Summer Family Fun Travel Guide 2023

PHOTO KELLY KUNTZ PHOTOGRAPHY

Friday | August 25 | 5pm-8pm

BOZEMAN’S

Saturday | August 26 | 1pm-4pm FREE

Available

summer 2023

SUMMER FAMILY FUN

What’s Up? Montana

What’s Up? Big Sky 28

What’s Up? Bozeman 30

What’s Up? Butte 37

What’s Up? Gardiner 38

What’s Up? Helena 39

What’s Up? Livingston 42

What’s Up? West Yellowstone 43

Columns Ask Flora 44

Keeping it Real 46

Monthly Giveaway: Kenyon Noble 47

SAME-DAY PHYSICALS FOR YOUR FAVORITE SPORTSTAR.*

*Or your favorite benchwarmer. Scan

The winters are long—sometimes even as long as the gestation period of a human baby and just as hard on the body. Spring is, in a word, wet. But as everything greens up and the sun hangs on a little longer each day, the seasonal shift becomes worthy of celebration. And celebrate we do.

Put up the skis and dust off the bikes. Trade your Sorels for hiking shoes. Make big plans for all the trails you will hike, lakes you will visit, creeks you will wade, wildflowers you will gather, campgrounds you will explore, rivers you will fish, boulders you will climb, paths you will bike and pools you will dive into.

At least that’s how most of us roll into it…with sky-high hopes and expectations. I find this blissful state of denial lasts about 10 days before the reality of 12 weeks with kids at home sets in. Say adios to routine, school, after-school activities, dinner at normal hours and regular bath times. Enter the chaos of June, July and August.

School is replaced with summer camps, which for some parents means juggling morning and afternoon sessions in different parts of the valley. The agony of stuffing our kids into snowsuits gives way to the endless struggle of applying (and re-applying) sunscreen. Bedtime drags on for hours with the sun shining well past 9 p.m. and your own little ones being kept awake by the other kids playing and screaming throughout the neighborhood until twilight. And, if you think you were sick of packing lunch for school, you will be rethinking that notion after three months of preparing three square meals a day—not to mention hydrating and providing snacks for a neverending stream of neighborhood kids.

But would I give up a single second of summer in our glorious state? Not a chance. In all seriousness, the tradeoffs are worth it, and nothing compares to the few short months of pure Montana heaven.

As Montanans, we work hard for our summer days.

BOzeman FARMERS’ MARKET

Tuesdays, 5-8 p.m.

BOGERT FARMERS’ MARKET

June 20 - September 12, 2023

June 7-September 27, 2015

East Side of Lindley Park in Bozeman

Tuesdays, 5-8pm

Bogert Park’s Pavilion, South Church Avenue, Bozeman

Fresh Produce. Food. Art. Music & More

Fresh Produce. Food Vendors. Arts. Family Activities & Live Music

Volunteer, Sponsor and Vendor Info: bozemanfarmersmarket.org

Volunteer,  Sponsor  or vendor info: bogertfarmersmarket.org

Life’s a garden…dig it!

& LEIGH RIPLEY

AD DESIGN ANDREA HILL

COVER PHOTO ADP STUDIO AT BODHI FARM

BLOG ANDREA HILL

ONLINE CALENDARS CALENDAR@MTPARENT.COM

SOCIAL MEDIA ANDREA HILL, SHAUNESCY WILLARD, CORA DESANTIS

PRINT MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTION INFO@MTPARENT.COM

SUBMIT PHOTOS INFO@MTPARENT.COM

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: LEIGH RIPLEY

ELEONORE SNOW

JESSICA CARTWRIGHT

STEPHANIE TARTAGLINO SELF

SARAH BANKSTON

FLORA MCCORMICK

BLAIR FJESETH

* Montana Parent strives to provide accurate information and entertainment to our readers. Some content may be based on opinion of the author and may not represent our views. We want all voices to be heard, so we all can be educated on both sides of important issues.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: ADP STUDIO

DIANA PROEMM

JESSICA CARTWRIGHT

STEPHANIE TARTAGLINO SELF

LAUREN BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY

• What’s Up? photos are from event social media pages if not supplied by the organization

Hybrid Motion

Gymnastics - Dance - Fitness for ALL ages

Opening NOW with Summer Day Camps!

We’re thrilled to be here to serve our community by proving high quality fitness and skill-specific classes for kids of all ages as well as select adult workshops and special events. Smaller class sizes allow for faster skill acquisition and SO much fun. Unique programming including cultural dance classes and classes that encompass several types of dance or dance and gymnastics combos help keep kids engaged. We believe that progressing in development and skill is important and fantastic but love of the movement should come first.

Full Programming coming in September

Stop by and check us out or visit hybridmotionmt.com for more information

PHOTO KELLY KUNTZ PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO ADP STUDIO AT BODHI FARM-BOZEMAN

daytripping

What to pack

There’s a popular saying in Montana: “If you don’t like the weather, wait 10 minutes.” And that’s the truth. It could be 90 degrees one minute, then drop 20 degrees with gale force winds and rain blowing sideways the next.

When recreating in Montana you need to be prepared…for weather, wildlife and emergencies.

First, dress in layers. The temperature may be 85 degrees, but in town it can feel like 100 degrees and on the summit of your hike more like 65 degrees. As already noted, the weather can change dramatically and rapidly. Second, don’t wear new shoes. Even Montanans have made this mistake and you don’t want blistered feet during your entire summer.

And PLEASE keep a safe distance from wildlife (no selfies with bears, etc). It's amazing every year how many people get dangerously close. Use the pullouts when you want to stop. Drive safely.

Here is a solid list of standard daytrip items:

Ç Raincoat

Ç Sweatshirt or light jacket

Ç Large water bottle (unless you want to take a trip to the ER, don’t drink creek or river water)

Ç Lunch/snacks (plan not to find a hot meal for hours)

Ç A second pair of socks (in case the first ones get wet)

Ç Band-Aids

Ç Bear spray

Ç Hats (sun and winter)

Ç Bug spray

Ç Sunscreen

Ç Camera or smartphone

Ç Binoculars

Ç Allergy medicine

Ç Ibuprofen

BINGO Summer Fun

Ç A real map (cell service is spotty in the backcountry and YNP)

Ç Cash (gas stations are few and far between in some places, and you'll find some only take cash)

Ç Tissues or toilet paper (when you gotta go, you gotta go)

Ç Lip balm

For serious day trippers/ hikers add the following:

Ç Flashlight or headlamp

Ç Water shoes

Ç Long pants

Ç Gloves

Ç Bathing suit (You might want to jump in a river)

Ç Matches and a fire starter

summer Like a Local

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS JESSICA CARTWRIGHT

So, summer feels like it’s finally here. Nice work making it through the cold days of winter, aka toddlers-who-refuseto-wear-jackets-and-boots season.

Enjoy that summer grass on your feet, all the fresh produce and the many summer activities Bozeman has in store.

Here are some of our family favorites:

Go to the farmers markets. This is a great way to support your local growers, enjoy an amazing community vibe and nourish your family with incredible food. There are the Tuesday markets at Lindley Park, Saturday markets at the fairgrounds along with markets happening in Big Sky and Livingston.

Ç Pro tip: Expect these to be busy, so go early (if you can) to find a spot and plan to walk a bit (potentially) to get there. My family likes to have a meal at the markets and stay a while to make it worth the effort.

Float the Madison River. Yes, it will probably be busy and can be chaotic. But it’s also an incredible experience and such a wonderful way to soak in nature. Be sure to leave the river better than when you came by picking up any trash you find and being kind to others. It can get windy and accidents happen, so let’s all help each other out by picking up anything we find along the way and try to keep our rivers sparkling clean. Please carpool. And, if you’re planning to imbibe, be sure to have a DD as it’s a long and winding road home.

