Yellowstone Valley Woman Magazine

COMPLIMENTARY

BILLINGS’ MOST READ MAGAZINE | JULY/AUGUST 2021

COMMUNITY

CHAMPIONS

Shawn inz H

26 LEADS PUBLIC HEALTH THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS

RAISING HAPPY & HEALTHY BABIES PROGRAM HELPS BUILD SUCCESS WITH MOMS

ON THE STREET

A LOOK AT HOMELESSNESS IN BILLINGS

REFRESHING SUMMER SIPS COOL BEVERAGES FOR WARM DAYS

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Award-Winning Care to keep you young at heart.

We care where you are.

Billings Clinic is the first and only medical center in Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, and North and South Dakota recognized by the American College of Cardiology with transcatheter valve certification. Our transcatheter heart valve program provides minimally invasive transcatheter repair or replacement options for aortic, mitral and tricuspid valves. These procedures minimize the length of stay in the hospital and shorten recovery times. Transcatheter valve certification is awarded to hospitals meeting standards for multidisciplinary teams, formalized training, shared decision-making, and registry performance which result in improved patient outcomes.

Billings Clinic has the highest volume of transcatheter and surgical heart valve procedures in the region. Our experienced Heart Team can help decide if a transcatheter procedure is right for your valvular heart disease.

For more information, visit billingsclinic.com/TAVR

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YVW MAGAZINE

Your health. Our service.

At RiverStone Health Clinic, we provide you with a healthcare experience unlike any other.

We assign you your own team of highly skilled medical professionals dedicated to your care.

This team-based approach allows us to build a relationship with you, develop a unique treatment plan based on your needs, and put you at the center of every healthcare decision.

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Letter

FROM THE

Editor

SOMETIMES YOU FIND a

As I started to ask more questions, Vonnie quickly said, “I don’t want this to be about me. These women don’t know the public is behind them. They need to know we appreciate them.”

little validation in the strangest of ways. For Yellowstone Valley Woman magazine, it came in the form of a phone call on a recent Thursday morning.

When I picked up the phone, 82-year-old Vonnie Bell, born and raised in Billings, was on the other line asking if I had an address for our recent cover girl, Nicole Gallagher-Kiner.

But, being a curious person, I just couldn’t help myself. “How many notes have you written and how many boxes of candy have you delivered?” I asked.

“I’ve been doing this for as long as I’ve been reading your magazine,” Vonnie told me, adding that it’s been a long time.

“I want to send her a note to let her know that I believe in what she’s doing,” Vonnie said. After we talked about Nicole and the challenging work she does as a criminal public defender, Vonnie let it slip that this wouldn’t be the first note she’d written.

“I do a lot with the women that you’ve got in your magazine,” she told me. “Felicia Burg gets tearyeyed when she sees me coming through the door because she knows I am going to be bringing her a box of candy.”

Vonnie is a fan of Felicia’s work with Family Promise of Yellowstone County, a nonprofit that works to provide support, mentoring and guidance to families facing homelessness. Vonnie told me she’s amazed at how Felicia, who struggled with drug addiction and homelessness herself, turned her life around to then help others rise from homelessness.

“I always give her a hug when I see her,” Vonnie said.

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Still a little stunned, I thanked Vonnie for sharing kindness with women who might at times feel drained by the tough work they do.

“Just know I am behind what you are doing,” she said, mentioning she was going to keep on writing notes and delivering candy for as long as she could. “These women are so outstanding.”

It was clear she’s a busy woman because she then said, “Well, thank you, honey. God Bless you. Have a wonderful day.”

With my heart fully warmed, I told her to do the same.

Julie

FINANCIAL FOCUS Set milestones on road to financial security.

by Morgan A Reif, AAMS®, Financial Advisor The road to financial security, like many long journeys toward important goals, can be filled with ups and downs. The financial markets can be volatile, shaking up your short-term investment results, and illness or downsizing may temporarily disrupt your career – and your earnings. In fact, just 46% of adults feel financially stable, according to a survey by Morning Consult and Edward Jones. Still, there’s much you can do to gain stability – and you can chart your progress by marking three important milestones: • Building a foundation – You need to base your financial stability on a strong foundation, which means you must start accumulating the necessary resources. Start by creating an emergency fund, which can help you deal with unexpected costs, such as an expensive car repair, without taking on additional debt. Try to put away anywhere from about $500 to one month’s worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid account – one that’s separate from an account you use for your everyday spending.

