Go Local Flathead Valley — Fall - Winter 2018

FALL/WINTER 2018

WELCOME to GO LOCAL!

T

hank you for what you’re doing right now – Going Local!

You are helping preserve a one-of-a-kind business that adds to the distinctive character of the Flathead Valley in an increasingly homogenized world. Going local enriches the whole community – for residents and visitors alike.

For every dollar you’re spending here you’re generating 68 cents in local economic activity, compared to 48 cents at a big box retailer. Money spent at an independent retailer generates over three times more wealth for the local economy compared to money spent at a chain-oriented business. Independent restaurants return more than twice as much money to the community than national chain restaurants.

Going local creates more jobs locally and, in some sectors, provide better wages and benefits than chains do.

Places with a higher number of small businesses have less income inequality. A marketplace made up of many small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long term.

Going local creates more choice. Locally owned businesses pick the items and

products they sell based on what they know you like and want. They carry a wider array of unique products because they buy for an individual market helped built by you.

Going local invests in our community’s creativity and entrepreneurship. Local businesses are owned and operated by your neighbors.

They build strong communities by sustaining vibrant town centers, linking us all in a web of economic and social relationships, and contributing to local causes. Local ownership ensures that important decisions are made by people who live in our community and who will feel the impacts of those decisions. They are invested in the well-being of our community and its future.

Citizens for a Better Flathead publishes this guide. We are a community-minded non-profit organization advocating for local businesses and celebrating their success.

By going local you nurture our community and embrace what makes the Flathead Valley unique.

Thank you for that!

Richard Turbiak Executive Director

JOIN THE GO LOCAL COMMUNITY Reach out to us to learn more! web: golocalflathead.org phone: 406.756.8993 email: golocal@golocalflathead.org Find us on Facebook and Instagram.

We love hearing from you.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS This guide wouldn’t be possible without the heartfelt dedication of our staff members Allison Batch and Linda Jaquette, and our enthusiastic volunteers, as well as the many locally owned, independent businesses in the Flathead Valley.

Special thanks to George and Elma Giavasis of Highline Design Company for helping us create a platform from which our local business owners can shine.

Thank you to Mandy Mohler of Field Guide Designs and Chris and Amy Messenger of Archer Messenger for adding a bit of buff to this luster.

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CONTENTS CONTENTS

34 ON OUR COVER Lou Pickavance, Find Your Lanes, p. 34 Pick’s Bowling Center in Bigfork Jewelry: Pom Studs by Goldust Jewelry (shopgoldust.com) Photography: Mandy Mohler (fieldguidedesigns.com)

If you are a locally owned business or writer and would like more information about how to be included in the next issue of Go Local Flathead Valley, give us a call at 756-8993, or email golocal@golocalflathead.org.

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FEATURES 14

THE SCHOOL HOUSE ROCKS Celebrating 20 years with the Museum at Central School.

BY GIL JORDAN

19

AGAINST THE GRAIN Quality, local craftsmanship at Lower Valley Woodworking.

BY TERRY MEYERS

29

WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT YOUR FLAIR Downtown Kalispell’s wittiest gift shop.

BY MARY JO GARDNER

34

FIND YOUR LANES Bowling in Bigfork with family and friends.

BY ALLISON BATCH

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14 EDITORIALS 24 MAKING IT IN THE FLATHEAD Making Montana hosts it’s sixth annual event in February.

BY ALLISON BATCH 40 NO HILL REQUIRED Enjoying the Montana backcountry through Nordic Skiing.

BY DON BAUDER 45 PEACE OF MIND Supporting mental wellness in our local community.

BY HARRIS MONTANYE

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24

76

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS

LOCAL BUSINESS GUIDE

54 CURATIVE YOGA Bettering the mind, body, and spirit.

BY KATIE CANTRELL 62 UPTOWN HEARTH Baking the world a better place.

BY JANE ELLEN SEXTON 76 BADASS BABE JEWELRY Jewelry from spent ammunition.

BY LINDA JAQUETTE 89 Q&A: NORTHWIND SHIRT CO. Local gift shop and screen printing.

BY PIPPI ROBBEN

52 BIGFORK BUSINESS GUIDE

10 BUSINESS INDEX

58 COLUMBIA FALLS/WEST GLACIER BUSINESS GUIDE 65 KALISPELL BUSINESS GUIDE 84 LAKESIDE/SOMERS BUSINESS GUIDE 87 WHITEFISH BUSINESS GUIDE 96 CALENDAR OF FLATHEAD VALLEY EVENTS

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INDEX OF BUSINESSES

BUSINESS GUIDE

BIGFORK

KALISPELL

Measure, Sampsel, Sullivan & O’Brien, P.C. (p.80)

ACCOMMODATIONS

ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT

MontanaSky Networks (p.32)

Valley Maintenance and Property Management (p.33)

Here to Make Friends (p.38)

ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT

Snowline Acres (p.70)

Base Camp Bigfork (p.39) Brigadoon Orchards (p.55)

Holt Stage Hideaway (p.81) The Summit Medical Fitness Center (p.67)

Curative Yoga (p.55)

ARTS & CULTURE

Pick’s Bowling Center (p.33)

406 Woman (p.50) Conrad Mansion Museum

ARTS & CULTURE

(p.17)

Park Side Credit Union (p.5) Pets-Plus (p.78) Photo Video Plus (p.83) WasteNot Project (p.18) Whitefish Credit Union (p.12) Wild Horse Limousine

SHOPPING A Montana Home Orchard Project (p.68)

Field Guide Designs (p.27)

Brett Thuma Gallery (p.53)

Hockaday Museum of Art

Ricci Gertz Illustration & Design (p.53)

Montana Modern Fine Art

Buckaroo Bling (p.68)

Museum at Central School

Corvidae Drawings & Designs (p.73)

(p.69)

RESTAURANTS & BARS

(p.17)

Flathead Lake Brewing Co. (p.55)

Noble Dance (p.71) Paint Metal & Mud (p.6)

SERVICES Bigfork Brokers (p.53)

RESTAURANTS & BARS

SHOPPING

Bias Brewing (p.69)

Kehoe’s Agate Shop (p.57) Meissenburg Designs (p.53) Persimmon Gallery (p.57) The Good Stuff Botanicals (p.4)

Casa Mexico (p.79) Ceres Bakery (p.75) Dark Side Fermenters (p.71) Kalispell Brewing Co. (p.99) Norm’s Soda Fountain (p.72) Tailing Loop Winery (p.73)

COLUMBIA FALLS/ WEST GLACIER ACCOMODATIONS (p.64)

The Reclusive Moose (p.59)

RESTAURANTS & BARS Odd Fellows Coffee House (p.60)

Stonefly Lounge (p.64) Uptown Hearth & Azul Coffee Bar (p.61) Vaqueros (p.59)

SERVICES Park Side Credit Union (p.5)

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Remedies Lakeside (p.85)

WHITEFISH ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT Kris Kramer Coaching (p.88) Stumptown Art Studio (p.94)

Stumptown Vintage Photography (p.95)

ARTS & CULTURE

Gold Rush Pawn Company (p.66)

RESTAURANTS & BARS

Historic Downtown Kalispell (p.100)

Fleur Bake Shop (p.91)

Imagination Station Toys (p.83)

Kalispell Antiques Market (p.72)

Kettle Care Organics (p.23) Mountain Valley Foods (p.11) Potting Studio (p.83) (p.82)

(p.68)

Rose Mountain Floral (p.70)

Amazing Crepes (p.92) Zucca Marketplace Bistro (p.95)

SERVICES All Families Healthcare (p.93)

Five Star Rentals (p.93) Park Side Credit Union (p.5) Whitefish Barbershop (p.91) Whitefish Credit Union (p.12) Whitefish Massage Therapy (p.94)

SHOPPING Bookworks (p.92)

(p.81)

Sage & Cedar (p.28)

Calm Animal Care (p.79)

Sassafras (p.78)

Copperleaf Chocolat & Voyageur Booksellers (p.90)

Citizens for a Better Flathead (p.42)

Southside Consignment & Antiques (p.48)

Crystal Winters (p.88)

Evergreen Compounding Pharmacy (p.80)

The Bookshelf (p.67)

Hart Jewelers (p.90) Imagination Station Toys

J2 Business Products (p.74)

M and C Tire (p.66)

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(p.86)

Whitefish Dance (p.57)

Rocky Mountain Outfitter

SHOPPING

Loren’s Auto Repair (p.71) Maranatha Services (p.67)

The Montana House (p.60)

Purple Mountain Lavender

Gandy Dancer Gourmet Pepper (p.13)

AirWorks Heating and Cooling Solutions (p.44) Bushy Tail Screenprinting

Beargrass Leather (p.23)

The Walking Man Frame Shop & Gallery (p.91)

Powder Horn Trading Co.

