Destination Downtown | Spring 2018

Spring 2018

DOWN D WN TOWN N OWNTOWN

Your comprehensive comprehensive guide Your comprehensive guide guide to Downtown Billings to to Downtown Downtown Billings Billings

NEW DBA DIRECTOR

TAKES THE

LEAD

Welcome to downtown Billings!

“Downtowns provide memorable and authentic experiences. They distinguish themselves as neighborhoods apart from others in their region and stand out as unique global destinations. Further, they accommodate authentic food, shopping, entertainment, individuals and groups”

Get to know Downtown Billings Alliance CEO Katy Easton Page 6

~ Downtown Billings Alliance 2018 Strategic Plan

featuredstories

citycenter

Seasonal Events..................................................... 4-5 Aesthetes expand downtown art experience: Calendar.............................................................. 16-17 ArtWalk adds a sixth annual event, and other news .......................................................8-9 Style Watch ......................................................... 18-19 Feast! .................................................................20-23 Arts & Culture .................................................... 24-27 New businesses befit a booming downtown: dotORG ...............................................................28-31 Welcome Bishops, Le Fournil, Sassy Biscuit Co. and more ............................................................. 10-13

Downtown Billings lies at the heart of our community, a vibrant and diverse experience for locals and visitors alike. Billings, Montana is perfectly poised to become a true regional and national destination, a shining star in our great state, and we believe it starts with downtown. Explore downtown Billings and you will discover a rich tapestry of history, culture, food, drinks, entertainment and downtown living. Locallyowned and -operated businesses are continuously partnering with community leaders to create an inclusive and exciting city core. Enduring and sustainable success for downtown Billings means lasting and continuing success for Billings and our regional partners.

The Downtown Billings Alliance welcomes you with pride to our neighborhood. With a variety of award-winning restaurants, locally-owned shops and galleries, theaters, live music and festivals, downtown Billings has something for everyone. You’ll find more information in this issue of Destination Downtown and in our Downtown Guide and Directory, available at all downtown businesses. In our downtown you’ll find an exciting place to eat, drink, shop, learn, celebrate, live, work and play. Discover for yourself!

Welcome to downtown Billings, we are so excited to have you here!

Katy Easton

Executive Director Downtown Billings Alliance

feast

From BIN 119’s steak stroganoff to Stella’s crepes, downtown Billings has food and drinks to satisfy anyone’s palate.

pages 20-23

Cover photo by The Gazette Staff

Destination Downtown is a special advertising section of The Billings Gazette.

Access Destination Downtown at www.billingsgazette.com/specialsections General Manager Dave Worstell

Advertising Manager Arcadea Scott

Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau

Content Editor Tara Cady

Looking for something to do?

DOWNTOWN D WNTOWN OW NTOWN

Your comprehensive comprehensive guide Your comprehensive guide guide to Downtown Billings to to Downtown Downtown Billings Billings

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See the calendar of events on pages 16-17

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Seasonal Events Spring Home Improvement Show It’s time to dust off winter’s cobwebs, spring clean and assess your home’s needs. Meet with local contractors and gauge their skills at the Spring Home Improvement Show, where 650 exhibits are on display for three days. It’s like Pinterest, but in person.

March 2-4 Montana Pavilion & Expo Center at MetraPark

April ArtWalk

4

LARRY MAYER, Gazette Staff

The 24th season of ArtWalk starts early this year.

The first-Friday-of-the-month art event adds a sixth date to its annual calendar. Check out new exhibits and galleries across downtown as new hosts like Vintage Apothecary join old classics like Toucan Gallery for a night filled with local creativity and inspiration.

April 6, 5 to 9 p.m.

Downtown Billings

St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Celtic Street Fair The luck of the Irish lines downtown streets St. Patrick’s Day for the 37th annual parade and Celtic street fair. Hooligan’s Sports Bar provides live music and an Irish Beer Garden for the outdoor party on Broadway Avenue between First and Second Avenues. The parade begins at North 27th Street and Third Avenue North at 11 a.m. Expect traditional Irish dancing, cloggers, bag-pipers and food and craft vendors, plus fun face-painting and balloontwisting for kids.

March 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Downtown Billings Gazette Staff

CASEY PAGE, Gazette Staff

Art Auction 50 The Yellowstone Art Museum’s largest fundraiser of the year turns a half-century old this winter. With 131 artists featured in the auction, there’s something spectacular for everyone to take home. Tickets are $95 in advance and $105 at the door. Proceeds benefit exhibits and educational programming.

March 3, 5 p.m.

Yellowstone Art Museum

CASEY PAGE, Gazette Staff

Montana Women’s Run Join the race to fundraise with more than 9,000 athletes at the 37th annual Montana Women’s Run. With a two- and five-mile race, participants are encouraged to sign up for Getting Started Clinics happening Mondays beginning March 19 to prepare for the run. A Kids’ Run, Kick-Off Dinner and Women’s Health Expo coincide with the main event May 8 and 11.

May 12, 8 a.m.

Downtown Billings

Purple 5K

Wine & Food Festival

Help nonprofit Spare Change for Real Change and the Downtown Billings Alliance work to end the cycle of homelessness, poverty and addiction by running for the cause. The 9th annual Purple 5K covers a lot of downtown ground, plus Pioneer Park, the hospital corridor and MSUB campus. Participants can register at runsignup.com and learn more about the fundraising initiative at downtownbillings.com/4realchange.

April 22, 9 a.m.

Grandview Park Gazette Staff

Exquisite taste, and the skill to craft the food and drink that define it, is taught for five days in May at the Montana State University Billings Foundation’s annual Wine and Food Festival. Several classes led by renowned winemasters and restauranteurs are held throughout the week. The festival culminates in a wine and food tasting and gala reception Friday and Saturday.

May 14-19 Various locations

New DBA executive director takes the lead

DOWNTOWN

DEVELOPMENT 6

LARRY MAYER, Gazette Staff

By TARA CADY tcady@billingsgazette.com With her background in construction management, you could say new Downtown Billings Alliance executive director Katy Easton is managing the construction of a more beautiful downtown. But she isn’t starting from scratch — she’s building on what the DBA and former executive director Lisa Harmon started.

“The passion I bring to downtown is to continue to develop it,” Easton said.

The DBA’s strategic plan, announced Feb. 20 at the Billings Public Library and online, summarizes its future vision with four goals: downtown housing, model of inclusion of diverse cultures, multimodal streets and connectivity, and mixed-use multi-anchor development.

A downtown housing study authorized by the Billings Industrial Revitalization District, Big Sky Economic Development and the DBA revealed a “new push toward urban living.”

With a “living where they play” mindset, Easton hopes to encourage and develop a safe place downtown for various household types: families, young adults and older adults.

“I think we’ll learn from each other. We’re right on the edge of doing amazing things. Downtown is going to be in the mix of that if not the leader and catalyst for change. The entire community will benefit from that.

It’s a community-wide big picture and we’re just one piece of that.”

Katy Easton,

Downtown Billings Alliance executive director Easton walks to work and wants everyone to feel comfortable walking and biking on downtown streets. She hopes to increase downtown’s pedestrian traffic by collaborating with mountain biking and running groups and encouraging them to make a pit stop along the brewery district. An avid mountain biker herself, Easton says that after a workout, “it’s such a natural thing to ask, ‘Where’s the beer?’”

“I feel strongly about working those partnerships,” she said.

Development depends on tax increment financing, which Easton says is one of, if not the only, development tool the

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community has. Her new job, which began Jan. 29, is to protect and advocate for it.

“It’s important our community understands that we are doing things,” she said. “We’ve had successful outcomes that we can show.”

