Montana Kiwanis Clubs
Photo courtesy of the Bozeman Kiwanis Club
CLUBS WORK TO SUPPORT CHILDREN ACROSS MONTANA
By Jennifer Verzuh
While Kiwanis International has a presence in 80 countries with over 7,000 clubs, they all share a common goal: to strengthen communities and serve children.
“Our main goal is children and providing them [with] anything we possibly can,” Montana Kiwanis Governor Esther Fischer said. “That’s what it’s all about.”
Montana has 32 Kiwanis Clubs (as well as numerous Key Clubs
for high school students), and
“each town is kind of unique in what they’re doing” she said.
In her visits to the various clubs, she’s witnessed fishing derbies and festivals, and seen parks and playgrounds that have been donated by the organizations.
“It’s amazing what you see across the state.”
While all of the clubs have projects year round, the holidays are a particularly busy time for them.
The Bozeman Kiwanis Club, which was established in 1921, in December alone is hosting their annual Pancake Breakfast (this year will be their hundreth time putting on this fundraiser) on the 7th at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, supporting Hope & the Holidays and ringing Christmas bells for the Salvation Army. In 2023, the group provided toys and gifts to over 1,400 children and distributed 325 food baskets.
“There’s a lot of different roles
that the Kiwanis organization takes on to help people with,” President of the Bozeman chapter Brenda Lucia said.
The Bozeman chapter currently has 52 members, some of whom have been serving Kiwanis for over 40 years. They’ve collectively donated 2,211 yearly volunteer hours and raised $28,000 in yearly funds.
“People in it are very dedicated,” Lucia said.
“The satisfaction you see on a kid’s face [doing this work is]
Photo courtesy of the Bozeman Kiwanis Club
Bozeman Kiwanis Club members served breakfast to attendees at Camp Braveheart earlier this year.
KIWANIS
worth a million bucks,” Fischer said.
There are just under 900 Kiwanis Club members statewide, and Fischer said her goal is to reach 1,000 members. Anyone aged 18 or older with a willingness to attend meeting and work on projects can join.
“It’s however you want to serve your community,” she said.
The Bozeman Kiwanis Club typically meets Mondays at noon at The Springs on Catron Street, and anyone interested is “more than welcome to just drop in,” Lucia said. Their meetings often feature a guest speaker of some sort as well.
To learn more about the organization, upcoming events and how to get involved visit: www.bozemankiwanis. org/.
“I would [encourage people] to look at Kiwanis really hard, and get involved in your community,” Fischer said.
A Note from the Editor:
THE POWER OF IRRELEVANCE
By Chérie Newman OLLI at MSU member volunteer
You’ve probably heard an older person lament, “I’m invisible” or “I’m irrelevant.”
Maybe you’ve made those statements after young people ignored you. Youngsters often look away from what they fear: the physical effects of aging. They don’t want to be old. Ever. And we get it. We don’t want to be old, either. But we have no choice. The mirror delivers a horror show of wrinkles and sags to our astonished eyes daily. “That’s not me!” we squeal at our reflections.
During the first decades of my life, I judged myself by how other people reacted to me. I wanted to be noticed, to be seen as attractive and accomplished. My teenage, young adult and middle-aged selves were perfectionistic overachievers. I drove myself hard, became discouraged and exhausted, then rallied for another round of selfabuse. Rinse and repeat. This might have gone on for many more years, but then I grew old.
Somewhere in my late fifties, I began to understand that I was no longer relevant to young people, who were suddenly running everything. Instead of asking the most knowledgeable person in the room—namely me—they looked to their peers for ideas and information. It was disorienting. If my skills and experience weren’t notable or valuable, who was I? What was
the point of me?
Those questions sent me on a quest—the inevitable result of asking questions—to identify my options. It turns out that there are endless ways for me to be a relevant human who makes significant contributions.
According to NGObase. org, there are more than 170 nonprofit organizations in the Bozeman area, which doesn’t include the numerous nonprofits that aren’t in their database. In 2023, ProPublica reported 9,463 organizations with 501(c)(3)— tax-exempt—status in Montana. As an experienced writer, project manager and musician, my older-person skills were valuable to many of these organizations. If they needed help and I had the abilities, they didn’t care how old I was. My irrelevance was, um, irrelevant.
“You’re doing what?” my friends repeatedly exclaimed over the next few years. They’d still be saying it if they hadn’t become so used to my strange ways. Now, they simply smile, nod and say something like, “Wow, that must be interesting.”