Arrants Outdoors (p.43)

SHOPPING

Flathead Farmworks (p.81)

Able Body Shop (p.74)

Kalispell Regional Healthcare (p.13)

Perfect Cuts (p.59)

Flair Gifts & Cards (p.2)

Montana Marie (p.98)

Whitefish Credit Union (p.12)

Bad Rock Books (p.60)

Buckskin Clothier (p.80)

Whitefish Handcrafted Spirits (p.37)

Insty-Prints (p.75)

Freedom Bank (p.3)

Brix Bottleshop (p.75)

Kalispell Kreamery (p.73)

SERVICES

Glaciers Mountain Resort

Badass Babe (p.78)

The Simple Chef Catering (p.69)

Lower Valley Woodworking (p.86)

(p.68)

Bigfork Dance (p.57)

(p.17)

SERVICES

McGarvey, Heberling, Sullivan & Lacey, PC (p.82)

Go Local Flathead Valley

Western Outdoor (p.72) Wheaton’s Cycle (p.67) Wheeler Jewelry (p.66) Withey’s Health Foods (p.70)

SOMERS/LAKESIDE RESTAURANTS & BARS Somers Bay Café (p.86)

(p.83)

Nelson’s Ace Hardware (p.22)

Northwind Shirt Co. (p.88) Sage & Cedar (p.28) The Treasure Outpost (p.93)

Third Street Market (p.95) Whitefish Pottery (p.93)

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BUSINESS FEATURE

THE SCHOOL HOUSE ROCKS

For 20 years, The Museum at Central School has brought the community together over the shared history of the Flathead Valley. BY GIL JORDAN

124 years ago, the fledgling town of Kalispell was little more than a few wooden business structures on Main Street and a scattering of homesteader log cabins spread around the valley. But the area was growing, and when those early citizens decided in 1894 to erect their very first substantial stone and brick building, their choice was to build a school. And they did it right, spending $20,000 (a lot in 1894) and using locally made bricks and materials to create a majestic four-story edifice in the impressive Richardsonian-Romanesque architectural style. If you’ve passed by the glorious old landmark, which now houses a history museum at 2nd Avenue and 2nd Street East, but never stopped to check it out, it is worth a look, both inside and out.

The building began as an elementary school, and transitioned over nearly 100 years of educational service as a junior high, high school, and finally, from 1969-89, was part of Flathead Valley Community College before they moved to their new campus up on the hill. Suffering from a lack of upkeep, the deteriorating structure was boarded up and left vacant for nearly a decade, until a tiny but dedicated band of intrepid history buffs began agitating for the City of Kalispell to spend $2.4 million in tax increment funds to fully restore Central School so the Northwest Montana Historical Society could take charge and create a museum of local history.

The new history museum opened in January of 1999 with a photographic display. Over the next 20 years, the Northwest Montana Historical Society has mounted some 110 semi-permanent and temporary rotating exhibits and displays.

THE MUSEUM AT

CENTRAL SCHOOL was the first substantial brick building built in Kalispell.

JACOB THOMAS, the Executive Director at the Museum of Central School.

WHAT WILL YOU see if you visit today? First and foremost, out-ofarea visitors and Flathead Valley residents alike will be entertained and informed by a professionally designed and constructed History of the Flathead Valley exhibit. Visitors will learn about early valley settlers, transportation (horse-drawn wagons, railroads, steamboats), early agriculture, recreation, local communities, communication, and specific historic stories about the old steel bridge, the little red dress, and the 2016 discovery, recovery, and display of artifacts from the 54-foot pleasure boat KeeO-Mee launched in 1928 and burned and sunk eight years later 50 feet deep in Flathead Lake. The History of the Flathead Valley exhibit is a fun, efficient way to learn and orient yourself to the area you live in or are visiting.

What else will you see and learn from at the Museum at Central School? Indians of the Northwest is one of four large semi-permanent exhibits featured. Hailed by students of Indian culture and native peoples alike, this exhibit has drawn praise as one of the more authentic collections of Indian artifacts and history ever assembled in Northwest Montana.

The exhibit includes tools and weap16

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ons made of bone and stone, beaded items, clothing both old and new of hide, trade cloth and muslin, toys of Indian children, and a full-size Indian tipi lodge. Educational displays tell the story of ceremonial pipes, the importance of the buffalo, the nature of native societies and religion, the use of natural ingredients for medicines, foods and paints, hide preparation, baskets, ceremonial drums, and typical camp life. Taken together these rare and diverse artifacts and stories reveal much about the Golden Age of the Indian from 1750 to 1875.

This is an Indian-based exhibit of unusual authenticity not to be missed.

More wonders of local history can be gained from an exhibit on the Flathead Valley timber and logging industry, and another exhibit on valley pioneer Frank Bird Linderman.

The Museum also features many smaller rotating exhibits and displays presented from time to time as historic material becomes available, and boasts a bookstore with more titles on local and Montana history than any other Northwest Montana venue.

ON A PERSONAL NOTE, I enjoyed the creative and logistical challenges of serving for 12 years as the Executive Director of the Museum at Central School and Northwest Montana Historical Society, from 2005 to 2017.

The Museum at Central School is now in the good hands of new Execu-

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tive Director Jacob Thomas, a young museum professional, originally from a Detroit suburb with museum experience in both Michigan and Texas.

He applied for this position in part because, in the summer following his freshman year in college, he lived in Glacier National Park while working at the Many Glacier Hotel, and liked our area so much he returned the next two summers. On beginning the job, Jacob remarked, “I hope that my time in Kalispell will be marked by making this wonderful museum more accessible, so that we have the opportunity to grow our history like ever before, continually adding new stories and experiences, and expanding our reach into the community and region.”

The Museum offers many wonderful opportunities to learn local history, attend cultural events, benefit from a variety of volunteer opportunities, or even take advantage of utilizing two large, elegant meeting rooms available for rent at reasonable rates. The Museum at Central School is a great place – check it out.

The Museum at Central School is located at 124 Second Avenue East in Kalispell. The museum’s winter hours are 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday (open Saturdays summer only). Learn more at www.yourmuseum.org or contact them at (406) 756-8381.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Gil Jordan lives in Coram, seven miles from Glacier National Park. He serves on the Board of Directors for Citizens for a Better Flathead.

Photo by Mandy Mohler from Field Guide Designs

BUSINESS FEATURE

Lower Valley Woodworking grew a part-time passion project into a busy custom woodworking shop focused on quality craftsmanship and customer communication.

BY TERRY MEYERS

Photos by Archer Messenger

The small, 16x30 foot shop features a surprising amount of work space between various saws, a planer and shaper, other woodworking tools, plus dust collectors, clamps, and rustic doors ready to deliver.

BETWEEN THE SLOUGH AND THE ANTIQUE STORE AT THE NORTH EDGE OF SOMERS, YOU’LL FIND JIM ASK’S LOWER VALLEY WOODWORKING. 20

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He calls it “small space efficiency.” Stock is everywhere: eight-foot slabs of blue-stain pine by the side door, stickered barn wood drying on high shelves, a lumber rack on the far wall. He shows me his panel clamping set up, and the area where he hinges the doors and installs hardware.

An almost-finished buck-braced door on the workbench has such an incredible weathered, gray patina that I just have to touch it and marvel. The place has natural light and smells good.

Jim Ask was born in Somers and grew up helping his father refinish furniture and playing around with different tools in his shop. He built chessboards and bird houses in shop class at Flathead High School. He received a two-year degree from Flathead Valley Community College in Fine Arts, then began his journey into woodworking.

HIS FIRST JOB IN THE INDUSTRY was peeling logs at Frontier Furniture just down the road. He’s also worked in some of the cabinet shops and door shops around the valley, as well as in lumber mills. He was one of the finish carpenters on Michael Goguen’s mansion in Whitefish.

Jim eventually had his hand in every phase of the industry, lending him incredible knowledge and skill in the woodworking arts.

Jim started his business in his own storage shed next door, an 8x10 uninsulated space that was a trial during cold and wet weather. It began as a passion project, with Jim working in the shop on the weekends and evenings while also working a full-time job. Eventually, he started Photos by Archer Messenger

NOT A SMOOTH TALKER OR A SALESMAN; JUST A QUIET, SHY GUY WHO BUILDS DOORS.

getting enough business that he could expand. He’s been repurposing barn wood and working local wood in his present location (which he affectionately calls a “mansion of a wood shop”) for around seven years.

Lower Valley Woodworking is now furnishing heirloom doors and tables to high-end places like Iron Horse, Glacier National Park, and as far away as Missoula and the Yellowstone Club, as well as to local homeowners across the Flathead. He also creates custom furniture – beds, dressers, coffee tables, etc. – according to clients’ specif-

ic dimensions and tastes. He is a one-man operation and is currently booked out three to four months. Jim doesn’t complain about too much work, but admits that he might need to expand again in the future.