Later on, you’ll want to expand this

emergency fund, but, for now, even this amount can help.

You can also take other steps to build your financial foundation. Try to put in enough to your health savings account (HSA) and your 401(k) to earn your employer’s matching contribution, if one is offered. And if you can, pay down high-interest, nondeductible debts.

• Gaining stability – Continue to build on the momentum from the “foundation” milestone by ramping up your savings and investments.

For starters, build your emergency fund so it contains one and a half to two months’ worth of living expenses. Also, set a goal to save perhaps 10% to 15% of your gross income, including employer matches, in your 401(k) or similar retirement account. If you can’t reach this level yet, do the best you can now and increase your contributions over time, as your salary goes up. If the monthly debt payments are straining your budget, consider paying them down even if they have lower interest rates.

• Reaching independence – The final milestone toward achieving

financial stability is marked by a feeling of independence – knowing you are taking the steps necessary, and putting a strategy in place, to allow you to reach your financial goals.

Work to build a full three to six months’ worth of expenses in your emergency fund, which will offer even greater protection against being forced to tap into long-term investments, such as your IRA and 401(k), to pay for unanticipated expenses. Plus, having a sizable emergency fund gives you room to consider making moves such as taking a sabbatical, switching careers or taking time off to care for a loved one.

And, while you’re still working, save enough for the type of retirement lifestyle you desire. Even though your debt may be manageable at this point, it may still be source of stress. If so, continue paying it down. The less you owe, the more you can put away for retirement.

Achieving these milestones can help you gain the financial stability and flexibility to live life on your terms.

We Understand Commitment You can rely on Edward Jones for one-on-one attention, our qualityfocused investment philosophy and straight talk about your financial needs. To learn more, call today.

Morgan A Reif, AAMS® Morgan A Reif, AAMS®

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JULY/AUGUST 2021 2021 On the Cover 26

CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY

Shawn Hinz leads public health through partnerships

Features 12

RAISING HAPPY & HEALTHY BABIES

16

WALKING THROUGH DARKNESS

20

A VOICE FOR HER

22

TOGETHER THEY BUILD

32

ON THE STREET

40

FOR THE BLANK

42

BATTLING PERIOD POVERTY

44

FREEDOM ON TWO WHEELS

46

RALLYING FOR RED LODGE

58

REFRESHING SUMMER SIPS

Nurse Family Partnership looks to build success in motherhood

Sammy & Britney Higgs ramp up their efforts to reach human trafficking survivors

Sexual exploitation survivors join Her Campaign to deliver a message of hope

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Three women band together to make home ownership a reality

What a night of homelessness feels like in Billings

Finding passion and purpose in our community

16-year-old Lily Wilson makes it her mission

Repedal strengthens lives far beyond a donated bicycle

Fun run, foundation and fervor make for a vibrant community

46

Cool beverages for Warm Days

66

LIGHTNESS OF BEING AT THE EVERGREEN CAFE

Cydney Hoefle brings a homegrown taste to Billings

72

THE TEXTURE OF PLACE

Local author Carrie La Seur pushes her boundaries

YVW Home

58

76 PORCH APPEAL

IN EVERY ISSUE

Creating a relaxing and inviting space

84 UP, UP AND AWAY

Skyrocketing lumber costs impact housing market

86 JOURNEY FROM THE FARM TO ELDER

GROVE LANE 8

YVW MAGAZINE

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KAREN GROSZ: My Little Pandemic Pet Boom

52

FASHION: The Dress is Back

62

TASTE OF THE VALLEY: Cool as a Cucumis Sativus

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LOOK WHAT WE FOUND: Chime In

