desire to relocate once again – this time to Nairobi, Kenya.

“Since I was a child I had always wanted to go to Africa.”

In Nairobi, the couple opened a fine dining restaurant and Freeman learned how to brew beer, adding another valuable tool to his growing culinary repertoire.

More than a decade after his first international move, Freeman began contemplating returning to the U.S. – and he knew exactly where he wanted to live.

“I remember watching A River Runs Through It when I was young and thinking, ‘I want to live in Montana someday.’” The fact that Montana had recently ranked as one of the top five happiest states in the union, and Billings ranked as the third best city to raise a family, sealed the deal.

From world view to menu

For the past six months, Freeman has drawn on his vast and varied experience to completely re-vamp the menu at TEN, bringing a fusion of diverse ethnic flavors to the house.

Like different cultures, Freeman believes “great cuisine should be explored.”

Influenced by his world travels, Chef Freeman delivers savory fare that is different, yet familiar.

“We live and work in a global market and our guests come from all points international,” Freeman said. “The cuisine at TEN is a reflection of both – Montana and the world.”

Duck Prosciutto with Port Reduction and Beet powder 8 oz. duck breast 1 cup salt 2 cups brown sugar 1 Star Anise 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 Teaspoon ground cloves 5 Black peppercorns, cracked 2 Teaspoon nutmeg ground fresh 2 Teaspoon ground cardamom Mix all spices together with sugar and salt.

Place plastic wrap onto a clean surface.

Place ¼ cup of spice mix on the plastic wrap. Top with duck breast.

Place another ¼ cup spice mix on top of the duck.

Wrap TIGHTLY in the plastic wrap and place into the refrigerator for 2 days.

Remove and unwrap. Pat dry and repeat the process 2 more times.

To serve, place duck in freezer for 15 minutes to make slicing easier.

Slice duck at an angle, paper thin, and place onto a serving plate. Drizzle the port reduction over top and sprinkle with beet powder. Serve immediately.

Port reduction 2 cups Tawny Port 1 cinnamon stick 1 cup red wine ½ cup balsamic vinegar 5 black peppercorns 2 cloves, whole 4 juniper berries Place all items into a saucepan set over low heat.

Reduce liquid until it becomes a syrup – about 20 minutes (sauce is ready when you place a spoon inside and the mixture easily sticks to the back).

Reserve for service.

Beet powder Place 1/2 lb. small diced beetroot into a food dehydrator. Let it run for three days. Remove from machine and place into a food processor. Pulse the beet until it becomes a powder consistency. Store in a plastic container and keep for service.

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Austin Larsen 406.672.4123

Larry Larsen 406.672.7884

Sheila Larsen 406.672.1130

Susan B. Lovely 406.698.1601

Marie McHatton 406.672.8532

Ryan Moore 406.855.4090

Ginger Nelson 406.697.4667

Jase Norsworthy 406.690.8480

Cal Northam 406.696.1606

Mike Oliver 406.861.5305

Mimi Parkes 406.698.6980

Jeanne Peterson 406.661.3941

Courtney Pope 406.670.9512

Gregory Propp 406.647.5858

Good to know.™ Martha Ridgway 406.208.4658

Judy Shelhamer 406.850.3623

Eileen Shelton 406.698.6468

The Schindele Team

Pat Schindele 406.591.2551

Annie Mercy Morabito 406.702.0546

Bryan Somers 406.647.0155

Ron Thom 406.860.1284

The Workman Team

Ed Workman 406.690.0567

Judy Workman 406.690.2135

Linda Wedel 406.855.6540

The Barb & Gina Team

Barb Haws 406.860.8198

Gina Moore 406.545.9036

The Patterson Team

Dan Patterson 406.321.4182

Stephanie Patterson 406.321.0759

floberg.com | 406.254.1550 | 1550 Poly Drive, Billings, MT 59102 42 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

You will be the toast of the holidays with these cocktails, specially crafted to celebrate the tastes of the season. Cheers!

Doc’s Preferred Signature Martini 3-4 oz. Grey Goose vodka Add ice to shaker, then pour in vodka. Shake and strain into martini glass to serve straight up. Spear olive and cocktail onion on stick and garnish.

compiled by brenda maas

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 43

jake's bar & grill

Pumpkin Pie Martini 2 oz. pumpkin-spiced vodka .5 oz. vanilla vodka 1 oz. brown sugar simple syrup Add ice to shaker, then ingredients above. Shake and strain into martini glass that is lined with finely-ground graham cracker crumbs.

trailhead spirits Madison Apple Martini 1 oz. Great North vodka 1.5 oz. apple syrup 1 oz. caramel 2 dashes of cinnamon 1.5 oz. cranberry purée Cranberry purée: zest from orange, whole orange and 1 tsp. of cinnamon. Boil (take orange out) and muddle the cranberries.

Fill shaker with ice, then add ingredients.

Rim martini glass with cinnamon sugar.

Shake and strain into glass and serve.

44 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

commons 1882 Legends of the Fall 1.5 oz. 44° North huckleberry vodka .5 oz. Pama pomegranate liqueur .5 oz. Aperol Italian aperitif .5 oz. St. Germain liqueur Splash of sweet & sour Splash of cranberry juice Pinch of fruit bitters Put ice in shaker, then add the above ingredients. Shake and strain into cocktail glass.

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the vig Clothing for people who live fully, play long, and travel well.

Chilled Toddy 1.5 oz. Jack Daniels Tennessee Honey .5 oz. lemon juice 1-2 cloves Honey Hot apple cider mix (powdered) Fill martini glass with ice to chill. In shaker, mix whiskey and lemon juice with ice. Shake. Discard ice from glass and rim with powdered hot apple cider mix and honey. Pour contents of shaker into chilled glass and garnish with cloves.

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The Best Place in Billings for

Historical Downtown Billings, Montana Avenue www.montanaavenue.com

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Fine Art • Custom Framing Cards & Gifts 2505 Montana Ave. • 252-0122 www.toucangallery.com

Billings’ Newest Craft Brewery Taproom Open 4-8 PM Mon-Sat 2526 Montana Ave • 252-0663

Newly Remodeled Still the best drinks in town 2403 Montana Ave. 259-0047

Fresh Seafood, Certified Angus Beef™ Specialties, Spirits Private Room Available 245-7477 • 2401 Montana Avenue

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245-6893 • 800-227-3181 1101 North 27th Street Billings, Montana 59101 www.rehderhearing.com 46 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Left to Right: Brandy Dillon, H.I.S. , Jane Gilstrap, Doctor of Audiology Crystal Dvorak, Nina Rehder, Doctor of Audiology Douglas Rehder, Doctor of Audiology Tracy Hayden, Marina Nunez and Jacki Husicka.

Holiday Shopping gems of Yesteryear By brittany Cremer

For decades, shoppers have looked to newspaper advertisements for gift-giving inspiration. But in sifting through the Billings Gazette archives, we uncovered a curious fact. While the syntax and tone of ad messaging has evolved over the years, the items featured (and coveted) have remained amazingly consistent.

Enjoy this sampling of holiday ads that we found interesting, uproariously funny or otherwise entertaining. Happy shopping!

An appliance‌ for the little woman‌ Cringe now, zap later!

Circa 1917

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 47

The Cadillac version of today’s tricycle.

Dandy is right! Circa 1935

The original Blue-ray player.

Circa 1935

It’s not the styles that are surprising, it’s the prices! Now we know why Marty McFly was scoffed at the dinner table in Back to the Future when asked about his TV. Marty McFly: “Well, yeah. You know we have... two of them.”

Milton Baines: “Wow! You must be rich” Stella Baines: “Oh, honey, he’s teasing you. Nobody has two television sets.”

Circa 1955

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w o N r e Ord r Holiday u o Y r ts o n e F v E r so r e n n i D

GreatHolidayGifts!

Holiday Hams • Bone In or Boneless Smoked Turkeys • Standing Rib Roast Gourmet Sausages & Jerky Downtown Billings & Downtown ReD loDge

Ties, socks and oxfords apparently still make Dad feel “manly.”

Circa 1945

Christmas sparklers—the styles are enduring, the prices…not so much.

Circa 1956

117 n. 25th st. • 252-5686 • Billings 102 s. Broadway Ave. • 446-1906 • Red lodge

Animal Clinic of Billings and

Animal Surgery Clinic of Billings • Medical • Grooming Services • Spinal Surgery • Dental • Physical • Wellness Rehabilitation • Injuries • Emergency Service • Stem Cell Therapy • New Patients • General Surgery Welcome • Orthopedics • Referrals Welcome • Special Diagnostic & Imaging Surgery Ken Brown, DVM • Darleen Miller, DVM • Bryna Felchle, DVM Anne Ball, DVM • Bobbi Jo Lund, DVM • Christiane Youngstrom, DVM Kay Lynn Allen, Canine Rehabilitation Donna Rae Alexander, Professional Groomer 24-Hour

406.252.9499 1414 10th St. W. • Billings 1/2 Block North of Grand Ave. on 10th St. W.

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 49

It’s the place you’ll call home.

Our experienced staff can help you get the job done right. First time home buying success—it’s you and together.

MORTGAGE REVIEWS AND HOME LOANS LISA JORDAN │ Loan Originator ID 708013, West, 255-6109 CINDY REISS │ Loan Originator ID 901291, Downtown, 255-5148 TERESA GILREATH │ Loan Originator ID 707960, Heights, 255-5833 TIFFANY MCNEFF │ Loan Originator ID 707795, Downtown, 255-5185 SARA MAINS │ Loan Originator ID 707785, Downtown, 255-5177 NATALIE PIGG │ Loan Originator ID 298633, Downtown, 255-5156 ROBYN BARTA │ Loan Originator ID 609679, Shiloh, 255-5874

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You don’t have to brush your teeth ~ Just the ones you want to keep. ~ Author Unknown

Studies have shown that periodontal disease affects 50% of the adult population.

There is a strong connection between periodontal disease and Diabetes | Cardiovascular events Oral Cancer | Preterm/Low Birthweight

Call for an appointment today.

50 27th Street West, Suite D, Billings, MT 406-655-7970 | www.HealthyGumsMontana.com 50 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

While I relish our warm months, winter forms our character and brings out our best. ­—Tom Allen

winter SPLENDOR While some abhor the cold winter months, most Montanans find solace and beauty in the quiet cool of the season. From the purity of the first snowfall to the spectacular lumination of our northern skies, celebrate winter's amazing grace with these images captured by Chief Gazette photographer Larry Mayer.

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 51

Previous page: Water flows from melting icicles nearly 20 feet tall on the Rimrocks overlooking Billings. Top: A barbed wire fence is silhouetted by an early morning northern lights display off of Highway 3. Above: Sodium lights in downtown Billings glow orange in contrast to a frost-covered Ponderosa pine tree on the Rimrocks.

Photos by Larry Mayer.

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Our downtown restaurant provides the highest quality seasonal dishes with a first-class wine & beer selection. The dining ambiance is pleasantly casual and intimate, with seating available in a charming interior setting or romantic garden patio.

Private Dining Room Available for: Corporate Dinner Meetings Private Luncheons Rehearsal Dinners Special Occasions

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• Residential • Commercial • Industrial • Fire Alarm • Telecommunication

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406-534-3170 605 24th St, West #4 getjuicedmt.com

119 N. Broadway 294.9119 www.Bin119.net

406-245-8658 MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 53

a student’s look inside Yellowjacket Nation

visit msubillings.edu/snapshots to see more

Full, natural looking breasts start here.

We offer TUBA, or Trans-Umbilical Breast Augmentation, where the only incision is hidden within your navel. That means no lengthy recovery and no visible scars on the breast.

406.414.3770 :: bigskycosmeticsurgery.com :: Bozeman, MT Formerly Big Sky Cosmetic Surgery + Aesthetics

54 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

MOVIES ARE MY MUSE

By Gene Colling I Illustration by lee hulteng

The movie theater in my small hometown was called The Paradise; it burned down after I had seen only about 10 pictures.

Mostly they were biblical epics, like The Ten Commandments, The Robe and Ben Hur plus a few westerns. I found the biblical movies disturbing and violent and much preferred the shoot-‘em-up antics of a good western.

The Paradise, which had none of the attributes of its name, was perpetually dim and owned by the perpetually grouchy Mr. Zimmer. If you looked in the right place you could see four bullet holes in the ceiling; they were old wounds of mysterious origin. Sometimes it was more interesting to speculate about the bullet holes than watch the movie.

In college I caught a serious movie bug and went every week.

Admission was less than a dollar and because one of the theaters was part of a nationwide chain, we got to see the same shows that were playing in New York and Los Angeles. Movies helped me expand my narrow perspective. In a place without many diversions, the theater was a cozy haven to learn about a world far from the prairie.

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 55

Swimsuits!

Over the years I have seen hundreds of movies – a few I remember, most I do not. These days I may go to one or two in a year. I’m a sucker for a good story, but too often contemporary directors think they have to rely on explosions and digital effects. Perhaps filmmakers assume their audience lacks an attention span. Certainly they don’t waste time catering to people like me.

Of all the movies I have seen, snippets from just two have stuck with me. Made long before my time, perhaps the reason I remember them so well is because they have been on television about a thousand times. One contains a scene that has helped me understand the world around me, and the other helps me avoid parts of it.

Scene One: The Wizard of Oz

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When I first watched The Wizard of Oz many years ago, two moments stood out. The first was when Dorothy and her traveling companions initially confront the great and powerful Wizard of Oz. The Wizard cowers them with smoke, mirrors and bombast and sends them on their way to destroy the Wicked Witch of the West.

When the intrepid troop returns to see the great Wizard with the Wicked Witch’s broom and demands that he fulfill his promise to return them to Kansas, he gives them another dose of bombast. That works until Toto pulls back the curtain and reveals a diminutive and mild Professor Marvel. “Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain” are the final words of the puffed-up Wizard.

I call it the Oz Effect, and I see it all around me. It flourishes in politics especially in an election year like we have just gone through. But it can also be seen on school yards, in offices and meetings, at family gatherings and just about anywhere people interact. When someone uses bluff and bluster to make his or her point or get their way, I see the curtain opening and another would-be wizard using smoke, mirrors and bombast.

Understanding the Oz Effect doesn’t make experiencing it any less bothersome, but it does aid in pulling back the symbolic curtain and seeing the diminished person standing behind.

Scene 2: Grampa Joad, The Grapes of Wrath

I call it the Oz Effect, and I see it all around me. It flourishes in politics especially in an election year like we have just gone through. But it can also be seen on school yards, in offices and meetings, at family gatherings and just about anywhere people interact. When someone uses bluff and bluster to make his or her point or get their way, I see the curtain opening and another would-be wizard using smoke, mirrors and

This scene, from the classic movie directed by the . legendary John Ford, has a more personal connection.

In it, the Joad family is packed up and ready to leave the dust bowl of Oklahoma and head for California. The only one not resigned to the trip is Grampa Joad. He throws himself on the ground and wails, “I ain’t goin to Californy, I ain’t a goin.” Tom Joad (Henry Fonda) offers an age-old remedy “Let’s put some whiskey in his coffee and pour it down his gullet.”

I feel a kinship with Grampa Joad. The only thing different is that I substitute “Californy” with pretty much anything that doesn’t include fishing, golf and bicycling. Pouring whiskey down my gullet would, however, still be a good idea.