Ç Pro tip: Book your float with Madison River Tubing on 11th and Main Street. They do a phenomenal job getting you quality tubes and all the gear you need. They’re incredibly informative and helpful and make the whole process a lot smoother and easier. You can also rent stand-up paddleboards and other water equipment from them. It’s a no brainer.

Check out the Splash Park in Belgrade. It’s so nice to enjoy the water during a hot, dry summer. The playground nearby is also a wonderful spot to spend an afternoon.

Ç Pro tip: There isn’t any shade at the actual Splash Park, so be prepared for breaks or plenty of sun protection.

Go for a family hike. We try to have low expectations, as you never know how hiking with kiddos will go. But your attitude will affect the others. My family loves making it fun by adding games or a scavenger hunt of sorts – how many different types of flowers can we find, can we spot landmarks we know from the top, can we draw what we see then color it later… as well as sometimes putting on a song when we need the motivation. And always plenty of snacks for encouragement. My daughter also loves having her own hiking pack, mini First Aid kit and a walking stick she decorated. She really takes ownership when she feels like she can make the adventure her own and we get a lot further on our hikes.

Ç Pro tip: Check out GVLT’s (Gallatin Valley Land Trust) Trail Map for trail ideas. Please be a responsible hiker by being patient and kind with others, picking up any trash you find, letting someone know where you’re going, bringing plenty of layers, water and sun protection, and ensuring your dog is on a leash in marked areas and that you pick up after them. Also be sure to log your miles for their Summer Trails Challenge and consider donating to GVLT for all the work they do to make our valley an incredible place to live and play!

Make dandelion crowns and be OK with doing nothing. Sometimes when summer hits and it feels like if we’re not constantly out making the most of it, we’re missing out (since it’s such a short, treasured season). But that’s so not true! Let the FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) go and turn it into JOMO instead (Joy of Missing Out). It’s OK to simply relax and enjoy your yard, let the kids run through the sprinkler, take a stroll or lie in the hammock. I know I personally need to remember to give myself some slack and remember my family is having a great time and staying home can be such a welcome reprieve; we don’t have to do something epic every weekend.

Ç Pro tip: Sidewalk chalk, sprinklers, popsicles, lawn chairs, hula hoops. It doesn’t have to be complicated to make good memories, and keeping it simple can mean you actually get to take a load off and enjoy summer relaxation to the fullest too.

Jess Cartwright helps women going through big life transitions - whether it’s a new baby or wanting to show up differently in our lives. She does this through one-on-one yoga, meditation, energy healing, connection and guided international retreats. Find her at www.jessicaenergy.com or on Instagram @jessica.energy.

Summer Trails Challenge

In 2016, GVLT kicked off the first annual Summer Trails Challenge, a month-long, community-wide celebration of all things trails. Since that time, Gallatin Valley runners, walkers, hikers and dog walkers have logged over 400,000 miles for area trails. In fact, this community loves Summer Trails Challenge so much, it won the 2023 Bozeman Choice Award for the best Summer Sports/Recreation event of the summer.

from the Match Pool for every mile logged. There is no other fundraiser in town that allows everyone to participate, regardless of age, income, availability or fitness level—just by getting outside to do what you want to be doing anyway.

Bozeman is teeming with trails. Biking trails, hiking trails, trails for dogs, trails for horses, woodland trails, wetland trails—there is a trail for pretty much every kind of trail user. Most people, however, never stop to consider how those trails got there in the first place and who exactly keeps them in such tip-top condition.

Great trail systems and beautiful outdoor  recreational spaces don’t happen by accident. They require an inspiring vision, thoughtful planning, community input and collaboration. Since 1990, Gallatin Valley Land Trust (GVLT) has worked with the city of Bozeman and dozens of public and private organizations to build the Main Street to the Mountains system that includes more than 100 miles of trails. Brainchild of GVLT founder Chris Boyd, the trails are free. They are open to the public. They require no special equipment or instructions. And, they are perfect for families.

The Summer Trails Challenge engages families and individuals with our community trails system. “We know that people are moving to the area for lots of reasons,” says Matt Parsons, GVLT Trails Program Director, “but trails and outdoor recreation are almost always at the top of the list. Many of these folks are not only unfamiliar with the trails system, but they are coming from communities without a culture of outdoor recreation and trail stewardship.” The goal of the challenge is to encourage people to hit the trails and give them ownership in the trails system while simultaneously raising necessary funds for their maintenance and care.

Here’s how it works: Local businesses contribute to the Summer Trails Challenge Community Match Pool. Then, people in the community run, bike or walk on area trails—any trail, any time—no registration required. These miles are recorded on the GVLT Summer Trails Challenge webpage at www.gvlt.org and GVLT gets $1

We all know that the health benefits of trails and outdoor recreation are profound, for kids and adults alike. Outdoor recreation, parks and trails improve quality of life and enhance community well-being in a myriad of ways. The benefits of interacting with nature include lower blood pressure and levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. Getting outside increases physical activity, reduces screen time and promotes better sleep, all of which are associated with a stronger immune system. Children who lack exposure to nearby green spaces are more likely to develop depression and anxiety in later years. Simple access to safe outdoor spaces coupled with regular physical activity has been documented to improve both physical and mental health for people of all ages.

We are fortunate to live in a community that takes such good care of its lands and trails—and its kids. Summer Trails Challenge is your chance to pitch in and give back to the trail system that gives us so much. This year’s trail challenge will run from June 3 through 30. For more information or to log your miles, please visit the GVLT website at https://gvlt.org/events/ challenge/.

PHOTOS DIANA PROEMM

Montana Shakespeare in the Parks

Montana Shakespeare in the Parks opens their 51st summer tour productions in Bozeman with performances of William Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure, June 14-17, and Alexandre Dumas’ The Three Musketeers, June 21-24. Performances are held at 8 p.m. at the Montana State University Grove on campus.

This is the company’s first time performing Measure for Measure since the year 2000. Categorized by scholars as one of Shakespeare’s “problem plays,” neither neat comedy nor tragedy, this play will captivate audiences by exploring themes of power, class dynamics and justice through a modern and inclusive lens.

A swashbuckling tale filled with action and adventure, The Three Musketeers will enthrall all generations of audience members as they get swept away to 17th century France, following a young hero’s journey as he embarks to fulfill his lifelong dream of becoming a Musketeer. Adapted by Robert Kauzlaric, this play is sure to delight audiences of all ages. This is the company’s first year producing The Three Musketeers

“I enjoy finding ways in which we can take the material that Shakespeare, and other classics, have given us and work toward making them relevant for our audiences to help them further engage and truly be part of the experience in a fresh, unique way,” says Kevin Asselin, Executive Artistic Director.

This summer, the company will perform in 63 communities across five states including Montana, Idaho, North Dakota, Washington and Wyoming, making it MSIP’s largest tour to date. Ushering Shakespeare’s immortal stories of life, love and tragedy into a modern era, MSIP is dedicated to preserving the cultural traditions of theater and literature through live, free performances every summer across the Rocky Mountain West.

For the most up to date tour schedule, visit www.ShakespeareInTheParks.org.

Farmers Markets

Big Sky Farmers Market

Ç The Fire Pit Park in Town Center Plaza

Ç Wednesdays, June 7August 30, 2023

Ç 5-8 p.m.

Featuring fresh produce, herbs, plants and flowers, baked goods, woodworking, log furniture, antler art, photography and fine art, jewelry, clothing, food vendors and kids’ activities.

Bozeman Farmers Market

Ç Lindley Park

Ç Tuesdays, June 20 –September 12, 2023

Ç 5-8 p.m.

The Market Creatives commit a portion of the market’s revenues to the preservation and improvements of all Bozeman parks.

Capitol Square Farmers Market

Ç Capitol south oval parking lot, Helena

Ç Tuesdays, 2:30-6:30 p.m.