Part of that expansion could include a small saw mill to mill his own lumber. He already has the knowledge and a large truck for hauling logs. The challenge of that new direction does not bother him either; in fact, he likes challenges. Like the time a family brought in their old branding irons wondering if they could be legs on a rustic table.

He showed me that and many other creations in his photo album which also includes plans and 3-D drawings to help customers visualize an idea. Jim enjoys meeting and working with his customers, furnishing custom-made, rustic quality heirloom doors and tables, which, with him, become part of their family history.

JIM SAYS he is, “Not a smooth talker or a salesman; just a quiet, shy guy who builds doors.” He has built quite a reputation through mainly word-of-mouth advertising that has brought him more work than he can handle. “Doors are the first thing you see up close at a house,” he says. And his doors are unique, hand-made creations. “Not something stamped out by a robot.”

When not in his shop, Jim is camping, swimming, and enjoying life with his family in this great place we call The Flathead!

Lower Valley Woodworking is located at 200 Highway 82 in Somers. You can find more information, including examples of Jim’s past work, at www.lowervalleywoodworking.com.

Contact Jim at (406) 309-0723 or lowervalleywoodworking@gmail.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Terry Meyers has loved living in the Flathead since 1982. He enjoys adventures with his standard poodle Bella leading the way.

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EDITORIAL

MAKING IT IN THE FLATHEAD Making Montana offers a unique celebration of local invention and innovation.

BY ALLISON BATCH

S

omewhere along the way, in the name of progress, we lost the common knowledge of how things are made. Crafts that we could once witness our neighbor creating in their shop down the street faded away, and in their place popped up large boxes where we could purchase all of the items on our lists at once. Items magically appeared on shelves and we didn’t have to worry about all of the different steps they took to get there.

The Maker Movement is aiming to change that. Called “the Greatest Show and Tell on Earth,” Maker Faires aim to showcase the art of making. The events celebrate invention, creativity, and resourcefulness, and encourage people to get curious about how everyday objects are made. People take things apart, put them back together, make things from scratch, and dive into the technology behind the items we take for granted. Maker Faires promote the idea that making is a common thread throughout humanity, and can bring us together regardless of age, background, or beliefs.

The first Maker Faire took place in the San Francisco Bay Area in 2006, organized by the creators of Make: magazine.

The events have since spread across the globe. In 2017, close to 200 “Mini” Maker Faires (independently produced community events), plus over 30 “Featured” Maker Faires (larger-scale regional events), took place throughout the United States and in over 30 other countries.

Photos courtesy of The Kalispell Making Montana Fair

ONE OF THOSE EVENTS is our very own Kalispell Mini Maker Faire.

The 2019 Faire will be the sixth annual event hosted in the Flathead – the only Maker Faire in the state of Montana. Taking place at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in February, the event draws over 3,000 people of all ages over two days.

New partnerships and collaborations have been crucial for growing the event to this size. ImagineIF Libraries and Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC) were the first partners to bring the Mini Maker Faire to Kalispell in 2014. In 2017, the Center for Manufacturing Advancement at Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC) approached them with the idea to add a Manufacturing and Technology Expo to the event.

It was a mutually beneficial relationship to grow engagement for

The expanded, two-day event is called Making Montana.

MAKING MONTANA begins with the Manufacturing and Technology Expo on Friday. Teachers bring field trips from schools across the valley.

Local companies demonstrate their

Called “the Greatest Show and Tell on Earth,” Maker Faires aim to showcase the art of making. both events and reach a new demographic. “Having manufacturers has added a really interesting component, because it puts the applied piece to the event,” says Megan Glidden, senior librarian with ImagineIF. “People can see that making and tinkering can lead to something that’s so much more. That it can turn into a career. And the skills you gain from it can be applied in different ways, with fantastic results.”

Montana West Economic Development, Kalispell Chamber of Commerce, Job Service Kalispell, and School District 5 have all come on board as well, adding to the applied economic development perspective of the organizing team.

process and engage students with hands-on activities.

Saturday is the Mini Maker Faire, which features the work of all types of makers with interactive exhibits and on-stage demonstrations. Since the events are closely linked, most booths stay for both days and see students from Friday bringing their families back on Saturday.

Around 60 exhibits were set up at the event in 2018 from a wide range of industries. From large manufacturing businesses like SmartLam and Applied Materials, to small artisan shops like Kettle Care Organics and Sweet Peaks Ice Cream, all sorts of makers demonstrated and taught attendees how their products are made.

Student groups from area schools also participated, like the Montana Code Girls and the Glacier High School Tech Club, so students could teach their peers about technology and making.

The hands-on learning atmosphere has been popular with the public.

“We’ve had great feedback,” Megan remarks. “We’ve had a lot of people who were inspired by it. We had one story where a gentleman actually found a job as the result of coming.

Teachers have said that by highlighting 21st century skills we’re making their job easier, which is awesome.

That’s what we’re trying to do, to provide education in different ways and spark that curiosity for people.”

MAKING MONTANA CENTERS on four 21st Century Skills that the organizers have identified as commonplace skills needed at all types of workplaces: Collaboration, Creativity, Communication, and Problem-Solving. As stated on their promotional materials, “The purpose is to grow the next generation of innovators; ensuring a thriving local economy well into the future.”

According to the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce, manufacturing now makes up 29% of the Flathead’s basic industry earnings, playing a vital role in our local economy. It’s clear

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STUDENT GROUPS from area schools also participated, like the Montana Code Girls.

that these are skills worth investing in.

The organizers believe this could have far-reaching benefits for both students entering the jobs field and for manufacturing and technology businesses. The perceived “skills gap” means that employers are not able to find people with the technical experience to fill open positions. As our world becomes increasingly computer-based, jobs are following suit, requiring higher levels of technical knowledge than ever before.

Megan explains, “A lot of manufacturers are interested in getting people into jobs. So we’re working with manufacturers and working with teachers to start getting kids ready for jobs like that, at a younger age. Getting them excited and reframing the industry so that kids think of manufacturing and technology as cool. Which it is!” And Megan thinks that these efforts are starting to work. “I think that kids are more open-minded to career opportunities in those fields now. For us, it’s a long-term investment in the kids.”

But the focus isn’t only on the students. The organizers also want to bridge the gap from the employers’ side to show that there may be less of a disparity than they think.

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“We’re also interested in helping manufacturers see what students are learning in schools today, and that they are learning a lot of those skills, so maybe it’s a matter of translating them and figuring out how to best apply them. So we want to open both groups’ minds and try to close that skills gap.”

Whether you’re exploring a career path or just curious about how things work, Making Montana is an inspirational, fascinating event for people from all walks of life – and in the dead of winter, when we need it the most! Mark it on your calendar and get back to knowing how things are made.

Making Montana will be on Saturday, February 16th from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM at the Flathead County Fairgrounds Expo Building. Want to host an exhibit? Learn more at kalispell.makerfaire.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Allison Batch is the Sustainability Programs Coordinator for Citizens for a Better Flathead.

She lives in Kalispell.

Photo courtesy of The Kalispell Making Montana Fair

BUSINESS FEATURE

A

BY MARY JO GARDNER

How a love for funky finds and Office Space inspired Kalispell’s wittiest gift shop.

ccording to the dictionary; flair: 1. a special or instinctive aptitude or ability for doing something well, talent, gift, instinct, natural ability 2. stylishness and originality, style, elegance, pizazz, poise and good taste. Sara and Ryan Berweger truly have a flair for flair. Their Main Street shop, Flair Gifts & Cards, offers a unique and fun shopping experience where one finds an eclectic mix of gifts, jewelry, greeting cards, souvenirs, art, home decor, wearables, accessories, and more.

Originally from Oregon, Sara and Ryan came to Montana in 2005 to work one summer in Glacier National Park. They sold their house, bought a motorhome, and planned to live and work near different National Parks every year. They fell in love with Glacier and never managed to leave. Starting as a cashier and a freight handler, Sara and Ryan were eventually promoted to running all four gift shops for the West Glacier Mercantile Company.

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WHEN THE West Glacier Mercantile Company sold to new corporate interests in 2014, “We thought it was a good time to make a leap and open our own store, which we had been dreaming about for a while,” Sara shares. The pair knew they wanted a fun and funky shop. “When we would travel in the off-season, we’d see the same sorts of things in many of the corporate-run shops. Our goal was to make sure our store was unique and special.”

It was an ambitious undertaking and a labor of love.

In late summer of 2014, the couple cashed in their meager 401(k)s and signed a lease at the KM Building.

Ryan began the carpentry work and built displays while Sara focused on merchandising. “We are 50/50 partners.

Ryan tends to do a lot of the building, maintenance, and clean up, but we help each other out.”

Flair Boutique opened its doors on November 1, 2014. Looking back, they are surprised and flattered by the loyalty of the locals that continued to come back after a modest beginning. They would often receive compliments from their customers that the shop had items that couldn’t be found anywhere else.