My family and friends are begging me to find some new movie muse to replace Grampa Joad.

I could either scrounge through the old flicks or hope that Hollywood produces something for me – maybe one about those four bullet holes in the ceiling of the Paradise Theater. Until they do – “I ain’t a goin!”

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56 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Gene Colling claims dual residency in both Billings and Missoula. He retired after a career with the U.S. Forest Service. For 25 of those years, he produced video programs including ones on such Billings area topics as the Beartooth Highway, Pryor Mountain wild horses, Lewis and Clark expedition, Hebgen Lake earthquake and Nez Perce Trail.

OH

WHAT

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ON A STROLL 2923 2nd Ave. N. • Billings, MT 59101 MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 57 406-245-3788 • kennedysstainedglass.com

winter wonderland Bi g S k y A d ventures B y K a ren K inser

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We’re fortunate to live in such a beautiful part of the world, where dazzling summer days slowly dissolve into enchanting winter wonderlands. Sometimes, though, the short daylight hours keep us from shouting a resounding “yes” to winter’s celebration summons. The cure? A romantic get-away with a promise of pampering. And there’s no better place to collect that promise than at Big Sky. You’ll spend fun-filled days carving rooster tails on perfect powder and romantic nights in a hot tub under sparkling stars – a resplendent recipe for romance, renewal and rejuvenation.

Make it Budget-Friendly Low on finances due to Christmas spending? That doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in pampering, too. While Big Sky offers outstanding fivestar accommodations and dining, there are also some surprisingly budget-friendly options. Here’s how to do it: • Check the Big Sky Resort website for Ski and Stay and special event prices. Lone Mountain and 320 Guest Ranch also offer Sleigh and Stay packages.

• Go mid-week. Avoid holiday weekends, and check rates for traditionally slow times (the first week after New Year’s, for example – but avoid President’s Day weekend.)

• Go with friends. Rent a condo or cabin with a kitchenette and divide cost and kitchen duties with a few of your closest friends.

• Ask! Many locations offer discounts to members of the military, students, seniors and AAA and AARP members.

• Make the drive. Rates in West Yellowstone, Gallatin Gateway and Bozeman can be less. Some start as low as $59 in West Yellowstone (the Stage Coach Inn). You can also find mid-week rates of $62 at the Three Bear Lodge and $80 at the Gray Wolf Inn. Nearby Cinnamon Lodge (14 miles from Big Sky) has hostel rates starting at $15 and riverfront cabins ranging from $50 to $140.

• Winter camping anyone? In an RV, of course. While most RV parks are closed for the winter, there are a few spots with full hook-ups at Inn on the Gallatin ($45) at Gallatin Gateway and at the Bozeman KOA ($38).

Photo by Chris Kamman

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 59

Big Sky is B-I-G. Renowned for the size and beauty of its alpine terrain, the mountain bills itself as the "Biggest Skiing in America." It gained this title in 2013, with the acquisition of the facilities at Moonlight Basin. The result? More than 5,800 acres of skiable terrain in the shadow of 11,000-foot Lone Peak, 250 runs (some as long as six miles) and 23 lifts that can whisk 29,000 skiers per hour up the mountain. That kind of lift speed is the perfect formula for more time catching air and less time standing in line. It all adds up to epic skiing.

Photo by Donnie Sexton

More than Skiing.

Within the three areas – Canyon, Meadows and Mountain – of this amazing winter playground and beyond, you’ll also discover opportunities for snowboarding at seven terrain parks, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, sledding, tubing, ice skating, winter horseback riding, dog sledding, snuggling under blankets on sleigh rides and even ice fishing. Nordic skiers will want to visit Lone Mountain Ranch – voted the #1 Nordic Ski Resort in North America – and enjoy 85 kilometers of groomed trails.

Indulge the Senses.

For pleasurable pampering, you’ll find 10 salons and spas that offer treatments for relaxation. These include varied types of massage that embody elements of earth, sky, wind and water, and even sound therapies that incorporate Tibetan and crystal singing bowls. You’ll also find yoga, ballet and Zumba classes.

Photo by Lonnie Ball

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Bigskywinetours.com

Italy Food & Wine Tour May 19-28, 2015

Rome • Florence Tuscany

Photo by Glennis Indreland

Overwhelmed by all the choices?

Here’s a suggested five-day itinerary:

Day 1

Leave Billings, stop in Livingston and enjoy a gallery tour. Have lunch at Gil’s, and then head to Big Sky. After check-in, meander through some of the area’s trendy shops, boutiques and galleries. End the day with a romantic dinner at Buck’s T-4.

Guided 10 Day Luxury Tour Italian Wine, Food & Culture Departing from Billings, Montana $4,950 per person-Air Included! **Limited Availability** Visit bigskywinetours.com or call Brian Mathis at 406-206-0550

day 2

Photo by Donnie Sexton

A day of skiing followed by an enjoyable mountain-side dinner at Montana Dinner Yurt.

day 3

See the marvels of Yellowstone in winter via a snow coach tour out of West Yellowstone. Schedule an early-evening couples massage in your room, and end with a cozy dinner at the Fondue Stube.

day 4

Trip to be hosted by Rolf & Jaynee Groseth

Another day of skiing (or sledding or tubing or … ). Plan a 5:30 p.m. appetizer sleigh ride trip at the 320 Guest Ranch, and end the day with barbecue and a beer at the Broken Spoke.

day 5

Check out of your room and head to Lone Mountain Ranch for a fabulous breakfast (think blue crab omelet or Wagyu chicken-fried steak). Spend a few hours cross-country skiing there, and then head for home – feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Photo by Michel Tallichet

Big Sky Wine Tours Billings, Montana MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 61

Photo by Glennis Indreland

Views with a Room

. Of course you’ll want cozy accommodations. Big Sky has more than 2,600 rental units, ranging from rustic cabins to condos, mountain homes and luxurious five-star penthouses. Many are located slope-side and are equipped with fireplaces and outdoor hot tubs on private decks to add to romance under the stars.

Photo by Donnie Sexton

Fuel Your Fun.

You’ll certainly work up big appetites here, and the area’s 30+ restaurants offer an abundance of culinary cool. Naturally, you’ll find Montana fare and cowboy cuisine (bison, beef and elk steaks), along with world-class menus with specialties from Italy, Mexico, China, Japan and Thailand.

There are also local bistros, sushi bars, and even a restaurant featuring fondue.

For an unforgettable experience, book dinner Special Events: Check Big Sky Resort’s calendar for special at the Montana Dinner events and discounts that include Yurt, where you’ll find $20 Day, Educator and Military sledding under the stars, Appreciation Weekends, Ballroom an outdoor bonfire and Bonanza, Get the Girls Out and an atmosphere-filled Snobar (entire bar is made out of gourmet meal. Both Lone snow).

Mountain Ranch and the Getting There: Take I-90 to Boze320 Guest Ranch also offer man, and then head south on U.S. horse-drawn rides through Highway 191. Big Sky is located the woods to a remote halfway between Bozeman and cabin (Lone Mountain) West Yellowstone. for prime rib in a candleResources: Use these comprehenflickery atmosphere or to sive websites to plan your trip: a bonfire location along bigskyresort.com, visitbigskymt. the Gallatin River (320 com, bookbigsky.com and skimba.

Ranch), where you’ll enjoy com (Montana Dinner Yurt). wild game chili, western stories and music.

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Photo by Donnie Sexton

Photo by Donnie Sexton

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 63

SC & SRATC NIF H F!

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“For me it’s cinnamon. And it wasn’t just at Christmas, it was at every holiday, any time guests were expected. Like a gift when you entered mom’s home, the delicious smelling cinnamon rolls were always there, freshly-baked and still

F

warm, waiting on the cupboard.”

For Michele Mattix, holiday memories aren’t defined by Santa or presents or Christmas songs; holiday memories are defined by something more visceral.

“My mom wasn’t a great baker, but she knew her strengths, and she made those rolls by hand from scratch as effortlessly as popping open a can of Pillsbury dough,” said Mattix. “As soon as the grandchildren were old enough, she presented each with their own chef’s apron and they would go to work making the rolls, rolling them out with their tiny fingers.”

In today’s world, consumers endure a veritable assault on the senses from the second the last trick-or-treater knocks until the moment the ball finally drops on Times Square. Holiday songs piped over sound systems, Santas ho-ho-ho-ing on every street corner, Internet ads blinking with holiday merriment. Yet, in spite of the noise and glare of the highly consumerized holiday season, it is the sense of smell that makes a true and lasting memory that defies the test of time.

Smelly science

Humans have five senses with which they explore the world around them: taste, touch, sight, sound and smell. Of these, the sense of smell is most closely linked to memory.

“The pathway to the brain for the sense of smell is through the center of memory and emotion,” explained Dr. Sean Demars, an otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat doctor) at St. Vincent Healthcare. “As such, a person’s recall of smells is literally years. There’s a reason that a smell will trigger a memory even years later in a person’s life, there is a science behind it.”

The sense of smell is not only unique in its brain pathway.

Each person has millions of scent receptors – a solid carpet of bare nerve endings – each a different lock and key receptor for a different scent.

“Estimates of the number of unique scents a person can smell range from tens of thousands to trillions,” said Demars.

“In the human body, only the immune system has the ability to

recognize a larger number of different items.”

In spite of the fact that the sense of smell is so powerful, people tend to not realize what an important sense it truly is.

“A study was done of people who had lost their sense of smell, and 75 percent of those polled said that as a result they had experienced a significant decrease in their quality of life,” Demars said. “Fifty percent of those also said it affected their activities of daily life.

Imagine not being able to smell if something is burning or if food has gone bad. People often don’t realize the impact the sense of smell has until they lose it.”

Most people also don’t realize that 80 percent of the sense of taste is actually smell.

“There are only five things you can actually taste— bitter, sweet, sour, salty and savory,” explained Demars. “Chewing and swallowing sends air up through a person’s nose, where thousands of unique scents can be detected. The real flavor of food comes directly from the sense of smell.”

Pictured above: Dr. Sean Demars, M.D., otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat doctor) at St. Vincent Healthcare

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 65

My mother’s Thanksgiving apple sausage stuffing. The aromas of fresh thyme, yummy sausage, garlic and roasting apples bring me right back to my childhood when I would stand on a chair and help her prepare the stuffing.

Marlo Spreng, Executive Chef, Walker’s Grill

Tamales steaming on the stove remind me of Christmas – more precisely Christmas Eve. The smell meant the entire family would be gathering that night to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

Tim Mascarena, Realtor and Amateur Chef Growing up, every year we went on a family winter hike to cut down our Christmas tree. Afterwards, my mom would make hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks. The smell of freshly-cut trees and cinnamon always bring back those memories.Brittney Souza, Arrow Solutions Group

My mother was a small child in England during the war, and her culinary expertise came from making palatable whatever was available. So for the holidays, despite a bounty of roasted meats and root vegetables, it meant baked cabbage casserole. The crisp, nutty scent of toasted Parmesan and sour cabbage always mingled with the sweet woodiness of our Christmas tree. To this day, I cannot smell one without conjuring up the other.

Dave Caserio, Poet Cut-out Christmas cookies baking. My mother’s recipe is simple, mostly flour, butter and sugar, and its scent has been part of every holiday season of my life. It can simultaneously inspire memories of decorating cookies as a 10-year-old and watching my preschool-aged children slather on frosting so thick it makes my teeth hurt!

Memory lane

Liz Tretter can attest to the connection between tastes, smell and holiday memories. A native of St. Louis, Tretter grew up surrounded by authentic American cuisine unique to that region. Now living in Billings, Tretter carries on the tradition of baking those same holiday favorites. The aromas, she said, immediately transport her back to childhood Christmases with her family in St. Loius.

“For me there’s not one particular smell that symbolizes the holidays; rather, it’s the combined and intertwined smells coming from a myriad of southern dishes being prepared simultaneously,” she said.

Tretter’s children, Katie and Ryan, agree that the delicious smells coming from their kitchen are a sure sign that the holidays have arrived. “We bake cookies together every Christmas that we bring to all our friends and neighbors,” Katie said as Ryan nodded in agreement. “And when we walk into the house and smell the cookies baking we know – Christmas is here! It’s the best day.”

Vickie Eagle, Billings Public Schools Educator

For farm families, a Christmas tree was cut from a neighboring field, so it was always fresh. In Kansas it was often cedar but sometimes pine, decorated with angel hair and real candles. The smell permeated the house; a smell so compelling it is now reproduced synthetically for multiple purposes. However, even now, you cannot recreate the aroma and warmth—wrapped in anticipation and delight—that the fresh smell of evergreen evokes in my mind.Linda Ewert, Education Director, Yellowstone Art Museum The first thing that comes to my mind is my mom’s rice pudding. Where I grew up we had milk cows, and my mom used to make rice pudding – warm milk, nutmeg and cinnamon. When I would come home I would smell it everywhere and recognized it instantly. The scent is unusual, and it transports me back to a specific time and place in my life.

Dr. Sean Demars, an otolaryngologist at St. Vincent Healthcare

66 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Liz Tretter and her children Katie and Ryan prepare chocolate chip cookies in their home. Photo by Hannah Potes.

1. Everyone has a unique “smellprint”:

4. Good smells make you happier:

No two people smell things the same way because each of us has scent blind spots, meaning specific odors we can’t pick up on.

So that room spray that smells like cupcakes to you and like creamed corn to your friend?

You’re both right.

Smelling a fragrance you perceive as pleasant has a profoundly positive effect on your mood. So if you love vanilla, keeping a little scented oil on your desk can help lift you when you’re down.

The same goes for citrus, jasmine, or any other scent that makes you feel content.

2. You really can smell fear: People can unconsciously detect whether someone is stressed or scared by smelling a chemical pheromone released in their sweat.

You can also smell happiness and sexual arousal, as long as the person you’re smelling is a close romantic partner.

3. Men can smell when women are ovulating: Both sexes can smell whether other people have major histocompatability complexes (MHCs) different from their own.

This is interesting because mating with someone whose MHC is not too like your own creates offspring with hardier immune systems.

5. There are fewer scents than you think: Some researchers hypothesize that there are only seven primary odors: musky, putrid, pungent, camphoraceous (like mothballs), ethereal (like dry cleaning fluid), floral and minty.

6. You actually smell with your brain: Not your nose, as you might assume.

7. Women generally have stronger senses of smell than men: So it’s not surprising that you know the milk’s gone bad long before your guy roommate does.

8. Scents can cue memories: Most of your scent memories, however, come from the first decade of your life, unlike visual or other sensorial memory types.

9. Pregnant women’s weird food cravings may be because of their senses of smell: Because your nose is hypersensitive when you’re pregnant, you develop an abnormal sense of taste, leading to bizarre cravings like pickles and ice cream.

10. Humans have 350 functional olfactory receptor genes: Mice have 1,300.

Source: www.popsugar.com/beauty/10-Interesting-Facts-About-Scent-Smells-15169338

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 67

68 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Anne Gauer waited quietly as parishioners filed in, filling the pews of St. Patrick’s Co-Cathedral.

It was almost midnight on Christmas Eve in 2009, and mass was about to begin.