Gallatin Valley Farmers Market

Ç Gallatin County Fairgrounds

Ç Saturdays, June 17 –September 9, 2023

Ç 9 a.m. to noon

Ç *There will be no market on Saturday, July 22 due to the Big Sky Country State Fair

Helena Farmers Market

Ç Fuller Avenue

Ç Saturdays, through October 28, 2023

Ç 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

One of the longest-running markets in the state of Montana, the Helena Farmers Market will celebrate 50 years this June. Local farmers, crafters, food vendors and other artisans bring their Montana-made products downtown for the local Helena community to see and purchase. While they browse, shoppers can enjoy the serenade of local musicians and smell the fragrant aroma of fresh floral arrangements and kettle corn.

Uptown Butte Farmers Market

Ç West Park Street between Gamer’s Cafe and the Imagine Butte Resource Center in the Phoenix Building

Ç Saturdays through October 7

Ç 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Since 1995, the Butte Farmers Market has blossomed and grown, earning a reputation for providing shoppers with colorful and hardy hanging and bedding plants, farmfresh eggs, chickens, fruits and vegetables from many gardens in the Butte area and the Hutterite colonies near Choteau, and Hmong vegetable gardens in the Missoula and Bitteroot area.

Vendors provide a wide variety of baked goods, packaged sausages, fresh produce, cut flowers, salsa and other prepared foods. A variety of arts and crafts by craftspeople from throughout southwest Montana are available each Saturday as well.

West Yellowstone Market

Ç Museum of the Yellowstone

Ç Every Thursday from 3-9 p.m.

BOZEMAN FARMERS MARKET

BIG SKY FARMERS MARKET

BOZEMAN FARMERS MARKET

BUTTE FARMERS MARKET

HELENA FARMERS MARKET

Bear and Wolf Education Centers

Maybe you haven’t been lucky enough to see a bear or wolf in the wild, or maybe you’ve tried hard not to. If either is the case, rest assured you can safely view these native animals at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone or Montana Grizzly Encounter just east of Bozeman.

The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is an AZA-accredited, nonprofit wildlife park and educational facility offering visitors the opportunity to experience the world of grizzly bears and gray wolves. Seven grizzly bears reside at the park, along with eight gray wolves that live in three different packs. A river otter exhibit is home to three males and two females in addition to two western tiger salamanders, two Columbia spotted frogs, a western terrestrial garter snake and a rubber boa (snake). Uinta Ground Squirrels and birds-of-prey, including hawks, eagles, owls, falcons and a turkey vulture, also call the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center home. All of the animals at the center are unable to survive in the wild and serve as ambassadors for their wild counterparts.

If you are planning to spend time in West Yellowstone, visit www.grizzlydiscovery.org and check out the program schedule to plan your stay. Admission is good for the whole day, so you can come and go as you please.

The Montana Grizzly Encounter is a grizzly bear rescue and education sanctuary, which provides a spacious, natural home for rescued grizzlies and a place for the public to learn about grizzlies as they watch them up close.

Montana Grizzly Encounter is home to three bears. Visit grizzlyencounter.org and get to know these amazing animals and each of their incredible stories. If you are a fan of National Geographic’s Expedition Wild, you already know Montana Grizzly Encounter owner Casey Anderson. Summer hours are Wednesday through Monday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

THE MONTANA GRIZZLY ENCOUNTER

THE GRIZZLY & WOLF DISCOVERY CENTER

Boulder Hot Springs Inn & Spa (Between Butte and Helena)

The outdoor swimming pool features a deck for sunbathing and a heated sidewalk to the bathhouse. Indoors, there is a women’s hot plunge pool and a cool pool. A coed side has a hot pool (no cool pool). Both the coed and women’s sides offer steam rooms as well. The restaurant specializes in healthy, homecooked gourmet food featuring organic meats, fruits and vegetables whenever possible. Boulder Hot Springs Inn, Spa and Retreat Center has chosen to be an alcohol, drug and smoke-free environment. Visit www. boulderhotsprings.com.

Bozeman Hot Springs (Bozeman)

The Bozeman Hot Springs has 12 pools ranging from 57 to 106 degrees and dry and wet saunas. The four pools located outside feature amazing rock fixtures and colorful lights. For hours, please visit www.bozemanhotsprings.com

Broadwater Hot Springs & Fitness (Helena)

Helena’s only geothermal mineral hot springs, Broadwater has it all: a springs pool, hot tub and cold plunge, soaking pool, recreation pool, beautiful locker rooms, steam and sauna rooms, the Springs Taproom & Grill and a fitness center. Broadwater recently announced the installation of a brand-new filtration system; new filtration = crystal clear water. Visit www.broadwatermt.com.

Chico (Paradise Valley)

Chico has two open-air natural mineral hot springs pools in addition to the historic dining room, saloon, Poolside Grille and spa services. Go for the day or choose to stay in one of their lodging options, from historic Victorian rooms and luxury cabins to glamorous camping in an authentic Conestoga wagon or a family gathering place in a hillside chalet. Visit www.chicohotsprings.com

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort

(Located just west of Butte) Fairmont has two Olympicsized swimming pools and two mineral soaking pools (one indoors and one outdoors). There is a bar and restaurant on-site, ample poolside lounging and a 350-foot enclosed waterslide. If you have golfers in the family, the Fairmont Golf Course is one of Montana’s most challenging. Visit www.fairmontmontana.com.

Norris Hot Springs (Norris)

This is one of the smaller ones…but it’s really fun. With just one pool, Norris keeps people happy with local draft beer on tap and good eats from their 50 Mile Grill and Café where the offerings are made with organic, sustainable products mostly grown on-site. Open Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. for public soaking and Mondays and Wednesdays for private soaking (reservations required). Visit www.norrishotsprings.com

Pipestone (Whitehall)

Pipestone Village is surrounded by hundreds of miles of off-roading trails for mountain bikes, ATVs, hikers, hunters and more. Pipestone is just 18 miles from the Lewis & Clark Caverns. Also nearby are the Ringing Rocks, a unique geological formation and ancient Megalith site. After exploring, spend the night in one of five cabin sites with your own private hot springspowered hot tub or at one of the two dome sites featuring two outdoor bathtubs or a jacuzzi hot tub. Visit www.pipestonehotsprings.com.

Potosi Hot Springs (Pony)

Potosi Hot Springs offers four cabins located along South Willow Creek for fishing right outside your door along with endless hiking trails surrounded by national forest. Return from your hike and soak in the hot springs (reserved for guests only). Located next to a wood-burning sauna, the large pool settles in at around 93 degrees. Head up the trail to the indoor tub that stays around 102 degrees. Visit www.thepotosihotsprings.com

White Sulphur Springs

White Sulphur Springs is open 365 days a year from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. All three pools are drained and cleaned every single night, then refilled with the finest natural hot mineral water to be found anywhere in the world. No chemicals of any kind are added to what is already the best water nature has to offer.

Pumped up from a 35-foot-deep well, the 130-degree water circulates throughout the hotel complex, losing about 8 to 10 degrees in the process. After its circuitous route, the water is pumped into the 30- by 35-foot outdoor pool and the smaller, hotter indoor pool. The outdoor pool is usually cooled to 98 degrees, while the 10-by-15-foot indoor plunge is kept around 105 degrees. The new outdoor pool is kept around 103 degrees. Visit www.spahotsprings.com

Yellowstone Hot Springs (Gardiner)

Yellowstone Hot Springs is located just 10 minutes north of Yellowstone National Park and surrounded by wild Montana countryside in a picturesque setting, nestled along the banks of the Yellowstone River. They boast 4,000 square feet of mineral hot springs in an alcoholfree environment. RV and tent camping is available in addition to cabin rentals. Visit www. yellowstonehotspringsmt.com.

Yellowstone National Park’s Boiling River & Firehole River Swim Area

*Swimming at the Boiling River is closed due to impacts from the 2022 floods.

The Firehole Swim Area is located on the Firehole River, two miles south of Madison Junction on Firehole Canyon Drive. Two vault toilets are the only facilities in the area. The river is usually closed to swimming until mid-summer due to high water and strong currents. During years with significant snowpack and runoff, the swim area may remain closed for the entire season. Visit www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/conditions.htm for current conditions.