The couple took turns staffing the store through its first three years, building the inventory and reputation of the shop until it was overstuffed. With help from family and friends, Flair Boutique moved from its original location to a space they remodeled at 123 Main Street in May of 2018, renamed as Flair Gifts & Cards.

The move has been a game changer. Flair has been able to use the extra space to stock more variety and depth of their offerings while incorporating more breathing room in between.

“About a third of the items stocked at Flair are sourced from local makers in Montana.”

Now two employees, Pattie and Brenda, are part of the team. They both help choose new items for the shop, expanding the “personality” of Flair. Pattie chose some of the current best-selling greeting cards. Brenda picked out some of most irreverent and laugh-out-loud funny fridge magnets. One of the workers’ favorite things about their jobs is listening to people laughing and chuckling as they move about the store.

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Sara and Ryan recognized that a small business survives and thrives by supporting as many other local businesses as possible. They sought out local providers like Gina at SnowGhost Design in Kalispell to do the logo and branding. About a third of the items stocked at Flair are sourced from local makers in Montana. Tees and hoodies are designed and printed in Kalispell by Dawson Supply. One can peruse prints of beautiful handpainted historical maps of local places by Kalispell artist Lisa Middleton. Flair stocks every variety of Hurraw! lip balm from Whitefish. Huckleberry products are supplied by Huckleberry Haven just outside of Glacier National Park.

A collection of zany and sassy socks, dishtowels, bags, coin purses, and gag gifts from Blue Q are featured at Flair.

One percent of all Blue Q sales supports humanitarian and environmental initiatives around the globe. Blue Q’s mission statement is: “We just want you to be happy. No really, that’s it.” It makes perfect sense that Sara and Ryan would partner with such a fun company.

Photos by Archer Messenger

THE BERWEGER’S FAVORITE parts of owning their own business is the freedom to make their own rules and decisions, and the opportunity to be creative. Sara paused and giggled when I asked her how they chose the name Flair. In the movie Office Space an employee of a corporate restaurant is reprimanded daily for failing to wear the required number of pieces of flair on her uniform. Sara wanted her business to have flair – but for it to come about in a fun and voluntary way.

Another favorite perk is bringing their dogs Mystique and Marvel with them to work. Yes, Flair Gifts & Cards is dog friendly! In fact, your doggie might even get a Montana-made dog treat if they come shopping with you.

Who would be a typical customer? Sara replies, “Literally everybody.” One guy told her, “I hate shopping but I love Flair. There are so many fun things to look at and so much variety.” An online review from a customer reads, “With everything from funny to fine art this boutique is a wonderful place to shop for everyone on your list! The owners are way cool down-to-earth people. The atmosphere is inviting and the merchandise is affordable on every level.”

Come visit at 123 Main Street in Kalispell and see for yourself why the team there says, “Flair is Fun!”

Flair Gifts & Cards is open seven days a week. 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Monday through Saturday and 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Sunday. Shop online at www.flairmt.com.

Contact at (406) 407-7210 or flairmt@gmail.com. Gift boxing and wrapping are free and they ship anywhere in the U.S. ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary Jo Gardner is a fifth-generation Flathead Valley resident. A grade school teacher for almost 40 years, she is now enjoying retirement in Kalispell.

RYAN AND SARA BERWEGER, owners of the witty Main Street gift shop, Flair Gifts & Cards (below).

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BUSINESS FEATURE

Find Your Lanes

Pick’s Bowling Center in Bigfork centers on family, community, and a love of bowling.

BY ALLISON BATCH 34

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L

ou Pickavance is a bowler. “I am absolutely a bowling addict. I love it! It’s been a great way to meet new people, everywhere I’ve lived.”

Lou first encountered her love of bowling when her youngest son David started kindergarten. They were living in Boise, Idaho and she joined a church league. “That’s where I got hooked on it. And I’ve been with bowling ever since.”

As the owner of Pick’s Bowling Center in Bigfork, bowling has become both her business and her beloved pastime. But it was a journey to get here. Lou and her husband Dennis moved out west to escape the heat and bugs of South Florida, where they had run a successful business building homes for many years.

They eventually made their way to Montana, first landing in the Gallatin Valley.

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Bigfork but did not love retirement, so they decided to take on a new venture. In 2000, the Pickavances purchased North Shore Lanes, a bowling alley that was built in 1980 on Flathead Lake.

The new business undertaking also gave their son Dave and daughter Diane a reason to return to Montana. Both were living in Las Vegas, and Diane was raising five children.

While Lou and Dennis went to visit

“ People love knowing the family who runs a bowling center.

Bowling is a familyoriented business.”

The rustic nature of the state both shocked and enchanted them. “We were not from this part of the country where you’ve got wild animals close by, your driveway isn’t paved, people have got horses in their front yards!” Lou laughed. “But that’s the beauty of it. We fell in love with it.”

In 1989, they moved north to the Flathead Valley, drawn by Dennis’ love of water to be close to Flathead Lake. They loved the community of

them frequently, “We wanted to bring them home.”

The Pickavances ran North Shore Lanes for eight years, until it became obvious that they needed to give up the location. “The old building was starting to groan, and was costing us a lot of money.”

But Dennis was entirely committed to the business, Lou explained.

“He was the driving force. He wanted this place so bad.” Although, ironically, he was not a bowler himself. The community aspect of the business was the real motivator for Dennis.

“He did not want to leave Bigfork without a bowling center.”

The Pickavances began their search for a new location to build their own bowling center. They needed a piece of land large enough for the expanded building to sit on, but still connected to city services. They found the perfect fit on Montana 82, just before you turn right onto Montana 35 to drive into Bigfork from Kalispell.

Photos by Mandy Mohler from Field Guide Designs

CONSTRUCTION broke ground in February 2008. But tragedy struck the family soon after. In July, as the bowling lanes were beginning to be installed in the new building, Dennis passed away. Lou knew she had to finish what they had started together, to see his vision realized. She had to quickly become an expert on construction of a bowling center as she was coping with the loss of her husband of 48 years.

“He loved this place more than anything, so I had to finish the construction for it. And I’m not good at that, but I started relying on the advice of other people,” Lou explained.

“I started taking trips over to Portland and Seattle to see what the latest and greatest was in bowling centers.

That’s how we came up with this design. This is it.”

LOU PICKAVANCE, owner and Chief Troublemaker at Pick's Bowling Center (below).

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PICK’S BOWLING CENTER was built with state-of-theart technology found in bowling centers in much larger cities. The scoring is digitalized (so no cheating!) and displayed on 42-inch monitors above the lanes. Bumpers can be set up for individual bowlers so they rise and drop depending on

whose turn it is, allowing all ages to bowl together.

Along with 20 bowling lanes, Pick’s houses an arcade area, a separate bar and casino, and a snack bar where they serve “the best pizza in Bigfork” along with other grill items and salads. There are “boutique” lanes that include couches and ottomans.

Lou’s favorite addition? Cosmic bowling. “It’s like a nightclub atmosphere. It’s just amazing.” The main lights are turned off and the flashing dance lights come on. The lanes are illuminated with black lights that bring out special designs on the tables and chairs. They turn the jukebox way up. “Let me tell you, it’s rocking.”

But at the heart of Pick’s Bowling Center remains family. “People love knowing the family who runs a bowling center. It’s just natural. Bowling is a family-oriented business.” And Pick’s is certainly carrying on that tradition, with four generations now taking part.

Lou is the self-declared “Chief Troublemaker,” and handles the bookkeeping. Her daughter Diane runs most of the day-to-day operations. Two of her granddaughters share the bar and casino operations. Her grandson Kyle is learning the behind-the-scenes mechanics from their head mechanic Gus. Her son David had been an integral part of 36

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the operations until about a year ago, when he decided to step back. He still comes in to help when needed, especially in the Pro Shop that Pick’s houses on site. And she has multiple great-grandchildren now learning to bowl on the lanes she built.

When asked who’s the best bowler in the family, Lou immediately says, “My son.” She recounts a night when David bowled two perfect 300 games back-toback. Lou’s personal best is 268, which she bowled in Wichita, Kansas during the National Competitions.

But the most important part of the sport to Lou is what drew her to it originally – the community people find here.

People who are new to town often tell her, “I am so glad I came in here, because I have met so many people.” Multiple leagues are active at Pick’s, and they host fundraisers and parties for many local businesses and organizations. She’s working on getting their youth program restarted to bring kids and teenagers to the sport.

This spring, Pick’s has the honor of co-hosting the Women’s State Tournament with Pin & Cue in Whitefish. From April to May, they’ll house the best bowlers from all over Montana – the first time for the Flathead since 1998. Lou has been working hard to get the tournament here because she knows it’s good for the whole valley – local hotels, restaurants, and shops will all benefit from visitors, especially during the slow shoulder season.