Gauer, her husband, Jack, and daughter, Shannon, had arrived earlier that evening to set up multiple video cameras and microphones. Professional video producers, the Gauers were accustomed to taping all manner of events. But this was not a work project; this was different.

Two days earlier, Anne learned that Carolyn Gainan, who had been gravely ill, had taken a turn for the worse. Anne knew that Carolyn’s nephew, Jim Gainan, was a cantor during mass, and that Carolyn loved mass and listening to Jim. “For as many years as I can remember, she never missed Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve at St. Patrick’s,” recalled Jim Gainan. But because of poor health, this year Carolyn would not be able to attend, rendering Christmas Eve as a day of sadness rather than celebration for her.

“Imagine my surprise when I arrived at the church and saw Anne, Jack and Shannon with their video equipment,” said Jim. “I was moved to tears.”

To Jim’s greater astonishment, Anne said she would deliver an edited DVD of the mass to Carolyn on Christmas Day. “I will never forget Carolyn’s face as she watched Midnight Mass, tears of happiness streaming down her face,” said Jim. “No gift could compare to what Anne did for us – she was our Christmas angel, sacrificing her own Christmas Eve with her family for us.”

Angels of the Heart

By Shelley Van Atta

Many of us were raised with the Golden Rule, reminded by our parents that unexpected acts of kindness to others are gifts from the heart. Small or large, thoughtful gestures are powerful, transcending the corporal world to deliver a sustaining measure of compassion.

As we enter this Season of Love, never underestimate the potency of an encouraging word, an attentive ear, a sincere compliment or a kind gesture. Every act of caring is a reminder there are angels among us, often appearing in the form of neighbors, co-workers, friends and even strangers.

Following is a collection of short stories from around the Magic City that remind us that the best gifts do not come in festive packages – but from the heart– all year long.

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 69

After returning home from a post-op doctor’s appointment for back surgery I had had six weeks earlier, I went to bed and smelled the outdoors on my sheets, which I love! I learned that my neighbor had taken my sheets off my bed, washed them, dried them out on her clothes line, and put them back on my bed. I also smelled something good coming from my kitchen. Imagine my delight when I found dinner waiting for me! These kindnesses came right from her heart to mine.

I feel like I’ve been blessed with so many amazing family, friends and wonderful things happening that always are unexpected and wonderful surprises. One that immediately comes to mind is after my mom passed away in December 2004. It was a difficult time for our entire family. Last year, on the 10th anniversary of her passing, a good friend of mine hand-delivered a beautiful plaque to me that spells out ‘MOM’ in ornate lettering. It touched my heart more than this friend will ever know.

­— Shirleen Larsen *** About six months ago, I was having the usual harried morning with four kids to get to school and preschool. The dog got sick, and I ended up late for work. I went through the drive-thru at City Brew to try to salvage my morning with a better start to my day. I ordered my coffee and realized I had forgotten my wallet. I was scrounging money in every spare inch of the car and in between the seats but ended up 25 cents ­—Linda Baltrusch short. I was going to beg for a break when the car ahead of me paid for my drink. How did that sweet woman know I was Getting breast cancer threw me for a loop. At first, it was my family having a crazy morning? What a very special gesture! I later and my work family who reached out with support and encouragement, found out who this woman was. As it turns out, this kind lady would offering me nurturing strength. Then, others reached out, even people have her own battle as her little boy was diagnosed with lymphoma. I I didn’t know, people who had been through what I was experiencing, heard he was hospitalized and knew it was my turn to help her, even offering me kind words and messages of strength. Every time I get to the with something as simple as a warm latte to make her day a little nicer. infusion center, there are cards or little gifts, small tokens of caring and It’s amazing how a very small thing can really brighten your day and compassion. Because our physical health is so connected to our mental make you more aware of helping those in need. health, our attitude on how we are going to deal with significant health issues is of critical importance. Reading people’s encouraging words ­— Aimee Brown and their humorous notes gives me strength. As difficult a situation as *** this is, their words are gifts, such as when they tell me to think of this We have a neighbor in Gregory Hills that came over one Christmas as an opportunity to know how much I am loved, how much my being after a big snowfall and used his snow blower to clear our driveway and here makes a difference and how to ask for help, which always has been sidewalk. He thought I didn’t know who did it, but I did, and I put a hard for me to do. I have what everyone hopes to have: love, support and bag of homemade cookies in his mailbox. encouragement throughout this entire experience. I am surrounded by these gifts and it is amazingly uplifting. ­— Abigail Hornik ­— Barbara Schneeman ***

***

One cold December evening in 1980, just before Christmas, and angel dropped $1,000 into my coat pocket. My wife and I were expecting our second child any day and were trying to make ends meet—me as a coach and teacher at Sacred Heart School in Miles City and she as a patient care specialist at Holy Rosary Hospital—but that Christmas was going to be particularly thin. We never told anyone about our troubles, but one evening after basketball practice I slipped my jacket on, reached into the pocket to find my keys and instead discovered an envelope with $1,000 folded inside—10 $100 bills, and a note that simply said, ‘Merry Christmas—God Bless.’ I looked around. No one else was in the gym. I asked around the next day, and no one seemed to know the identity of the generous angel. My wife and I found out years later that all of the Sacred Heart parents and boosters got together and chipped in to make sure my wife and I welcomed our new child to a happy and bountiful Christmas. It was a gesture of hope and goodwill that I will never forget and think of fondly as I reminisce about the integrity, kindness and heart of the people from Sacred Heart School.

­— Glenn Hageman

70 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Our wonderful golden retriever, Sampson, was a “store” dog. Every single day he would come with me to Davidson Home Furnishings & Designs. Quite often our clients would come in and ask to see him instead of me! One client in particular was very close to Sammy.

When Sammy was diagnosed with cancer, she would bring him treats and hugs. After he could no longer come to work, she actually stopped by the house one summer night to visit. When Sammy passed, we were devastated. A year later I brought home our new “baby,” Bodhi, who was going to be raised in the store as well.

Waiting in my office was a beautiful, custom-made dog food matt that read “Bodhi.”It was so touching that it made me cry.

Happy

Holidays!

­—Tiffany (Davidson) Blades Last holiday season, Lynne Turner-Fitzgerald was standing in a very long line at a local store.

Ahead of her was a disabled woman in a wheelchair who had difficulty seeing. The woman had several items placed in front of the cashier and was paying for her purchases with change from a bag. The clerk told her she still owed $18, so the woman continued to pull out one coin at a time.

Feeling compassion for the woman, Lynne handed the clerk a $20 bill. At first the woman was confused until the clerk explained the person behind her had paid the bill. Turning around, with tears in her eyes the woman hugged Lynne, thanked her, and told her nobody ever had done anything like that for her before. ­— Julie Dial *** When our daughter moved to Seattle last summer, she needed help assembling furniture. I contacted on old friend, Kirk Robertson, who lived and worked in Billings before relocating to Seattle, if he knew someone I could hire to help her. Instead of finding someone, he brought her flowers and candy to welcome her to Seattle, then spent over four hours helping her assemble the furniture. He also offered to be available if she ever needed anything. What an angel! ­— Judy Williams At the Food Bank we see endless examples of our community’s generous heart. Yet, I’m always struck with awe by the volunteers who produce our sack lunch program. We supply 300 lunches a week to St. Vincent de Paul, where they are distributed to hungry folks on the street. This program is not glamorous—no parties or press. The sandwiches are made almost exclusively by a retired couple who comes three times a week and makes 120 sandwiches at a time. They turn a tedious task into a loving gift.

These folks who help us feed our less- fortunate neighbors ask for nothing in return. I am humbled by their devotion to others.

Start the year off right for your pet with 10% off dental services and products from January 1st – March 30th The Billings Animal Family Hospital wishes you and your loved ones, big and small, a wonderful Holiday Season and a Happy New Year!

your pet’s Family Doctor

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­— Kathy Whittenberger

When things were difficult this fall for Don and me, Karen Frank seemed to just know when to drop by with her delicious chicken and dumplings, warming stomachs and hearts with this act of kindness.

—Marilyn Floberg ***

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MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 71

Last July, two friends and I were in iHop. The restaurant was full and our waitress looked harried. She had a lot of tables to cover and some of the customers were getting impatient. My friends and I felt sorry for her and went out of our way to be patient and nice. There was a couple across from us that gave us friendly smiles.

We didn’t think much of it until we went to pay our bill and the waitress told us the couple was so appreciative of our friendly attitudes that they paid for our meals.

We were surprised because we didn’t think our friendliness was extraordinary, but apparently the couple did. It made us think about how important a smile is; so, from now on, every time we go into a coffee shop or restaurant, we ‘pay it forward’ with a smile, with the hope it becomes contagious and reminds people that good manners should not be left at the door.

Ryan Good

W ishing you a Merry Christmas y and a Happr!

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I feel like my life has been circumscribed by so much kindness, especially in Billings. When we moved to Montana from the East Coast in 1990, with an infant and two young children in tow, life was overwhelming and full with the adjustment of a new place. Within weeks, I injured my back so severely that I was bedridden and needed hospitalization. Our next door neighbors Kathy and Doug Neuhoff swooped in, took my children, drove them where they needed to go, and provided meals. We hardly knew them at that point, but after that we surely knew that these were people we hoped would become our friends, and they have. ­—Martha Arguelles *** When my wife, Nikki, and I moved into our house in Billings, several of Nikki’s co-workers were very proactive to help us move. More than just a “call me if you need anything,” they and their families were at our door first thing on moving day to help. Then, when we had our baby, we were presented with incredible baby gifts from the Billings Symphony Board, Anne Harrigan, the staff and Nikki’s coworkers. We were really overwhelmed by how generous and thoughtful everyone was, especially as first-time parents with no family in the area. ­— Darren Rich *** About a year ago, I discovered I had left my cell phone at home when I had just gone through security at the airport. I tried calling the friend who had dropped me off to come pick me up or go to my house to retrieve my phone, but much to my anxiety, she was not answering my calls. So I walked back outside of the airport and asked for a ride from two people. A generous woman with two darling children gave me a ride to my house, where I retrieved my phone, and then she ran me back to the airport. I live less than a mile from the airport, but this was still time and effort from this woman who led a busy life. I was incredibly grateful because I realized that this would have never happened in my life in California. ­— Stella Fong

S

ymbols

Holiday

Decoded

By Julie Green

“Have a holly jolly Christmas, it’s the best time of the year…”

If you started singing right along, there’s no need to be embarrassed. After all, who hasn’t taken the time to belt out this well-worn holiday ditty with Burl Ives? But have you ever stopped to wonder just why it’s a holly jolly Christmas?

Like many of the things we associate with holidays, holly as a tradition is rooted in ancient history. In pre-Christian times, the plant symbolized new growth and long life and was used to ward off evil spirits. A few thousand years later, holly became synonymous with Christmas. The leaves represent Christ’s crown of thorns, while its berries are symbolic of the drops of blood He shed.

What are some other histories behind the symbols we see this time of year?

Christmas lights

Whether today’s LED’s or those big, hotter-than-heck bulbs that people over age 40 remember touching (just once) when they were kids, or the bubbling ones on great-grandma’s tree, Christmas lights are more than decorations. For Christians, they are a reminder that Jesus is the Light of the World, and they symbolize hope.

Did you know…

It is believed that in ancient civilizations, the use of fires during the Winter Solstice may have been used to celebrate the alignment of the sun and the coming of warmer temperatures.

Menorahs Used in Jewish worship for centuries, menorahs are one of the most recognizable symbols of Judaism. The nine-candle menorah used during Hanukkah serves as a reminder of the miracle of the Hanukkah lights, when one day’s worth of oil burned for eight days following the triumph of the Jews over the Syrians.

Did you know…

In Israel each year, runners carry a burning torch 20 miles, from Modiin to the Western Wall in Jerusalem where the chief rabbi uses the torch to light a giant menorah.

The largest Hanukkah menorah in the world, however, is found in Manhattan. It is 32 feet high and weighs 4,000 pounds.

Candy Cane

Christmas trees

Though the origin of the candy cane is debated, many believe it dates back to the 17th century, when a choirmaster in the Cologne Cathedral in Germany created a sweet stick to help keep children quiet. As the story goes, it was created in the form of a cane in honor of the crooks carried by Biblical shepherds. Regardless of its history, however, the candy remains popular, with nearly 2 billion of them being manufactured each year.

Some call it a Christmas tree. Others say it’s a holiday tree. Whatever you call it, the sparkle in front of your picture window has been making spirits bright since the late 1500s, when evergreen trees were first brought into German homes to celebrate the Feast of Adam and Eve—symbolizing of everlasting life.

Did you know…

Pagans cut boughs of evergreens and moved them inside to decorate their home during the Winter Solstice. Romans decorated evergreens with replicas of the fertility god Bacchus. In Europe, the Germanic god Woden was honored with fruit and candles attached to evergreen branches.

Did you know…

The world’s largest candy cane was created in 2012 by an Illinois pastry chef. It was 51 feet long!

Christmas Stockings Would it surprise you to know that those Christmas stockings hung on the chimney with care really did start with St. Nick? Saint Nicholas, a man born during the latter part of the third century, is believed to have secretly provided gold to sisters whose family lacked money to pay for their dowries. According to legend, the gold was tossed through the window, landing in socks or shoes left out by the fire to dry.

Did you know…

Today, many of us find oranges in the toe of our Christmas stockings. Why? Oranges represent those bags of gold tossed through the window centuries ago.

Reindeer Long before Gene Autry crooned about Rudolph, reindeer were a part of a Norse tale about Thor, a hammer-wielding god, being pulled in a chariot by two goats named Nasher and Cracker. During the 18th century, Swedish tales tell of Santa Claus, in fact, being transported by goats.

Did you know…

There remains a century-old debate over who actually wrote “A Visit from St. Nicholas” in which we learn all about Dasher, Dancer and friends. Although Clement Clarke Moore originally claimed credit for the tale, the family of Henry Livingston, Jr. says he created the work 15 years prior to publication.

Yule Log Now known as a deliciously decadent rolled cake covered in chocolate, the Yule Log has been a part of French and Italian culture since the 13th century. A large log was cut, sprinkled with salt, oil and wine, and protective prayers said. It was then usually lit by either the lady of the house or her daughter.

Did you know…

“Yule” was the word for “infant” in the ancient language of the Chaldeans. Later it became synonymous with the celebration of “Yule Day” or “Child’s Day.”

Christmas Carols

Christmas cards

Who came up with Christmas carols? Blame it on the Pagans, who sang and danced around during the Winter Solstice. (From the French “carole,” carol literally means circle dance.)

The first known Christmas cards appeared in London in 1843, when Sir Henry Cole commissioned illustrator John Calcott Horsley to design a card for Cole to send to his friends. It was also a shrewd business move, as Cole had helped establish the penny post three years earlier.

Did you know…

Christmas carols were banned in the 1600s when the Puritans came to power in England.

The seasonal sounds were revived once again in the Victorian era, where there were even “official carolers” who collected alms (money, food and gifts) as they went from door to door.

Did you know…

You may have sent e-cards over the last few years, but rest assured that the Christmas card business is still alive and well. In fact, according to the greeting card industry, Americans purchase nearly 6.5 billion cards annually.

Poinsettias

Santa Claus

Poinsettia plants may be one of the most familiar symbols of Christmas here in the States, but they are native to our southern neighbor, Mexico. Introduced to the U.S. in the early 1800s by Dr. Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico, over 34 million of the potted plants are now sold annually.