I’ve worked as a grant writer, executive director, newsletter editor and events coordinator. I’ve done data entry, managed websites and social media accounts, written articles, conducted interviews and recorded a series of oral histories for an arts organization. Some jobs were temporary paid positions, and some were volunteer positions. During
each project, I felt highly valued. Being of service to others feels much better than striving for status, approval and attention. And I discovered that being “invisible” to younger people can actually be fun and liberating.
I don’t have to think about how I look (nobody is looking), my status in professional groups (nobody cares if I’m there) or how I behave (nobody is paying any attention). I’m free! My decisions are all about how to use my skills, talents and experience in ways that make the greatest contribution to my little corner of the world.
Maybe these late-in-life years exist to help us stop judging ourselves by external reactions and standards. Frankly, it has been a relief to stop constantly thinking about me, me, me, and focus on ways to serve others.
It’s simple. Contact a nonprofit organization that caters to a cause you’re passionate about and ask them how you can help. The One Valley website, www.onevalley.org, includes a directory of nonprofit organizations in the Gallatin Valley. You can choose from a long list of categories: disaster relief, seniors, animal welfare, the environment, women’s issues, veterans, arts and culture, education and social justice.
Ultimately, my quest to serve led me into a happy place. Since I was a teenager, I’ve been interested in listening to oldsters tell their life stories. Now, my work includes that and provides
entertainment for them. They don’t care about who I was or wasn’t in the past. They don’t care what clothing brand I wear or which important people I may know. Some of these folks are younger than me, and some are older. But we all belong in the category of “old person.” Mostly, the people running the world ignore us. Even so, we still have the power of choice.
I’ve chosen to stop striving for significance in a youth-obsessed society. Instead, I choose to relish the personal freedom inherent in my invisibility and irrelevance. I also choose gratitude for this miraculous life, each and every phase of it.
Curiosity for Life Join Us
Over 100 program offerings a year.
montana.edu/olli 406-994-6646
Where Was Your Christmas Tree GROWN?
Jan Cashman has operated Cashman Nursery in Bozeman with her husband, Jerry, since 1975.
By Jan Cashman
Eureka, Montana was once known as the Christmas tree capital of the nation because years ago, as Christmas trees became popular in homes, the Douglas fir trees found in the forests of Northwestern Montana were perfect.
They made perfect Christmas trees because of their good winter color, symmetry and evergreen aroma. By 1951, Montana supplied a sixth of our nation’s Christmas trees.
Production of Christmas trees in Montana doubled between 1942 and 1956, hitting a peak of more than 4 million trees.
As Christmas tree plantations grew around the U.S., Eureka was no longer the Christmas tree capital of the nation, but Montana’s Christmas tree industry was not dead. Driving up near Flathead Lake in the 1960s,’70s and ‘80s, plantations growing rows of Scotch pine Christmas trees were common. Not so many Christmas tree plantations are there now because it takes years to grow a Christmas tree. Landowners want a quicker return on their investment and growing Christmas trees is labor intensive. Northern Idaho, also a good area for growing conifers, still has some successful Christmas tree plantations.
Today, Oregon grows more Christmas trees than any other state—lots of Noble fir—and ships them mostly to California. North Carolina is next, probably because Fraser fir is native there. Then comes Michigan, next Pennsylvania. However we do not purchase and sell
Christmas trees from these states, partly because freight would be expensive, but also because they are grown in such a humid climate—so different from ours. When these cut trees arrive here in our dry climate, the needles tend to dehydrate more quickly. This is especially true for Noble firs; they are native to a warmer, wetter climate; which is why we don’t sell them.
In our years of selling Christmas trees here in Bozeman, we have seen a change in which types of Christmas trees are popular. Scotch pines were popular in the early 1980s. Over time, Fraser fir has become the most popular Christmas tree we sell because they keep their beautiful blue-green color even in the winter, they hold their short needles well, they have a perfect layered, symmetrical shape and don’t need much pruning. Even though they are not native here, but farther south in the Carolinas, Fraser firs grow well on Christmas tree plantations in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Idaho and Montana. Hybrids are being developed too to give us the best qualities of more than one kind of Christmas tree such as a Balsam fir crossed with a Fraser fir to give us great fragrance, perfect shape, and needle retention.