•

Gallatin Ice Girl Power From Hockey Player to Hockey Mom

WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE TARTAGLINO SELF

My story with ice rinks goes pretty deep. I started playing on an outdoor rink in Whitefish when I was maybe 4 or 5, because at that point my parents hadn’t built the ice rink in Kalispell quite yet. I should add a bit more context...

My mom was an airline stewardess and my dad was a general contractor when they met. The youngest of three kids, I was born in Providence and spent the first few years of my life in Rhode Island. Because my mom was originally from Colorado, she missed the mountains. My dad, who loves being out on the water, wanted to live somewhere he could take his boats. Mom suggested they check out Flathead Lake – the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. She must have spotted it as she was flying over.

It was when we moved to Kalispell that we all started playing ice hockey. Both my parents were college athletes. My mom played tennis and basketball, and dad played hockey, so he had me out on the rink when I was 3 years old. I was probably trying to keep up with my older brother and sister from day one.

I first joined a team when I was 4 or 5 and signed up for the Termite program. Then I just

got pulled into the rhythm of it. We all did. My brother and sister both played hockey, so it became a huge part of my life. So huge, in fact, that my parents started the Flathead Valley Hockey Association, and built the outdoor ice rink in Kalispell.

In 2007, my parents got together with a friend and purchased a used portable, refrigerated ice rink system. They reached out to the City of Kalispell with an idea about making a rink available to the entire community, and the city partnered up with them and offered the site of an old pool. If it weren’t for that, I may not have had the opportunity to play competitively.

I played all through high school and was fortunate enough to play in three national tournaments. It was there, during my junior year of high school, that I got recruited to play college hockey in Baltimore, MD.

My college was a D3 school, but we were an independent team, which meant we got to play some really strong D1 teams in both Minnesota and New York. In fact, it was in Minnesota that I scored my first collegiate goal. I managed to deflect a shot, putting the puck into the back on the net. What a great memory. Shortly thereafter, I got injured. My college athletic career was short but memorable.

I moved to Bozeman shortly before graduating and started working for a bank. Things were going great and I was promoted quickly to branch manager, but I missed the ice. I had taken a few years off after my injury, but I missed the camaraderie, excitement and enthusiasm from my youth. I had coached a little in Baltimore, so once the call of the ice got loud enough, I answered.

I reached out to the Hockey Director at Gallatin Ice, Dave Weaver, and he invited me to start coaching the 19U girls’ team. I also signed up for an adult team and became a regular fixture at the rink. This turned out to be the best move I could have ever made, because that’s where I met my husband, Ryan.

In fairness, I should say we reconnected. The Montana Hockey community is small enough that it turns out Ryan and I grew up playing hockey against each other in middle and high School. It wasn’t until we reconnected that we realized how many times we must have shared the ice, and how far back we went.

In 2021, I joined the full-time staff at Gallatin Ice. One of my many highlights came when I got involved with our annual fundraising event, the Gloves Off Gala.

That year, our Guest Speaker was Cammi Granato, who is in the Hockey Hall of Fame. I grew up watching Cammi play hockey and she is someone I looked up to. When she visited our rink, I was pregnant with my son Ryder, and Cammi was kind enough to sign her children’s book, I Can Play Too, which I still read to him.

It will be a few years before I can get Ryder out on the ice. He needs to learn to walk first, but I have no doubt that once he finds his way into a pair of skates, he’ll find his own passion for the rink and the sport. I have so many fun and amazing memories that all lead back to playing hockey, and I really hope to go through that again as a parent.

Gallatin Ice Summer Public Skates

Ç Monday and Friday, 1-2:45 p.m.

Ç $10 for 17 & older

Ç $5 for ages 6 to 16

Ç Free for 6 and under

Ç $5 skate rentals (if needed)

Stephanie Tartaglino Self is the Director of Communications and Marketing for Gallatin Ice in Bozeman.

Get Out this Summer

WRITTEN BY SARAH BANKSTON

during these phrases and see if they will fill them in for you. (3…2…1…[pause]). Describe the bubbles. Support directionfollowing by practicing different ways to pop the bubbles: “Clap, poke, stomp, catch.”

Ç Swinging Stand in front of the swing so your child can see you. Describe the motion with simple words: “Up, down, push, high, slow/fast, stop/go.” Practice phrases: “3…2…1…go!” “Push me,” “More, please.” See if your child will request more if you stop them. Model the language for them: “More. You want more swing!”

Ç Water play Grab buckets of water, cups, spoons and brushes, and practice action words: “Pour, dump, scoop, splash.”

Easier said than done, right? It can be so tempting to hand a child a phone or tablet when we are busy trying to get things done or wanting to distract them when they’re feeling upset.

Did you know that too much screen time can delay a child’s speech and language development? When toddlers are focused on a screen, they may miss out on developing crucial speech, language and social skills through playing with others, playing by themselves, comforting themselves and learning how to be patient.

Of course, some screen time is OK. The American Academy of Pediatrics makes the following screen time recommendations:

» Under 18 months: No screen time except for video chatting with loved ones.

» 18–24 months: A small amount of highquality programming, if you choose.

» 2–5 years: A maximum of one hour per day. Watch together if possible.

It can be challenging to limit screen time, especially for older children. In this case, one idea is to have your child earn screen time by reading. For every 30 minutes of reading, the child earns 5-15 minutes of screen time.

So, what is the alternative to screen time? Play! Play helps children develop creativity, supports learning and encourages social and speech skills.

This summer, schedule in that outdoor play time. Here are some ideas.

Children Under Age 3

Ç Bubbles Bubbles create the opportunity to support attention and early language development. Plus, they’re fun! Label and comment what you’re doing while playing with bubbles: “Open. Dip. 3…2…1…blow!”

As your child is learning new words, pause

Ç Observe Observe older siblings and other kids. Describe what they are doing. “Brother has a ball. Bounce, bounce. Kick ball. Go ball.” Narrate what you see and describe your play with your child.

Children Over Age 3

Encourage sensory play outside and help build your child’s vocabulary. Find, touch, feel and describe different objects, like leaves, rocks, flowers, etc. Discuss how they feel, look and sound.

Ç Scavenger hunt Hide things in a sandbox/bin, find and describe them. Support receptive language skills by having your child guess the item you are describing. Support sentence and vocabulary development by having your child describe what they find.

Ç Go for a nature walk. Look for items that fall into categories: green items, crunchy items, things that smell good. Describe what you find.

Ç Obstacle course Create an outdoor obstacle course. Teach your child how to

recall information, sequence steps and follow directions. Support your child’s development of listening and auditory memory skills. Provide a simple sequence they can remember and repeat: “Go down the slide, spin around two times, then climb the wall to the top.”

Ç Pretend play Encourage pretend play and social engagement with peers. Suggesting an idea for pretend play can introduce a world of wonder for children.

» Pirates in a boat: use a playset or anything else that can be a “boat”

» Chefs: gather leaves, rocks and sticks to make a pretend dish

» Artists: paint the driveway with water or color with chalk

» Dino dig: hide fake bones/objects in a sandbox to dig and discover; provide spoons and other tools

» Construction zone: use leftover cardboard, sticks and tape to build

» Racetrack: use chalk to draw lanes for scooters, bikes or foot races

Ç At the end of the day Practice talking about your day with a family member. Support your child’s recall of information, sequencing of stories and ability to answer a variety of questions.

Some questions you can use as prompts: Where did you go today? Who went with you? What did you do? What did you see?

Learning, exploring the world and strengthening speech, language and social skills can easily be a part of a child’s daily activities. Enjoy your summer!

Sarah Bankston, MS,CCC-SLP, is a Speech Language Pathologist at Intermountain in Helena. She is accepting new patients. If you know a child who is struggling to express themselves verbally, understand language, produce speech sounds or interact with others, and you think they could benefit from therapy, call Intermountain at 406-442-7920.