How are St. Nicholas and our modern-day Santa related? The story of Nicholas’ kindness spread, and soon any secret gifts were attributed to him in places throughout the world. During the Reformation, the practice of honoring saints was halted in various countries, but in Holland St. Nicholas remained an important part of their tradition. Known as Sint Nikolaas or Sinter Klass, he became known in the United States in the 1700s thanks to Dutch immigrants.

Did you know…

One legend claims that a young on his way to a Nativity gathered green branches from along a trail. Although mocked by other children who had brought special gifts for the Christ Child, when youngster placed the leaves at the manger a star-shaped flower miraculously appeared on each of the branches.

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Did you know…

For hundreds of years, Father Christmas wore robes of many colors in illustrations; however, it was a 1930’s Coca-Cola ad campaign that introduced a plump and jolly Santa outfitted in the red suit known today.

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Bells Bells have been a part of Christian and Jewish services for even thousands of years.

In the Torah, High Priests were instructed to sew bells on the hems of their robes. In the fifth century, St. Patrick used a bell to gather people together, forever linking bells as a call to worship. They are also an ancient symbol of protection and, in Buddhism, represent harmony and clarity.

Did you know…

406.860.1284

In 2013, three Salvation Army bell ringers set a new world record after each continued to ring bells and man their collection buckets for a staggering 105 hours. Salvation Army Lieutenant Rob Lawler of Helena, Mont. participated in the event, but had to stop after 27 hours when temperatures dropped to a frigid 7 degrees.

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 75

76 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Charlie Brown Christmas Tree

BY JIM GRANSBERY I Illustration by Lee Hulteng

The forest out the back door and across the gulch from the ranch house was tailor-made for extending the generational tradition. Trudging through the snow, pulling a sled, the children got to choose the family’s Christmas tree. There were no parking lot markets nearby then and these were free.

For the older youth, however, it was more a fascination of grandpa’s double-bitted axe, which would send wood chips flying in every direction when swung into the trunk of a lodgepole pine blocking a mountain trail. It made quick downing of a Tannenbaum for the German-ancestry household.

Kept in its heavy leather sheath that covered the razor-edged blade, the axe was a ranch necessity before the advent of chain saws. A grinding wheel, spun by peddle power, threw a comet tail of sparks when the old man put a fresh shine on it, ready for the next slash.

A dispensation from God, also known as grandma, was required before a lad of 7 was allowed to even touch such an instrument. “You’ll cut yourself,” was the predictable warning that morphed into the modern version of Christmas prohibitions like “You’ll shoot your eye out” when the Hoosier Kid requested that Red Ryder air rifle from Saint Nick.

The single-bit version kept next to the wood pile was for making kindling from the chunks of split logs bound for the stove or serving as guillotine in preparation of Sunday’s chicken dinner. Somehow “that” blade was safer.

When the family moved closer to a national forest, tree cutting became a social event for the weekend after hunting season ended. In those days winter was trustworthy; snow storms were practically scheduled.

Trees were easily retrieved via toboggan.

Potluck food off the end of a pickup was the original tailgate party. Hot spiced wine to wash down the elk meat chili was gourmet fare. Mary Alice’s mountain dew blushed the elders more than did the cold.

In later years, college Christmas break was initiated by the band of brothers who prided in finding the perfect tree – the top

one third of a tall timber – to perfume the living room only to be draped with tons of tinsel. Mother lovingly placed each single strand “just so” which drove dad to distraction. Painted glass bulbs from WWII’s austerity held a place of honor where Kris Kringle could admire them on Christmas Eve after the family trundled off to midnight Mass.

Somewhere in the mid-1980s, the tradition attic was breached by the newest generation. Enticed by the annual television broadcast of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” – an explicit jab at crass commercialization of the religious holyday – the children yearned to cut their own family tree from the forest, which was now some distance away.

But rural friends, who had access to

Christmas Tree Permits Christmas tree permits are sold during the months of November and December every calendar year. Permits are non-refundable, but are transferrable. Each year, in addition to local district offices, community businesses may issue permits. Dates of sale and vendors vary locally.

Price: $5 per tree Restrictions: Limit three permits per household Permits are good forest-wide, except at campgrounds, trailheads, wilderness areas and areas where trees have been planted for reforestation purposes.

Custer National Forest Forest Supervisor’s Office 1310 Main Street Billings, MT 59105 Phone: 406-255-1400 Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

foothills sparsely inhabited by juniper and ponderosa pine, extended an invitation for food and fun in the environs of Dry Creek, a name that was definitive. The scrub evergreens paid reality to the scarcity of soil moisture, producing large replicas of the spindly, pathetic tree Charlie Brown brought home to the derision of his friends.

Finding the ugliest tree in the gulch became an annual contest.

No sculptured spruce was allowed, much less afforded. No, it had to be misshapen, crooked in the stem and lacking limbs on one side. The extra-long needles of the ponderosa promised a mess to be vacuumed more than once through the less expensive Twelve Days of Christmas. The search was enlivened with sledding, snowmobiles pulling toboggans stacked with kids and flopped bodies imprinting snow angels on the drifts for the glory of those observing from on high. A hearty meal sanctified the day.

Those Charlie Brown trees made the season. Dressed in a collection of lights, ornaments of all shapes, sizes and origins, they dispelled the darkness of the coinciding Solstice. Mornings began for the kids with breakfast cereal consumed seated next to the heat vent while wearing out the vinyl version of John Denver and the Muppets Christmas album. No light but those draped around the tree, the colors reflecting in the eyes of the believers anticipating the advent of Christmas morn.

You’re a good man, Charlie Brown!

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 77

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78 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

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Billings is ripe with people who make our world – both locally and globally – a better place. In the following pages, we introduce you to a few who exemplify this spirit, raising the bar and encouraging those around them to do the same. Their stories are inspiring and give us one more reason to be proud to call Billings home.

by allyn hulteng, brittany cremer & brenda maas

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 79

Teaching in harmony John Goodheart

The entire theater pulsed with energy. The 1,100 teachers and administrators of Billings Public Schools leapt to their feet, applauding 11 eighth-grade jazz musicians from Riverside Middle School who had surprised the crowd—and themselves—by elevating their music, and the energy it created, to a place beyond the simple notes. It was a rush that few experience.

Sitting at the piano, director John Goodheart beamed with pride. Everyone—the audience and the jazz band musicians—now believed what he believed: these kids have what it takes. *** “The biggest thing about John is his heart,” Riverside Principal, Shaun Harrington said of the school’s band director, John Goodheart. “And the kids know it—they are attracted to that, it makes them want to work even harder to please him.”

John has a dozen years of teaching experience under his belt, plus a lifetime of music to draw from. He claims that the

80 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

students are the source of his energy—others may see it differently.

The extra-curricular jazz band practices at 7 a.m., and the students often arrive before John—they are that eager to play.

But that wasn’t always the case. Just one year ago, John wasn’t sure that he would ever get through to the kids. He had yet to find the spark they needed. Strangely,

he seemed to stumble across it when he asked the students for their thoughts and choices on which songs to perform in concert. That collaboration ignited their passions, and the positive snowball began to roll.

“Music lends itself to a different bond than a traditional classroom setting,” John remarked. “We talk about emotions and feelings, because that’s what music is—it’s personal and it’s emotional.”

Not all things—in life and in music—are happy and rosy 100 percent of the time. Although Riverside has a lower socio-economic demographic than many other area schools, that doesn’t deter John or his fellow educators.

“I reach kids through music,” he said.

“There are a lot of kids who have tough stories—I can tell when a kid hasn’t slept, or has too much going on in his life. But we can work though it with music. Music is a great emotional outlet.”

He speaks of deciphering It’s a Wonderful Life, a song of optimism from the raciallyand politically-charged late ‘60s. Despite being nearly 50 years old, the song carries a timeless message of hope—one that many middle-schoolers, regardless of era, can relate to.

John converses frequently with his students about how music can be the beauty and hope in an otherwise confusing world.

“Music can help you deal,” said John.

“Studies show it has the same effect as going for a walk; it helps release serotonin in the brain and reduce stress. I am a man of faith, and that plays a big role as well.”

However, John’s greatest gift to education may be one very simple secret: he’s a self-proclaimed teen trapped in a 30-something body.

“We have fun, we are silly, we laugh a lot,” he said. “I’m kind-of a big kid myself.”

And therein lies the true music.

Brenda Maas

Photo by James Woodcock.

the Goal-Getter Michael Buster

With the force of a freight train, running back Michael Buster throttles past defenders. Helmets clack, grunts follow, but no one can muscle his 210-pound, 5-foot -11-inch frame to the turf. Figureeighting through the secondary, he skirts by the safety.

Touchdown.

The Laurel pep section booms, the cheerleaders swish their pom poms and Michael’s teammates offer up celebratory chest bumps.

Then it happens—the snide comment from the opposition.

“No use wasting your breath insulting him,” Michael’s teammate says, “he can’t hear you anyway.”

With a tenacious heart and observant eyes, Michael Buster hears the world.

Hearing impaired since 9 months old, Michael sustained total hearing loss in his right ear and 70 percent in his left after contracting bacterial meningitis. The most frustrating times for Michael were those early years—from toddlerhood to fourth grade—trying to find his voice a world that wouldn’t listen.

“I’d get teased, I’d get mad, and it was frustrating,” he said.

But by junior high, Michael’s new high-powered hearing aids opened up a brand new world.

“Imagine not knowing what a cricket sounds like, or a dog barking,” Michael said. “Then all of a sudden the switch turns on.”

With his new hearing aids, Michael sat outside for hours just listening.

“I’d ask my parents ‘what was that?’ ‘what was that?’ It was beyond exciting.”

Even with the help of technology, Michael still has complete hearing loss in his right hear. His left ear—with hearing aids—hears at 80 percent. But high frequency sounds like the wind whooshing or some women’s voices are still inaudible.

Despite this, he speaks with ease and lip reads so well that he only signs when communicating with others who are hearing impaired.

But getting information on the football field or basketball court can sometimes be tricky.

“A lot of it is hard work on my part—studying plays and memorizing them,” Michael said, “but my teammates are great because they know I need eye contact to read their lips.”

Some teammates, like Laurel quarterback Tyler Thompson who’s known Michael since the first grade, use signing as a backup.

His teammates, his classmates and the Laurel community have all embraced Michael and protect him with steely resolve.

But that’s not to say the rest of the world does.

“Some kids think it’s funny to grit their teeth and talk without moving their lips so I can’t understand them,” he said.

Others talk out loud, but hold their hand in front of their mouth to obstruct his view.

Photo courtesy of Jana Graham

“And that’s when I step in,” said Brenda Burch, who has been Michael’s interpreter since first grade. “Exploiting someone’s disability is the lowest of the lows.”

Through the years, Burch has seen Michael grow, overcome obstacles and mature into a kind, well-adjusted and intelligent young man.

“I’m so proud of him,” she said. “I’m not his mom, but I’m a big part of his life.”

Michael smiles and agrees.

Both are emotional when discussing Michael’s sojourn to college next fall, and for the first time in 12 years, Brenda will not follow.

“The university system comes equipped with various tools to assist hearing-impaired students,” Brenda said. “I’m excited for him, but saying goodbye will be hard.”

As for choices, Michael has narrowed the field to Montana State, Carroll College and the University of Mary in Bismarck.

Why? Because in addition to the gridiron, these schools offer a medical program.

“I want to be a cardiovascular surgeon,” he said.

No goal is too lofty for Michael Buster.

“Where he really shines is in setting goals and focusing on how he’ll achieve them,” Burch said. “There’s nothing he can’t do.”

In addition to excelling in athletics and academics, Michael is committed to community service. He is a Red Ribbon speaker who talks to kids about bullying, readily volunteers at St. Vincent Healthcare and is an advocate for the School of the Deaf in Great Falls.

“My biggest fear is public speaking,” Michael said. “It terrifies me.”

But he tackles that fear, head-on. Brittany Cremer

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 81

The Giver Nancy Cook

Nancy Cook is intrigued and inspired by the human condition.

“Every encounter is an opportunity to grow and learn something,” Nancy said. “We are all here to help one another.”

Philanthropy and a thirst for knowledge are ingrained in her spirit. The former teacher and guidance counselor grew up in Oklahoma, lived in California, then moved to Montana in 1979. She and her husband— who is a physician—have lived in the same home in Billings since.

Now retired, Nancy fills her time volunteering fulltime for organizations like Billings Youth Court’s Conference Committee, CASA, Head Start, the Women’s Shelter and others.

As a CASA volunteer, Nancy acts as a court-appointed advocate for abused or neglected children. The responsibilities are great, but so are the rewards.

“These children need permanence, something stable in their tumultuous little lives, and I’m proud to be that something,” Nancy said.

At the Women’s Shelter, Nancy spends much of her time in the sewing room, ironing and simply visiting with the ladies.

“We may not learn much about sewing, but we learn togetherness, and there’s a kinship formed,” Nancy said. “People just want to be heard and feel valued.”

For the past 34 years, Nancy has volunteered for the Youth Court Conference Committee, a diversionary program designed to combat juvenile delinquency. Nancy and other committee members meet once a month with these kids and their parents—when possible—to help provide community-based sentencing alternatives to juvenile delinquents.

In short, Nancy Cook believes in second chances—especially with children.

The uber-modest, super-volunteer is quick to point out that “several dedicated community members are just as involved as I am,” adding that she gets just as much—if not more—out of her time spent helping others.

“They say the first act of service is to the server, and that’s so true,”

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Nancy said. “The feeling of good is contagious and keeps you coming back.”

Nancy credits her parents, particularly, her mother for her desire to go out and help others.

“It was just the ethos of our family,” Nancy said. “My mom led by example and was involved in women’s clubs, the Salvation Army, church groups and such. Our family didn’t just sit around.”

A serious battle with breast cancer in her 30s cemented Nancy’s philanthropic focus.

“Having cancer made me realize that we’re all only here for a short while,” she said. “So now I live every moment and appreciate every day I’m given.”

Empowering others is Nancy’s ultimate goal, reinforcing their faith in humanity so they, too, go forth and do good.

“We are all raising the children of the world,” she said.

For Nancy, it truly does take a village. Brittany Cremer Photo by Casey Page

Noble Pursuits Dr. Bob Wilmouth, M.D.

Dr. Bob Wilmouth, M.D. was living the life he had worked hard to achieve. A loving husband, father of two girls and successful cardiac, thoracic and vascular surgeon, Wilmouth had spent years caring for his patients with a razor-like focus on outcomes and results.

Accustomed to the rigor of a demanding medical practice, Wilmouth could not foresee that the tables were about to be turned, and his life forever changed.

“I was diagnosed with cancer,” he said.

Numerous surgeries and months of treatment ravaged his body. At one point, Wilmouth was told he had a five percent chance of surviving for five years.

“I shouldn’t have lived, but I did,” he said.

The cancer was eventually destroyed, but Wilmouth could no longer practice as a heart surgeon. Instead, in 2005 Wilmouth became part of the faculty at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement out of Cambridge, Mass., where he began working on the administrative side of health care. It wouldn’t be long, however, before his unique skillset would be called upon by an organization in need.