Such successes include the Community Innovations, Spare Change for Real Change, and Clean and Safe programs, plus employing two police officers that patrol only downtown. But there’s some levity in the DBA’s initiatives too, like signature events ArtWalk and Alive After 5.

Easton says the timing of her new po-

Historic Event Venue 406-656-7273 2310 Montana Avenue www.billingsdepot.org

Shop downtown and save The Downtown Billings Alliance’s Best Friend Downtown (BFD) discount card saves shoppers money with discounts at more than 50 downtown retailers throughout the year. The 2018 card includes promotions at restaurants, clothing stores and coffee shops.

And there’s a BFD Perks mobile app to track savings on-the-go.

For details, see downtownbillings.com/ bfd.

sition coinciding with a new mayor, a tobe-decided city administrator, and executive directors at the Yellowstone Art Museum and Billings Depot provides a unique opportunity to make changes.

“I think we’ll learn from each other,” Easton said. “We’re right on the edge of doing amazing things. Downtown is going to be in the mix of that if not the leader and catalyst for change. The entire community will benefit from that. It’s a community-wide big picture and we’re just one piece of that.”

Keep up with Easton and the rest of the DBA at downtownbillings.com or on Facebook.

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Aesthetes expand downtown

ART EXPERIENCE

By TARA CADY tcady@billingsgazette.com

You could say ArtWalk’s executive committee had a sixth sense that five Fridays in one year wasn’t enough ArtWalk for downtown Billings.

In its 24th season, ArtWalk increases its annual offerings to six events beginning Friday, April 6. Touted by executive committee member Zack Terakedis as “the most well-attended, diverse and inclusive event downtown,” he asked, “Why wouldn’t we expand?”

The committee includes Terakedis, who operates Terakedis Fine Art & Jewelry alongside fellow committee member, Sam Randall, plus Tyson Middle of the Underground Culture Krew, Jennifer Baretta of Sandstone Gallery and ArtWalk director Virginia Bryan.

“The community embraces it so positively. It’s going to benefit artists,” said Randall of the ArtWalk expansion.

ArtWalk’s new schedule is easy to remember; events are held on even months: April, June, August, October, December and February.

Over the years, ArtWalk has increased its membership and gallery hosts. Toucan Gallery, Global Village, Tompkins Fine Art and Kennedy’s Stained Glass are some longtime supporters. Newer season members include The Stapleton ArtWalk increases from five annual events to six in its 24th season.

Gazette staff

Gallery, Mann Mortgage and Vintage Apothecary.

Randall recently moved her Magpie Jewelry Gallery storefront on Second Avenue North to where Terakedis Fine Art is housed at 112 N. Broadway Ave. Together, Randall and Terakedis melded their businesses into Terakedis Fine Art & Jewelry.

“The main impetus for our collaboration was to create a more dynamic art experience,” Randall said.

“We feel that if we do our part, then the rest will follow.”

Their shared goals include ArtWalk and Yellowstone Art Museum auction spinoff events.

“We both have a concern for the momentum of downtown,” said Terakedis.

Terakedis says the committee had been trying for five to six years to get a sixth ArtWalk event.

Now that that’s happened, he wants to fill the calendar with even more events.

Terakedis Fine Art & Jewelry will host chef Cody Ringo monthly.

Ringo owns Ember Cooking Company and plans to share his food preparation technique and answer questions.

Future plans may include full-day professional workshops to further engage the community around the arts.

Follow Billings Artwalk and Terakedis Fine Art on Facebook for event details.

CASEY PAGE, Gazette Staff

Zack Terakedis of Terakedis Fine Art and Sam Randall of Magpie Jewelry Gallery joined forces and storefronts to create Terakedis Fine Art & Jewelry.

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Courtesy of Billings Artwalk

Much of the art displayed at local galleries during ArtWalk exemplify Western life, like this piece by Mia DeLode, a fifth generation central Montana rancher, titled “Sunkissed.”

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New businesses befit a

BOOMING downtown

CASEY PAGE, Gazette Staff

Bishops opened on North Broadway Avenue in late 2017.

By TARA CADY tcady@billingsgazette.com

Gone are many vacant storefronts along downtown Billings’ streets. In their place are salons, bakeries, bruncheries and boutiques. The best part?

Each business contributes to downtown’s changing, and certainly more diverse, landscape to be more inclusive for customers’ varied tastes and styles.

The judgment-free shop opened at See for yourself by taking a stroll to 108 N. Broadway in early December. each location this spring.

Clients of all ages are welcome from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through SatBishops urday; and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Bishops is not your average hair “It’s not always about the hair as it salon franchise—just ask owner Scott is the experience,” he said. “We put a Beeler. lot of energy and time into the detail “We believe in everybody just being here.” who they are,” said Beeler. “We don’t discriminate.”

Please see Businesses, 12

“It’s not always about the hair as it is the experience.

We put a lot of energy and time into the detail here.”

Scott Beeler,

Owner,Bishops

Francois Morin of Le Fournil Artisinal Bakery at 2805 1st Ave. N. serves customers Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Saturday 9 a.m. until sold out.

CASEY PAGE, Gazette Staff

Always open Sundays 12 – 4 Shop Local, Shop Downtown

2814 2nd Avenue North 259-3624

12

Real Deals on Home Décor at 2525 Minnesota Ave. is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Businesses Continued from 10 Customers can expect a Montucky beer when they come in to the modern salon decorated with murals and other pieces by local artist Jodi Lightner. Pol-

ished concrete floors, subway tile accents and large barbershop chairs add to the appeal.

Beeler, a Billings native, has talked to many business owners who relocated west from downtown only to regret their decision. Those conversations helped him decide to

open Bishops in the heart of Billings.

“Bishops is really a downtown vibe,” he said.

“If you come in and check it out, we’ve got music going on all the time. It’s really the right scene. Plus, there’s 20,000 people that work downtown. Swing in on your lunch hour.”

Le Fournil French bakery Le Fournil opened in a small nook between Rocket’s Wraps and Big Dipper Ice Cream at 2805 1st Ave. N. in early December.

Owner Francois Morin brings his French background to Billings with

traditional baguettes and country and sourdough bread loaves. The bakery recently featured cherry/ cranberry and rye fig-raisin specialty breads.

See what’s fresh out of the oven Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Saturday 9 a.m. until sold out.

CASEY PAGE, Gazette Staff

Le Fournil posts photos of the mouthwatering products regularly on Facebook.

The Sassy Biscuit Co. Opening soon, The Sassy Biscuit Co. is Brockel’s Chocolates new nextdoor neighbor.

At 115 N. 29th St., the bruncherie focuses its menu on biscuits and gravy, both sweet and savory. Co-owner Jilan HallJohnson introduces a biscuit technique into waffles and pancakes, with syrup being the re-envisioned gravy. Pressed shortcakes, griddled cakes, spooned cakes, porridge, simmers, “sammies” and sips are all on the sassy new menu.

“We’ll of course have our regular white gravy and sausage,” Hall-Johnson said.

A beer and wine license, dinner hours and comedy acts continue to defy the odds of what one might expect from a bruncherie.

“I know a lot of people here are not very familiar with some of the popular

biscuit restaurants close to major cities … they all carry an alcohol license,” she said. “Our motto of bringing big city living to small town plates is what we’re trying to capture.”

Check Facebook regularly for up-to-date information.

“It’s not as much brand-driven as it is price- and quality-driven,” Pugrud said. “The quality is good, the price is excellent.”

Real Deals on Home Décor

ladies’ night in January where women could shop among friends at a discount. Products available for purchase include clocks, artwork, mirrors, end tables, dried flowers and women’s clothing. All items are from franchiseapproved manufacturers and wholesalers.

“It’s not as much branddriven as it is price- and quality-driven,” Pugrud said. “The quality is good, the price is excellent.”