PUBLISHER & EDITOR JULIE KOERBER julie@yellowstonevalleywoman.com COPY EDITOR ED KEMMICK SPECIAL SECTION EDITOR LAURA BAILEY ADVERTISING TERRY PERKINS: 406-860-3951 terry@yellowstonevalleywoman.com TRISH SCOZZARI: 406-690-9528 trish@yellowstonevalleywoman.com LYNN LANGELIERS: 406-671-2325 lynn@yellowstonevalleywoman.com C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R MELANIE FABRIZIUS ads@yellowstonevalleywoman.com DISTRIBUTION NICOLE BURTELL CONTACT Yellowstone Valley Woman PO Box 23204 Billings, MT 59104 Phone: 406-254-1394 www.yellowstonevalleywoman.com

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ON THE COVER Photography

by Daniel Sullivan

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©2021 Media I Sixteen All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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ommunity2

CCHAMPION?

WHAT IS A

THEY ARE THOSE WHO are on the front lines of improving

public health. They are a husband and wife who spend their days fighting human trafficking and sexual exploitation. They are people who see something as simple as a bicycle as a tool for positive social change. They are teens who fight against the shame other women feel. They are health professionals lending a hand to new moms knowing it can help a family get off on the

right foot. They are friends displaying the words that fuel passions in our city. They are leaders putting on their walking shoes to strengthen a community. They are women, banding together and using sweat equity to create homes for their families. They are people making a difference in our community. These are their stories. ✻

JULY/AUGUST 2021

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RAISING RAISING HAPPY HAPPY & & HEALTHY HEALTHY

Babies

NURSE FAMILY PARTNERSHIP LOOKS TO BUILD SUCCESS IN MOTHERHOOD written by LAURA BAILEY photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN

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JOVIE MCCARTHY

is a darling 6-month-old, and she’s teething. She has the telltale signs. Drool is beading on her chin, and she’s putting almost anything she can find, including her little fists, into her mouth. She’s been fussier lately too.

Jovie’s teething was a milestone her mother Kirby Charette immediately recognized thanks, in part, to Shannon Hauck, a registered nurse who has been visiting Kirby once a week since her pregnancy.

Shannon oversees the Nurse Family Partnership, a program of RiverStone Health. It’s a statewide program that provides support for mothers beginning during pregnancy through birth and until their baby’s second birthday. They serve primarily first-time mothers, and almost all of them live in poverty or have other risk factors. The goal of the program is to enable mothers to create a better life for their children and themselves.

Kirby is a first-time mother, and her pregnancy took her and her partner by surprise. Kirby didn’t access healthcare until later in her pregnancy, which is one of the criteria that made her eligible for the program. The support she received through the program was a calming lifeline in a sea of uncertainty.

“There was never any information overload,” Kirby says. “We just talked each week, and it was always relevant to where I was in my pregnancy. There’s always new information coming out, and they stay on top of it so I didn’t have to.”

Shannon is one of three nurses in the local Nurse Family

Partnership program. Together, they have a caseload of about 60 mothers who all live in Yellowstone County. The Nurse Family Partnership, which started in Montana in 2012, also includes programs in Missoula, Butte and Helena. Since its inception, it has empowered more than 800 mothers to provide a better future for their babies.

All the nurses are certified lactation consultants. Shannon helped Kirby with breastfeeding, and when Jovie was just a day and a half old and Kirby had a doctor’s appointment, Shannon came over to help her figure out her breast pump and prepare a bottle for Jovie while she was gone. Sure, Kirby and her partner could have navigated the stressful situation on their own, but Shannon expertly handled the whole situation, putting everyone at ease, Kirby says.

“She knows me, and she knows us,” Kirby adds.

That trusted relationship is at the heart of the Nurse Family Partnership program. Mothers are more open to information when they receive it from a trusted source.

“Mothers feel supported,” Shannon said. “They know we’re in their corner.”

Conversations are led by the mother and her needs and questions.

Information is provided but never forced on them. Topics include the usual concerns a mother might have about the changes in their body or the development of the fetus, but the nurses also provide them with information on nutrition, mental health and

JULY/AUGUST 2021

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even occasionally intimate partner violence.

“Sometimes it feels like we don’t make a difference, but they keep seeing us, and while we are there, we are planting seeds with information and we’re trying to nurture those seeds based on our clients’ needs. Some grow faster than others,” says Carol Loudermilk, a nurse who works in the program with Shannon.