The local community relationship keeps Dennis’ memory alive for the family. “He was a special guy. We miss him so much. He just loved people. It would have been so fun to see him mixing with people in here, making fun of them,” Lou laughed. “And he had an infectious laugh. He had this great big belly laugh that just made everyone around him laugh. And you know laughter is a great thing.”

And his nickname “Pick” lives on as the name of the bowling center that he was dedicated to bringing to the people of Bigfork.

Pick’s Bowling Center is located at 2849 MT-82 in Bigfork and is open seven days a week starting at 11:00 AM. Learn more at www.picksbowl.com or by calling (406) 837-2233.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Allison Batch is the Sustainability Programs Coordinator for Citizens for a Better Flathead.

She lives in Kalispell.

HAPPIEST HOURS ($5 COCKTAIL SPECIALS) 2pm-5pm TUESDAY –THURSDAY LIVEVARIOUSMUSIC ARTISTS JAM NIGHT EVERY THURSDAY FROM 6pm - 8pm

EDITORIAL

NO HILL REQUIRED

BY DON BAUDER

Nordic skiing is a slower-paced approach to enjoying incredible winter scenery in the Flathead (while also getting a killer workout).

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N

ordic historians often trace the beginnings of cross-country skiing to the year 1206 during Norway’s civil war, when the Birkebeinar political party skied the heir to the throne, two-year old Haakon Haakonson, to safety over two mountain ranges and a distance of 55 kilometers. The much-celebrated king, often referred to as Haakon the Good, ruled for 46 years

Photo by Marion Lacy, from the collection of E.B. Gilliland

Two nordic skiers on Avalanche Lake circa 1960.

and is rumored to have sent his tax collectors out on skis.

From the Norse word meaning “stick of wood,” skis provided an essential and efficient means of winter mobility. Used even in the military, soldiers trained on skis to gain strategic advantage over their adversaries, as they could out maneuver the slower foot soldiers.

Over the centuries, cross-country skiing has evolved from a means of rudimentary transportation to recreational activity and sport. Norwegian immigrants brought skiing to this country in the 1800s, and it gradually developed from an activity of necessity to one of recreation. As Americans found increased opportunities for leisure, winter enthusiasts could strap on skis and discover the joys of silently gliding through the frozen landscapes of meadows, forests, and mountains.

Beginning with the Norwegian military in the 1700s, and then with the general skiing public the following century, cross-country ski racing began and would continue in popularity to become an event in the Olympics in 1924. The first Norwegian Birkebeiner ski race, to honor the beloved king, began in 1932 and requires competitors to ski 54 kilometers carrying a 5.5-kilogram pack on their back, to symbolize the child king. The American and Canadian Birkebeiner races would follow in 1973 and 1985 respectively. Each race draws thousands of participants every year.

Initially, skiers used one long, heavy pole to push themselves along the snow on wooden skis. Eventually, in spite of resistance from Norwegians, the “Finnish” method of using two poles took hold and remains to

this day. Skis and poles were first made of wood, but with the introduction of aluminum, fiberglass, and carbon fiber, skiing technology radically changed. Today’s ski equipment is lighter, stronger, and has revolutionized the sport.

Likewise, new skiing technique has evolved. For most of its history, cross-country skiers propelled themselves using “classic” technique, or striding, in two parallel tracks, by literally walking on snow with intermittent glides. But beginning in the mid 1990s, competitive skiers looking for an advantage began using a pushing or “skate” motion against their competitors. American skier Bill Koch drew attention from the International Ski Federation, which then sought to ban skating technique from ski competitions.

Eventually, as more and more skiers began to perfect skating, ski officials relented and split cross-country ski racing into two separate disciplines: Classic and Skating. With the advent of skating technique, and the increase in skiing popularity overall, a need for more consistent skiing conditions followed.

Technology has played an important role in improving grooming methods. Horse-drawn classic track setters have been replaced with snowmobiles and snow machines, which pull various implements for setting classic ski tracks and grooming skating lanes.

The Flathead Valley has deep Nordic roots. Those who make this place home have sought to preserve their Nordic heritage with cross-country skiing. With abundant winter snow and breathtaking landscapes, the early residents enjoyed skiing our farmland, state and national forests, and Glacier National Park. Today, a skier can choose between the solitude of breaking trail on our beautiful public

lands, or the thrill of gliding effortlessly on groomed trails at one of our many Nordic Centers. Cross-country skiing is a beautiful, healthy, and relaxing way to enjoy our wonderful Montana winters.

Fall/Winter 2018

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Don Bauder serves on the Board of Directors for the North Shore Nordic Club. An avid bicycle and nordic ski racer, he lives on Flathead Lake in Bigfork.

LOCAL NORDIC CENTERS: Big Mountain Nordic Trails: Glacier Nordic Club | 3315 Big Mountain Rd, Whitefish Bigfork Community Nordic Center: North Shore Nordic Club | 4643 Foothill Rd, Kalispell Blacktail Mountain Nordic Trails: North Shore Nordic Club | Borglacktail Rd, Lakeside Round Meadows: United States Forest Service | Star Meadows Rd, Whitefish Whitefish Lake Golf Course: Glacier Nordic Club | 1200 US 93, Whitefish

SALES AND RENTALS: Base Camp Bigfork: 8525 MT-35, Bigfork Glacier Cyclery and Nordic: 326 E Second St, Whitefish Rocky Mountain Outfitter: 135 S Main St, Kalispell Sportsman & Ski Haus: 145 Hutton Ranch Rd, Kalispell, or 6475 US-93, Whitefish

CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS: Glacier Nordic Club: Whitefish | glaciernordicclub.com North Shore Nordic Club: Bigfork/ Lakeside | northshorenordic.org

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EDITORIAL

ARE YOU? Mental wellness begins with an honest answer.

PEACE OF MIND How to support mental wellness in yourself and your community.

BY HARRIS MONTANYE

M

ental wellness – the ability to successfully negotiate the internal and external challenges presented by life – is something we can, and should, all be working towards.

Just as one can be physically well, so too can we be mentally well. You don’t have to wait until you are mentally ill in order to take care of your mental wellness, just as you would not wait to become sick before eating healthy foods or engaging in exercise.

For some, mental wellness comes easily. For others, mental wellness is more elusive and requires effort to achieve. Further, mental wellness (or illness) does not happen in isolation (though it is often worsened by isolation). The people of the Flathead Valley are lucky to have many local, qualified professionals, access to countless resources on the internet, and a community that is increasingly accepting of mental wellness as a core component of a good life.

Image courtesy of CSA-Archive

Flathead Valley community member Amanda Marlin explains how her relationship to experiencing anxiety in her life has changed over the years.

Amanda is a mother, a climber, and a nurse, and opens up about how anxiety has been a part of her life experience. “I have had anxiety since… always,” she says. However, she wasn’t always as accepting or open about her difficulties. She often saw it as a “struggle,” whereas now she sees it as an “asset.” Indeed, many folks share a sense of acceptance as transformative. Further, when they were able to find such acceptance in their community, they felt even more relief.

CREATING A SUPPORT TEAM begins with engaging in open conversation with family, friends, and community members. It

begins by answering the common question of “how are you?” with an honest answer that reflects your current state of being, rather than an automated response of “I’m good.”

Hilary Shaw, a mother, a Flathead community member for over 12 years, and the current Executive Director at the Abbie Shelter, experienced postpartum depression after her first child was born. At that time, she stopped saying she was “good” and started telling people what was going

"With the highest suicide rate in the country, Montanans are undoubtedly suffering in silence."

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on. Through this small shift in her behavior, Hilary experienced newfound acceptance not only from others, but in herself as well.

She explains, “It felt really good to say I actually am having a really hard time. I just got diagnosed with postpartum depression. I am getting a lot of support and I have a really great counselor but this is really hard and I’ve never experienced this before.” Doing this didn’t make for a two-hour long conversation on the park

You don’t have to wait until you are mentally ill in order to take care of your mental wellness, just as you would not wait to become sick before eating healthy foods or engaging in exercise. bench, rather, it allowed her to keep living her life and showing up authentically with her community.

Like Hilary, many of us are conditioned to say we are “fine” and to reveal little about our struggles. Mental health problems carry stigma unlike physical or dental issues. As such, we must work a little harder to be forthcoming and to create a culture in which it is healthy to say we’re feeling a little unhealthy.

For this, and other reasons, many individuals do not have an established connection with a mental health provider.

Often, we wait until things are really bad before seeking help – if we seek help at all. With the highest suicide rate in the country, Montanans are undoubtedly suffering in silence. We are alone, too often, in facing all that life sends our way. It does not have to be as such. Amanda explains that having a therapist to talk to and having a list of workbooks and daily practices have been foundational in aiding her live her life and to understand herself more fully.

MANY INDIVIDUALS experience mental illness as a result of not learning effective means of coping with life’s struggles. Perhaps they have not faced many challenges prior to a major life trauma or perhaps they came from a family that never talked about feelings. There are many reasons why people struggle, but there are few good reasons why people should have to continue to struggle.