In 2008, Wilmouth received a phone call out of the blue from the Board of Directors of Rocky Mountain College asking him to take over the Physician Assistant program.

“I told them I wasn’t a PA or a manager,” he recalled.

The Board persisted, saying there were 25 students arriving in a couple Photo by Larry Mayer

of months and the school needed a new program director.

“Maybe it’s the doc thing, but I can’t say ‘no’ to helping people.”

Wilmouth took the job.

For the first time in his life, Wilmouth had a boss. Working under Anthony Piltz, the Academic Provost at the time, Wilmouth listened and observed. He learned how to teach and manage, and over the next five years he took the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program to a new level of excellence.

In November 2012, the Board once again approached Wilmouth, this time asking him to consider serving as interim President.

“By then, I had more than four years of experience and I believed in Rocky,” he said.

“Yet there were opportunities for improvement – so I accepted.”

Wilmouth spent the next few months reviewing the college from top-to-bottom. Drawing on his previous life as a surgeon, he began focusing on outcomes, then building strategies around those outcomes.

In some ways, Wilmouth surprised himself. “I realized that I’m always thinking steps ahead, there’s always an objective and a plan.

I don’t do random,” he said.

Simultaneously, he applied for the job of President and underwent the rigors of a national search.

The ability to create a vision for the future

coupled with Wilmouth’s extraordinary work ethic earned the respect of the Board. In April 2013, he was named President.

Under Wilmouth’s leadership, Rocky has undergone a significant shift in culture in a short amount of time. At the center of that shift is the sacred relationship between the faculty, staff and students, and Wilmouth is focused on perfection at every level.

“We have new people in key positions who are experts in their field, and everyone – faculty and administrators – is committed to the vision,” he said.

Connection to the greater community is also a critical component.

“Billings is one of the best cities in the country, and I want Rocky to be the best college in the best city. That means we need to reach out and be of service to the community.”

Everything Wilmouth envisions – from a new state-of-the-art science building to academic excellence – is reflected in his quest to be noble in every pursuit.

“I’m constantly asking, is this what’s best for this college and our community? We need to think about making Rocky better now and for the next generation.”

For Wilmouth, success is measured one student at a time.

“Rocky Mountain College excels at enabling young men and women to reach their potential and make good decisions in life. Is there any greater gift?” allyn hulteng

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 83

Living Her “New Normal” Karsyn Hornby Her aura is light, contagious and fun, but still focused.

Karsyn Hornby is what some might call a “health nut.” A certified personal trainer and exercise instructor, she recently graduated from Montana State University Billings with a B.A. in Health and Human Performance after just three short years.

Karsyn is also a six-year amputee.

While that may describe Karsyn physically, it is worlds-away from defining her.

Shortly before she turned 14, Karsyn was accidently and violently pinned between a car and wood bench when the driver accelerated into the garage instead of braking.

The accident caused her to lose massive amounts of blood, and she “life-flighted” from her hometown of Buffalo, Wyo., to a hospital in Casper where she underwent a six-hour surgery. It was merely the beginning of Karsyn’s long journey.

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Initially doctors were able to save her right leg; but it did not heal well.

“We couldn’t get healthy blood flow to my foot,” she noted.

Over the next weeks, Karsyn was treated in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber to promote the growth of healthy tissues. But her leg would not heal. She underwent three more surgeries, first amputating her foot at the ankle, then mid-shin and finally above her knee. Wood splinters lodged in her knee were removed with the final surgery. The real healing finally began.

But that was just the physical part.

“I didn’t handle it well at first,” she recalled of her freshman year. “It wasn’t pretty. Freshman year is tough anyway. I was trying to figure out who I was, but I was someone I didn’t know anymore.”

It was year full of emotional and physical pain.

Some students mimicked Karsyn’s awkward gait or faked concern, asking, “What’s wrong with your leg?”

At the end of the school year, the close-knit family moved from Buffalo to Casper. They needed to move on, both literally and figuratively, and the emotional healing began.

Karsyn beams when she talks of her parents and younger brother.

“They are all very different personalities, and I’m a combo of all three,” she smiled. “We are so close—especially since my accident.”

Karsyn believes being open about her injury is paramount. She often speaks to driver’s education or emergency first responder (EMT) classes, sharing her experience and her effervescent attitude.

“I think I was closed-off, but holding everything inside was toxic.

What I went through wasn’t just a bump, it was monumental.”

A stellar student, Karsyn graduated from high school a semester early and enrolled at MSU-B. She pursued her interests in medicine and biology, fed by her love of fitness.

“It’s what I believe in—I promote healthy living,” she said. “So many people abuse their bodies and suffer for that.”

Yet every day can bring new challenges to Karsyn. A light coating of snow is a minor inconvenience to most. To those with a prosthetic leg, it can be dangerous. But Karsyn uses extra time and caution to traverse slippery surfaces and employs the extra hands of friends.

She also endures pain frequently.

“There are days I don’t want to get out of bed, but I don’t want to become that person,” she said. “The entire journey was so difficult but so empowering. It has shaped me into someone who believes in the beauty of life, and in overcoming adversity, and staying the course.

In an odd way, Karsyn believes the accident might be fortuitous.

“I’ve become a person I love,” Karsyn said. “I am a better person than I would have been otherwise. Early on, after my accident, I saw others with prosthetics, and they were so inspirational to me. Many think that the life of an amputee is awful, but it’s not. It’s wonderful.”

Brenda Maas Photo by Larry Mayer

Art Advocate Sally McIntosh

Visiting over tea in her comfortable bungalow, one would hardly know that Sally McIntosh has dedicated a lifetime to the art world.

Yet the clues are scattered across her home—artisan bowls where the average Pyrex might suffice; sketches, lithographs and paintings adorn the walls; and, in one corner a small sign states “McIntosh Art Co.” “Oh, I’m not an artist,” she laughs when asked to see her work, “I’m just in love with everyone else’s work.”

As a young girl Sally liked to draw but, as is common with children, compared her work to others. She found her skills lacking and quit.

Yet she did not give up on art.

“If you had a teaching degree in the late ’60s, you could get a job anywhere,” said Sally of her B.A. in art education. She lived and worked on both coasts before returning to her hometown of Billings. Throughout her journeys she visited museums, continued her art education to earn a Master’s degree and expanded her knowledge base in the art world, with a special interest in medieval work, renaissance, craftsmanship and education.

She returned to Billings in 1989, a single mother of two, and brought her love of art and artisans with her. After the unexpected death of her brother Bill, Sally took over the operation of McIntosh Art Co. “It was a family business, specializing in graphic design and art supplies,” she noted. “I later expanded to include a small gallery and classes.”

She operated that business for nearly two decades, plus worked as president of Billings ArtWalk for eight years, growing the program to Photo by James Woodcock

include nearly 30 galleries and businesses by its 20th year. These days she directs the Ryniker-Morrison Gallery at Rocky Mountain College, having recently completed the first ever Juried Art Majors and Minors Student Show.

What to one might simply be a job has remained a life-long constant for Sally. Sharing art means more than selling. It means promoting her respect of the artist, her love for each and every unique project and her passion for the beauty that art brings to mankind.

And, for Sally, Billings is both home and culture.

“I’ve always wanted Billings to be an artsy town,” she said. “We have the YAM, ABT, Western Heritage Center and an increasingly popular ArtWalk in a vibrant downtown—there’s a cooperative attitude to thrive, and it just keeps getting better.”

In 2000, Sally decided to snowball this momentum by starting what became known as “Sally’s Art Camp” at Rocky Mountain College. Her idea was to bring together professional artists with youngsters ages 8-14 who have the same hunger that she did—to feed their young souls with the passion and practicality of local working artists of various disciplines.

“Research shows that right about third grade, you start comparing your work to others. If you don’t have someone in your life to give suggestions and help bring out what is inside of you, that interest wanes,” Sally explained.

She advocates for each and every child, nurturing their budding desire to sculpt, draw, paint or cartoon. Safeguarding creativity through encouragement remains Sally McIntosh’s finest art form. Brenda Maas

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 85

Golden Locks of Love Gavin Stichman

Most 6-year-olds who go to Disney World bring home souvenirs.

Gavin Stichman brought home a promise that would take nearly three years to fulfill.

Inquisitive by nature, Gavin and his family were enjoying a vacation to the theme park when he saw kids wearing yellow stars. The youngsters, he noticed, were being ushered to the front of the lines to get on rides. Gavin asked his father why.

“I told him they were kids with life-threatening illnesses, like cancer, and that they were given a trip to Disney World so that they could take a break from their treatment and have some fun with their family,” said Tad Stichman, Gavin’s father.

Some of the children, Gavin noted, were bald. His dad explained

that medicine used to fight cancer often made a person’s hair fall out.

“That made Gavin feel sad,” said Tad. Shortly after the Disney trip, Gavin’s uncle happened to tell him about Hawk’s Locks for Kids, a non-profit started by Green Bay Packers linebacker A.J. Hawk. Hawk cut his famously-long hair and donated it to be made into wigs for kids undergoing chemotherapy, and he encourages other people to donate hair through his foundation, too.

“I want to grow my hair out and donate it to Hawk’s Locks for Kids!”

Gavin said.

Gavin made good on his promise – but it wasn’t easy. Some of his classmates teased him. At a wrestling meet, Gavin’s mom and dad overheard parents laughing and pointing at their son saying, ‘she can’t wrestle.’

“He did wrestle, and he won two first places,” said Tad with pride.

Though the teasing made Gavin feel bad, it also steadied his young resolve. Several times he wanted to cut his hair – but he didn’t. He wanted to do more.

“Gavin asked us who gave the kids the free trip to Disney World,” said Tad. “We explained it was the Make-a-Wish Foundation, which raises money to grant wishes.”

Hearing that, Gavin said he wanted to raise enough money to give away five wishes.

“At $3,900 per wish, that was a lot of money,” said Tad. “But he stuck to his commitment to grow his hair, and we wanted to support his goal of raising money.”

Whenever people said something to Gavin about his long hair, Gavin told them about Hawk’s Locks for Kids. He also talked about his goal of raising $19,500 for five wishes. The family set up a “Gavin’s Golden Locks,” an online donation page under the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

Gavin also raised money at athletic events at Rocky Mountain College and by bussing tables at local restaurants.

Once, a fellow diner at a local restaurant overheard Gavin tell his story. Teary-eyed, the woman walked over to Gavin saying, ‘Thank you. I just finished chemo, and my hair is starting to come back.’

Not everyone, however, was supportive.

“We met unbelievably giving individuals, and also unbelievable resistance from people who said a kid couldn’t raise that much money,” said Tad. On Nov. 21, 2014, nearly three years after Gavin started to grow his hair, the Stichman family along with a host of volunteers held a fundraising event at the American Legion. It was also the evening when Gavin, now 9 years old, would cut and donate his long locks.

“It was just an amazing night, very emotional for Gavin,” said Tad. Nearly 300 people attended, including eight others who also donated their hair.

Bravely, Gavin stood before the crowd, his hair banded in small bunches. One-by-one the bands of gold were cut. In all, Gavin donated 14 inches of hair.

Right afterward, Gavin’s parents presented him with a Green Bay Packer jersey signed by A.J. Hawk. They also gave him a letter from Hawk that read, Great job being a positive influence in people’s lives.

Continue to do this and you will change the world.

“Gavin had no idea that Hawk had sent the jersey and letter,” Tad said. “He was overwhelmed.”

That evening, there was more good news to share.

“We announced that Gavin had raised more than $14,000 toward his goal of $19,500 for Make-A-Wish,” said Tad. “We could not be more proud.” allyn hulteng Those interested in making a donation to Gavin’s Golden Locks on behalf of the Make-A-Wish Foundation may do so by logging on to: montana.wish.org/news-and-events/news/2014news/gavin-golden-locks.

Photo by Casey Page. Inset photos courtesy of the Stichman family.

Virtuoso Violinist Rosie Weiss

Rosie Weiss could play the violin before most kids could sing their ABCs. At age 3, Weiss, took a shine to the instrument via the Suzuki method, developed by Japanese violinist Shinichi Suzuki. His method, also called the mother-tongue approach, applied the basic principles of language acquisition to learning music. Just as children easily learn the basics of their native tongue, they learn the language of music.

Rosie became fluent in violin by age 5.

By 12, the home-schooled youngster was performing with the Billings Symphony and celebrated a reign as Montana’s two-time state fiddle champion.

“When I started with the Symphony, I never felt out of place because of my age,” Weiss said. “I saw that I belonged up there. It felt so natural.”

Now just 17 and a world-traveled performer, Weiss looks back at photos from when she first joined the Symphony, smiles, and acknowledges that she was “just a kid back then.”

Weiss possesses poise and grace beyond her years. Humble, yet wildly talented, the virtuoso violinist chalks up her success to an indelible work ethic—sometimes practicing up to five hours a day, every day.

For Weiss, precision is important.

“It’s so satisfying to perform a challenging piece in front of an audience and walk away feeling like I nailed it,” Weiss said.

It is this musical precision that has abetted Weiss’ continued success. She is a winner of the Montana Association of Symphony Orchestras Young Artists competition, has performed as a guest soloist with the Great Falls Symphony, Glacier Symphony and Battle Creek Symphony in Michigan. Weiss also performs regularly with the Billings Photo by Larry Mayer

Ceilidh Fiddlers, Red Lodge Chamber Players and Magic City Strings.

In 2013, Weiss was selected by Carnegie Hall for membership in the National Youth Orchestra of the USA, which toured Russia and England. This past summer, she received a generous scholarship to Boston University’s prestigious Tanglewood Institute and served as concertmaster of Tanglewood’s Young Artists Orchestra.

It is a musical resumé that would make even Mozart jealous.

Yet, Weiss remains humble, quick to give credit to her fellow musicians, instructors and parents.

“They are amazing and have supported me and my dreams my entire life,” Weiss said of her mom and dad.

In addition to drawing strength and inspiration from her parents, Weiss also looks to cross-over violin players who play the fiddle.

“Classical musicians who play the violin read off the page, but fiddlers are more apt to improvise. That really appeals to me,” Weiss said.

Fiddle players like Jeremy Kittle and Mark O’Conner strike a chord with Weiss, and she urges anyone interested in playing music to seek out avenues for instruction and performance.

“Music can be so freeing and rewarding—everyone should experience that,” she said.

In February, Weiss will be soloing with the Billings Symphony—her third time doing so. In the upcoming months, Weiss said she is considering taking a gap year to travel and focus on a few other endeavors— like investigating a future in computer programming.

“Which isn’t surprising considering I’m such a detail-oriented person,” Weiss said.

It’s just another language that she can tuck away into her very accomplished, very young repertoire. Brittany cremer

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 87

Purpose-driven lives Tracy Moore & Matt thompson

Strolling hand-in-hand past boutiques and bistros in downtown Billings, Tracy Moore and Matt Thompson are clearly a couple in love.

Yet it only takes a few minutes in the company of these millennials to understand that their love for one another is an extension of a greater love, one that they share selflessly with others.

“My parents divorced when I was young,” recalled Tracy. “I remember it was just a really difficult time, and I acted out horribly.”

When Tracy was 14, she attended a Young Life camp in Canada. Matt Thompson had been invited to go to the same camp.

“I was 17 years old and a trouble-maker,” said Matt, whose parents had also divorced.