We bring in white pine, balsam fir and Fraser fir from Minnesota. But most of the Fraser firs we sell are grown and shipped here from northern Idaho. Although spruce trees have a good, symmetrical Christmas tree shape, they are not an ideal Christmas tree because they dry out more quickly and have unfriendly, sharp needles.
Many Montanans prefer a “natural”
Christmas tree cut from our local forests. We get permission from landowners to cut trees when we can. Many families still purchase a Christmas tree permit to cut a tree in the forest. That has become a family tradition for many local families. Our local forests grow mostly Douglas fir, subalpine fir and lodgepole pine. If you can find them, subalpine fir which grow at high elevations make a great Christmas tree. Their branches have perfect spacing for hanging ornaments.
Today nationwide, artificial Christmas trees make up more than half of the Christmas trees in homes and businesses. Besides the fire danger, there are other reasons to opt for the convenience of an artificial tree. But artificial trees lack the aroma and “natural feel” that a real tree brings into your home for the holidays.
Remember to make a fresh cut on the bottom of your Christmas tree before you put it in the stand. And
always keep water in the stand so your tree stays fresh. And a Merry Christmas to all who celebrate!
WRea ths • ChRistmas tRees • FResh Boughs
christmas at cashmaN’s
Jim Drummond is a retired banker and Bozeman native.
OLD GUYS and the MOVIES
By Jim Drummond
This week the old guy waterhole was fairly well attended. Most of the fellows had arrived on time to assure that no new gossip was missed or any lies dispensed requiring immediate rebuttal.
One of the gents looked around the group and commented, “I’ve heard that there’s a new western movie being filmed over the hill. Someone told me that they are going to have famous actors and actresses in starring roles.”
Someone down the table responded, “It’s true. They’re going to retro their downtown so that a 1920’s western movie can be filmed. The movie is going to have model T’s, horses, cowboys, saloon girls, bank robbers, bar-room fights and lots of action. They’re looking for locals to be extras. I’m thinking about auditioning.”
A fellow at the end of the table inquired, “Do movie extras get paid?”
Somebody replied, “They don’t get paid, but get to keep their costumes.”
Another lad asked, “What kind of extras do they want?”
The first gent responded, “They’re looking for four or five crusty old guys to be in a waterhole scene.”
Everyone around the table leaned forward to hear more details. Somebody else inquired, “What do the old guy extras have to do in the movie?”
The aspiring thespian responded, “They will be wearing western clothing with stained Stetson hats, greasy sheepskin vests and scuffed Tony Lama boots. In the movie they sit around a table in the local waterhole nursing a drink and
complaining about the skyrocketing price of suspenders and mustache wax. Haddie, the shapely saloon girl, will be attired in a provocative gown and strut around for awhile until she sits on an old guy’s lap. At that point one of the fellows pulls out a pocket watch and nervously comments, ‘I better be getting home before I’m in trouble with the missus.’ Suddenly, according to the script, a rugged villain barges through the swinging doors carrying a double barreled shotgun. He shouts, ‘I told you old guys to stay away from Haddie. She’s my girl.’ Then he cocks the hammers on the shotgun.”
Everyone was fully engaged in the plot by this point. Somebody questioned, “What happens next in the script?’
The storyteller responded, “All the old guys are supposed to leap out of their chairs, drop to the floor and cover their heads with their hands so that they don’t get peppered with buckshot. Haddie flies head over heels off a lap and lands in a crumpled ball against the piano player in the corner.”
Somebody asked, “Do the actors get to rehearse tumbling to the floor before the filming starts?”
The first chap replied, “Of course they will practice. Choreographing a group of terrified old guys diving for the floor is challenging. Hopefully everyone will only have to get up off the floor once or twice in rehearsal.”
His friend partway down the table inquired, “If we get selected for a part would we appear in any other scenes?”
The gent answered, “The script has the group of old guys riding horses out of town and into the setting sun. Haddie, dressed in her alluring attire, is riding double behind one of
the fellows and hanging on tightly so that she doesn’t fall off. Just as the sun drops out of sight the old guys and Haddie disappear over the horizon. It’s the last shot in the movie.”
An important question from some lad was, “Do any of the extras get to practice riding into the sunset with Haddie snuggling up from behind?”
His friend replied, “That role has already been decided. Walter’s been given the part. He hasn’t made it to the waterhole today but we’re all waiting to see if he boasts about it or just keeps his yap shut.”
Someone commented, “I bet five dollars that he comes to the waterhole bragging that he will be rehearsing his part while fondly embraced by Haddie.”