Therapists – individuals who have either a Master’s or Doctoral degree in counseling, psychology, or social work 46

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– are trained to teach individuals the skills to thrive. Psychiatrists and medical doctors are available with numerous effective medications to treat anxiety, depression, and more serious illness. For those less keen on sitting and talking about feelings, there are countless resources available on the internet and through our libraries. What’s more, when a community openly talks about difficult things, the burden is lessened for each individual member and, as Hilary puts it so well, “The good thing about living in a close-knit community is you will find no shortage of people who care and want to hear how you are doing.”

Burket Kniveton, another Flathead community member, speaks about his experience engaging in mental wellness practices after the loss of his friend Ben Parsons, an accomplished Kalispell athlete killed in an avalanche in Glacier Park. “I think in the Flathead Valley when Ben Parsons passed away there was an interesting moment in time when we were all aware of our grieving, aware of our individual selves, and trying to be aware of each other as well.” He went on, “But it takes a lot of work to maintain that culture of checking in, and to maintain that level of support. That is not something that just keeps going. It’s a work in progress to be aware of each other’s well-being.” As Burket says, the journey towards mental wellness takes continuous effort of engaging with ourselves and engaging with our community.

The path to mental wellness is much clearer when we employ professionals to aid us in developing skills, when we honestly answer the question “How are you?” And when we take the time to develop our own set of tools and resources to handle the internal and external challenges that life proposes. In short, in a community that fosters mental wellness, we all may thrive.

Sweetgrass Psychological Services offers a range of services and is made up of trained clinicians who offer their knowledge and expertise on the fundamental aspects of the human experience; including trauma, grief, relationships, vulnerability, shame, emotional regulation, autism, addiction, and suffering. Sweetgrass offers both short-andlong term psychotherapy for individuals struggling with a variety of issues.

For more information on Sweetgrass Psychological Services please email assistant@sweetgrasspsycholgical.com or call us at (406) 298-5728.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Harris Montanye is a Psychometrist at Sweetgrass Psychological Services in Whitefish.

HOW TO TALK ABOUT IT What to do if someone talks to you about their mental wellness: Listen. Keep the conversation focused on them, not you.

Make yourself available to talk again if needed.

How to talk about your own struggles:

How to engage with folks around mental wellness: “Really, how are you doing?”

Reach out to someone you feel comfortable talking to.

If talking in person is intimidating, use text messaging or email “Lately, I have been feeling... I have been struggling with...”

“If you ever need to talk about something, I am here to listen.”

Think about mental health as a continuum. We all have our ups and downs in life.

RESOURCES Resources for Adults:

Children's Books:

Local Offerings:

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction: Free at palousemindfulness.com

There's No Such Thing as a Dragon

Whitefish Healing Arts Center: Mindfulnessbased Stress Reduction, Meditation, and more

When Dinosaurs Die

North Valley Hospital: Support Groups and Educational Classes on Grief, Postpartum Depression, and more

The Mindfulness & Acceptance Workbook for Anxiety Mediation Apps: Stop, Breath, & Think and Head Space Full Catastrophe Living by Jon Kabat-Zinn

The Fall of Freddie the Leaf Anh's Anger

Postpartum Resource Group: postpartumresourcegroup.org

In My Heart Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

The Abbie Shelter: Free therapy for anyone who has been through a D/V relationship or has been sexually assaulted

MENTAL HEALTH CLINICS AND GROUPS Kalispell:

Columbia Falls:

Whitefish:

Sunburst Community Service Foundation

Imagine Health

Sweetgrass Psychological Services

Western Montana Mental Health Center

Park View Transitions

Kalispell Regional Medical Center

North Valley Professional Center

North Valley Hospital

Abbie Shelter

Whitefish Healing Arts Center

Tamarack Grief Resource Center

Nate Chute Foundation

FLATHEAD VALLEY BUSINESS GUIDE ACCOMMODATIONS ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT ARTS & CULTURE RESTAURANTS & BARS SERVICES SHOPPING

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BUSINESS GUIDE

BIGFORK

Illustration & Design

RICCIGERTZ.com RICCIGERTZ

GMAIL.com

Brett Thuma Gallery Daybreak at Many Glacier, Oil

Downtown Bigfork (406) 837- 4604 brettthumagallery.com

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

INHALE // EXHALE Curative Yoga Bigfork combines balance and breath to better your mind, body, and spirit.

BY KATIE CANTRELL

I

used to take a yoga class from a woman who had biceps like a Marvel comic hero. She seemed to get great joy from demonstrating her physical superiority by chatting breezily while holding us in chaturanga dandasana (in layman’s terms, freezing yourself in the down part of a push-up) while we hoped the sweat would camouflage our tears.

Curative Yoga is not that yoga studio.

While I have no doubt that any of the instructors could breeze through a warrior pose while the quadriceps of everyone around them turned to mush, they instead choose warmth and encouragement.

HOLLY WIELKOSZEWSKI, studio manager at Curative Yoga Bigfork.

At a recent morning class, the regulars entered the cozy upstairs studio on Electric Avenue with smiles. They bantered about having a case of the occasionally wobbly) selves. And, most importantly, we Mondays and the likelihood of one of them tipping over, were encouraged to breathe. again, during a certain pose. Holly Wielkoszewski, the stu“We work with the breath, the source of all life,” exdio manager and one of four regular teachers, greeted the plains Naader Raphael Shagigi, Curative Yoga’s founder class as a friend, not a taskmaster, creating an atmosphere and master teacher. At Curative Yoga, breathing is as where we were encouraged to be our less-than-perfect (and much a focus as the asanas, or poses, because their philosophy is that proper breathing is the key to progressing in the other three focal areas of yoga: stillness, mindfulness, and movement.

“From the very first breath we take to the very last, life is a series of breaths,” explains Carolina Cotman, Curative Yoga’s president and director.

“Our breath is made up of oxygen and life force energy, or prana. Yet we don’t pay attention to our breath. What makes us unique as a yoga studio is the breathing technique instruction. The

“Peace becomes joy, and with practice that joy becomes sustainable.”

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Photo by Mandy Mohler for Field Guide Designs

BUSINESS GUIDE

BIGFORK

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UPWARD SALUTE A yoga class at Curative Yoga Bigfork.

proper circulation of breath leads to feeling calm and peaceful. Peace becomes joy, and with practice that joy becomes sustainable.”

Wielkoszewski concurs. “Breath is what turns it into yoga, not just exercise,” she explains.

Focusing on breath might sound like beginner yoga, but Curative Yoga is for the experienced as well as the novices.

“We really do welcome all,” Cotman emphasizes. “Some people are trying to heal their bodies. Some people have strong bodies and realize they need to heal their minds. We welcome every walk of life, every belief system. We believe our commonality is that we are all seeking happiness. Happiness is not sustainable in material things or the things of the exterior, so what we long for is this inner journey toward our natural state of being.”

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CURATIVE YOGA has been breathing life into downtown Bigfork since 2014, when Cotman and Shagigi expanded north from their studio of the same name in Pasadena, California. “Bigfork has a very special place in my heart,” Cotman says.

“From the beginning, we thought the environment was so inviting. It’s a very special place. And we believe that to give is to receive, which is why we like to be an active part of the community.”

Putting that commitment into action, Curative Yoga holds weekly donation-based community classes at the Bigfork Village Market during the spring and summer months. They plan to continue the offerings periodically at their studio through the winter.

“One of the misperceptions is that Bigfork shuts down in winter,” Wielkoszewski, a Flathead Valley native, says. “We have a great community of businesses and a growing number of people that are here year-round.”

Whether you’ve been practicing for years or never set foot in a yoga studio, Curative Yoga welcomes you. “Don’t be put off by the headstand,” Shagigi jokes, referring to many people’s mental picture of a yoga class. “Yoga is for everyone who is breathing.”

Keep up with Curative Yoga’s schedule at www.curativeyogabigfork.com, where you can sign up for their e-newsletter. The studio is also on the MindBody website/app, as well as Facebook and Instagram.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katie Cantrell is a local writer and the author of Have Stroller, Will Travel: Exploring Italy with Two Small Children and other Ridiculous Moments in Parenting. Follow her commentary on the parenting life on Facebook and Instagram @katiecantrellwrites or her blog, www.KatieCantrellWrites.com.

Photo by Free Spirit Photography

BUSINESS GUIDE

BIGFORK

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BUSINESS GUIDE

COLUMBIA FALLS/WEST GLACIER

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COLUMBIA FALLS/WEST GLACIER

BUSINESS GUIDE

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Experience Columbia Falls.

Where small businesses are flourishing by offering quality goods, services & adventures; creative dining, local brewing & music options, and, at Uptown Hearth: handcrafted baked goods, savories & coffees.

Proud to be a part of the buzz.