“But I had started attending Young Life, and went to the camp – the experience changed the course of my life.”

Unbeknownst to Tracy, Matt had been praying for a best friend to have in life. “I expected it to be a guy friend, but then I met Tracy,” said Matt.

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Tracy and Matt became friends, and then began to date. Despite predictions from family members that they were too young and their relationship wouldn’t last, eight years later Matt and Tracy married.

After Tracy graduated from college, the young couple moved to Billings where they joined Harvest Church. Inspired by people who had mentored them in the past, Tracy and Matt found their calling.

“We became youth leaders and mentors to a group of high school freshmen,” said Tracy. For four years, Matt and Tracy worked with the group, sharing encouragement and honest conversation. “Sometimes it’s hard for teens to talk to their parents or someone who hasn’t gone through what they are going through. We were there for them. And we were also super honest – we didn’t hide any of our own miss-steps,” Tracy said.

Tracy and Matt watched their fledglings grow older and graduate from high school and they stayed in touch. A couple of the young adults stumbled hard, and Tracy and Matt opened their home and hearts to aid them in re-focusing in a healthy direction.

“We love these kids, and we know life can sometimes feel very harsh,” said Tracy. “If they needed support or even a place to live, we’re there.”

Time passed. Tracy started a business as a photographer specializing in portraits of senior girls while Matt became a successful fly-fishing guide. To outsiders, their lives looked content and happy. But inside, Tracy felt a strong tug.

“Africa – I always wanted to go there and do something to help the children,” she said.

In the fall of 2013, Tracy and Matt left Billings and landed in Tanzania. Their first goal was to build a clean water well in a small village with money they had raised at home.

“Before the well, people had to hike two hours each way every day to get clean water.

Now there’s enough water to support up to 10,000 people,” Tracy said.

During the construction process, Tracy and Matt also volunteered at the local school, teaching English and helping with basic supplies.

“The kids are so excited and eager to learn. And even knowing a few words of English can help them find livable employment down the road,” Matt said.

Though they loved the African people, their sojourn was not without danger. Bombings in nearby Zanzibar were a sober reminder of political unrest.

“We felt scared a couple of times,” said Tracy. “But we had faith in God; if He wanted us in the middle of a minefield, then that was the safest place we could be.”

Six months after arriving in Africa, Matt and Tracy returned home. As much as they thought they would experience culture shock in Africa, what they found was the exact opposite.

“Our American lifestyle is just so over-thetop,” said Matt. “Humongous houses, huge portions of food – and still we complain. It’s just so wasteful.”

Abroad, Matt and Tracy had become accustomed to African family life where multiple generations lived together. At night, family members visit and play games and truly enjoyed time together.

“Here, it’s almost like parents and siblings are a nuisance at times. It made me feel sorry for Americans,” said Matt.

Though Matt and Tracy went to Africa to help others, they both say they were the ones who were blessed.

“The experience was an important reminder that our family and friends are so much more valuable than materialistic things, and that you don’t have to have a lot of money to live a happy life,” said Matt.

Tracy agreed. “It’s important to consider what really matters to you, and what you want your own life to look like.” allyn hulteng Photo by Casey Page.

Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful) Captain Diana J. Salmela, United States Marine Corps Tall and beautiful with a confident air, Captain Diana J. Salmela doesn’t look like the typical marine. But make no mistake. At age 27 she is the highest ranking Marine officer in Billings.

Patriotism is rooted deep in Salmela. Both of her grandfathers served in WWII, her father is a Marine Corps veteran as is her husband, Derrick. Early on, Salmela knew she, too, wanted to serve her country.

“My parents didn’t push, but they did talk a lot about the service. For me, it was an easy choice,” said Salmela.

An excellent student, Salmela earned a scholarship through the Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC). The program works with college students to develop core values and leadership skills in order to commission graduates as naval officers.

“A big part of the program is mentorship,” said Salmela.

Students are formally assigned to a senior Marine who becomes their mentor. When the student becomes an upper-classman, he or she in turn mentors under-classmen.

“You’re being developed as a leader, and a lot is expected of you,” said Salmela. “Young officers are put into situations where you have to make a decision. You learn a lot about yourself, and grow in self-confidence.”

Salmela earned a degree in Global Studies Photo by James Woodcock

and Maritime Affairs and received her commission in 2009. She spent the first year in officer training before being assigned to Okinawa, Japan as the officer in charge of base security.

Three years later, Salmela was assigned to Billings, her second duty station, where she is in charge of training some 50 Marine Corps reservists.

“Everything we do, from physical fitness to training missions, is to get them prepared and ready to deploy on missions,” she said.

She also oversees community service activities, including the Young Marine program, Toys for Tots, and veteran outreach.

“It’s such an honor to serve our veterans,” said Salmela. “To get to know them, and become involved in their lives.”

Salmela’s dedication to service and country has never wavered, even when the young woman received a serious medical diagnosis.

“I fell ill while visiting my parents last spring – it was cancer,” she said.

Salmela underwent major surgery, but not once did she lose focus or indulge in self-pity.

“So many veterans are dealing with far worse – mental, physical, emotional traumas. As service members, we are humbled by their trials.”

A few weeks after her surgery, Salmela returned to her post. “I hated being away from work, but I have an excellent staff who made everything seamless,” she said.

Gratitude and selflessness run deep in Salmela, who says she has never run across any impassible barriers as a woman.

“Being in service to others gives you a sense of independence and confidence,” she said.

Salmela has never been deterred by people who put obstacles in her path, and counsels others to do the same.

“Seek out excellent mentors,” she said.

“I am only where I am because of the Marines who trained me. They are phenomenal; they didn’t allow me to fail.” allyn hulteng

door.

Life is knocking on your

Floberg Real Estate

SheilaLarsen 406.672.1130

Sheila@floberg.com

Toys for Tots: The United States Marine Corps is accepting donations for its annual Toys for Tots program. Acceptable donations include cash, checks or new unwrapped and undamaged toys.

For a list of approved drop off locations in the area, please log on to billings-mt.toysfortots.org/local-coordinator-sites/ lco-sites/donate-toys.aspx.

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 89

WALKING

FENCES

By Pete Critelli • Photo by Casey Page

90 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

The metallic ping of a spur’s whirling rowel, the whip-crack of a purple plum line smacking cement, the resonating clapper of a ship’s bell. Walking my land, my fences, brings me the same abrupt intensity.

The phrase “walking the fences” has a concentric heritage as a metaphor. Circling, inspecting, immersing into what is yours, insuring all is where it is supposed to be, and that any malfunctions are dealt with so as to discourage some unwelcome predators.

I say some because not all predators are unwelcome, as long as their predatory crosshairs are not set on our inventory.

Our piece of the high country sits on a flat plateau at the feet of the Beartooth Mountains.

If coming from town, I ease my 27-year-old pickup through the weathered metal gate, twist the ignition key and listen to the silence. My boots crunch gravel, then a gentle tap on the rear quarter panel sends a laser signal to the dogs, and they bail out like kids arriving at a playground.

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 91

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During irrigation season, the dogs frenetically propel themselves into our rapid ditches flowing with melting mountain snowpack. Traveling from its source above 6,000 feet, the water runs through a circuitous labyrinth of irrigation canals and linear ditches, traveling 44 miles to the Yellowstone River, then another 16 miles to Billings, where it will be very cold to the touch.

And I am quite sure another hundred miles would still find it turning a swimmer’s skin purple.

As it gurgles through our patch, we extract our allocated miner’s inches that have transferred with the land since the 1890s.

Our blue healer will go upstream into the ditch, tuck her paws as if retracting landing gear, then flow through a culvert like a smiling piece of driftwood. Once through, she lowers her haunches and runs back for more. I wade under the culvert regularly to clear out any dog or kid blockages. When the pups thrash out of the chilled water, they find me no matter where I am hiding, and then rhythmically roll the wet torrent from their coats making sure that I, too, am having fun.

In moments of reflection, I put one boot up on the middle rung of our gate, with forearms resting on the top rail. Looking northwest 100 miles I see the Snowy Mountain Range as clearly as that big letter E on top of the optometrist’s eye chart. Real or imagined, I sometimes hear a melancholy Flamenco guitar. Glancing at my dogs standing close

by I smile, and remind myself to never take this land for granted.

When the wow factor of the pastoral summertime wanes, reality sets in. Most months of the year our north wood’s dirt is chilly and chillier.

One day a pristine snowy postcard from Norman Rockwell, the next a swirling Dr. Zhivago abyss of burning subzero air.

But walk the land we do regardless, as some chores don’t hibernate.

Late in the afternoon with the fields frozen harder than my 30-pound sledgehammer, the dogs and I head out to walk the fences. It can be challenging discerning where white ends and horizon begins. Subzero air can sear skin like a soldering gun, so I layer on the gear. Our pup’s genes thicken their jeans at varying times and density each autumn. That signals with almanac accuracy the ferocity of the coming winter, and if it will come early huffing down the eastern slope. In near subzero walkabouts I slather their paws with petroleum jelly to repel frostbite, only to see them hopping on three legs, licking it off, as we go out the door.

As we step from our cocoon I scan the moonlit white, picking the lowest drift to enter. My trailing companions quickly heave in and out of the holes I forge, because if they dawdle the indentations will quickly disappear.

As my eyes metronome our intended path, my heart rate cautiously rises, and I speak gently to the dogs. They key on my tone, and from experience as a reserve deputy sheriff, I know the demeanor of the individual in charge can set the pace and outcome of an event.

As we trundle along we eventually walk out of any fading cabin light, and the cold wind melodizes like the death knell from a tragic opera. Using corner posts as reference, and remaining within our confines, we peer for anything out of the ordinary: a leaning post that wasn’t, a broken wire, an open gate, fresh tracks or scat.

Tracks larger than a big dog with a line in between indicates a cat with a dragging tail. Mountain lions are beautiful sights to behold, with sinewy muscles oscillating as they stride. But they are highly unpredictable, and will vehemently pursue moving as well as stationary objects.

Encountering bear tracks tells me that we should have picked a barn project for the afternoon. Bears do not inhabit our land, but they do migrate through to reach nearby coulees and choke cherry groves. With the exception of the unequivocally aggressive grizzly, most black bears in our region will turn and lumber away. Moose on the other hand are very fond of our land, with their silhouettes casting towering dark shadows across winter white. They can be aggressive, and will wield their bad temper for no other reason than to ruin your day. The best rack attack avoidance is any place where that big head can’t get us: dense trees, sturdy fences or anyone’s porch, anyone’s. Wolves are opportunistic, and unless ravenous, choose their fights discriminately. Much to the chagrin of our local ranchers, there is plenty of available lupus sustenance over every ridge.

When we do encounter signs that we have company, the dogs know light years ahead of me whether we are painted on the visitor’s radar. My shepherd and border will cast an upward glance for instructions, and my admonitions are always for safety and non-aggression. Not so for our willful bob-tailed healer whose foolish bravado has provided our vet with hours of suture practice.

As we work, inevitably perspiration freezes face to balaclava, and that is our sign to conclude the day’s walkabout. As we crowd through the cabin door we look as vaudevillian as shoppers at Macy’s Black Friday opening bell. Backward gravity thumps me down on the mudroom bench, where Paul Bunyan boots are grunted off, and layers of bulky clothing are alley-ooped onto high, worn hooks. I appreciatively stoke the soapstone fire, who’s smoky Hansel and Gretel fingers beckoned us back from the frigid dark. The dogs harrumph onto the kitchen tile, as their fur’s melting snow pools around them. Cook pots clamor, as cast iron burners pop blue. Springsteen lights up the Bose`, and supper hour begins.

Life-altering events and decisions are the ones that shift your entire world, affect everyone around you and force you to weather storms that extend beyond the horizon.

Certain people seem to successfully navigate significant transitions in order to change their lives and achieve their dreams. In the process of overcoming obstacles, these people forge new insights that replace old fears. Others only dream of change.

What characteristics do people who are able to push through monumental change possess that others do not? Can anyone learn to master the art of self-reinvention?

By Susan

Austin

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 93

doug Doug Modrow enjoyed his career as a metallurgic engineer until the position

Three factors influenced Modrow to consider the possibility of a career in the health care evaporated, leaving him jobless. field: Billings has jobs in health Modrow graduated with a BA in metallurgical engineering from the University care; Doug’s father-in-law was a physician; and Doug had spent of Idaho and worked his way up to become the Operations General Foreman of a lot of time in hospitals around nurses. the platinum and palladium smelter at Stillwater Mining Company. Then, in 2003, “My son was sick from the time he was 6-months-old. We because most of the industrial smelter work moved outside the U.S., his position had taken him to numerous facilities, but no one could diwas ‘restructured,’ meaning he no longer had a job. agnose his problem. Then, on a “At first, I focused on finding work as an engineer, vacation to visit my wife’s family in Arizona, he got because I’d always been an engineer,” Modrow said. very sick and we took him to the doctor on call. She But he found himself unemployed in a region that had turned out to be a pediatric gastroenterologist who no other jobs available for someone with his exper- diagnosed the problem as eosinophilic esophagitis, a tise. Modrow’s wife, Leslie, was employed and his kids chronic digestive system illness. He was flown to the were in school. They had friends and were involved in pediatric ICU in Great Falls where he stayed for two activities. At age 45, Modrow was faced with trying weeks,” Modrow said. to find financially viable employment in a completely As his son slowly recovered, Modrow decided to new field, in an area with limited career options. actively explore a career in health care. He took classes

Doug Modrow. Photo by James Woodcock

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Wishing you a

holiday

in anatomy and biology, enjoyed them and did well. He followed this success by applying to the two-year Associate’s program at Sheridan College in Wyo. After receiving the Certificate of Practical Nursing in 2005, he became a Registered Nurse in 2006.

Modrow went to work at St. Vincent Healthcare in Billings and recently earned the Progressive Care Certified Nurse (PCCN) certification. Now, at 56, he works on the cardiac telemetry unit, caring for people who have had heart surgeries and as a preceptor, where he helps train new nurses during their 12-week orientation period.

Why was Doug able to make an unanticipated change and thrive in a new career?

Dr. Lyle Seavy, Ph.D., Director of Psychiatric Services at Billings Clinic, says different people are motivated to change by different things.

“One trigger point can be a change in their environment where they are faced with having to ‘sink or swim.’ The key is this: the traits that made them successful in one setting are the same things that make them successful in the new setting,” said Dr. Seavy.

In his engineering career, Modrow had been able to identify a field of interest and complete the necessary education. Once proficient, he was able to progress to a high level within the organization.

In the nursing field, Modrow applied the same skills and persistence.

His ability to focus and his calm demeanor are traits that have clearly helped him succeed in both careers.

Ann Clancy, Ph.D., has a doctorate in Human and Organizational Systems and masters in Organizational Development. As the owner of Clancy Consultants in Billings, she helps people identify and enact the changes they want to make in their lives.

“We start by identifying what they already do well. We focus on the strengths they have and build on that,” she said.

According to Clancy, for decades psychologists viewed human beings as machines, focusing on what was wrong with people and trying to fix those negative parts.

“The newer way of looking at people is to focus on and embrace the successes people have had and build on what they have already accomplished,” she said.