On Display Until September 3

Music in the Mountains

For more than a decade Music in the Mountains has been Montana’s finest free outdoor concert series, featuring the best up-and-coming touring musicians in the country as well as established, well-known artists. Center Stage at Town Center Park provides the perfect backdrop for locals and visitors to come together and enjoy incredible live music under the Big Sky. These family-friendly concerts are held every Thursday from June through September (the park opens at 6 p.m. and music starts at 7:15 p.m.). The series also includes a 4th of July concert and a free performance from Montana Shakespeare in the Parks. No dogs or glass containers are allowed in the park. For more information visit www.bigskyarts.org

Explore the biomechanics of complex animal robots to discover how real animals work at the Robot Zoo!

995 Carousel Way

Helena, Montana explorationworks.org

406.457.1800

june 22 MIDNIGHT NORTH

JUNE 29 JOSLYN & THE SWEET COMPRESSION

JULY 4 THE TINY BAND

JULY 6 PACO VERSAILLES

JULY 13 JENNIFER HARTSWICK BAND

JULY 20 MADELINE HAWTHORNE

JULY 27 FUNK YOU

AUGUST 3 TK & THE HOLY

KNOW-NOTHingS

AUGUST 10 MATT NATHANSON +

FREDDY JONES BAND

AUGUST 17 AJ LEE & BLUE SUMMIT

AUGUST 24 FUTUREBIRDS

AUGUST 31 JESSE DANIEL

SEPTEMBER 7 PINKY AND THE FLOYD

all concerts are free and take place in len hill park music starts at 6:30 with opening bands

helena

National Trails Day

June 3, 2023

National Trails Day is Gallatin Valley Land Trust’s largest trail-volunteer project of the year. This year’s projects include the Drinking Horse, College M and Path the M trails where there will be plenty to do – everything from trail resurfacing to pulling weeds. GVLT will have space for about 250 volunteers.

National Trails Day also kicks off the Summer Trails Challenge. Every mile you spend on the trails from June 3 through June 30 will be matched with $1 from community businesses. Please see page 16 for more information. If you have questions about volunteer projects or the sign-up form, please contact Matt Parsons, matt@gvlt.org.

Downtown Bozeman Art Walks

June 9, July 14, August 11 & September 8, 2023

Art Walks are held from 6 to 8 p.m. at art galleries and businesses downtown. Participating businesses will feature local artists and often provide hors d’oeuvres and complimentary refreshments. Also, keep an eye out for local musicians performing as your stroll Main Street in downtown Bozeman.

Sacred Motherhood Gathering

June 11, July 16, August 13 and September 10, 2023

This gathering for mothers with children of any age draws inspiration from the book Sacred Motherhood to remind ourselves we are sacred, even if we don’t feel like it at times in our current state of mothering. Located at Emergence Movement & Wellness and held from 7-8:30 p.m., cost is $10 but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

Ç June 11 – Rachael Hagglund - themedicinepath.net

Ç July 16 – Renata Cox (Gauranga breathwork)

Ç Aug 13 – Julia Bond Guercio - With The Earth

Ç Sept 10 – Cora De Santis, Reiki Master

After Dark Series Magic: The Science

of Deception

Montana Science Center

June 22, 2023

Join Eric the Excellent from 6:30-8:30 p.m. for an evening of misdirection, deception, fire breathing, illusion and more. Participants will discuss the psychology behind magic tricks and drink magical cocktails. RSVP is requested, cost is $25 or included with your After Dark Membership. For ages 21 and over.

Women in Engineering Day Montana Science Center

June 24, 2023

Local women in engineering careers join Montana Science Center for a day of hands-on engineering challenges and discovery for all ages. The program will be held from 10 a.m. to noon and is free with admission or membership.

Summer Homeschool Science

Montana Science Center

June 29, July 27, Aug 24, 2023

Homeschool students between the ages of 8 and 13 are invited to join the Montana Science Center for a monthly lesson themed around summer science. STEM topics, such as heat transfer, will be explored in this series of drop-off classes, which are held from noon to 4 p.m. The cost is $90 for the summer semester.

june 22 MIDNIGHT NORTH

JUNE 29 JOSLYN & THE SWEET COMPRESSION

JULY 4 THE TINY BAND

JULY 6 PACO VERSAILLES

JULY 13 JENNIFER HARTSWICK BAND

JULY 20 MADELINE HAWTHORNE

JULY 27 FUNK YOU

AUGUST 3 TK & THE HOLY KNOW-NOTHingS

AUGUST 10 MATT NATHANSON + FREDDY JONES BAND

AUGUST 17 AJ LEE & BLUE SUMMIT

AUGUST 24 FUTUREBIRDS

AUGUST 31 JESSE DANIEL

SEPTEMBER 7 PINKY AND THE FLOYD

all concerts are free and take place in len hill park music starts at 6:30 with opening bands please no dogs • food and beverage vendors available

bigskyarts.org

Reach Race for Independence

July 4, 2023

Are you ready to run? Join Reach on Tuesday, July 4, for a 1K, 5K or 10K run/ walk through north Bozeman trails. The funds raised at this event support adults with developmental disabilities served by Reach. Your participation helps make it possible for them to achieve their goals of independence. Registration is now open. Visit www.runsignup.com/Race/MT/Bozeman/ ReachIncRaceforIndependence for details and to sign up today.

Fireworks Show

July 4, 2023

The City of Bozeman will host a free Independence Day fireworks show on July 4 at 10 p.m. at the Bozeman Softball Complex.

“We’re looking forward to providing a safe alternative to lighting off personal fireworks,” Fire Chief Josh Waldo stated. “By watching our show instead of lighting them yourself, you can avoid a potential fireworks injury, not be a possible cause of a fire and limit disruptions to your neighbors and their pets.”

Bozeman

23 rd Annual

Music on Main

July 6-August 10, 2023

The Downtown Bozeman Association presents the 23rd Annual Music on Main summer concert series on Thursday nights, on Main Street from Rouse to Black Avenue. Live bands, both local and touring, will be featured in this six-week series. Bring the kids to the Coca Cola “Kids’ Zone” from 6:30-8 p.m. on South Bozeman Avenue for inflatables and other interactive activities provided by the Gallatin area’s best nonprofits. Grab a bite to eat from one of the many rotating food vendors and of course, enjoy live music starting at 7 p.m.

Music on Main 2023 Lineup:

Ç July 6 – Dammit Lauren!

Ç July 13 – Float Like a Buffalo

Ç July 20 – Swagger

Ç July 27 – The Powell Brothers

Ç August 3 – Paige & the Peoples Band

Ç August 10 – Kimberly Dunn

Downtown Bozeman

Crazy Days

July 21-23, 2023

It’s the biggest, the best and the original – the Downtown Bozeman Crazy Days! Starting on Friday, July 21 at 10 a.m. (earlier at select locations; times and days vary per business), more than 200 downtown merchants take to the sidewalks with unbelievable sales on spring and summer merchandise.

2023 Big Sky Country

State Fair

July 19-23, 2023

Looking to make this summer special and build memories that will last a lifetime? Come make memories and enjoy the Big Sky Country State Fair in Bozeman with fair food, carnival rides, concerts, animals and live entertainment. Gates open at 11 a.m. daily and close at 11 p.m. daily (6 p.m. on Sunday).

Start making memories on Wednesday, July 19 and head straight to food row where you will find more than 20 food vendors on the roster. Expect to see hand-dipped corn dogs, homemade ice cream, shaved ice, funnel cakes, huckleberry drinks, BBQ, Mexican and Asian inspired food. Make sure to visit NEW food vendors Totally Nutz, Chicken Chariot, Gourmet Grilled Cheese and Brown Gringo Taco.

On Wednesday, July 19 enjoy nationally recognized talent Flo Rida with special guest DJ Kronik followed by Blue Belly Junction on the Silver Bullet Stage. On July 20 Gary Allan will perform followed by Western Skies. Friday, July 21 is Billy Currington with special guest Matt Stell followed by Twang. Neon Rainbow will be on the Silver Bullet stage on July 22 after the Bozeman Ranch Rodeo Roundup.