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Microbakery • Coffee Bar Gathering Space

Uptown Hearth is open Wed-Friday 7AM-4PM. Sat-Sun: 7AM-1PM. Closed Monday & Tuesday 619 Nucleus Ave  Columbia Falls (406) 897-5555  uptownhearth.com Photo Courtesy: Leon Stiffarm, NationalParkCentral.com

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

RISE & SHINE

Uptown Hearth is baking the world a better place from a shared community shop in Columbia Falls. BY JANE ELLEN SEXTON

Y

ou know those little gems that you find in the world?

Those places that you just have to go back to? That’s Uptown Hearth. Owner and creator Terri Feury has formulated a lovely neighborhood space to meet and start your day off on the right foot. It’s the perfect spot to grab a gorgeous baked goodie to sit and inhale or take with you.

It doesn’t get much better.

Terri has been at the “bench,” kneading for we who need, for many years. She was born in Whitefish, lived in Columbia Falls, but grew up in Oregon. She went to Paris in the 1980s as a foreign exchange student while still in high school. She was able to work with three different teachers in Avignon, France. Being exposed to learning the classical pastry way brought about the “aha moment.” Terri was hooked! She came back to Whitefish in 1984. It was time to begin the process of mastering the art of pastry. A skill not for the faint of heart, it takes years to get there.

Terri made bagels for Montana Coffee Traders when she started out in Whitefish – a whopping 30 each week. She also worked in the kitchen as a prep cook at the golf course in Whitefish, learning the food business as she went along.

She worked her way up until she was confident enough to open her own shop. Today, her small-batch approach to making beautiful, tasteful breads and pastries keeps her business going full tilt.

She bought the building in Columbia Falls for Uptown

Terri’s mission is to give back to the community wherever and whenever they can.

Hearth in 2011 and set up the kitchen to make the bread that she sold out of her “little bakery.” The next step was to expand the bakery to include other businesses and a larger menu. In 2016, Uptown Hearth opened as a divine spot for the public to come enjoy baked goods, breakfast, brunch, and coffee drinks.

The sense of quality and excellence are first obvious when you step into Uptown Hearth’s location. It’s inviting 62

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TERRI FEURY, Head baker and owner of Uptown Hearth.

and beautiful, and the intimacy allows for true connection to your neighbor. It is a great meeting place.

Terri’s mission for Uptown Hearth is to give back to the community wherever and whenever they can. To that end, Photo by Mandy Mohler from Field Guide Designs

there are multiple other businesses that utilize the location Terri owns. Uptown Hearth is called a Microbakery, Coffee Bar, and Gathering Space. It’s open Tuesdays through Sundays. On Tuesday, Kendra of Meadowlark Bakery bakes her glorious bread. Azul Coffee Bar, owned

by Matthew, is open Wednesday through Sunday. The Finn Biscuit, run by Terri and Jane, offers European and American classic breakfast pastries, hearth breads, and afternoon treats available Wednesday through Friday. Heidi and Catherine run the front of house and make sandwiches and savory items. Johnny handles brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Brunch is so worth experiencing. You’ll be happy!

Terri also supports as many local products as possible. Kalispell Kreamery, Wicked Good Produce, Moss Farms, Snow Country Farms, Steep’s Tea, Waxwing Coffee, Black Coffee, and Spirit Work Farms are the go-tos for dairy, produce, fruit, coffee, tea, and eggs. Uptown Hearth composts as much as they can and like many of us, they look forward to a zero-waste system.

Terri absolutely thinks “community” in a big way and it’s clear that’s been her focus from day one. When you’re inclined to “do work that counts,” people feel it. She and Andy, her husband, continue to give support to the world they’ve chosen to live in. Food this good can be hard to find and our community reaps the benefits of Terri and her teams’ hard work. Wow, did we score!

Uptown Hearth is in Columbia Falls at 619 Nucleus Avenue. Call them at (406) 897-5555 or visit www.uptownhearth.com for a full list of hours for each business.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jane Ellen Sexton lives in Kalispell and works as an intuitive life coach and personal chef.

Photos courtesy of Azul Coffee Bar

WARM & COZY Morning buns and fresh espresso make a great start to the day.

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Tradition doesn't have to be boring.

BUCKAROO BLING Add a bit of sass to your western flair!

www.buckaroobling.com Available online & at Sassafras, 120 N.Main, Kalispell, MT

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Celebrating 6 years of Business!

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

FROM TRASH TO TREASURE: Jenn reuses spent rounds to create unique jewelery and accessories in a small workshop that her husband converted from a shed.

DOING IT HER WAY

Badass Babe’s Jenn Mayrand handmakes one-of-a-kind statement jewelry pieces from spent ammunition in her shed in Creston. BY LINDA JAQUETTE 76

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enn Mayrand was born in a small town in northern Illinois to a math teacher mother and electrical engineer father. Jenn refers to her family as very cerebral and non-athletic compared to her. They used to joke that she was brought by aliens and that her brother was brought by the police. Her early curiosity about everything and her desire to learn more about how things work was an indication of things to come.

If one thing rings true with Jenn, it’s that she’s not a city girl. She loves the wilderness and doesn’t like crowds. Before 1996, she had made five trips to Montana, visiting the North Fork of the Flathead River each time. She fell in love with the area and made friends with John Fredericks, who operated the North Fork Hostel. She told John if he ever needed a caretaker to give her a call. In 1996 he did.

She packed up her belongings and headed to Montana.

Come winter she found that the beautiful, scenic wilderness of the North Fork brings with it a lot of challenges for a person living alone during the snowy months. Most of the time she was the only person within a 10-mile radius.

Photos courtesy of Jenn Mayrand

Jenn drove a 1965 Chevy pickup with the choke on the dashboard, and plowed snow in a 1957 Ford Ferguson tractor with a blade on the back that had to be manually adjusted. She learned to use a brush torch to heat up pipes and to start the generators so there would be water. Chopping and splitting wood, using an outhouse, and clearing snow from roofs and roads were all part of her routine. Jenn readily admits it was tough, but wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. She says the survival skills and the challenges have enabled her to cope with whatever life brings her way.

In spite of her passion for the North Fork, after a year it was back to civilization in Whitefish. The next couple of years found Jenn wearing many hats. She did construction and learned to tan hides. She worked as a hospital administrator. She started a landscaping business and took a position at the County landfill overseeing the maintenance of the green-box container sites.

Badass Babe came to fruition when she saw a pair of spent-round earrings her sister-in-law was wearing. Jenn liked them a lot. She went home and googled bullet jewelry on the internet.

This brought her a wealth of ideas.

She decided she could not only make this jewelry herself, but make it better then what was online. She embraced the name “Badass Babe” because a lot of her friends often referred to her as one. To her, it meant independent, unconventional, daring, and bold.

Badass Babe jewelry premiered at the 2014 Kalispell Gun Show. It was wildly successful. So much so, it has expanded from jewelry to T-shirts, keychains, lip balm, and other accessories.

The findings she uses for the jewelry are locally sourced whenever possible, or supplied by independently owned businesses in the USA. Badass Babe merchandise proudly sports the Made in Montana logo and the Made in the USA emblem. Because some of the

language on a few of her products is deemed a little strong, Jenn requires parental approval to sell this particular merchandise to minors.

BADASS BABE IS now a little over four years old and still growing. Never one to sit on her laurels, Jenn premiered two new lines this September. One is called “Found.” Each “Found” piece is unique and handmade by Jenn using a variety of different materials such as copper patina, other metals, precious stones, and even feathers, from American birds of course. The other line, “Bad Jenny Goods,” is described as sassy, snarky, (sometimes sweary), handmade jewelry and home goods.

What’s really incredible about this business is that Jenn is not just the owner, but is also the only employee. Her workshop is a remodeled JENN MAYRAND, owner of Badass Babe. shed at her home.

In spite of apparently working 24/7, Badass Babe, Found, and Bad Jenny Jenn finds time for her family too. products are available at Flair Boutique, She’s been happily married to her hus- 123 Main Street in Kalispell, Montana, or band James for six years. They live in online at www.badassbabeusa.com. FolCreston and have three fur kids: two low her on Facebook at German Shorthairs and one fat, old facebook.com/badassbabeusa.

Labrador Retriever.

What does Jenn foresee in the future for Badass Babe? “Growth. I would like to have Badass Babe in markets across ABOUT THE AUTHOR the whole United States.”

Linda Jaquette is the DevelWhen asked what she does when opment Assistant for Citizens for a Better Flathead. she’s not working her response was, “I She lives in Columbia Falls. like working and making things all the time. I like the way people react when they see my creations.”

Photo by Mandy Mohler from Field Guide Designs

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Pet, Home-Care & Senior Help All pets, including livestock Overnights Available

Services Offered: Medications Pet Exercise Supply Delivery Pooper Scooper Exotic Pets Care

Polly & Connie

Connie & Dennis • Bonded & Insured 406-257-7155 www.facebook.com/petandhomesittingflatheadvalley

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

FROM THEIR PERSPECTIVE:

WHY LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS ARE THRIVING

Q&A

WITH LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS Pippi Robben is the owner of Northwind Shirt Company, a local gift shop and screen printing business on Central Avenue in Whitefish.