Three factors influenced Modrow to consider the possibility of a career in the health care field: Billings has jobs in health care; Doug’s father-inlaw was a physician; and Doug had spent a lot of time in hospitals around nurses. ­

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MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 95

KRISTEN In the fall of 2014, Kristen Diede completed her first-ever half marathon.

Diede graduated to running the 13-mile (21-kilometer) half marathon after successfully completing two 10-kilometer runs, after she had completed three 5-kilometer runs. Her starting point? Being winded and embarrassed after climbing a flight of stairs with co-workers when she was 29 years old and 159 pounds heavier than she is today.

Considering a career change?

“Decide how much you want to commit and know at what point you’re done with the prospect. Some people have found their niche and aren’t motivated to change their career and that’s fine,” says Dr. Seavy.

Take this online test to determine your personal level of comfort with risk-taking: testyourself.psychtests.com/ testid/2122/.

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Diede did not begin her life change with a sense of accomplishment to draw on.

“I hated running when I was a kid. I’d intentionally walk very slowly when I was forced to go on a run in gym class, because I couldn’t run,” she said. “As an adult, I felt like a failure, not only because of my weight, but because I’d gone to school for eight years, changed my major four times, and never got a degree.”

Once she found an educational program she could commit to, she gained the traction that led to her professional success. “I started a self-study program for medical coding. I stuck with it and am now a certified professional coder, which I really enjoy,” said Diede.

As her 30th birthday approached, she looked at her physical wellbeing through new eyes, now that she had a positive appreciation for her own abilities.

“Facing 30 was a big factor for me,” Diede said. “I had two small children; I worried that I wouldn’t be able to keep up with them. Also, I didn’t want my kids to be teased and suffer because I weighed nearly 300 pounds. And, I didn’t want to suffer. I thought, ‘I’m overweight Kristen Diede. Photo by Bob Zellar

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and unhealthy. Am I going to die young? Obese people have to get bigger caskets … who is going to be able to lift me?’ Finally, I asked myself what I wanted to accomplish in my life.”

After much research and many conversations with her husband and family, Diede took

a big step in October 2012 and underwent gastric sleeve surgery and committed herself to permanent lifestyle changes that are essential to making the surgery successful. “I had to change my relationship with food. In the past, I incorporated eating into every emotion: I ate when I had a bad day, and I’d eat to celebrate,” she said.

Diede also tackled her emotions.

“I’ve dealt with depression and anxiety throughout my life. Maintaining my mental health is a big motivator for me. Running is my outlet to combat anxiety attacks,” Diede said. “Now, I run to release the endorphins that help me stay positive instead of relying on medications.”

Charting your course

“I hated running when I was a kid.

I’d intentionally walk very slowly when I was forced to go on a run in gym class, because I couldn’t run. As an adult, I felt like a failure, not only because of my weight, but because I’d gone to school for eight years, changed my major four times, and never got a degree.”

“Your beliefs are the keys to success,” says Dr. Clancy. “Beliefs are nothing more than your own thoughts, thought over and over.

When you choose to think positive thoughts, it brings about a positive feeling. You get a positive cycle going. It is impossible to think negatively and feel positive.”

Clancy goes on to say that some people describe an “aha” moment as a thought or belief that suddenly becomes very clear to them.

“That “aha” feeling is the moment the thought moves from your nonconscious mind to your conscious mind. If you are having trouble sustaining positive beliefs about yourself, you may be harboring old, negative beliefs at a non-conscious level. If so, you’ll need to get the negative beliefs from the non-conscious to the conscious level, where you can clarify and eliminate or change them. Getting help from an outside, third person can help you do this.”

According to Dr. Seavy, there is no research that shows a specific psychological, social or chemical reason why people change.

“It isn’t based on their age, either,” said Dr. Seavy. “But, you can ask yourself this question: ‘Am I running away from something or am I going forward to something?’ If you can’t tell which it is, ask someone who knows you well, whom you trust. They’ll tell you. If it’s a bit of both, determine which is the stronger factor.

The more focused your goal is, the more likely you are to achieve it. Running away is not focused.”

Sometimes the urge to make a change develops gradually, unlike Modrow’s sudden job loss or Diede’s physical inability to keep up with her kids. The motivation to take action can result from a sense of stagnation in your current situation.

“We are not machines. We have aspirations. We are meant to do new things. It’s what brings us joy as human beings,” said Dr. Clancy.

­— Kristen Diede

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aLAN Dr. Alan Muskett, M.D. cardiac, thoracic and vascular surgeon, was comfortable

opportunity and re-ignite his professional interests. and established, with a wonderful family, lovely home and good income.

“I felt that if my situation was unrewarding or uninspiring, it But he began to feel that he was on the sidelines of his own career. “The coronary was my responsibility to take artery bypass surgery I performed reached its peak in the early 1990s. Then, stent tech- ownership and do something about it. It was both a terrifying nology significantly reduced the numbers of surgeries people needed. I found myself and exhilarating experience,” said Dr. Muskett. feeling like a blacksmith sitting in his shop watching cars go by,” said Dr. Muskett.

Was it easy to simply shift focus to a new field of medicine?

A desire to make a change was brewing.

No. He asked his family to move “I’d performed 2,000 heart surgeries, and I knew that to Jackson, Miss., where he re-enrolled in medical school.

Billings had plenty of heart surgeons to handle the lower At 48, Dr. Muskett found himself alongside 20-somedemand.” thing-year-olds taking medical tests and working insane Another physician retired, creating an opening in a hours to complete his residency. successful practice in Billings in the growing field of plas“Our junior high-age children made a tremendous eftic surgery. Dr. Muskett decided to take advantage of this fort to make the move during a very tricky part of their

98 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Dr. Alan Muskett. Photo by Larry Mayer.

lives. The entire family was challenged in the different environment of the deep South,” says Dr. Muskett. The family survived the move – and the move back.

“It was difficult to take the kids down there, and it was even more difficult to bring them back once they’d settled in.”

Pillars of strength

Having the support of the people surrounding someone making a big change is essential – and their own personal sacrifices can be enormous. Modrow, the engineer-turnedRN, also found incredible family support when he had to live out of town to complete his nursing degree.

He resided in the dorms at Sheridan College in Wyoming during the week and couldn’t be at the kids’ events and activities.

“My wife had to hold down the fort by herself,” Modrow said.

“I wouldn’t have done it if my husband didn’t support the decision,” Diede said of her gastric sleeve surgery.

“Now, I post my workout and training schedule at home. The whole family understands the commitment to health I’ve made, and we plan our lives with my food and training schedule in mind.”

Dr. Clancy explains, “Research shows that it’s important to have people around you who can support you and your new way of thinking.

Remember that your change will affect them as well. Families, work environments and friendships are systems. Each part of the system affects the others. It’s like a mobile hung over a crib: touch one piece and the whole thing moves.”

Some parts of your system will be supportive and encouraging. Others may not be supportive of your decision.

Diede lost friends along her weight loss journey; Dr. Muskett found that his colleagues who lost a contributing member of the cardiac practice were not happy to see him go.

“I felt that if my situation was unrewarding or uninspiring, it was my responsibility to take ownership and do something about it.

It was both a terrifying and exhilarating experience.” ­— Dr. Alan Muskett

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Shifting your focus.

Changing your mind. Replacing negative thoughts with positive beliefs. Summoning support. Getting out of a rut … is it all worth it?

“I’ve reclaimed my life,” said Diede. “And now I’m having a positive impact on other people’s lives. I went from being afraid my kids would be teased because of me to being a really positive Dr. Ann Clancy. Photo by James Woodcock influence: my 6-year-old daughter loves salads and loves running. She goes grocery shopping with me, and she’s aware of what is healthy and what isn’t. I’m hoping they will be healthier throughout their lives because of what they see me doing.”

Modrow loves the freedom his nursing career allows. “I have more time to go bike riding, hiking and skiing. The exBy Ann Clancy, Clancy ercise keeps me mentally positive as well. But, the connection Consultants, Inc. to people – both patients and co-workers – is what is most different and most rewarding. Nursing requires a much more Answering these questions gives personal connection with people than my previous career. As you some indication of the level an engineer, I didn’t impact people’s lives in a personal way. of satisfaction in your life right Now, as a preceptor, I teach new nurses the ropes. I appreciatnow. If you have difficulty answered the effort others made to train me, now I’m passing it on.” ing #1 and #6, you are ready for change. If you rate yourself “I’m working more now than I was before,” says Dr. Muslow on #3 and/or #4, these are kett. “I worried that plastic surgery patients would be skeptiindications you need change. If cal of me since I’m newer at it. But, it’s turned out to be the you easily answer #2, go for it! opposite: they have confidence in me because of my cardiac experience. An unexpected benefit has been the personal ap1. What are the 5 most preciation I receive from my new patients because I develop a positive things in your life? far more personal relationship with them.”

LIFE SATISFACTION QUIZ – ARE YOU READY FOR CHANGE?

2. What are 3 things you would like to change in your life that would make it even more satisfying, effective, and joyful?

(Examples include relationships, information, environment, job.)

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3. On a scale of 1 to 10 (1 being least effective and 10 being most effective), rate the quality of your life. ____. By what criteria did you rate yourself?

4. What percentage of the life you are leading is actually YOUR life?

5. What prevents you from being at your best?

6. What energizes you?

100 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Practice, patience, persistence

There is a pattern here. Each person initiated a big change in his or her life to satisfy a personal need, but upon achieving their goal, their most cherished reward is the feeling of connecting with others.

That connection doesn’t surprise Dr. Clancy.

“When you tap into your best self, it leads to sharing. It feels good to share your best self,” she noted.

So, you’re ready to make a change, or you’ve started up a new path. How do you keep the momentum going?

Dr. Seavy provided simple, but important guidance: “If there’s a goal, there is a reason. You may acknowledge that you don’t feel good so you want to lose weight. But, once you lose 20 pounds, you feel better, so you lose the motivating factor to continue to lose weight. It’s easy to slip back into what you’ve always done. Sustained change is achieved by narrowing your focus and clearly defining your goal, then, consistently updating your goals: set another goal upon achieving one.”

All meaningful endeavors employ practice, patience and persistence. Dr. Seavy cites sports examples:

“Look at Ted Williams. He is the best batter in the history of baseball. His success rate was 40 percent. That’s a 60 percent failure rate and he’s the best in history. Take Michael Jordan: he didn’t make varsity as a sophomore in high school. As a professional, he was successful 43 percent of the time, and he’s a legend. So, count on being faced with challenges, they are part of the package.

Dr. Seavy said he learned a lot from his seventh grade basketball coach.

“I’d already received four fouls and was worried because a fifth foul would put me out of the game. But my coach said ‘You get five fouls in a game. If you’re not using all of them occasionally, you’re not playing hard enough.’ So, go ahead, be aggressive and foul out sometimes. Home run hitter Babe Ruth didn’t make a living hitting singles. Go for it.”

As in any situation where you’re playing to win, keep your attention in the present moment.

Dr. Clancy said, “You live only in the present.

You visit the past and future from the present. To implement change, focus on what you already do well and build on your strengths. People are like gardens inside: always shifting and changing. Focus on what you want to grow.”

All meaningful endeavors employ practice, patience and persistence.

“Look at Ted Williams.

He is the best batter in the history of baseball.

His success rate was 40 percent. That’s a 60 percent failure rate and he’s the best in history. ­— Dr. Lyle Seavy

Director of Psychiatric Services at Billings Clinic

The Human System Change Cycle Thoughts/ Beliefs

Feelings/ Emotions

Results

Actions/ Behaviors

The new theory of human change broadens and deepens our understanding of how we can actually affect change in our lives through our thoughts, feelings, actions and results achieved. Because we are a human system, there are multiple entry points through which we can impact or cause selfchange: creating new thought and belief patterns, cultivating different feelings, experimenting with a range of actions and behaviors and recognizing and building on positive results.

Interested in learning more? Dr. Clancy can be contacted at 406-252-6120. or aclancy@clancyconsultants.net Dr. Lyle Seavy. Photo by Casey Page

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 101

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A young man's hoop dream comes true with hard work and persistence.

It was a Monday night, fall of 2013, when Austin Eastman knocked on his older brother’s door. Trevor Eastman was working on his master’s degree at the University of Utah, where his little brother was a junior studying mechanical engineering. Trevor opened the door to see Austin standing there holding his nearly-new Under Armour basketball shoes.

“Here,” Austin said. “These are for you.”

Trevor was alarmed. Austin loved basketball more than life itself. After graduating from billings Senior High in 2011, he’d followed Trevor down to Salt Lake City in hopes of walking on to the University of Utah’s

basketball team. He spent his first two years in Salt Lake studying engineering and practicing basketball, always holding out hope that he’d earn a spot on the team.

Trevor worried the late night visit, accompanied by the gift of high-end basketball shoes, meant the worst. He had seen Austin heart-broken by basketball before.

“I won’t need ‘em anymore,” Austin told him. He waited a beat and then said, “The team supplies my shoes.”

He stood there smiling, the newest member of the University of Utah basketball team.

Austin Eastman from the University of Utah Men's Basketbal Media Guide. Courtesy of the University of Utah.

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 103

Austin grew up in Billings playing basketball.

He loved the sport, playing on the playground as a kid and for Riverside Middle School when he was a teenager.

Moving into high school, he tried out for the freshman team at Billings Senior and earned a spot.

He was excited to play high school ball. It wasn’t what he had expected.

“I didn’t really enjoy it,” he said.

He continued on, playing his sophomore year.

But it only got worse. Basketball was no longer fun.

“I was on the end of the bench both years and was cut junior year,” he said.

Even though Austin’s two years with the Broncs had been a drain, getting cut from the team was devastating. It was around Thanksgiving 2009 and Kerri Tallerico, Austin’s mother, remembers it as a dark time. Austin didn’t talk much during the whole break.

He was hurting, and it was hard for Kerri to watch. She knew how he loved the game – to the point where she worried at times it would interfere with his studies. She believed in her son’s talent, and she knew how dedicated he was to the sport. She was just as devastated as Austin.

“When my kids’ hearts are broken, my heart is broken,” she said.

She didn’t know if or how Austin would be able to move on. Austin said in those first few days, he didn’t know what to do or how to deal with his feelings.

“I lost my confidence,” he said. “I lost my faith in basketball.”

The day after Thanksgiving, he and his mom sat down to talk. Kerri remembers the conversation clearly.

“He told me, ‘All they did was stop me from playing basketball at Senior. They didn’t stop me from playing basketball,’” she recounted.

And like that, Austin found the resolve to move on. He picked himself up, headed over to the YMCA and started playing league ball.

Ryan Wetzel was the Y’s sports coordinator at

104 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Top from left: YMCA youth league, age 10. As a Riverside Cougar, 8th grade.

The Senior frosh squad, Austin is front row far right. Right: As valedictorian with friend Phillip Holliday, left and brother Trevor. Next page from left: Austin on the floor in a Pac-12 game. At intra-squad scrimmage looking to pass.

Far right: Shooting a free throw in the Huntsman Center. Photos courtesy of Kerri Tallerico and The University of Utah Publicity Department.

the time and had developed a league for kids cut from the middle and high school teams.

He remembers when Austin showed up.

“I wasn’t too impressed,” he said.

To Wetzel, Austin was just another “lanky kid.” It didn’t take long for his opinion to change. Austin worked harder than any of the other kids who showed up and had a clear dedication to the sport.