“They know that we are going to do everything we can to help them be the best parent they can be,” says Dusty Grisham, another nurse in the program.

“We might be that one person our client can rely on to show up,” Shannon says.

Shannon, Carol and Dusty — and all the mothers they’ve served — realize the power of the Nurse Family Partnership, but it’s also an evidence-based program backed by more than 40 years of research. Studies show that participation in the partnership reduces child abuse and neglect by 48 percent and, for the babies in the program, it has been shown to reduce language delays, in addition to behavior and intellectual

“We have the time to sit down and to YVW MAGAZINE

Empowerment is at the core of the Nurse Family Partnership program, and the nurses focus on the strengths of the mother, building on even the smallest of wins. Sometimes it’s the little things like a shower and getting dressed for the day, sometimes it’s major milestones like going back to work.

Many of the mothers don’t have a reliable support network, so the nurses also help them access critical social services.

Each visit lasts between an hour and an hour and half, and Shannon and the other nurses on her team also make themselves available by text and by phone.

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listen to their needs, wishes and wants, and often, that’s not happening in a doctor’s office visit,” Shannon says.

“THERE IS A WINDOW DURING PREGNANCY WHEN THE DESIRE TO BE A GOOD MOTHER AND RAISE A HEALTHY, HAPPY CHILD CREATES MOTIVATION TO OVERCOME INCREDIBLE OBSTACLES, INCLUDING POVERTY, WITH THE HELP OF A WELL-TRAINED NURSE.”

Financial Security begins by building a plan you can trust.

— David Olds, Ph.D., founder of Nurse Family Partnership and professor of Pediatrics at the University of Colorado.

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problems in early childhood. Anecdotally, mothers in the program are more bonded with their babies, more confident and selfsufficient.

“This mother might be breaking a cycle. She might be laying down a new foundation for her future,” Shannon says.

At graduation, the nurse and client look back over all the accomplishments and milestones and celebrate. It’s bittersweet, Shannon says. Many of them are excited to reach another milestone, but they also know they will miss the personal connection. The mothers can stay in touch if they want, and for Kirby and Jovie, that’s the plan.

“I think Shannon will always be a part of our lives,” Kirby says. ✻

Life Gets Better with Age. Each of us lives a life richly colored by family, friends and personal experiences. At Westpark Village, our programs help you live your passions, fulfill your potential and keep precious memories alive, while making cherished new ones. Come and experience just how rich your life can be.

Call today for personal tour with Emily at 406-652-4886.

We’ll not only put more meaningful moments in your life, we’ll put more life into each and every moment.

TO LEARN MORE

about the Nurse Family Partnership through RiverStone Health, call (406) 247-3360.

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WALKING THROUGH

DARKNESS to Light5 SAMMY & BRITNEY HIGGS RAMP UP THEIR EFFORTS TO REACH HUMAN TRAFFICKING SURVIVORS written by JULIE KOERBER photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN and SAMMY HIGGS 16

YVW MAGAZINE

SURROUNDED BY FAMILY AND SUPPORTERS, MARLY HAIDLE CUTS THE RIBBON ON MARLY HOUSE

ONE IN THREE TEENS who end up on the streets will be lured into prostitution within 48 hours of running away from home.

That’s the statistic that Sammy and Britney Higgs fight to change on a daily basis with their non-profit, the Her Campaign. They fight, working to rescue women from a life of being trafficked.

Then, they help put them on the road to find healing and purpose.

homes. By the end of 2021, the couple hopes to have 20 families in training.

“All the clinical things are super helpful,” Britney says, “but if the client hasn’t learned what family looks like, you are missing a big piece.”

They saw firsthand how survivors thrived in a family setting.

“The women we served, 100 percent of them stayed with us longer A little more than three years ago, the couple began the fight by than any other shelter program that they’d been in,” Britney says. opening up their family home to human trafficking survivors. The “They got to experience what a loving family — which includes Britney and family looks like, and that changed Sammy’s three kids, now aged 2, 8 and things for them.”