Pugrud plans to sell clothing items online beginning in March. He says to check Facebook for details.

Style-centric franchise Real Deals on Home Décor opened its doors at 2525 Minnesota Ave. in October.

Husband and wife, Phil Pugrud and Lisa McCue Pugrud, purchased the old warehouse where the retailer resides and are welcoming another tenant, Serendipity Salon & Spa, in March.

Phil says men don’t shop, they hunt, but women want an experience.

Real Deals hosted a

Phil Pugrud,

Owner, Real Deals on Home Décor

Real Deals is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Serendipity Salon & Spa In business just shy of six years, Serendipity Salon & Spa is moving its West End storefront into the Real Deals on Home Décor building at 2525 Minnesota Ave. Owner Lynette Ribker grew up and continues to reside on the South Side, so the downtown location

was a good fit for her and her business.

“If I had the opportunity to be down here, I wanted it,” Ribker said. “I like the old building; it’s just my style.”

Real Deals co-owner Lisa McCue Pugrud invited Ribker to lease a suite in the space. Ribker hopes to move in sometime in March.

The appointment-only salon and spa includes full esthetic, massage and natural nail services, plus full color services, hair-cutting, micro-blading and waxing. Each employee is an independent contractor, with half taking new clients.

Ribker suggests interested clientele come in and check it out; staff is typically working 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. She says there’s great parking and the business is easy to get to.

Plus, it’s in an area perfect for strolling in the sum-

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mertime.

“We need to keep these areas strong and cool. Every other city has a cool downtown, why not us?”

Taste of Asia Taste of Asia returns downtown at 3012 4th Ave. N., catering to clientele who’ll find the second location more convenient than the 24th Street West storefront.

Dubbed an Asian fusion restaurant, the Billings business features authentic Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Laotian, Thai and Vietnamese recipes on its menu, including egg rolls with a made-from-scratch filling.

Open for lunch bea.m. unginning at 10 p.m., co-owner til 2:30 Khuanmany Foley hopes to add dinner hours soon.

“We want to try something new, something different,” she said.

issUes

Upcoming

Don’t forget to aDvertise in...

Call Jana Niemeyer for more information at 406-657-1343 Upcoming 2018 issues: May 25 • August 24 • November 21

Programs for the Entire Family!

Connecting people to place (406) 294-5099 7026 S. Billings Blvd.

Find us on Facebook

Celebrate Spring with the magic of art, music, theater, literature, and history!

A schedule of cultural events is at Billings365.com or Facebook.com/BillingsCulturalPartners

ries, o t S g n i l Tel inds, M g n i d l i Bu tion! a n i g a m I Powering

2822 Montana Avenue Billings, Montana www.ywhc.org 406-256-6809

2017-2018

30

Bringing the Exciement of the Performing Arts to Big Sky Country

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UPCOMING SEASON Pirates of Penzance Composed by Gilbert and Sullivan March 23, 24, 25*, 30, 31

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March 17-Opera Fest

Madeline and the Gypsies Adapted from the Ludwig Bemelman books April 28, 29* May 4, 5, 6*, 11, 12, 13*

Funky Bunch - Improv March 2, April 6, May 4, June 1

Schoolhouse Rock (Live!)

Written by David McCall July 14, 15*, 20, 21, 22*, 27, 28, 29*

Venture Improv March 24, April 20 & 21 (Improv Open), May 19

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April 14-Winter Carnival

Performances are at 7:30. Asterisks* indicate a matinée performance.

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Nature’s Cadence Paintings by Clyde Aspevig March 22 - July 8, 2018

Clyde Aspevig, Montana Legacy (Detail), 2017, oil on linen , on loan courtesy of the artist

www.artmuseum.org 401 North 27th Street Billings, MT

MARCH Sunday, 11 Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m.

Tuesday, 13 Shakespeare Workshop, Billings Public Library, 5 p.m.

Wednesday, 14 Hamlet, Aquila Theatre, Alberta Bair Theater, 12:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 14 – Tuesday, 20 NAIA Women’s Basketball Division I National Championships, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Thursday, 15 Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, 16 Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, 17 St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celtic Street Fair, downtown Billings, 10 a.m.2 p.m.

Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 21 Jobs Jamboree, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Thursday, 22 Exhibitions Opening Reception, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Friday, 23 FAM at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Pirates of Penzance, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, 24 EggStravaganzoo, ZooMontana, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Pirates of Penzance, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 25 Pirates of Penzance, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m.

Thursday, 29 Billings Chamber Annual Breakfast, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7-9 a.m.

Friday, 30 – Saturday, 31 Pirates of Penzance, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

APRIL Sunday, 1 Riverdance – 20th Anniversary World Tour, MetraPark Expo Center, 5 p.m.

Friday, 6 Funky Bunch, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Rescued and Reclaimed, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

ArtWalk, Downtown, 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.

JAM at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 4:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

FEBRUARY Friday, 23 Super A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Saturday, 24 Super A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Painting with Chalk Pastels, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Wednesday, 28 Gobsmacked, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m.

MARCH Thursday, 1 Steep Canyon Rangers, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, 2 – Saturday, 3 Southern B Boys and Girls Divisional Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Art Auction – 50th Annual, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday, 2 Spring Home Improvement Show, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion, 12-8 p.m.

Sugar, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Funky Bunch, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, 3 Spring Home Improvement Show, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Art Auction 50, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5 p.m.

Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 4 Spring Home Improvement Show, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m.

Thursday, 8 Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, 8 – Saturday, 10 Boys & Girls Class AA State Basketball Tournament, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Friday, 9 Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, 10 Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Billings Symphony: The Good Life, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m.

Live-action Clue Game, Moss Mansion, 7 p.m.

Saturday, 7 Todrick Hall American, Alberta Bair Theater, 8 p.m.

Rescued and Reclaimed, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Murder Mystery, Moss Mansion, 6 p.m.

Sunday, 8 The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m.

Tuesday, 10 Henry and Mudge, Alberta Bair Theater, 9:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.

Thursday, 12, Friday, 13, Saturday, 14 The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, 14 Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-noon Rod Stewart, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 15 The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m.

Thursday, 19 Jeanette Rankin – American Conscience, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m.

Friday, 20 PBR, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:45 p.m.

Saturday, 21 Heritage Playapalooza, Western Heritage Center, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Rally for Science, ZooMontana, 10 a.m.

– 3 p.m.

PBR, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:45 p.m.

Billings Symphony: Carmen, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m.

Venture Improv, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 22 Purple 5K, Grand View Park, 9 a.m.

PBR, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 1:45 p.m.

Friday, 27 A Wild Affair, ZooMontana, 5:30 p.m.

– 10 p.m.

Live-action Clue Game, Moss Mansion, 7 p.m.

Saturday, 28 Watercolor Class, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 29 Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m.

MAY Wednesday, 2 The Life and Times of Froggy Doo, Western Heritage Center, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, 3 The Life and Times of Froggy Doo, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m.

APRIL

Courtesy of xxx

Friday, 4 Princess Day, ZooMontana, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Live-action Clue Game, Moss Mansion, 7 p.m.

Saturday, 5 Princess Day, ZooMontana, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 6 Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m.

Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m.

Wednesday, 9 UFO’s and Extraterrestrials in Montana, Western Heritage Center, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, 10 UFO’s and Extraterrestrials in Montana, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m.

Friday, 11 Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, 12 Montana Women’s Run, downtown Billings, starts at 8 a.m.

Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 13 Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m.

Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m.

Monday, 14 – Saturday, 19 MSUB Wine & Food Festival, check www.winefoodfestival.com for schedule of events Wednesday, 16 Gary Cooper: First, Last, and Always, Western Heritage Center, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, 17 Gary Cooper: First, Last, and Always, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m.