Make sure you check out the commercial vendor booths along A gate road and stop into the NEW Montana Beef Council Barnyard. The Barnyard will have a petting zoo, barnyard races and interactive agriculture educational displays.

With more than a hundred years of tradition, the Bozeman Roundup Ranch Rodeo will be held on Saturday, July 22. Come back Sunday, July 23 for the Barnyard Brawl: Muttom Bustin’, the calf scramble and the chicken chase for the kiddos sponsored by Boot Barn.

The fair will also feature several fun-filled activities in the Pardners Corral: Canine Stars, Sea Lion Splash, Flores Thrill Show, Butterfly and Ladybug Exhibits, John Cassidy Magic Show, Alan Sands Escape Artist, Derrick Watckins Hypnotist, Chicago Dancing Honey Bear Dancers, competitive exhibits, workshops and more.

Animals are the number one reason visitors come to the fair in the United States. This is the last place you can get up close and personal with your favorite goat or pig without living on your own farm. First Security Bank Livestock Barns will be open all week; and visit the AgWest Farm Credit Services Tent to see the animal show.

Make sure you head over to the motorsports arena and either sign up to compete or support the competitors in the Arena Cross Racing, Mud Bog, the Hill ‘N Hole, and round out the week with the popular Monster Truck Show on Sunday.

On Sunday, July 23 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., the fair will unveil Sensory Friendly Morning – an environment designed for children and adults with autism or sensory processing disorders with the goal for them to come make memories at the fair.

For more information visit 406StateFair.com or call 406-582-3270.

After Dark!

July 27, 2023

Feel like you want to be super? Join MSC volunteer Sarah West and special guests from Last Best Quest and morph into your inner superhero. Choose your characteristics, dress in costume (optional) and BECOME your superhero self. RSVP is requested, cost is $25 or included with your After Dark Membership. For ages 21 and over.

46 th Annual Bozeman

Sweet Pea Festival

August 4-6, 2023

The Sweet Pea Festival, an annual three-day festival of the arts, features entertainment in many forms – music of all genres, performances by local theater and dance troupes, workshops, family-friendly entertainment and activities, a flower show, a beer and wine garden featuring Montana microbrews and over 100 arts and crafts vendors to stroll through and purchase unique gifts for yourself, family and friends. The week leading up to the festival offers additional fun-filled, community events. Visit www.sweetpeafestival.org/sweetpea-events for a full schedule.

SLAM

Summer Festival

August 5 & 6, 2023

The 2023 Summer SLAM festival will be held at Bogert Park on August 5 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and August 6 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Showcasing the amazing talent Montana has to offer, this familyfriendly event features an artists’ market, artist demonstrations, live music and performances, a culinary delights food court, Montana-made libations garden, silent auction and family activities. The SLAM festival is free to attend.

It’s a bird, it’s a plane... no, it’s MSC

MSU Community Cat Walk

August 18, 2023

The Montana State University Cat Walk will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, August 18 before fall classes begin. MSU President Cruzado, Champ, the MSU Spirit of the West Marching Band, MSU Spirit Squad and other MSU representatives and community members will make their way down Main Street to create some “Bobcat Buzz.” They will be visiting businesses and stores, playing the fight song and passing out exclusive Bobcat swag along the way.

Cruisin’ on Main Car Show

August 20, 2023

The “Cruisin’ on Main” Car Show takes place on Main Street in downtown Bozeman between Wilson and Rouse Avenue. Car enthusiasts are invited to enter their vehicles in the show – all makes and models are welcome. Preregistration is open the day of the show. All proceeds from “Cruisin on Main” go to Cancer Support Community. Gift Bags and Dash Plaques will be given to all registered vehicles; trophies will be awarded in more than 10 car categories including a “People’s Choice” and “Best of Show.”

Freedom Festival

July 3 and 4, 2023

The Freedom Festival includes an amazing fireworks show from the Big ‘M’, above Montana Tech, on the night of July 3. A parade will be held on July 4, beginning at 10 a.m., working its way from the Butte Civic Center down Harrison Avenue to top off the holiday. Get there early to claim your spot along the parade route.

Montana Folk Festival

July 14-16, 2023

This is one of the largest free outdoor music festivals in the northwest. It features multiple stages with continuous live performances by some of the best traditional performers in the world, a lively family area, ethnic and festival food, art markets and folk life demonstrations and workshops. For more information and the 2023 lineup, visit the Folk Festival at www. montanafolkfestival.com or on Facebook at www. facebook.com/mtfolkfest.

NEW: Lower Elementary Program for Children in 1st-3rd grades

Enrolling now for Fall of 2023

+ Serving children ages 6 months to 10 years old.

+ Unique Learning

Environments, MUST SEE!

+ Our highly trained staff love serving families and children

Join us for a virtual tour to learn more about our centers!

+ Potential scholarship opportunities

Locations at Equestrian Ln. and Enterprise Blvd.

CONTACT US TODAY!

bozemanmontessori.com

info@bozemanmontessori.com (406) 600-8098

Gardiner A

346 Gallatin Park Drive, Bozeman (406) 579-7692

www.creativeartspreschool.org

Annual Gardiner Rodeo

June 16-17, 2023

The annual Gardiner Rodeo will be held on June 16 and 17 from 6-9 p.m. at the Jim Duffy arena on Highway 89 where a variety of rodeo events will be held including barrel racing, bronc riding, break-away roping, bull riding and more. Visit www.visitgardinermt. com for more information.

Gardiner Brewfest

July 15, 2023

The 2023 Gardiner Brewfest will take place Saturday, July 15 from 3 to 10 p.m. in Arch Park. This family-friendly event will feature live music, wineries, breweries, artists and food trucks, all of which are local to the area. The festival will also have an interactive kids’ village.

Grandstreet Theatre School’s Production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr.

June 2-11, 2023

Eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts sets about restoring an old race car with the help of his children Jeremy and Jemima. They soon discover the car is magic, and has the ability to float and take flight. When the evil Baron Bomburst desires the magic car for himself, the family joins forces with Truly Scrumptious and Grandpa Potts to outwit the dastardly Baron and Baroness and their villainous henchman, the Child Catcher. Based on the beloved 1968 film, and featuring an unforgettable score by the Sherman Brothers (Mary Poppins), Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a high-flying, fun-filled adventure for the entire family. For show performance times and ticket sales visit www.grandstreettheatre.com

2023 Summer Library Program

Story Time in the Parks

June 1 - July 31

Alive at 5 in downtown Helena

June 7–August 23, 2023

The Alive at Five Summer Concert Series will celebrate 26 years in 2023. Music will rotate every Wednesday starting June 7 through August 23 between various sites in downtown Helena, including Women’s and Pioneer Parks. Each weekly event runs from 5-8:30 p.m. with live music beginning at 5:30 p.m. For the lineup and concert locations visit www. downtownhelena.com/events

Visit lclibrary.org for a full calendar of events

Join the Lewis & Clark Library at a different Helena city park every Thursday at 10 a.m. for story time. In addition to story time in the Helena city parks, this program is traveling to East Helena, Augusta and Lincoln too. Enjoy 30 minutes of stories, songs, rhymes and more. Library services will be offered at the Lewis & Clark Library Bookmobile after the story time program. These programs are geared toward children between the ages of 3 to 8 years old but everyone is welcome. Cancellations due to weather will be posted by 9:30 a.m. the day of the event on the library website, www.lclibrary.org, and social media accounts @LewisandClarkLibraryHelena and @ LCLBookmobile. Don’t forget your sunscreen and a blanket to sit on!