10, with a fourth baby on the way — wrapped survivors not only in love and Instead of reaching three or four THE WOMEN WE SERVED, 100 helped provide for their physical needs women at a time in their own home, PERCENT OF THEM STAYED WITH but created a network of professionals roughly 20 survivors will soon be US LONGER THAN ANY OTHER and mentors to help each one heal. served by individual families.

“Here’s the problem,” Britney begins: “There are not enough beds across the country. There’s a huge gap in survivor care. How do we do this and how do we do this well?”

SHELTER PROGRAM THAT THEY’D BEEN IN. THEY GOT TO EXPERIENCE WHAT A LOVING FAMILY LOOKS LIKE, AND THAT CHANGED THINGS FOR THEM.

It’s just one piece in creating what Britney and Sammy call a “survivor ecosystem of care.” This system includes a 24/7 hotline to help — Britney Higgs women escape human trafficking, an emergency shelter to house those The answer came last June as the recently rescued, a year of family couple were helping three women support and recovery through the transition out of their home. Both Sammy and Britney felt pulled Family Alliance and a transitional living home, helping women in a new direction. move toward greater independence.

“We now want to raise up other families to do what we are doing to create a safe place for survivors,” Britney says.

In the coming months, they’ll unveil the Family Alliance, a program that pairs human trafficking survivors with families willing and able to host them. The families will be thoroughly vetted and undergo a year of training to learn how to walk the healing journey with a survivor before accepting one into their

“We both felt like it was time,” Sammy says.

“We felt like there is a gap here in our region for emergency shelter, specifically for sex trafficking victims,” Britney says. “The level of trauma and mental illness that these trafficking victims are coming in with is so deep, they need an extra space.”

As we speak, Sammy and Britney are networking with other

JULY/AUGUST 2021

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Her Campaign. In front of friends, family and supporters, the Higgses cut the ribbon on the Marly House, a transitional living home that will shelter up to seven women and their children for up to two years. It’s a place survivors can go after they’ve undergone the one-year recovery program that the Family Alliance offers. The Marly House is community living with an eye on creating personal and economic independence.

Advisers will help the women budget and save so they can work toward one day having a home of their own.

MARLY HOUSE

“According to the Samaritan Women’s National Landscape Map, there are only 47 shelter programs across the country that will take in women specifically sex trafficking victims and their children for a long-term program,” Britney says. “We said, ‘That’s a gap. Let’s help fill that.’”

The Marly House is named after Marilyn a.k.a. Marly Haidle, Britney’s grandmother, who has been key in helping Britney and Sammy financially get their anti-trafficking efforts off the ground.

“I’m so humbled by what God has done,” Sammy says as he thinks about the new projects and just how far his family has come throughout the nonprofit’s evolution. agencies to start an emergency shelter in the Billings area that will open this coming fall. The shelter will house up to eight women for 30 days or up to 96 women a year, helping them get medical and psychological evaluations. Since so many arrive without a Social Security card, driver’s license or even a birth certificate, the shelter will also help them get set up with an ID so they can start to put their lives back together.

“When a survivor is rescued out of trafficking, either by her own will or with the help of law enforcement, a rescue hotline or other frontline worker, the journey has just begun,” Britney says.

An emergency shelter will go a long way toward giving women a safe haven. Talking of the need, Sammy shares the chilling story of a 22-year-old woman who was on the run from her trafficker.

After taking a call from a law enforcement officer trying to help the woman seek safety, the officer told the the couple that had they not stepped in, the woman probably wouldn’t have lived to see another day. Britney and Sammy helped set the woman up in a hotel while they found a safe house out of state.

“Her trafficker had killed another girl that day and was out looking for her,” Sammy says. “There are so many phone calls that we get where women are on the run or trying to get out and we help them to navigate those waters.”

The first week of June brought another major milestone for the

“When you are walking through some of the darkest places with these women, it just does something within you,” Britney says. “It grows you and grows your capacity to see the world around you differently and lets you love more deeply.” ✻

TO READ the original story YVW did showcasing the beginning of the Her Campaign, visit yellowstonevalleywoman.com/arefuge-for-her

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE

—HER CAMPAIGN— AND HOW YOU CAN HELP Visit hercampaign.org.