Thursday, 17, Friday, 18, Saturday, 19 Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, 18 FAM at the Yam, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Saturday, 19 Revealing Form: Drawing on Graphitetoned Ground, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

20th Annual Heritage Home Tour, Moss Mansion, 10 a.m.

GeraniumFest, ZooMontana, 10 a.m.

– 4 p.m.

Billings Symphony International Spy Gala, Northern Hotel, 6 p.m.

Venture Improv, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

MAY

events

Downtown Billings

16

Super A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Saturday, 24 Super A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Painting with Chalk Pastels, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Wednesday, 28 Gobsmacked, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m.

MARCH Thursday, 1 Steep Canyon Rangers, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, 2 – Saturday, 3 Southern B Boys and Girls Divisional Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Art Auction – 50th Annual, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday, 2 Spring Home Improvement Show, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion, 12-8 p.m.

Sugar, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Funky Bunch, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, 3 Spring Home Improvement Show, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Art Auction 50, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5 p.m.

Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 4 Spring Home Improvement Show, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m.

Thursday, 8 Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, 8 – Saturday, 10 Boys & Girls Class AA State Basketball Tournament, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Friday, 9 Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, 10 Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Billings Symphony: The Good Life, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m.

Live-action Clue Game, Moss Mansion, 7 p.m.

Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m.

Tuesday, 13 Shakespeare Workshop, Billings Public Library, 5 p.m.

Wednesday, 14 Hamlet, Aquila Theatre, Alberta Bair Theater, 12:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 14 – Tuesday, 20 NAIA Women’s Basketball Division I National Championships, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Thursday, 15 Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, 16 Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, 17 St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celtic Street Fair, downtown Billings, 10 a.m.2 p.m.

Grease, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 21 Jobs Jamboree, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Thursday, 22 Exhibitions Opening Reception, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Friday, 23 FAM at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Pirates of Penzance, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, 24 EggStravaganzoo, ZooMontana, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Pirates of Penzance, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 25 Pirates of Penzance, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m.

Thursday, 29 Billings Chamber Annual Breakfast, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7-9 a.m.

Friday, 30 – Saturday, 31 Pirates of Penzance, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

APRIL Sunday, 1 Riverdance – 20th Anniversary World Tour, MetraPark Expo Center, 5 p.m.

Friday, 6 Funky Bunch, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Rescued and Reclaimed, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

ArtWalk, Downtown, 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.

JAM at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 4:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Todrick Hall American, Alberta Bair Theater, 8 p.m.

Rescued and Reclaimed, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Murder Mystery, Moss Mansion, 6 p.m.

Sunday, 8 The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m.

Tuesday, 10 Henry and Mudge, Alberta Bair Theater, 9:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.

Thursday, 12, Friday, 13, Saturday, 14 The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, 14 Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-noon Rod Stewart, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 15 The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m.

Thursday, 19 Jeanette Rankin – American Conscience, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m.

Friday, 20 PBR, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:45 p.m.

Saturday, 21 Heritage Playapalooza, Western Heritage Center, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Rally for Science, ZooMontana, 10 a.m.

– 3 p.m.

PBR, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:45 p.m.

Billings Symphony: Carmen, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m.

Venture Improv, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 22 Purple 5K, Grand View Park, 9 a.m.

PBR, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 1:45 p.m.

Friday, 27 A Wild Affair, ZooMontana, 5:30 p.m.

– 10 p.m.

Live-action Clue Game, Moss Mansion, 7 p.m.

Saturday, 28 Watercolor Class, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 29 Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m.

MAY Wednesday, 2 The Life and Times of Froggy Doo, Western Heritage Center, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, 3 The Life and Times of Froggy Doo, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m.

Princess Day, ZooMontana, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Live-action Clue Game, Moss Mansion, 7 p.m.

Saturday, 5 Princess Day, ZooMontana, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 6 Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m.

Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m.

Wednesday, 9 UFO’s and Extraterrestrials in Montana, Western Heritage Center, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, 10 UFO’s and Extraterrestrials in Montana, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m.

Friday, 11 Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, 12 Montana Women’s Run, downtown Billings, starts at 8 a.m.

Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, 13 Madeline & the Gypsies, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m.

Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m.

Monday, 14 – Saturday, 19 MSUB Wine & Food Festival, check www.winefoodfestival.com for schedule of events Wednesday, 16 Gary Cooper: First, Last, and Always, Western Heritage Center, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, 17 Gary Cooper: First, Last, and Always, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m.

Thursday, 17, Friday, 18, Saturday, 19 Evita, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, 18 FAM at the Yam, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Saturday, 19 Revealing Form: Drawing on Graphitetoned Ground, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

20th Annual Heritage Home Tour, Moss Mansion, 10 a.m.

GeraniumFest, ZooMontana, 10 a.m.

– 4 p.m.

Billings Symphony International Spy Gala, Northern Hotel, 6 p.m.

Venture Improv, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Courtesy of xxx

Style Watch Photos by Bethany Baker of The Gazette Staff

The cool mornings and chilly nights of springtime encourage layers in bright colors. Keep options open with a coral sweater and a matching button-up plaid long-sleeve shirt underneath.

Taupe slip-on shoes and a pair of jeans maintain a casual look.

Available at Cricket Clothing Co. Sweater: $123 Shirt: $104 Shoes: $118

Leather looks lovely on everybody, especially when worn as an accessory. Try Free People sandals on for size and stick with the timeless material for your handbag.

A neutral pullover and under shirt preserve the simple style. Add a shiny necklace for a little extra pop.

18 Mix matte and shiny in your jewelry with marbleized gray beads in a necklace and bracelet. Layer a Sweet Lola silver necklace with pendants and Samkas chainmail bracelet atop the matte pieces to give them some shine.

Available at Cricket Clothing Co. Beaded necklace: $32 Beaded bracelets: $29 Silver necklace: $36 Chainmail bracelet: $79

Available at Cricket Clothing Co. Sandals: $168 Handbag: $328 Pullover: $98 Shirt: $36 Necklace: $29

Update your lucky charms with shamrock earrings by The Keep.

Created from 18th century wax seals, they have a history of good fortune.

Keep the theme going head-to-toe with a Lucky Charms necklace by iNk and top the style off with a few skinny cuff bracelets made from vintage cars by You Got Mojo.

Available at Terakedis Fine Art & Jewelry Earrings: $70 Necklace: $110 Bracelets: $45-98

When these brisk days make way for sunshine, it’s time to break out the Bermuda shorts and sandals. Soft blue Tommy Bahama bottoms pair best with a Tommy Bahama buttonup short-sleeve shirt in orange and blue plaid. Slip on OluKai leather flip-flops for a carefree stride as you walk beachside.

Available at Desmonds Shorts: $98 Sandals: $80 Shirt: $128

A directory of the best food Downtown Billings has to offer.

Pug Mahon’s

Gazette Staff

Feast

3011 1st Ave. N. Although every day can’t be St. Patrick’s Day, Pug Mahon’s keeps the spirit alive yearlong at the Irish Pub best known for its pork chop sandwich. While the specialty menu item is made from a secret family recipe, its deliciousness is obvious.

Commons 1882 404 N. 30th St. Commons 1882 provides an intimate setting for special occasions like birthday dinners, anniversaries and celebrations of success. The house-smoked pork ribs are enough cause for a visit, too. The dish’s salty and savory notes are best washed down with a signature cocktail.

CASEY PAGE, Gazette Staff

20

Courtesy photo

Stella’s 2525 1st Ave. N.

BIN 119 119 N. Broadway Thursday night is Pasta Night at BIN 119, where a purchase of one pasta entree earns a second pasta entree for half-price. Try their steak stroganoff, featuring sauteed tenderloin steak, red onion and cremini mushroom in beef cream sauce atop housemade herb fettucini. It’s served best with a glass of vino.