Somebody else argued, “I’ll take you up on the bet. Walter’s quite modest and I doubt that he brings it up at all.”
Just then Walter strode into the waterhole. As he walked up to the table he raised his right hand in greeting, then loudly exclaimed, “Haddie gents.”
Bozeman
Lions C Lu B
eye glasses collection box for prescription or non-prescription and dark glasses at The Bozeman s enior Center, The Belgrade s enior Center, The m anhattan s enior Center and The Three Rivers s enior Citizens Club in Three Forks.
GET OUT THERE with a Safer Internet Experience
By Kristin VanDeWalle
Executive
Director of Befrienders,
a nonprofit that enhances the lives of seniors through volunteer companionship and support. She encourages seniors to ‘Get Out There’ into the community to combat isolation and loneliness.
As we approach a new year, it’s an ideal time to
‘Get Out There’ into the cyber world and refresh your internet safety practices. With more of our interactions moving online, especially for staying connected to family, friends, and community, feeling confident on the internet is essential. By
following a few straightforward tips, you can stay connected while protecting your personal information from common online threats and scams.
To start, set up your device for easy use. Many phones, tablets and computers offer accessibility
settings that allow you to adjust font size or simplify layouts, making navigation and reading much easier. Familiarity and comfort with your device are foundational to a safer internet experience. If you’re concerned about remembering multiple
passwords, consider using a password manager like LastPass, OnePass or Dashlane. Password managers securely store and remember your passwords for you, so you can use strong, unique passwords without the stress of memorizing them all.
For those newer to the internet, safe browsing habits are crucial. Unfortunately, scammers often target older adults, assuming they may be less familiar with online threats. But by applying a few basic safety principles, you can greatly reduce your risk. A good rule of thumb is to be skeptical of unexpected links in emails and messages. Even if a message appears to come from someone you know, it’s best to avoid clicking on links without double-checking. Cybercriminals often disguise links to look like they’re from trusted sources, so if you’re in doubt, call the person or organization directly to verify the message. Remember, legitimate organizations will never ask for sensitive information, like passwords or Social Security numbers, via email.
Pop-up ads are another area to be cautious of. These ads might claim you’ve won a prize or need to update your software, but most of them are scams designed to install harmful software or trick you into sharing personal information. The safest option is to close pop-ups by clicking the “X” in the corner. Avoid clicking any buttons within the ad, especially those labeled “Download” or “Update.”
A helpful habit when browsing is to hover your mouse over a link before clicking on it to see the full web address. The link should match the official website of the company or person you’re expecting. If the address looks unusual or has extra numbers or letters, it’s best to avoid clicking on it.
Another essential step is to protect personal information. Creating strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts can help keep your data secure. Strong passwords are at least 12 characters long and include a mix of letters, numbers and symbols, which makes them harder for hackers to guess. A password manager can make this process easier, storing these secure passwords for you.
To add an extra layer of security, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible. With 2FA, after entering your password, you’ll receive a onetime code sent to your phone or email. This second step ensures that even if someone gets your password, they still can’t access your account without the verification code.
Scams can come in many forms, and phishing emails are some of the most common. Phishing emails aim to trick you into revealing personal information or clicking harmful links by pretending to be from a legitimate company or using urgent language, like “Your account has been suspended!” Look out for unusual email
addresses, poor spelling or strange grammar, which can be red flags. If you suspect an email is a phishing attempt, delete it immediately, and report it to your email provider.
Be aware of phone scams as well. Scammers may call pretending to be from tech support and claim there’s a problem with your device. No legitimate tech support company will call unsolicited. If you need technical help, reach out to the company directly through the official number on their website. And during emergencies or holiday seasons, be extra careful of scammers posing as charities. Always research any charity you’re unfamiliar with using trusted sites like Charity Navigator before donating.
Taking a few more practical steps can protect you further against online threats. Install antivirus software, which can detect and block harmful programs that might compromise your personal information. Keep this software installed, updated, and active on all your devices.
Regularly updating your device’s software also helps protect against new threats, as updates often include important security patches. And be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks, like those in cafes or airports, which can be vulnerable to hackers. If you often use public Wi-Fi, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to help encrypt your internet connection and keep your data private.
Finally, at Befrienders, we understand these challenges and offer two free programs to help prevent tech-related isolation for seniors by connecting them with volunteers. Call us at 406-5228169 if you would like to learn more.