What do you like about having a storefront in downtown Whitefish?

We have an assortment of Whitefish, Montana, Glacier National Park, and Big Mountain T-shirts designed by different local artists.

I love really being a part of the community and ultimately the Whitefish downtown scene. Handing out candy to all the kiddos on Halloween is a blast! And connecting with all of the wonderful travelers and hearing their stories. The annual Winter Carnival is our ultimate signature Whitefish event, and the Grand Parade that happens right down Central Avenue is a must for everyone!

We also offer graphic art, silk screening, vinyl, and photo prints by way of a heat press for custom shirt designs.

From your perspective, what does it take to succeed as an entrepreneur in the Flathead?

What does your business offer?

Who are your customers?

We have been an established business here in downtown Whitefish since 1976, so we have a very diverse group of devout clientele that keep coming back every year for their travel shirts when they pass through town.

We have been silk screening dozens of other local businesses’ shirts since the beginning. And since there are so many new businesses in town we have picked up many wonderful new clients as well.

Prepping for the different seasons is essential. Our shoulder season has gotten busier but it doesn’t however pay the bills. Having a small shop, it is also hard to keep inventory in stock for the ever-growing summer business.

We try to do specialty silk screening for local businesses during the off-season so that we can focus on having enough product to sell during the busy seasons. It is a challenge catering to both the local market and tourists.

How have you seen the Flathead Valley change in your time doing business here?

Unfortunately I am saddened by some of the changes that are happening. People come here to visit because of the lovely, hardworking western Montana town that it is and all the activities we have to offer. I worry that, with the influx of new buildings and businesses that don’t support our small town Montana feel, it will become something that ultimately loses the reason why people love it. Rising costs on everything from rent to food has really been a challenge and it is sad to see people who have lived here for generations move away because of this.

With this being said, the Flathead Valley offers such an eclectic, dynamic sort of people and the quality of life we live up here is intoxicating! I understand why we are on everyone’s must go, see, adventure list.

Northwind Shirt Company: 215 Central Ave, Whitefish (406) 862.3175

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Locally Owned Independent Bookstore Special Orders -

Quick turnaround & no extra charge

Cards & Stationery Puzzles & Gift Wrap

123 Central Ave Whitefish

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www.WhitefishRockShop.com 239 Central Ave Whitefish 406-890-3790 Open Daily 11-5

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BIGFORK

CALENDAR OF EVENTS IN THE FLATHEAD VALLEY

NOVEMBER 17: BIGFORK ELVES DECORATING DAY Bigfork Inn, 8 AM NOVEMBER 17: BIGFORK’S HOLIDAY ART WALK Electric Avenue, 4–8 PM NOVEMBER 17: TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY Bigfork Inn, 7 PM NOVEMBER 24–26: NUTCRACKER BALLET Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts DECEMBER 1: PARADE OF LIGHTS & SANTA’S ARRIVAL Grand & Electric Aves, 6 PM DECEMBER 7: FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS SOIRÉE Bigfork Art & Cultural Center, 6 PM DECEMBER 7, 8, 14–16: A CHRISTMAS CAROL Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts DECEMBER 8: TOY MAKING Bigfork Art & Cultural Center, 12–3 PM DECEMBER 8, 15, 22, 29: VISIT SANTA Bigfork Art & Cultural Center, 2–4 PM JANUARY 1: 24TH ANNUAL POLAR BEAR PLUNGE The Raven, 11 AM JANUARY 25–27, FEBRUARY 1, 2: THE GREAT GHOST CHASE Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts MARCH 15–17, 22, 23: THE ADAMS FAMILY Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts APRIL 12, 13: COWABUNGA Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts

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APRIL 27: CLEAN YOUR FORK First Interstate Bank, 8 AM MAY 25, 26: BIGFORK WHITEWATER FESTIVAL Wild Mile on the Swan River

COLUMBIA FALLS/ WEST GLACIER DECEMBER 7: NIGHT OF LIGHTS PARADE Nucleus Ave, 6:30 PM. After party at The Coop.

FEBRUARY 8–10: CABIN FEVER DAYS Martin City, Hungry Horse, & Coram MAY 11: FAMILY FORESTRY EXPO Trumbull Creek Educational Forest, 9AM–3PM

KALISPELL NOVEMBER 3 – DECEMBER 17: A MEMBERS SALON Hockaday Museum of Art NOVEMBER 23–25: ARTISTS & CRAFTSMEN OF THE FLATHEAD CHRISTMAS SHOW Flathead County Fairgrounds Expo Building NOVEMBER 24 – DECEMBER 23: CHRISTMAS AT THE MANSION TOURS Conrad Mansion Museum NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 2: CRAFT BREWERS CUP Woodland Ice Center DECEMBER 7: ART WALK & HOLIDAY STROLL Downtown Kalispell, 5–9 PM

ForValley more event information, visit the local Chamber of Commerce websites.

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DECEMBER 8: KALISPELL CHRISTMAS PARADE Downtown Kalispell, 5–6:30 PM DECEMBER 9–31: MONTANA TROLLEY CHRISTMAS LIGHT TOURS DECEMBER 16: THIS SACRED SEASON & MESSIAH Flathead High Performance Hall, 3 PM DECEMBER 24: MY MONTANA WEDDING’S INSPIRATION EXPO Red Lion Hotel DECEMBER 29, 30: SKIJORING Rebecca Farm JANUARY 12: MY MONTANA WEDDING EXPO Flathead County Fairgrounds Expo Building FEBRUARY 1: A CHOCOLATE AFFAIR Downtown Kalispell FEBRUARY 15, 16: MAKING MONTANA Flathead County Fairgrounds Expo Building FEBRUARY 22–24: MONTANA SPORTSMAN’S EXPO Flathead Co. Fairgrounds Trade Center MARCH 15–17: MONTANA INDOOR SOCCER CHAMPIONSHIP Flathead County Fairgrounds MARCH 17: ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE Main Street, 4 PM APRIL 26–28: GLACIER SYMPHONY & CHORALE SPRING FESTIVAL Flathead High School Performance Hall MAY 4–5: MONTANA SPARTAN RACE Averill’s Flathead Lake Lodge

LAKESIDE/ SOMERS

FEBRUARY 8: WHITEFISH THEATRE CO. “LETTER ALOUD: FAME” O’Shaughnessy Center

NOVEMBER 15: HOLIDAY MAKERS MARKET Wildflower Society

WHITEFISH DECEMBER 6–9, 14–16: WHITEFISH THEATRE CO. “THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER” O’Shaughnessy Center DECEMBER 7: CHRISTMAS STROLL Downtown Whitefish, 5:30–9 PM DECEMBER 15: THIS SACRED SEASON & MESSIAH Whitefish Performing Arts Center, 7:30 PM DECEMBER 20–22: ALPINE THEATRE PROJECT’S YULETIDE AFFAIR 15 Whitefish Performing Arts Center, 7 PM JANUARY 12: WHITEFISH WINTER CARNIVAL DISCO PARTY Great Northern Bar JANUARY 26, 27: WHITEFISH THEATRE CO. “RIPCORD” O’Shaughnessy Center JANUARY 26, 27: WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SKIJORING Big Mountain Ranch FEBRUARY 2: WINTER CARNIVAL PENGUIN PLUNGE City Beach, 9 AM FEBRUARY 2: WINTER CARNIVAL GRAND PARADE Downtown Whitefish, 3 PM

FEBRUARY 21–24, MARCH 1–3: WHITEFISH THEATRE CO. “MAMMA MIA: THE MUSICAL” O’Shaughnessy Center APRIL 12–14, 18–20: WHITEFISH THEATRE CO. “ALICE IN WONDERLAND” O’Shaughnessy Center APRIL 20: FLATHEAD EARTH DAY CELEBRATION Whitefish High School

ONGOING EVENTS MONDAYS: TRIVIA NIGHT Kalispell Brewing Co, 6 PM MONDAY RUNDAY! Bias Brewing, 5:15 PM TUESDAYS: BOOKS & BREWS Kalispell Brewing Co, 6:30 PM SCIENCE ON TAP (1st/month) Flathead Lake Brewing Co. HISTORY FILM CLUB (last/month) Museum at Central School WEDNESDAYS: CROOKED STITCH (2nd/month) Kalispell Brewing Co, 6:30 PM TRIVIA NIGHT Flathead Lake Brewing Co., 6:30PM HISTORY BOOK CLUB ( 1st/month) Museum at Central School, 2 PM THURSDAYS: MOVIE NIGHT Tailing Loop Winery, 7 PM JAM NIGHT Whitefish Handcrafted Spirits, 6 PM

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