Ç Thursday, June 15 at 10 a.m. in Cherry Hill Park, Helena

Ç Thursday, June 22 at 10 a.m. in Cherry Hill Park, Helena

Ç Monday, June 26 at 11 a.m. outside at the baseball field on Broadway Street, Augusta

Ç Thursday, June 29 at 10 a.m. in Skelton Park, Helena

Ç Thursday, July 6 at 10 a.m. in Skelton Park, Helena

Ç Thursday, July 13 at 10 a.m. in Skelton Park, Helena

Ç Monday, July 17 at 10:30 a.m. in Main Street Park, East Helena

Ç Thursday, July 20 at 10 a.m. in Lockey Park, Helena

Ç Monday, July 24 at 11 a.m. outside at the Lincoln Library, Lincoln

Ç Thursday, July 27 at 10 a.m. in Lockey Park, Helena

@ 2023 THEMES montana parent

January 2023: New Baby/Pregnancy

Ads due 12/19-Prints 12/21

The pregnancy journey and life with your baby during the first year

2023 Root’s Wellness

Guide insert

Ads due 12/5-Prints 12/10

February 2023:

summer camp preview online only

Ads due 1/20-ONLINE 2/1 Preview summer camp options in southwest MT and read a few of our favorite columns!

March 2023:

Summer Camp & Activities

Ads due 2/20-Prints 2/24

Everything you need to know about camp and more ~ featuring our Summer Camp and Activity Guide

» virtual Summer Camp and Activity Roundup

» Bozeman Parks and Recreation Spring/Summer Activity

April 2023: Sports

Ads due 3/20-Prints 3/24

Sports are serious these days and we will help you navigate the channels of participation for your family in southwest Montana

May 2023: Mental Health

Ads due 4/19-Prints 4/23

Addressing both parent issues and childhood issues

Summer 2023:

Travel guide\Summer Fun in Southwest Montana

Ads due 5/17-Prints 5/21

We write the book on family-friendly events, activities and recreation in southwest Montana. On stands June-September.

August 2023:

Back to School

Ads due 7/20-Prints 7/23

Summers are short in Montana, we’ll help you get yourself and your family ready to get back to school ~ from kindergarten to college

september 2023:

Early Childhood ONLINE ONLY

Ads due 8/20-online 9/1

All about children under 5: childcare, health, development, activities and more

October 2023:

Fall Family Adventures

Ads due 9/18-Prints 9/23

A look forward to holiday trips, Spring Break, staycations and more

holidays 2023

Ads due 10/20-Prints 10/22

Previewing holiday events, activities and more

December 2023:

Winter Fun in Southwest Montana ONLINE ONLY

Ads due 11/16-Prints 11/19

Ideas, events and activities to get your family enjoying winter fun both indoors and out

Helena Summer Walk Series

Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 20 through August 17, 2023

This summer, local Helena conservation groups will collaborate to host a series of summer education walks. Every Tuesday and Thursday, June 20 through August 17, one of the partner agencies will be leading a one-hour outdoor educational walk in the Helena area. June and July walks will start at 6 p.m. and August walks will start at 7 p.m. Each walk will focus on a different topic including fire history, bear safety, water quality, geology, local history and more. Locations will vary with each presentation. Attendance is limited to 20 people per walk and signup will be open to the public 14 days before each event. Visit www.register-ed. com/programs/montana/241-summer-walkseries/page:2

Beyond the Big Sky Public Observing Nights

June 23 & 24, 2023

subscriptions available at mtparent.com/subscription

Starting at sunset at the Montana Learning Center, Beyond the Big Sky will begin with a special presentation from some of Montana’s leading astronomy experts, followed by the opportunity for attendees to gaze at the wonders of the universe using some of Montana’s largest and most sophisticated publicly-accessible telescopes. Each night’s attendance will be limited to 100 people, with advance ticket purchase required. To reserve your tickets and view the summer speaker lineup, visit www. montanalearning.org. Additional Beyond the Big Sky nights will be held on July 21 & 22 and August 11 & 12.

Helena Old Glory Flag July 4 th Celebration

July 4, 2023

The Helena Ambassadors and the Old Glory Flag Landmark Committee host this annual family fun event in Centennial Park from noon to 5 p.m. on July 4. There will be free hot dogs and root beer floats, live music, bounce houses for the kids and the ceremonial raising of the summer-weight flag. The event is open to everyone and there is no cost to attend.

Grandstreet Theatre Presents Disney’s the Little Mermaid

July 7-30, 2023

Based on the beloved Disney film, this fun-filled adventure follows Ariel, a brave and spirited mermaid with a fascination for the forbidden human world. After rescuing the handsome Prince Eric from a storm at sea, Ariel resorts to bargaining with the evil sea witch Ursula and trades her mermaid tail for human legs to try to win the human’s heart. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea. Propelled by classic Disney favorites including Under the Sea and Kiss the Girl, The Little Mermaid is sure to be a bountiful treasure for the entire family. For performance times and ticket sales, visit www.grandstreettheatre.com

Symphony Under the Stars the Great Ladies of Jazz

July 15, 2023

The 2023 Symphony Under the Stars will feature The Great Ladies of Jazz and pay tribute to the women of jazz including: Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday, Judy Garland, and Ginger Rogers. Listen to many of the hits from the Great American Songbook, including: How High the Moon, I Got Rhythm, Summertime, Bewitched and many more. The evening culminates with one of the best fireworks shows in Montana. Typically, more than 20,000 people attend this wonderful tradition on the hill at Carroll College. Symphony Under the Stars, held from 5-9 p.m. and free to those spreading out a blanket on the lawn. For more information, visit www. symphonyunderthestars.com/.

Last Chance Stampede and Fair

July 26-29, 2023

C5 Rodeo Company’s award-winning bucking stock and rodeo production team will return to provide top-quality performances at the Last Chance Stampede. Based out of Helena and Lac La Biche, Alberta, C5 is one of North America’s top stock providers, with more than 30 locations worldwide using C5 stock. C5 Rodeo owns F13 Virgil, legendary bareback horse and is proud to again bring their best stock to Helena’s Last Chance Stampede in 2023.

This year’s specialty act is Madison MacDonald Thomas. She comes to the stampede with 24 years of Trick Riding Experience. She is a 10-time NFR trick rider and five-time PRCA Act of the Year nominee. Nelly will be live in concert at the Cool Alley Arena on Wednesday, July 26 and Diamond Rio will perform on Saturday, July 29 inside the exhibition hall.

In addition to the stampede, fairgoers will enjoy free stage entertainment throughout the weekend and North Star Amusements will return with over 17 rides, games and concessions. For more information and tickets, visit www.lccfairgrounds.com/lastchance-stampede.

35 th ANNUAL FESTIVAL

of THE ARTS

JULY 2-4, 2023

Livingston Depot Center

Livingston Depot Center’s Festival of the Arts is held in the Depot Rotary Park on West Park Street (next to the Depot Center) in downtown Livingston. This juried show coincides with both the Livingston Roundup rodeo and the downtown parade, drawing more than 100 skilled artists and attracting thousands of enthusiasts.

The festival offers an impressive collection of fine art and craft talent from around the entire western region, including photography, painting, sculpture, woodworking, metal and blacksmithing, jewelry, furniture, glass, fiber arts, drawings and prints, ceramics and more. Please remember pets are not allowed, and if you have a service animal, it must be kept on a leash.

Livingston Roundup

July 2-4, 2023

The Livingston Roundup Rodeo is the premier rodeo in the state of Montana. The Roundup has consistently attracted sell-out crowds as well as the best PRCA rodeo cowboys and cowgirls from around the nation. To purchase tickets and for a full schedule of events, visit livingstonroundup.com

Red Ants Pants Music Festival

(White Sulphur Springs)

July 27-30, 2023

This music festival features four days of live music and benefits the Red Ants Pants Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to women’s leadership, working family farms and ranches, and rural communities. In addition to great music, festivalgoers will find merchandise tents, food vendors, a beer garden, hayrides and a kids’ tent. The kids’ tent offers fun activities, face painting, treats and more. For parents with wee ones, it is a great place to rest in the shade. For a complete performance lineup, visit www.redantspantsmusicfestival.com

Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo

June 16-August 19, 2023

The rodeo takes place five to six nights a week beginning Friday, June 16 through Saturday, August 19. Events include bareback riding, team roping, saddle bronc riding, breakaway roping, bull riding and a calf scramble for kids.