The internet is a wonderful resource for staying connected and engaged with loved ones and the wider community. By following these safety practices, you can ‘Get Out There’ and help protect yourself from online threats and enjoy the benefits of technology with greater peace of mind.
FINANCIAL FOCUS Consider these year-end financial moves
As we enter the holiday season, your life may well become busier. Still, you might want to take the time to consider some financial moves before we turn the calendar to 2025.
Here are a few suggestions:
• Review your investment portfolio. As you look at your
portfolio, ask these questions: Has its performance met my expectations this year? Does it still reflect my goals, risk tolerance and time horizon? Do I need to rebalance? You might find that working with a financial professional can help you answer these and other questions you may have about
your investments.
• Add to your 401(k) and HSA. If you can afford it, and your employer allows it, consider putting more money into your 401(k) before the year ends — including “catch up” contributions if you’re 50 or older. You might also want to add
to your health savings account (HSA) by the tax-filing deadline in April.
• Use your FSA dollars. Unlike an HSA, a flexible spending account (FSA) works on a “useit-or-lose-it” basis, meaning you lose any unspent funds at the end of the year. So, if you still have
Nathan M. Kirby Edward Jones Financial Advisor
funds left in your account, try to use them up in 2024. (Employers may grant a 2½ month extension, so check with your human resources area to see if this is the case where you work.)
• Contribute to a 529 plan. If you haven’t opened a 529 education savings plan for your children, think about doing so this year. With a 529 plan, your earnings can grow tax deferred, and your withdrawals are federally tax free when used for qualified education expenses — tuition, fees, books and so on.
And if you invest in your own state’s 529 plan, you might be able to deduct your contributions from your state income tax or receive a state tax credit.
• Build your emergency fund. It’s generally a good idea to keep up to six months’ worth of living expenses in an emergency fund, with the money held in a liquid, low-risk account. Without such a fund in place, you might be forced to dip into your retirement funds to pay for short-term needs, such as a major car or home repair.
• Review your estate plans. If you’ve experienced any changes in your family situation this year, such as marriage, remarriage or the birth of a child, you may
want to update your estate-planning documents to reflect your new situation. It’s also important to look at the beneficiary designations on your investment accounts, retirement plans, IRAs and insurance policies, as these designations can sometimes even supersede the instructions you’ve left in your will. And if you haven’t started estate planning, there’s no time like the present.
• Take your RMDs. If you’re 73 or older, you will likely need to take withdrawals — called required minimum distributions, or RMDs — from some of your retirement accounts, such as your traditional IRA. If you don’t take these withdrawals each year, you could be subject to penalties.
These aren’t the only moves you can make, but they may prove helpful not only for 2024, but in the years to come.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC
Meal Service in Senior Centers:
Belgrade MENU
Meals on Wheels Delivery: Monday through Friday. Call to find out how to qualify for this program. Center meals: Monday through Friday at 12 p.m. Call before 10 a.m. to sign up.
Belgrade Senior Center will be opening soon. Please go to our website at belgradeseniorcenter.com for updates as they become available.
92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade, MT • (406) 388-4711 • Call in to order to go meals by 10 a.m. the day before! Menu subject to change without notice!
DEC. 2 – Salad, Sweet & Sour Meatballs, Rice, Vegetables, Fruit
DEC. 3 – Salad, Pork Chops, Potatoes, Vegetables, Dessert
DEC. 4 – Salad, Mac & Cheese, Vegetables, Fruit
DEC. 5 – Salad, Fried Chicken, Cheesy Grits, Vegetables, Dessert
DEC. 6 – Salad, Chili Burger, Vegetables, Fruit
DEC. 7 – CHRISTMAS CONVOY WATCH PARTY
DEC. 9 – Salad, Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Vegetables, Fruit
DEC. 10 – Taco Salad, Fruit
DEC. 11 – Salad, Ham & Cheese Quiche, Hash Browns, Vegetables Dessert
DEC. 12 – Salad, Tuna Biscuit Bake, Vegetables, Dessert
DEC. 13 – Fruit, Meatloaf, Potatoes, Vegetables, Dessert
DEC. 16 – Salad, Goulash, Vegetables, Dessert
DEC. 17 – Salad, Pork Fajitas, Spanish Rice, Fruit
DEC. 18 – BIRTHDAY LUNCH - Salad, Hamburger Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Vegetables, Fruit
DEC. 19 – Salad, Chicken Stir Fry, Rice, Egg Rolls, Dessert
DEC. 20 – CHRISTMAS DINNER - Waldorf Salad, Cranberry Glazed Ham Baked Potato Casserole, Candied Carrots, Pecan Pie - 1st Sitting: 11:30 - 2nd Sitting: 12:45
DEC. 23 – Salad, Chicken Fried Steak, Potatoes, Vegetables, Dessert
DEC. 24 –25 CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS
DEC. 20 – NO BREAKFAST CLUB - Salad, Spaghetti & Meats Balls, Vegetables, Dessert
DEC. 27 – Salad, Reuben Sandwich, Chips, Vegetables, Fruit, New Years Dance
DEC. 30 – Salad, Loaded Baked Potatoes, Vegetables, Fruit
DEC. 31 – NEW YEARS AT NOON - Salad Bar, Hors d’oeuvre Bar, Dessert
Meals on Wheels Delivery: Monday – Friday. Call to find out how to qualify for this program.