LARRY MAYER, Gazette Staff

Much like your own kitchen, meals at Stella’s are made-from-scratch and meant to be enjoyed by the whole family. Homemade huckleberry and strawberry crepes are a fan favorite. A dollop of whipped cream and side of bacon only sweetens the deal.

Casual Cuisine

Feast

Back Porch Deli 207 N. Broadway (406) 254-9519

A directory of the best food Downtown Billings has to offer.

The Burger Dive 114 N. 27th St. (406) 281-8292

Bernie’s Diner 19 N. Broadway (406) 867-6767

Café Zydeco 2503 Montana Ave. (406) 248-3440 Crazy Mary’s 1404 6th Ave. N. (406) 252-0089

Featured restaurants are marked with a shaded box.

Denny’s 501 N. 27th St. (406) 256-7335 Dickey’s Barbecue Pit 2519 Montana Ave. (406) 969-3909 Dude Rancher Restaurant 415 N. 29th St. (406) 259-5561 Harper & Madison 3115 10th Ave. N. (406) 281-8550 Hog Wild Cafe/Party Pig Catering 204 N. 22nd St. (406) 839-3154 Lisa’s Sandwich Den 2908 First Ave. N. (406) 252-4282 Mel’s Lunchbox 2634 Minnesota Ave. (406) 601-1222 McCormick Café 2419 Montana Ave. (406) 255-9555 Perkins 825 N. 27th St. (406) 248-8320

22

Pita Pit 2813 Second Ave. N. (406) 245-7482 Pug Mahon’s 3011 First Ave. N. (406) 259-4190

Rockets Gourmet Wraps & Sodas 2809 First Ave. N. (406) 248-5231 Soup and Such 2716 Third Ave. N. (406) 294-0148 Stacked: A Montana Grill 106 N. Broadway (406) 534-8702 Stella’s Kitchen & Bakery 2525 First Ave. N. (406) 248-3060

Coffee/Specialty Shops Annex, Coffeehouse and Bakery 2601 Minnesota Ave., Ste. 4 (406) 371-5904

Ethnic Cuisine The Athenian 18 N. 29th St. (406) 248-5681 Café Italia 2417 Montana Ave (406) 896-9700 Cham Thai & Cuisine 2916 First Ave. N. (406) 256-1812 Ciao Mambo 2301 Montana Ave (406) 325-5100 Don Luis 15 N. 26th St. (406) 256-3355

Big Dipper Ice Cream 100 N. Broadway (406) 534-2350

Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant 17 N. 19th St. (406) 259-8930

Broadway Deli & Café 313 N. Broadway (406) 281-8568

Guido’s Pizza 3005 First Ave. N. (406) 259-1041

Brockel’s Chocolates 117 N. 29th St. (406) 248-2705

Imperial Thai Cuisine 216 N. Broadway (406) 696-3330

City Brew 1131 N. 27th St. (406) 294-4620

La Tinga 113 N. 30th St. (406) 969-8828

Ebon Coffee Collective 2712 2nd Ave. N. (406) 431-4522

Mamacita’s Café 304 N. 19th St. (406) 252-9950

Mazevo Coffee Roasters & Espresso Bar 2719 First Ave. N. (406) 534-6625

NaRa Restaurant 3 Custer Ave. (406) 245-8866

MoAV Coffee House 2501 Montana Ave.

Sarah’s Mexican Food 310 N. 29th St. (406) 256-5234

Rock Creek Coffee Roasters 124 N. 28th St. (406) 896-1600

Seva 313 N. Broadway (406) 969-2221

Starbucks 27 N. 27th St. (DoubleTree) (406) 252-7400

Shanghai Village 2926 Second Ave. N. (406) 245-6887

Velvet Cravings 225 N. Broadway (406) 294-0308

Wild Ginger 2713 Montana Ave. (406) 252-4486

Veronika’s Pastry Shop 2513 Montana Ave. (406) 855-5770

Fast Food

Commons 1882 404 N. 30th St. (406) 254-1882

Burger King 520 N. 27th St. (406) 245-7911

Double Tree Montana Sky 27 N. 27th St. (406) 252-7400

Hardee’s 608 N. 27th St. (406) 259-3344

The Fieldhouse 2601 Minnesota Ave., Suite 3 (406) 534-2556

Jimmy John’s 122 N. Broadway (406) 281-8282 Kentucky Fried Chicken 719 N. 27th St. (406) 259-2641

Juliano’s 2912 Seventh Ave. N. (406) 248-6400

Fine Dining Bistecca at the Granary 1500 Poly Drive (406) 259-3488

Lilac 2515 Montana Ave. (406) 969-4959

Billings Petroleum Club 27 N. 27th St, 22nd Floor (406) 252-6700 Bin 119 119 N. Broadway (406) 294-9119

Jake’s 2701 First Ave. N. (406) 259-9375

TEN 19 N. Broadway (406) 867-6767 Walkers American Grill & Tapas Bar 2700 First Ave. N. (406) 245-9291

Sports Bars - Bars - Pubs Angry Hanks 20 N. 30th St. (406) 252-3370 The Bookie 3011 First Ave. N. (406) 245-4900 Carter’s Brewing 2526 Montana Ave. (406) 252-0663

Bloody Mary Bar - Saturdays 10-3

“Best Margarita In Town” Revisit The Monte You’ll Be Glad You Did

The Rainbow Bar 2403 Montana Ave. (406) 259-0047 406 Kitchen & Taproom 1207 N. 27th St. (406) 245-5985

Daisy Dukes 222 N. Broadway (406) 201-8725

Thirsty Street Brewing Co. 3008 First Ave. N. thirstystreet.com

Doc Harper’s 116 N. Broadway (406) 200-7177

Tiny’s Tavern, Inc. 323 N. 24th St. (406) 259-0826

Hooligan’s Sports Bar 111 N. Broadway (406) 259-3328

Trailhead Spirits 2314 Montana Ave. (406) 969-1627

Last Chance Pub & Cider Mill 2203 Montana Ave. (406) 534-8918

Uberbrew 2305 Montana Ave. (406) 534-6960

Montana Brewing Co. 113 N. Broadway (406) 252-9200

Yellowstone Valley Brewing Company 2123 First Ave. N. (406) 245-0918

Monte Bar & Casino 2824 First Ave. N (406) 259-3393

Spacious Bar & Gaming Area

The Pub Station 2502 First Ave. N. (406) 894-2020

Lunch & Dinner Specials Daily

254-1882

404 N. 30th St.

Commons1882.com

23

Arts & Culture ALBERTA BAIR THEATER Gobsmacked!

From the pursed lips of three-time UK Beatbox Championship winner Ball-Zee comes the background beat for this a Capella group performance. The award-winning beatboxer joins several vocalists to combine underground musical styles with mainstream songs.

Date & Time: Feb. 28, 7:30 p.m.

Location: Alberta Bair Theater Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org

Steep Canyon Rangers

Banjos, mandolins, violins, oh my! Steep Canyon Rangers knows its strings and brings with them to Billings the upbeat and whimsical sounds that earned a Grammy award in 2013 for best bluegrass album.

Date & Time: March 1, 7:30 p.m.

Location: Alberta Bair Theater Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org

Three-time UK Beatbox Championship winner Ball-Zee is joined by an a Capella group Feb. 28 at the Alberta Bair Theater.

Grammy award-winning Steep Canyon Rangers grace the Alberta Bair Theater stage March 1 at 7:30 p.m.

Courtesy of the ABT

ART HOUSE CINEMA & PUB

To view movie showings at Art House Cinema & Pub, visit arthousebillings.com.

BILLINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY

To view classes and seminars at Billings Public Library, visit billingslibrary.org.

Get your Shakespeare fix with Hamlet at the Alberta Bair Theater March 14 at 12:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Shakespeare Workshop

Henry and Mudge

Todrick Hall American: The Forbidden Tour

Theater.

Courtesy of the ABT

BILLINGS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA & CHORALE

New York-based Aquila Theatre knows a thing or two about What’s a city boy to do in unfamiliar country? Get a dog. With Mudge, Shakespeare. With experience leading national U.S. tours on a thespian’s Henry tries to navigate his new life. He teaches his dog new tricks until his Itamar Zorman Award-winning violinist Itamar Zorman graces the First Congregafavorite subject, they bring their classical acting knowledge to an evening cousin Annie shows him that he isn’t as good a teacher as her. tional Church to show Billings just how he won the 2011 International workshop that explores what makes Shakespeare acting as difficult as it Date & Time: April 10, 9:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.

Tchaikovsky Competition, the 2010 International Violin Competition of is amazing.

Location: Alberta Bair Theater Freiburg and the 2010 Juilliard Berg Concerto Competition.

Date & Time: March 13, 5 p.m.

Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org Date & Time: Feb. 25, 3 p.m.

Location: Alberta Bair Theater Location: First Congregational Church Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org Tickets: Call the symphony at (406) 252-3610 or visit billingssymphony.org Hamlet The plot always thickens with Shakespeare. His 1602 work, “HamThe Good Life let,” is especially chaotic, featuring family crises, personal conflict and Life’s good in the Magic City, where its own sentimental singers intense emotion. Aquila Theatre’s fresh adaptation has been billed by The Chris Smith and Kristy Montgomery perform alongside the Billings New Yorker as “beautifully spoken, dramatically revealing and crystalline Symphony with serenades first heard from Frank Sinatra, Michael in effect.” High school students are encouraged to attend the matinee Bublè and more. performance.

Date & Time: March 10, 7:30 p.m.

Date & Time: March 14, 12:30 & 7:30 p.m.

Location: Alberta Bair Theater Location: Alberta Bair Theater Courtesy of the ABT

Tickets: Call the symphony at (406) 252-3610 or visit Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org Cabaret comes to town April 17 at 7:30 p.m. at the Alberta Bair billingssymphony.org

Broadway actor Todrick Hall brings his multifaceted talent to Billings for one eye-opening performance. A 2010 American Idol semi-finalist, Hall has risen to fame through YouTube and projects with celebrities like Beyonce. Hall was named one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 to watch in entertainment in 2014.

Date & Time: April 7, 8 p.m.

Location: Alberta Bair Theater Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org

Cabaret

Sam Mendes and Rob Marshall revive their roles as director and codirector/choreographer for Roundabout Theatre Company’s “Cabaret” production. Based on the 1951 play, “I Am A Camera” and the 1939 novel, “Goodbye to Berlin,” this musical centers on what nightlife was like in Berlin as Nazis rose to power.

Date & Time: April 17, 7:30 p.m.

Location: Alberta Bair Theater Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org

Carmen

The Billings Symphony Orchestra and Chorale concludes its season with George Bizet’s “Carmen,” a late-19th century French opera. The semi-staged presentation features Kristee Haney as Carmen, Billings’ own Christie Conover as Micaëla, Gregory Gerbrandt as Escamillo, and Ben Cleveland as Don Josè.

Date & Time: April 21, 7:30 p.m.

Location: Alberta Bair Theater Tickets: Call the symphony at (406) 252-3610 or visit billingssymphony.org

RIMROCK AUTO ARENA AT METRAPARK NOVA CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Funky Bunch

Reward a new generation of class clowns by attending NOVA’s high school improv troupe’s monthly performances. The kids’ quickwittedness might earn detention in school, but on the stage it’s strongly encouraged.

Date & Time: March 2, April 6 & May 4, 7:30 p.m.

Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: Call (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org

Pirates of Penzance

Arrgh, it’s not very pirate like to fall in love. And yet, orphaned Frederic – who has been mistakenly apprenticed by a band of pirates — becomes enchanted by Mabel. Jeffrey Grant Kitto directs this funny account of pirate life.

Date & Time: March 23-24 & 30-31, 7:30 p.m.; March 25, 2 p.m.

Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: Call (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org

Venture Improv

Get ready for a laughing fit as Collin McCrae emcees NOVA’s adult improv troupe, a group that’s been going for more than 20 years. Always original, these jokesters play games amongst themselves to ensure there’s never the same joke said twice.

Date & Time: March 24, April 20-21 & May 19, 7:30 p.m.

Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: Call (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org

Madeline & the Gypsies

It’s all fun and games until someone gets lost in a carnival—then it’s pure joy. Watch as Madeline and Pepito are carried away by gypsies in this Youth Conservatory production jam-packed with silly songs and circus acts.

Date & Time: April 28-29; May 4-5 &11-12, 7:30 p.m.; May 6 & 13, 2 p.m.

Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: Call (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org

THE PUB STATION

To view events at The Pub Station, visit 1111presents.com.

WESTERN HERITAGE CENTER

NAIA Women’s Basketball Division I National Championships

This tournament will be a slam dunk for sports enthusiasts, showcasing 32 teams through single elimination across seven days. The March 20 championship game will be broadcast on EPSN3 beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Date & Time: March 14-20 Location: Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Tickets: Call (406) 256-2400 or visit metrapark.com

Heritage Playapalooza!

It’s all fun and games at the Western Heritage Center’s annual fundraiser, where classic games like tiddlywinks, jacks, hopscotch and are shared among generations old and new. Proceeds from the Riverdance 20th Anniversary World Tour marbles nostalgic event fund educational programming. Kids must be accompaWhat began as a seven-minute dance number has expanded and nied by an adult. transformed into the full-length Irish dancing show countries across the Date & Time: April 21, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. world have come to know as Riverdance. Watch in amazement as talented Location: Western Heritage Center men and women click their heels in unison and create a beat all their own.

T ickets: Free admission; game tickets 50 cents each, or sold in Date & Time: April 1, 5 p.m. bundles of 22 for $10 Location: Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Tickets: Call (406) 256-2400 or visit metrapark.com

Rescued and Reclaimed Vintage Market

HIGH NOON LECTURE SERIES

Find the next vintage piece for your living room and more at the biannual Rescued and Reclaimed Vintage Market. With vendors from Montana and Wyoming, there’s enough repurposed, rustic, shabby chic, primitive This Just In: KULR8 TV and antique products to go around.

Celebrates 60th Anniversary Date & Time: April 6-7 In honor of its 60th anniversary, Location: Expo Center at MetraPark KULR-8 sponsors a special panel on Tickets: Call (406) 256-2400 or visit metrapark.com television’s changing landscape. Lynne Turner-Fitzgerald hosts as Chris Byers, Rod Stewart Becky Hiller, Greg LaMotte and Virginia Yep, he’s still got it. After five decades and more than 200 million record sales, Rod Stewart remains a timeless fixture in American music. Smith lead the discussion on programming history in Billings.

With hits like “You Wear It Well” and “Maggie May,” this seasoned song Date & Time: March 15, noon writer is nowhere near finished bringing joy to fans.

Location: Western Heritage Center Date & Time: April 14 Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or Location: Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark see ywhc.org Tickets: Call (406) 256-2400 or visit metrapark.com

PBR

Jeannette Rankin – American

The stand-alone sport of bull ridConscience ing brings the competition to Billings as Mary Jane Bradbury plays Jeannette Rankin in this true tale of a first riders vie for victory over a 2,000-pound congresswoman voting against two world wars and fighting for equality and bull. Eight seconds will feel like an etergovernment reform. Hear how history resembles reality as Bradbury uses nity for bystanders as they place their bets Rankin’s quotes to express the Montana politician’s humanitarianism. on the best in the rodeo business.