“He had that work ethic, and I really took to him,” Wetzel said.

Wetzel had played college basketball and then spent time in Europe playing professionally. Austin recognized in Wetzel a professionalism and talent he wanted to emulate. They worked together closely, Austin oftentimes asking what Wetzel had done to build his skills and improve his game. They talked about dreams and how to set goals.

Slowly Austin became more comfortable on the court.

Then one night, in league play, Austin had a game where he scored 57 points.

“I got my confidence back,” he said. “I found my love for basketball all over again.”

For the first time in years, Austin was having fun playing basketball. Kerri credits Wetzel and his dedication to her son. She also credits Austin’s work ethic.

“He just kept at it,” she said. Getting cut from the high school team? “That was the best thing that ever happened to him.”

Austin graduated from Senior High in 2011. By that time, his brother Trevor was finishing up his sophomore year at the University of Utah (Ute), which had just joined the PAC 12 Conference. The university’s basketball team was struggling to win games.

“The team was in, let’s say, a rebuilding phase,” Austin said with a laugh.

When Trevor had left home for college, he and Austin stayed in pretty close contact.

They talked about basketball a lot.

One day they were talking about Utah’s lackluster season and Trevor said, “Austin, you could play for these guys.”

Austin enrolled at the U and joined his brother there in the fall of 2011. His talks with Wetzel about using goals to achieve a dream guided much of what he did. Wetzel had also told him to seek out better players and work with them to improve his skills.

“I really thought I had a chance to walk on the (Ute) team,” Austin said. “This is my dream. This is my life. I should go for it.”

He spent his freshman year at college much the same way he’d spent his years in

middle school and high school. He played a lot of basketball and worked out as much as he could. In the evenings that winter, he and Trevor attended all the home basketball games.

The Utes’ home arena is the Huntsman Center and the students sit in the Muss, the storied student section known for being loud and belligerent. Austin and Trevor, like others, called the Muss home and quickly became a part of that community.

By sophomore year, everyone in the Muss knew Austin, and they all knew he was working to walk on the team.

Again, Kerri worried about the time Austin was spending on the sport and was concerned it would impact his classes. But he excelled there, too. Austin consistently made the dean’s list.

By the end of his sophomore year, Austin had been in contact with the Ute basketball coaches and was attending open gym, finding ways to practice with members of the team. That summer, the coaches invited him to stick around and work as team manager.

The summer paid off. Austin was two months into his junior year when the coach called. A member of the team was out for the season because of surgery, leaving open one spot for a walk-on.

“Of course I said yes,” Austin said.

“You couldn’t wipe the smile off his face for days,” Kerri said.

But making the team was one thing, playing in an actual game was another.

“My first game,” he said. “I was so nervous.”

It was Nov. 8, 2013 and the Utes were playing Evergreen State as their season opener at home. It quickly became clear Evergreen was outgunned, and as the score began to mount, the Muss really got rocking.

And then Austin was called in.

“The Muss, the student section, started chanting my name,” Austin said.

Because he walked on as a junior, Austin still has two years of eligibility. The team is eager to keep him on, and Austin hopes he can shoehorn in the master’s program with the grueling schedule required of college basketball.

As he walked out onto the floor, “they went crazy. Then the whole crowd went crazy.”

Trevor was up in the Muss watching it all unfold and cheering his guts out. He described it as one of the most emotional moments of his life.

“It was the first time I’ve ever cried in front of people,” he said.

Austin is now in his second year playing for the Utes. He will graduate this spring with his bachelor’s degree and plans to continue on, working on a master’s degree in mechanical engineering.

Because he walked on as a junior, Austin still has two years of eligibility. The team is eager to keep him on, and Austin hopes he can shoehorn in the master’s program with the grueling schedule required of college basketball.

“Basketball’s my life,” Austin said. “So I want to continue having it in my life.”

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SEEN AT THE SCENE 2

Climb to Conquer Cancer Red Lodge Mountain 1}

2] 3]

Kay Kovach and Lyle Zimmerman Tanya Reiter Steve & Sue Roi, Lonnie Bradshaw & Steve Hibler (Team Scout)

1 3

Dedication of the Bruce Putnam Memorial Buffalo Billings Airport

5

4] Mayors Tom Hanel, Dick Larsen & Chuck Tooley with James Putnam 5] Angela Baggy, Charlie Ringer, Tom Binford, Teri Zee Lee & Emily Ringer

Evening Under the Big Sky Audubon Conservation Education Center

4 6 7

6] Sarah Morris

Opening Night Billings Symphony Orchestra

7] Landy Leep, Jennifer Waller, Maestra Anne Harrigan, Marc Coppey, Anna Biegel, Sara Gunderson & Darren Rich 8] Dr. Jeffrey & Linda Mosser, Dr. James & Terri Richards, Dr. Arturo & Rebecca Echeverri, Marc Coppey, Kirsti Crowell, Maestra Anne Harrigan, Dr. William, Isabelle and Tiffany Spire

8

* All identification left to right

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 107

SEEN SCENE AT THE

11

The Wailin’ Jennys Alberta Bair Theater

9] Heather, Emma & Cathy McLean 10] Kate & Hub Hart 11] Matthew & Laurel Struck

9

10

12

13

Ales for Trails BikeNet at Dehler Park

12] Tom & Abby Hinthorner, Sarah Keller & Jay Marschall 13] Dana Ventling Lich, Rhianna Tonn & Tracy Kangas 14] Christina Evans, Andrew Vadlis, Scott Waddington & Devin Kennedy 15] Emily Hurd, Neil Rodenbeck, Don Cole, Svein Newman, Doug Stevens & Liz Morel

14

15

Frank Caliendo Alberta Bair Theater

16] Lisa & Brian Adkins 17] Justin (McLovin) Hutchinson & Jason (Big J) Harris

16

17

18

Cocktail Culture Western Heritage Center

18] Danell Jones & Tim Lehman 19] Angela Slade, Amy Jackson & Shelley Behm 20] Darcy Clifford, Maya Burton, Nikki Groshans & Kristy Ferguson

19

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20

21

22

23

Blue Man Group Alberta Bair Theater

21] Brian, Aubrey & Carra Godley & Hayden Ziolkowski 22] Carrie & Dana Bishop 23] Michael Rudisill & Danni Whitesitt

Glenn Miller Orchestra Alberta Bair Theater 25

24

26

24] Jim & Connie Daniels 25] Kathleen & Larry Morris (in period dress) 26] Vicki Halseth, Vera Uzelac & Brittany

Halseth

SAINTS Ball St. Vincent Healthcare Foundation

27

29

28

27] Mike & Jennifer Walker 28] Steve & Susie Loveless 29] Diane Weaver, Cherie Caverly, Sheri McCurdy, Linda & Denny Menholt 30] Gavin & Brooke Murphy, Jim & Jennifer Bennett 31] Linda Snider, Brenda Meyer, Marilyn Wheeler

Holiday Celebration & Basket Auction YWCA

32] Sue Baker, Deborah Peters & Sherril Burke 30

31

32

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 109

SEEN SCENE AT THE

33

34

35

Holiday Celebration & Basket Auction YWCA

33] Heather Staus, Michelle Harkins, Kayleen Masters & Shelley Haugton

Carpe Diem String Quartet Alberta Bair Theater

36

37

38

34] Andy & Diane Syring 35] Dale Davis & Jackie Warnke 36] Heidi Krebble & Colette Davies 37] Sal, Alana, Kim & Sal Scrano

50th Anniversary Gala Yellowstone Art Museum

41

38] Bill Boyer, Robert Fehlberg & Nancy Boyer 39] Carol & John Green 40] Sandy Anderson & Suzanne Smoot 41] Rob, Mariah, Kris, Larry & Kinsey Carpenter 42] Val Jeffries & Allen Powers 43] Donna Forbes, Craig Menteer & Gordon McConnell 44] Carole & Brad Jensen

39 40

44 42 43

Photo Credits: Alberta Bair Theater, Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale, LaVonne Ervin, Gary Kitchmar, Kevin Kooistra, John Hanson, St. Vincent Healthcare Foundation and Yellowstone Art Museum/ Dixie Yelvington

110 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Chase Hawks Roughstock Invitational Rodeo December 19-20

A Billings original, the Chase Hawks Roughstock Invitational Rodeo has been the last stop after Vegas for many cowboys since 1995. What grew from a tragedy has evolved into a true community gathering that breathes the greatest of gifts—love, hope and inspiration—to all who attend. Plus, this rodeo is pure entertainment—Montana-style. Photo by Andy Watson

DECEMBER Thru December 20 It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play NOVA Center for the Performing Arts novabillings.org

Thru December 21 Mary Poppins Billings Studio Theater billingsstudiotheatre.com

Thru January 3 Holiday Tours & Christmas Tree Display Moss Mansion Historic House Museum mossmansion.com

December 9 Christmas with the King’s Sisters Alberta Bair Theater albertabairtheater.org

December 11

December 13

December 16

Holiday Tour of Homes Various locations Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale billingssymphony.com

Gypsy Lumberjacks The Pub Station facebook/com/ thepubstation

December 18

Doktor Kaboom: The Science of Santa Alberta Bair Theater albertabairtheater.org

Pinky and The Floyd The Pub Station facebook/com/thepubstation

December 11-13

Shrine Chanters Christmas Holiday Show Alberta Bair Theater albertabairtheater.org

All American Indian Shootout Rimrock Auto Arena metrapark.com

December 14

High Noon Lecture Series – Jim McDonald Western Heritage Center ywhc.org

December 12 Who Are You, Who Are We? Secret Life of Artifacts: Native American Design Echoes of Eastern Montana: Stories from an Open Country Western Heritage Center ywhc.org

Thru January 4, 2015 Art of the Brick & T.L. Solien: Toward the Setting Sun Yellowstone Art Museum artmuseum.org

Thru April 5, 2015 Radiance: Art from the Michael Ovitz Family Collection Yellowstone Art Museum artmuseum.org

The Lil’ Smokies The Pub Station facebook/com/thepubstation

December 12, 19, 22 & 23 Candlelight Tours Moss Mansion mossmansion.com

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 111

December 19 The Cold Hard Cash Show The Pub Station facebook/com/thepubstation

December 19-20

The Downtown Countdown Under Skypoint downtowncountdownbillings. com

Chase Hawks Roughstock Invitational Rodeo Rimrock Auto Arena metrapark.com

JANUARY

December 20

Wynonna & the Big Noise Alberta Bair Theater albertabairtheater.org

Holiday Spectacular Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale Alberta Bair Theater billingssymphony.com

December 31 2nd Annual New Year’s Bash Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale Prescott Hall at RMC billingssymphony.com Beatles Tribute: Classical Mystery Tour Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale Alberta Bair Theater billingssymphony.com

January 2

Funky Bunch NOVA Center for the Performing Arts novabillings.org

January 3 Venture Improv NOVA Center for the Performing Arts novabillings.org

January 6 Twelfth Night Celebration Billings Food Bank 406-259-2856

January 7 Smokey Joe’s Café Alberta Bair Theater albertabairtheater.org

January 8-11 Twin Bill: The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley and Little Red Robin Hood Billings Studio Theater billingsstudiotheatre.com

January 9-11 The Great Rockies Sport Show Expo Center metrapark.com

January 9-11 Amahl and the Night Visitors NOVA Center for the Performing Arts novabillings.org

January 12 Jason Boland and the Stragglers, Cody Canada The Pub Station facebook/com/thepubstation

January 16 Soul Street Dance Alberta Bair Theater albertabairtheater.org

January 16-17; 23-25 & 29-31 Twelfth Night, or What You Will NOVA Center for the Performing Arts novabillings.org

January 17 Rock Sirenz Alberta Bair Theater albertabairtheater.org Journal in a Journal with Charlene Magargal Yellowstone Art Museum artmuseum.org

112 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

January 22-March 7 Art Auction 47 Exhibit Yellowstone Art Museum artmuseum.org

January 22

FEBRUARY

February 6 ArtWalk artwalkbillings.com

Nappy Roots The Pub Station facebook/com/thepubstation

Jam at the YAM Yellowstone Art Museum artmuseum.org

January 23

February 6

FAM at the YAM Yellowstone Art Museum artmuseum.org

January 23-24 Now and Then: An Evening with BST’s Leading Men Yellowstone Country Club billingsstudiotheatre.com

January 24

Funky Bunch NOVA Center for the Performing Arts novabillings.org

February 7 Symphonic Fantasy Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale Alberta Bair Theater billingssymphony.com

Family Concert: Peter and the Wolf Alberta Bair Theater billingssymphony.com

Venture Improv NOVA Center for the Performing Arts novabillings.org

January 28

February 6, 8, 13 & 15

Jekyll & Hyde Alberta Bair Theater albertabairtheater.org

January 29 Paint ‘n’ Sip with Carol Spielman Yellowstone Art Museum artmuseum.org

Susannah NOVA Center for the Performing Arts novabillings.org

February 10 The Great Gatsby Alberta Bair Theater albertabairtheater.org

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B I L L I N G S, M O N TA N A February 11 & 25 Noon Tours for Art Auction 47 Yellowstone Art Museum artmuseum.org

For the Love of the Arts NOVA Center for the Performing Arts novabillings.org

Hot Buttered Rum The Pub Station facebook/com/thepubstation

February 13-28

February 17

Steel Magnolias Billings Studio Theater billingsstudiotheatre.com

February 14

Mardi Gras Gala Billings Hotel and Convention Center 406-259-2856

The Music of John Denver starring Ted Vigil Alberta Bair Theater albertabairtheater.org

Cinderella Alberta Bair Theater albertabairtheater.org

Valentine’s Day Free Day Yellowstone Art Museum artmuseum.org

Mayhem Poets Alberta Bair Theater albertabairtheater.org

Valentine’s Date Night Yellowstone Art Museum artmuseum.org

Hope Project Banquet and Magic Show Shrine Auditorium 259-4384

Valentine's Day Dinner Dance Crowne Plaza maryqueenofpeacebillings.org (406) 259-7611

245-4667

February 15 So You Think You Can Dance Alberta Bair Theater albertabairtheater.org

February 12

(406) 245-4667 or toll free (877) 840-8050 Cell: 855-4141 • Fax 245-0788 daniel@danielhormanrealestate.com

February 18

HOME LOAN SOLUTIONS Purchasing • Refinancing g • Building • Remodelin ng •

Call Sam Van Dyke for your Real Estate Needs!

Sam Van Dyke Home Loan Consultant

248-1127

www.billingsfcu.org 760 Wicks Lane • 2522 4th Ave. N • 32nd & King Ave. W

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 113

Autumn bids a fond farewell As Sister Winter takes her place The colors of the trees in glory With Winter's white is soon replaced As Winter's gift is gently falling Upon the trees that soundly sleep The world in silent wonder watches The miracle the season brings. —Dee Slater

114 I HOLIDAY 2014 I MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE

Another Store Location!

!NOOS GNIMOC

COMING SOON! APRIL 2015

Billings Heights

1908 Main Street

20 Seconds Past the New McDonald’s !

Farm & Ranch • Clothing & Footwear • Sporting Goods • Pet • Power Equipment & MORE!

MAGIC CITY MAGAZINE I HOLIDAY 2014 I 115

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