The rodeo is held 7 miles west of West Yellowstone and the park entrance on Targhee Pass Highway (Hwy. 20), 175 Oldroyd Rd. Admission fees vary by age and event. Performances often sell out, so it is advisable to buy tickets ahead of time at www. yellowstonerodeo.com.

Wild Bill Days Rodeo and

Concert

July 15, 2023

Enjoy the excitement of family fun events throughout the day with rodeos, a mechanical bull, food, drinks, vendors and concerts featuring Uncle Kracker and Adam and the Metal Hawks. Visit www. wildbillproductionsmt.com for more information.

Fee-Free

Yellowstone National Park Entrance Days 2023

Ç August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act

Ç September 23: National Public Lands Day

Ç November 11: Veterans Day

West

Yellowstone

Rod Run and Car Show

August 4-5, 2023

Come watch classic cars parade through the center of town to Pioneer Park for the annual must-attend Yellowstone Rod Run. Gathering in one of the most beautiful settings in the world, West Yellowstone, is reason enough to visit, but it is the festival atmosphere that prevails during this popular West Yellowstone Car Show that makes it truly unique.

The annual Rod Run event draws 400600 street rods and classic cars from all over the United States. Enjoy music, food, beverages and more. This event is open to the public and free to attend.

TREASURE STATE CLASSICS

Ask Flora

WRITTEN BY FLORA MCCORMICK

In this column, you can ask your questions about parenting kids from ages 2 to 10 to Flora McCormick, Licensed Counselor & Parenting Coach.

Q: “How can I teach my kid gratitude? I don’t want to invalidate her feelings, but when I go out of my way to take her for ice cream and all she can talk about is how it’s not the place she wanted to go, I get really hurt. Or when I make her breakfast and she complains about the bread – I feel so angry and confused. Am I raising a spoiled brat?”

A: This is such a great question, and one that I hear often. Here is the advice I find most valuable on the topic of gratitude.

Stop teaching from the neck-up. Many parents in this struggle have shared with me that they have told their child to be more grateful and explained that they are lucky to have breakfast to eat, or even shared deep explanations about why it’s hurtful when the child is ungrateful. These approaches are focused on the neck-up: talking. And we use these strategies believing that the child will change their ways from a cerebral insight. But let’s break that down for a minute. Yes, a high school child may be able to take information into their pre-frontal cortex and apply higherlevel executive function of the brain to understand it’s more reasonable to be grateful. But with our young kids, their pre-frontal cortex has a long way to go. It won’t be fully developed until their late 20’s. So, we are really expecting too much from their little brains.

Instead, I recommend including the whole personal experience as you teach. Strategies that are not just isolated to the cerebral cortex include:

1. Practice living out gratitude. Look for ways to involve your child in serving others, or helping those less fortunate. Those options can include walking in fun runs that support others, volunteering at the animal shelter or Fork and Spoon, or buying gifts for other children during the holidays.

2. Prepare in advance. For example, if you are going to grandma’s house for Easter you might take a moment to teach what gratitude can look like: “When you open your Easter basket, if it’s not something that you like, you can just say ‘Thank you.’ You don’t need to mention what items are not your favorite. We are so lucky to have a grandma who wants to take time to find a nice gift, so after you open it, let’s give a hug and say things that show appreciation.” or “Grandpa will be spending the whole day working on making us a nice meal for Easter, so what do you think are some ways we can be helpful? If you aren’t sure, you can go to any adult and ask, ‘How can I help?’ And if he makes food that isn’t your favorite, it’s still going to be what we eat, so we will say ‘Thank you,’ because no matter what the food is, I know there will be at least one thing you like to eat, and we will share our gratitude for all the time he spent making a thoughtful meal.”

3. Let kind, yet firm reactions do the teaching for you. Actions will always speak louder than words. Considering the examples you shared,

responses could be something like, “I can hear that you are not able to appreciate this trip to the ice cream store, so we will leave and let other children appreciate it, and try again another day.” Or, “I made this breakfast for you, and it’s what is available. If it’s not what you wanted, you can choose to make yourself cereal.” No argument or lecture to talk them into more gratitude is as powerful as showing that when you are demanding and ungrateful, you do not get what you want.

4. What gets noticed get repeated. The hardest part for many of us parents is finding the focus to notice when things are going great, and bring attention to it. So, keep your eyes peeled for moments when the kids do show gratitude and appreciation for things/experiences, and give a small comment of appreciation with the words, “I noticed…” For example, “I noticed you said thank you without any reminder. That is so grownup and kind!”

5. Model gratitude. Say thank you to your partner, children, friends, etc. whenever possible, using words that intentionally demonstrate appreciation. Children are always watching us and sometimes overhear advice (by watching your example), better than they hear advice.

FLORA: To get more sanity-saving strategies for parenting young kids, join Flora’s Free Facebook Group: Sustainable Parenting. Questions for the next issue or wins/questions from this issue can be submitted to contactflora@gmail.com. A special thank you to those who submit monthly questions.

Keeping it Real

WRITTEN BY BLAIR FJESETH

Blair Meets the Smith, Part One

I returned to my phone after a meeting to a flurry of texts. My heart sank as it would with any parent who picks up the phone to eight missed texts and three missed calls.

» Text 1 (Friend): Are we really doing this?

» Text 2 (Husband): We got a permit!

» Text 3 (Husband): Hello? Aren’t you excited ?! Call me.

» Text 4 (Friend): I am not going if we have to pack out our own poop.*

We won the Montana golden ticket – a Smith River permit for the best week of the summer. Instead of the grandparents jumping from their death bed in Willy Wonka, our golden ticket consists of six adults and six children ages 9 and under hitting the river for a five-day, four-night adventure of a lifetime. I’m scared, excited, nervous and mentally preparing for a 24/7 zero-tablet experience with all these children, including 10 hours a day in rafts with nowhere to escape to recompose my sanity.

Since February, we’ve been plotting and planning. It’s been an allconsuming process and one that has helped our family get through the throes of the never-ending winter and an exercise in patience and strategy.

While snowstorms hit Helena, we were camping in a tent in our living room to ensure sleeping pads and sleepsacks were all up to snuff.

Meal prep has been what I imagine being served on a Doomsday Preppers show hosted by Gordon Ramsey on Netflix. Menus have been created to accommodate the pickiness of all adventurers and allow for culinary excellence to entice adults to want to continue the journey.

I’ve woken up in the middle of the night to the glow of a laptop next to me. My husband monitoring historic river flows and YTD water levels, chatting with the other trip dads, which has led to the phrase “Snow = Flow” coming up every single time a flake of snow has fallen from the sky since February (hint… it’s been a lot). Apparently, there can be stretches of river where groups have to drag rafts along—not looking forward to that.

Watching my husband, a man who forgets to hang his towel up after a shower, dive into the underworld of extreme camping, and becoming the ultimate list maker and taskmaster, has been a thing to behold. It wouldn’t be a stretch to say that he has spent more time researching what to expect while camping than what to expect when having a baby.

We get so caught up in the mundane of everyday life that watching your partner find joy and passion in something new is like the excitement of dating someone new but with the same comfort, trust and lack of awkward moments built from a longterm relationship. His joy in planning this trip has been infectious to our children and me.

What will Blair Meets the Smith, Part Two hold? I hope family bonding, great weather, steady flows, no bears and lots of laughter. My guess is that if I’ve survived the Smith River prep, I will survive the Smith River trip. Fingers crossed.

*FYI—For the curious minds out there: This is the last year that campers do not have to pack out their own human waste... Thank goodness.

Blair Fjeseth is a working professional and proud Montana mom. You can reach her at blairparker.inc@gmail.com. Follow her Instagram @blair_mt for more adventures.

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