Date & Time: April 19, noon Date & Time: April 20-22 Location: Western Heritage Center Location: Rimrock Auto Arena at Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org MetraPark Tickets: Call (406) 256The Life and Times of Froggy Doo 2400 or visit metrapark.com “Happy Herb and Froggy Doo” aired on KULR-TV in Billings from 1963 to 1977. Froggy Doo, a marionette crafted by Herb McAllister in the ‘50s, was kidnapped for ransom in 1966. Happy Herb and Froggy Doo’s story didn’t end there, and while the show has been off the air for more than 40

years, the duo returns for a rare appearance May 3.

Date & Time: May 2, 5:30 p.m.; May 3, noon Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org

UFOs and Extraterrestrials in Montana

biggest fundraiser of the year, where area artists bring their best works for auction.

Date & Time: March 3, 5 to 10 p.m.

Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: $95 in advance, $105 at the door; call YAM at (406) 2566804 or see artmuseum.org for more information

Joan Bird attempts interpreting the unexplainable with a talk on UFO literacy and statewide sightings. While some reports have left gov- Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids ernment and private investigators puzzled, others are well-documentBased on the YAM’s ongoing exhibit “Boundless Visions,” which ed and significant. The audience is invited to share their own stories. rotates pieces from its permanent collection, the “Piecing it Together” Date & Time: May 9, 5:30 p.m.; May 10, noon class focuses on collograph printing. Kids ages 5 to 12 can combine Location: Western Heritage Center shapes and letters to create unique works of art.

Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org Date & Time: March 10, 10 a.m. to noon Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Gary Cooper: First, Last, and Always Tickets: $6 members, $7 non-members; call YAM at (406) 256Early Hollywood actor Gary Cooper is best known for his transition 6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information from silent films to spoken word with leading roles in more than 80 films.

Neal Lewing delves into the story of Montana’s favorite actor and the FAM at the YAM socio-economic history of 20th-century America.

Local artists lead the way through the creative process for crafty Date & Time: May 16, 5:30 p.m.; May 17, noon families. Parents and kids can come and go during the two-hour session Location: Western Heritage Center where making art together is encouraged.

Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org Date & Time: March 23 & May 18, 5 to 7 p.m.

Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Edy’s Grand Ice Cream: Sweet Treats Tickets: $6 child/members, $7 child/non-members; $3 adult/nonmember, free for adult members; call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see with Magic City History artmuseum.org for more information Edy’s Grand Ice Cream’s story began in Billings as a candy store under a different name. Tiffini Gallant shares her research on Joseph Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids Edy, the confectioner behind what became a household name in ice Current exhibits “Nature’s Cadence: Paintings by Clyde Aspevig” cream. and “Emil Carlsen’s Quiet Harmonies” inspire this two-hour class. Titled, Date & Time: May 22, 5:30 p.m.; May 24, noon “Where Sky Meets Land,” artists ages 5 to 12 learn to paint a landscape Location: Western Heritage Center using layered techniques on a panoramic panel.

Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org Date & Time: April 14, 10 a.m. to noon Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: $6 members, $7 non-members; call YAM at (406) 2566804 or see artmuseum.org for more information

YELLOWSTONE ART MUSEUM EVENTS & CLASSES Painting with Chalk Pastels

Perfectionism has no place with pastels. They force teacher Mike Caskey to remain loose. Learn the basics of chalk pastels with Caskey as he explores the use of color, laying in basic image, creating standard sizes and how to plan for matting and framing.

Date & Time: Feb. 24, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: $60 members, $67 non-members; call YAM at (406) 2566804 or see artmuseum.org for more information

Art Auction 50

The Yellowstone Art Museum has been a fixture for fine art for more than five decades. Support the YAM for decades to come through its

Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids

Kids ages 5 to 12 are invited to go wild with charcoal as they depict the West. This “Capture the Action!” class is based on Will James and the “Rough and Tumble, Smoke and Rope” exhibition.

Date & Time: May 12, 10 a.m. to noon Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: $6 members, $7 non-members; call YAM at (406) 2566804 or see artmuseum.org for more information

Revealing Form: Drawing on a Graphite-Toned Ground

Balance light and dark in this drawing class led by artist Lynn Thorpe. Focusing on graphite pencils, participants create an observed image or invent their own shape all the while practicing shading and eraser use.

Date & Time: May 19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: $60 members, $67 non-members; call YAM at (406) 2566804 or see artmuseum.org for more information

EXHIBITS Art Auction 50

The YAM is celebrating the golden anniversary of its largest fund-

raiser of the year with an exhibit showcasing the local and regional art up for auction. Browse the works before they disappear March 3.

Date & Time: Through March 3 Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information

Emil Carlsen’s Quiet Harmonies

Denmark native Emil Carlsen brought with him to America his European academic training to share in classes taught in Chicago and both coasts. As a post-impressionist and realist painter, his work was influenced by the American leaning toward concrete form and clean meaning.

Date & Time: March 22-July 8 Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information

Nature’s Cadence: Paintings by Clyde Aspevig

Viewers of Clyde Aspevig’s oil paintings face the reality that his realistic renditions of untouched land are in fact not photographed. The contemporary artist credits Ben Steele and his own research for his collection of landscapes.

Date & Time: March 22-July 8 Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum. org for more information

Rough and Tumble, Smoke and Rope

27

If one picture is worth a thousand words, a collection is a story. “Rough and Tumble, Smoke and Rope” tells the story of western ranching life with photos of the family businesses and stock that encompass the culture.

Date & Time: March 22-Aug. 5 Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information

Boundless Visions

Perfect for visual learners, the YAM’s ongoing exhibit, “Boundless Visions,” tells the story of Montana from its inception to today. No visit to this exhibit is the same; featured selections rotate from the permanent collection.

Date & Time: Exhibition is ongoing Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information

Art-o-mat

Look—a vending machine that’s good for you. With cigarette boxsized art in each slot, pull the knob and come away with something cooler than smokes like paintings, bronzes, photography, jewelry, fabric art and more.

Date & Time: Exhibition is ongoing Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information

dotORG Downtown Billings hosts annual fundraisers

28 Montana Women’s Run

More than $1 million has been raised by the annual Montana Women’s Run since it began 37 years ago. The fitness-focused fundraiser benefits local women’s health and fitness programs and $92,000 was raised last year. Recipients included YWCA, Billings Clinic’s Women’s Wellness program, the YMCA and women’s cross-country and track scholarship programs at Montana State University Billings and Rocky Mountain College.

Nine-thousand athletes are expected to participate in the two- and five-mile races Saturday, May 12, the day before Mother’s Day. The five-mile run starts at 8 a.m., followed by the 2-mile run at 9 a.m. Runners are encouraged to train early at Getting Started Clinics, beginning Monday, March 19. Instructors lead exercises and teach stretching techniques for free at the RMC outdoor track and Lockwood School track at 5:30 p.m. every Monday until the run.

An affiliated Kid’s Run is happening Tuesday, May 8 at RMC for children aged 10 and under.

According to the event’s press release, “every race time is rewarded and every runner wins.” All participants come away with a custom T-shirt.

The Kick-Off Dinner and Women’s Health Expo precedes the main run Friday, May 11 at the First Interstate Bank Operations Center, located at 1800 6th Ave. N. Race participants and volunteers are invited to dine on pasta, view interactive exhibits and presentations and hear from a motivational guest speaker.

The Montana Women’s Run headquarters will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., May 9-11 at 213 N. 29th St. Registration and other details are available at womensrun.org.

Nine-thousand runners are expected at this year’s Montana Women’s Run, Saturday, May 12.