Center meals: Monday-Friday 12:00 p.m. - Call before 10:00 a.m. to sign up
Fitness Classes will be held in the Quaw Gym at Southview and Broadway in Belgrade.
EXERCISE:
Full Body Workout: 9 a.m. Mondays, Fridays (Quaw Gym)
9:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays (Quaw Gym)
Line Dancing: 9:30 a.m. Mondays
Yoga: 9:00 a.m. Wednesdays (Quaw Gym)
Zumba: 1 p.m. Wednesdays
Ballroom Dancing 10:30 a.m. Thursdays (with Open Dance at 10:15 a.m.)
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES:
Pinochle: 12:30 p.m. Mondays
Ukulele Class: 9:45 a.m. Instruction and 10:45 a.m.
Group Play-Along Tuesdays
Arts & Crafts: 12:45 p.m. Tuesdays
Bingo: 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays
Sing-Along: 11:30 a.m. Thursdays
Needle Aires: 9:30 a.m. Fridays
MONTHLY ACTIVITIES:
December 6: Fireside Book Club at 1:00 pm
December 18: December Birthday Lunch
December 20: Christmas Dinner
December 24-25: Closed for Christmas
January 1: Closed for New Years
*No Breakfast Club
Check our website at https://www.belgrademt.gov/351/BelgradeSenior-Center for Special Holiday Events!
Bozeman MENU
807 North Tracy • (406) 586-2421 •
Shannon Bondy, shannon@bozemanseniorcenter.org (Executive Director) Kristi Wetsch, krisi@bozemanseniorcenter.org (Director Program & Marketing)
This menu is subject to change due to the availability of food. You must call us at 586-2421 by 1:00 p.m. the day before or earlier to make a reservation.
Meals are served from 12 to 12:15 p.m.
The cost of the meal is a suggested donation of $5 for people 60 and over and $7 for people under 60 (this is not a suggestion donation). Large salads are served every day at the center. The cost is $7.00. You must call in a day ahead for the salad.
DEC. 2 – Salad, Loaded Tater Tots, Fiesta Corn, Dinner Roll, Chocolate and Peanut Butter Streusel Cake
DEC. 3 – Fruit and Cottage Cheese, Turkey Pot Pie, Mixed Vegetables, Biscuit
DEC. 4 – Salad, Bratwurst with Onions and Sauerkraut on a Bun, Potatoes, Carrots, Blueberry Cobbler
DEC. 5 – Salad, Chicken and Shrimp Jambalaya, Beans and Rice, Roll
DEC. 6 – PEARL HARBOR DAY: Salad, Kimchi Fried Rice, Spam Mixed Vegetables, Hawaiian Roll, Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Bar
DEC. 9 – Salad, Fish and Chips, Mushy Peas, Garlic Bread
DEC. 10 - Green Salad, Ham, Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, Dinner Roll, Tapioca Pudding
DEC. 11
– BIRTHDAY LUNCH: Cucumber Salad, Beef Tips over Noodles, Broccoli, Dinner Roll
DEC. 12 – Salad, Baked Chicken with Mushroom Sauce, Corn, Garlic Bread, Soda Cracker Candy
DEC. 13
– Fruit Salad, Chicken Fried Steak, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Green Beans, Roll
DEC. 16
– Salad, Sloppy Joe, Green Beans, Roasted Potatoes, Austrian Raspberry Shortbread
DEC. 17
– Salad, Ham, Spinach and Feta Quiche, Vegetables, Wheat Berry Pilaf
DEC. 18 – Fruit, White Sauce Lasagna, Brussel Sprouts, Garlic Bread, Jell-O Poke Cake
DEC. 19
– CHRISTMAS LUNCH: Festive Fruit Salad, Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Roasted Vegetables, Roll
DEC. 20 – Slaw, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Parmesan Pasta, Broccoli, Garlic Bread, Chocolate Pot de Creme
DEC. 23 – Potato Salad, Ham Salad on a Croissant, Carrots and Celery Sticks, Whole Grain Tortilla Chips
DEC. 24
– Green Salad, Salmon Chowder, Roasted Vegetables, Dinner Roll, Christmas Sugar Cookie
DEC. 25
– CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS
DEC. 26 – CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS
DEC. 27 – CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS
DEC. 30 – Fresh Fruit, Pesto Ravioli, Chicken, Peas, Garlic Bread, Rocky Road Candy
DEC. 31 – Salad, Open Faced Roast Beef Sandwich, Mashed Potatoes with Gravy, Corn, Dinner Roll, Dessert
Allergy statement for all Meals-On-Wheels foods: Menu items may contain or come into contact with WHEAT, EGGS, PEANUTS, TREE NUTS, FISH, SHELLFISH, SOYBEANS, and MILK. Meals are now being served at the Bozeman Senior Center.