That’s where you’ll find information on the Family Alliance and fostering human trafficking survivors.

A WAY OUT • 24/7 HOTLINE

Her Campaign partners with Rescue America to provide a 24/7 hotline working to facilitate the safe and secure exit from a life of human trafficking. If you or someone you know needs information about leaving the life,

CALL (713) 322-8000.

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A VOICE FOR

SEXUAL EXPLOITATION SURVIVORS JOIN HER CAMPAIGN TO DELIVER A MESSAGE OF HOPE

“WE ENDURED PRETTY TRAUMATIC We were born into a cult.”

sexual abuse.

That’s how sisters Jessica Anderson and Catie Reay’s story begins.

During the 1990s in Billings, the girls’ parents were members of Curly Thornton Ministries, reportedly a cult of roughly 100 people who believed Emmett “Curly” Thornton was training them to be a part of the “army of God.”

sexual exploitation survivors.

“We want people to know that there is freedom. There is healing,” Catie says. “There’s wholeness and full restoration on the other side. Jessica and I are living testaments that joy and peace is absolutely possible.”

Both had been abused from birth until about the age of 10.

It took more than a decade for both sisters to get to this stage of healing. They’ve withstood years of therapy to peel back the layers of trauma.

Before a crowd in Casper, Wyoming, last April, the two shared their story of abuse, manipulation, coercion and betrayal at an anti-human-trafficking event. Known by friends as the “Power Sisters,” they are using their voices to bring a strong message for

“I don’t remember a lot,” Catie says. “What I do remember is a lot of people who I didn’t know personally having very intimate places in our life,” she says. “The rape, the writing of bad checks, the sexual exploitation happening inside the cult, it was brought

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home into our family unit. Long after we left the cult, that was still happening.” Catie says a family member was her abuser. Her father was Jessica’s.

After Jessica told her youth pastor’s wife, she says law enforcement got involved and her abuser, her father, ended up serving time in the Montana State Prison on two counts of incest.

“We’ve both been able to forgive our abusers and we’ve been able to speak that same message to so many people who have been trapped in that same bondage of bitterness and unforgiveness,” Catie says.

“Once you overcome what these girls have been through and you step on the other side of that, you carry something so powerful,” says Britney Higgs of the Her Campaign, an anti-human-trafficking outreach that’s pulled in these sisters to help serve survivors. “These survivors — they are the ones who are going to cut through the darkness of our world.”

The two women shared their stories not only at an anti-humantrafficking event in Casper this past spring, they spoke at the Ecosystem of Survivor Care Conference last January in Bozeman.

“I felt like my whole body was on fire,” Catie says of the healing experience.

The two launched what they call “A Voice for Her.” It’s a private Facebook group where survivors can virtually lean on each other.

Catie says, “We offer our testimony and important pieces of the healing journey.” Catie also created a 12-part series on TikTok, where she shared her story of sexual exploitation.

“A ton of my videos from my personal story went viral. From there, more survivors came to my page. I had a lot of sex workers that ended up on my page and a lot of strippers because of the particular content that I was creating.” Now, she’s reaching just shy of 280,000 followers on the social media platform. “I was sending a message of love and light and freedom to some of the people who needed to hear it the most,” she says.

As the sisters’ message gains momentum, Catie is hoping to connect with lawmakers to spark legislative change to the education system.

“I want to get legislation created that would mandate teachers to be trauma-informed care trained so fewer children like my siblings and I fall through the cracks,” she says. During the time of her abuse, she went to Big Sky, Meadowlark and McKinley Elementary Schools in Billings. Not one teacher spotted a red flag in her behavior.

said we need to get these kids help,” Catie says.

Today, both women are wives and mothers. They feel their purpose now is to help other women who have faced intense sexual trauma. While they don’t know how that will play out in the future, they say they will go where they are called.

“I know that every time I share out loud and every time I say there is freedom. There is healing. There is full circle restoration, it becomes more solidified in me,” Catie says. “The truth that the little girl inside me was never going to be abused again set me free.” ✻

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To keep tabs on anti-human-trafficking events they might be a part of, visit hercampaign.org and click on Events.