CASEY PAGE, Gazette Staff

Art Auction 50

CASEY PAGE, Gazette Staff

Visitors gather at the Yellowstone Art Museum for the opening reception for Art Auction 50 on Thursday, January 25, 2018. The auction begins Saturday, March 3 at 5 p.m.

Purple 5K

International Spy Gala

The Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale’s International Spy Gala fundraiser was such a success in its first year, it returns to the Northern Hotel for a second helping of charitable fun Saturday, May 19.

The historic hotel transforms into a Chicago speakeasy for this year’s theme, the Roaring ‘20s.

Come dressed for the decade and participate in casino games, a live auction and entertainment.

Tickets are $150 each and are available at billingssymphony.org.

Check online for updates and an advance listing of live auction items.

Change the face and future of the downtown community by fundraising with the Downtown Billings Alliance and Spare Change for Real Change nonprofit.

The organizations’ 9th annual Purple 5K continues its efforts to combat homelessness, poverty and addiction in downtown Billings.

Since its inception, nearly $95,000 has been raised. Programs like the Motivated Addiction Alternative Program have benefited. With those funds, MAAP hired a licensed addiction counselor to assist downtown resource officers in offering treatment to at-risk individuals.

The race begins at 9 a.m.

Sunday, April 22 at Grandview Park and continues through Pioneer Park, downtown, MSUB campus and the hospital corridor, ending

The Yellowstone Art Museum is celebrating its largest and longestrunning annual fundraiser’s golden anniversary Saturday, March 3.

Art Auction 50 is a golden opportunity for art collectors. Pablo Picasso’s “Portrait d’Homme à la Fraise, Variation d’après El Grec, 1962” is up for grabs, as are 131 other prized selections from artists nationwide. Of those featured, 110 are Montanans.

Beginning at 5 p.m., participate in the silent and live auctions and “Quick Draw” while snacking on gourmet hors d’ourvres catered

by Thomas Nelson Catering and sipping on cocktails by High Horse Saloon & Eatery. The live auction begins at 7 p.m. and concludes with a raffle drawing for jewelry from Montague’s Jewelers. Raffle ticket holders need not be present to win.

Advance general admission tickets are available online at artmuseum.org or at the museum.

Tickets cost $95 per person and $105 at the door.

under Skypoint.

Late registration and packet pick-up is available at the DBA office (2815 2nd Ave. N.) from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, April 20. Same-day registration and packet pick-up is available at Grandview Park from 7:30 to 8:50 a.m., or same-day registrants can pickup their packet after the race at the DBA office.

Participants can ride the free shuttle from downtown to the race start; the shuttle is located at the corner of 29th Street and Third Avenue North, across from Park 1. Downtown parking is free on Sundays.

Register at runsignup.com and learn more about the nonprofit at downtownbillings. com/4realchange. Interested volunteers should sign up at runsignup.com and email race director Mel Barbour at melb@ downtownbillings.com.

Follow Downtown Billings on Facebook for updates.

Heritage Playapalooza!

Wax nostalgic with the Western Heritage Center at their annual Heritage Playapalooza! fundraiser Saturday, April 21.

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., parents and grandparents are encouraged to show their family’s youngest generation just how much fun they had when they were kids. Classic games like pick-up-sticks, cowboy roping, hopscotch and marbles can be played for 50 cents a ticket.

Bundles of 22 tickets are $10 and go toward both games and food. Museum entrance is free. Event proceeds benefit WHC educational programming.

For more information, see ywhc.org.

Teach kids how fun classic games were with the Western Heritage Center’s annual Heritage Playapalooza! fundraiser Saturday, April 21.

20th annual Heritage Home Tour

Support ongoing preservation efforts of the Moss Mansion Museum at the 20th annual Heritage Home Tour Saturday, May 19.

The tour includes properties representing each decade of the early 20th century. Attendees are sure to get their fix of local culture, history and architecture along the way. Homes are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission includes a printed guide and entry pass. Advance tickets are available online at mossmansion.com at $20 each, or $25 on event day. Tickets can be also be found at Gainan’s locations and the Moss Mansion.

Call (406) 256-5100 for additional details.

8th annual Sweet Success

Help Dress for Success Billings continue its mission to empower women at its 8th annual luncheon Saturday, March 10 at the DoubleTree

by Hilton Hotel.

From noon to 3 p.m., enjoy complimentary wine with lunch while watching a style show featuring fashion from Bottega Clothing, Cricket Clothing Company, Desmonds, and neecee’s. A silent auction, champagne raffle, bingo with cash prize and giveaways round out the fundraiser. Nonprofit staff will also be onhand to share programming information.

Tickets are $50 each and can be purchased at dressforsuccessbillings.org and by calling (406) 256-7304.

Comedy beCAUSE

Needy families are no laughing matter, but that’s not stopping the Center for Children and Families from focusing on the positive while they fundraise to build a stronger community.

The Alberta Bair Theater plays host to the nonprofit’s annual fundraiser, where a comedian takes center stage for a cause Friday, April 6 at 8 p.m.

Various sponsorship packages are available by calling (406) 294-5090.

Detailed information can be found at forfamilies.org.

Gazette Staff

Pre-events for the Wine & Food Festival kickoff Wednesday, Feb. 28 at Bistecca at the Granary. The festival is happening May 14-19 at various locations.

Wine & Food Festival

Since its inception in 1993, the Montana State University Billings Foundation’s Wine & Food Festival has expanded from two days to six, with pre-events happening as early as three months before the springtime festival.

Last year brought in $301,000 net proceeds benefiting the foundation’s efforts of promoting philanthropy, campus and community partnerships, and educational opportunities.

This year’s pre-events begin at Bistecca at the Granary Feb. 28 at 6 p.m. For $85, attend a wine dinner featuring owner and winemaker Wade Wolfe of Thurston Wolfe Winery in Prosser, Washington. Abby’s Catering Company hosts a similar beer dinner with Thirsty Street Brewing Company’s Shea Dawson March 28 at 6 p.m.

Main events begin Monday, May 14 at 6 p.m. at the Northern Hotel with a guest chef dinner. For $150, dine on a gourmet meal prepared by NYC’s Kingsley Restaurant’s executive chef and owner, Roxanne Spruance. Spruance collaborates with the Northern Hotel’s executive chef,

Peter Birk, for this exceptional dinner.

Home Cooking School events are scattered throughout the week, May 15-17, at varying private residences.

Featuring guest chefs like Shawn Smith of Bighorn River Lodge in Xavier, Montana, Kathleen Moon of Laughing Horse Lodge in Swan Lake, Montana, Jeff Brauer of Big Sky, Montana, Marialucia Luongo of Perugia, Italy, and Spruance, attendees are encouraged to ask questions while they watch experts prepare exquisite meals. Tickets are $75 each.

The Billings Petroleum Club hosts the Brewmaster Symposium Wednesday, May 16 at

Courtesy of Tony Smith Photography

7 p.m. Tina Rulewicz of Founders Brewing Company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, leads the seminar on craft brewing characteristics. Samples, plus beer and food pairing, are part of the $75 class.

A similar Winemasters Symposium is happening Thursday, May 17 at 7 p.m. at the Northern Hotel for $100 a ticket. Chad Johnson of Dusted Valley Vineyards in Walla Walla, Washington and Jeremy Leffert of Rabble Wine Company in Paso Robles, California are hosting the seminar and tasting.

The festival concludes on the MSUB campus May 18-19.

Friday brings forth a wine and food tasting with more than 160 wines and beers, a silent auction and wine pull from the private cellar from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday features a champagne reception, gourmet dinner and live and silent auction from 5:30 to 10 p.m. Tickets for Friday’s event are $85 and Saturday night tickets are $125.

For more information, see winefoodfestival.com.

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