• Bozeman Senior Center Board meetings are held on the third Friday of each month at 10:00 a.m.
• The Bozeman Senior Center will be closed on Tuesday, November 5th, 28th and 29th.
• Bozeman Senior Center’s Second Hand Rose is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• The Bookstore is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Accepting donations for Second Hand Rose on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m
to 2 p.m.
• Accepting donations for the Christmas Store anytime during business hours.
• These dates and times are subject to change dependent upon volunteer and staff availability.
• Please call 586-2421 to be sure before you shop or bring donations!
• The Christmas Store opens is now open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and runs through December 20th.
BOZEMAN SENIOR CENTER TRAVEL DEPARTMENT
YOU MUST BE A CURRENT MEMBER OF THE BOZEMAN SENIOR CENTER BEFORE WE CAN ADD YOUR NAME TO THE LIST AND YOU MUST BE AT LEAST 50 YEARS OF AGE!
Judy Morrill, Coordinator and travel article author
Office Hours: Mondays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m to 12 p.m.
Phone: 406-586-2421
Fall is definitely here, and it’s time for you to think about traveling with the Bozeman Senior Center. We have great travel opportunities for you to enjoy.
THESE TRIPS ARE SOLD OUT FOR 2025: Italy’s Treasures in April 2025
Belgium, Holland River Boat Trip in April 2025
These are great trips for 2025 that are ready for you to enjoy:
*ICELAND: LAND OF FIRE AND ICE, AUGUST 27 - SEPTEMBER 5, 2025
Fly from Bozeman to Reykaivik to begin a wonderful trip. Highlights include: Golden Circle, Thingvellir National Park and many more amazing sights in Iceland.
There will be two hotel stays,and we will travel by motorcoach around Iceland. Pick up a brochure and get signed up now to hold your space on this fun trip.
*HISTORIC SAVANNAH AND CHARLESTON, OCTOBER 24, 2025
A seven day trip at a perfect time of the year to travel to this beautiful part of the United States. See the sights in Charleston, Savannah and Jekyll Island. A very fun trip you will thoroughly enjoy.
*WEST VIRGINIA RAILS AND WILLIAMSBURG, SEPTEMBER 2025
An 8 day trip featuring two days of train rides through West Virginia, enjoying the fall scenery. Also travel to Greenbrier Resort and Bunker. This bunker, below the resort, was built in 1958 as a possible evacuation center for the President,
the House of Representatives and the Senate, in case of an emergency. Then travel by motorcoach to Monticello, then to Jamestown and colonial Williamsburg. This is a great new trip we have never offered before.
*OVERNIGHT TRIP TO WEST YELLOWSTONE FOR A SNOWCOACH INTO YELLOWSTONE PARK, FEB. 18-19, 2025
Enjoy a great day in Yellowstone Park, on a very comfortable, warm, snowcoach and spend one night at the Holiday Inn in West Yellowstone. There is room for 26 passengers on the two snowcoaches, so get signed up right away to hold your space.
Sign up at the Bozeman Senior Center Front Desk and pay by check, credit card or cash. Bring your Golden Age Park Pass.
Cost: $390 for double occupancy or $460 if you want to room alone.
For any of these trips, pick up the brochures from the Travel Kiosk. Fill out the registration forms and payment information, and get them back to Judy at the Senior Center. She will get you on the trips.
Travel on any trips through the Bozeman Senior Center is open to current members of the Bozeman Senior Center who have paid their 2025 membership dues.
Come travel with the Bozeman Senior Center!
DEC. 10 – Jell-O with Fruit, Stuffed Peppers, California Style Vegetables
DEC. 11 – Pickled Beets, Tuna Melt, Soup
DEC. 12 – Green Salad, Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes, Corn
DEC. 17 – Tacos, French Fries, Beans
DEC. 18 – Jell-O, Finger Steaks, Potato Salad, Carrots
DEC. 19 – Christmas Dinner: Turkey, Dressing, Mashed Potatoes, Sweet Potato Salad
DEC. 24 – Hot Dog, Macaroni and Cheese, Chips
DEC. 25 – CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS
DEC. 26 – Coleslaw, Cod, Baked Potato, Green Beans, DEC. 31 – Pea Salad, Chicken Fried Steak, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Mixed Vegetables
Bozeman Senior Center Fitness Classes
ALL EXERCISE CLASSES ARE HELD IN THE FITNESS ROOM WITH THE EXCEPTION OF LINE DANCING AND AEROBICS (Both are in the Dining Room)
Fitness Dues Are $20 a Month STRONG PEOPLE (MONDAYS, TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND THURSDAYS AT 1 P.M.)
Strength building class focuses on increasing bone density and muscle mass. Class follows accepted protocol for people with bone loss. Participants work at their own level increasing weights as they build strength. Each class also includes exercises to strengthen the core and finishes with stretching. All are welcome and weights are provided.
STRENGTH TRAINING (MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS AT 8:30 A.M.)
A great class for men and women looking to increase muscle mass and overall body strength. Body weight, dumbbells, leg weights and bands are all incorporated into a full body
workout. Strength training doesn’t have to be intimidating; drop in for a class and see how much fun you can have getting stronger. Just bring a water bottle.
AEROBICS WITH STRENGTH (MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AT 9:30 A.M. IN THE DINING ROOM)
This is a full hour’s workout. We do 40 minutes of cardio (which can vary in intensity depending on your own ability) and 15 minutes of stretching. Come join this dynamic workout!
CORE ON THE FLOOR (MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AT 10:35 A.M.)
Pilates inspired. Gentle mat work and stretching.
BEGINNING LINE DANCING (TUESDAYS, THURSDAYS AT 10 A.M. TO 10:45 A.M.)
Beginning line dancing is a fun form of exercise with physical, mental, emotional and social benefits. Learn and practice common line dance steps. Then dance to a variety of music including rock, Latin, country and waltz. Beginners who have no
prior dance experience of any kind are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes early on their first day for some preinstruction.
INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED LINE DANCING (TUESDAYS, THURSDAYS AT 10:45 A.M. TO 11:30 A.M.; FRIDAYS AT 10 A.M. TO 11:30 A.M.)
More complex and challenging dances will be taught and danced. Experienced dancers are invited to participate in this class.
ENLIGHTENMENT TAI CHI FORM (TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS AT 11 A.M.)
Tai Chi is a graceful form of exercise characterized by slow, methodical, gentle movements and deep breathing exercises that are low impact, relaxing and somewhat aerobic. People of almost any age and fitness level can participate. In this class you will be learning the Enlightenment Tai Chi Form, some other easy short forms, warm-up and deep breathing exercises, and Tai Chi positions. Tai
Chi can be a positive part of an overall approach to improving and maintaining your health.
SUN TAI CHI (MONDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS AT 11:30 A.M. TO 12;30 P.M.)
The Sun Form is an excellent, and not too athletic/not-topo-static version of the Chinese energy exercise tai chi. It’s great for balance, coordination and focusing the mind. Especially healthful for arthritic joints.
LAUGHING YOGA (FRIDAYS AT 9:30 A.M.)
Laughter Yoga Club (no mat required). Join Certified Laughter Yoga Leader Rachel Rockafellow for learning to laugh without humor, comedy, or jokes to strengthen your immune system, increase your lung capacity, and have fun! All are welcome! The more the merrier. Give it a try!
POWER YOGA (TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS AT 8:30 A.M.)
It’s a challenging Yoga Flow workout, probably not for beginners.