“There were so many people along the way who could have seen the behavior displayed from my siblings and I and immediately JULY/AUGUST 2021

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r e th e g o T THEY BUILD THREE WOMEN BAND TOGETHER TO MAKE HOME OWNERSHIP A REALITY written by LAURA BAILEY photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN

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PERCHED ON A LADDER with paintbrush in hand, Terry Sue Johnson-Rogers cut in the corners of her daughter’s bedroom ceiling with white primer. Helping her out in the living room, Tanya Hay rolled a coat of rich gray-brown paint across one wall.

Outside, with a toolbelt across her waist and a hard hat on her head, Kristen Hobson attached soffit under the eaves.

committing to work at minimum every Saturday all day and on Wednesday evenings every week. The sweat equity they put into the building process brings down the overall cost of the homes they will eventually purchase.

They all agree that the prospect of homeownership has been worth the effort.

The three women never imagined they would spend their “This is a dream come Saturdays on a construction site, but then again, they never own a home here.” imagined they’d own their own homes – or have a hand in building them. Kristen, Tanya and Terry Sue are part of the Owner-Built Housing Project, a program IF I HADN’T BEEN SELECTED BY of the Red Lodge Area Community Foundation in partnership with Helena HABITAT I’D HAVE HAD TO MOVE. Area Habitat for Humanity and Trust IT’S COMFORTING TO KNOW THAT Montana.

THIS IS WHERE I GET TO LIVE FOR THE NEXT 30 YEARS-PLUS.

true,” says Tanya. “I’ve always wanted to

Tanya’s extended family has lived in the Red Lodge area for four generations, and her teenage daughter and young son represent the fifth generation. The thought of living anywhere else was heartbreaking, but recently, with rising housing costs and a shortage of rentals, she was faced with the real possibility of being forced to leave.

For more than a year, the three women have been working hard and digging — Tanya Hay deep to tap emotional and physical “If I hadn’t been selected by Habitat I’d reserves they didn’t know they had. Later have had to move,” she says, standing in this summer, they will be moving into her unfinished kitchen. “It’s comforting their homes, all next door to one another in a quiet subdivision to know that this is where I get to live for the next 30 years-plus.” on the outskirts of Red Lodge.

Along the wall are swatches of paint in an array of blues. She’s Operations at the build site are overseen by a construction settled on a midnight-blue accent wall in the living room. She’s supervisor with the Helena Area Habitat for Humanity, who also chosen dark cabinets and coordinating countertops. The helped provide the women with an education in every aspect choices are overwhelming and liberating at the same time. of the building process. Habitat for Humanity’s model relies “In an apartment you’re stuck with what you get,” she says. “You heavily on volunteers, but because of Covid-19 restrictions very don’t have a choice.” few volunteers helped on the Red Lodge project. That left Kristen, Tanya and Terry Sue to shoulder a good portion of the labor,

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Terry Sue is ready to leave her rental behind as well. She’s moved more often than she likes to admit and has lived with her mother a few times when she couldn’t afford rent. All she wants is stability for her three kids.

“Now I’ll have a place where I know I can stay, and I can grow old here and my kids can grow up here and after they leave and move on, they’ll have a place to come back to because I’ll be here,” Terry Sue says.

Kristen has lived in Red Lodge for 12 years. She has two sons who are 21 and 13. In all the years she’s rented, she always dreamed of homeownership.

“It’s been a lifelong goal of mine to make this kind of investment and have that safety and security,” Kristen says.

These women know all too well that finding a place to live in Red Lodge is a real challenge. Many residents say they have seen a shift as long-term rentals have been converted into vacation rentals. Home prices have drastically increased as well, encouraging landlords to sell and pricing out most of the workforce in Red Lodge. The median sale price for a home in Red Lodge is $391,000, compared to $244,000 just five years ago. In that time, the median household income has stayed flat.

“It’s become increasingly difficult to find affordable housing everywhere, but here, it’s a crisis,” says Robin Adams, the workforce housing coordinator at the Red Lodge Area Community Foundation.

To help the situation, an eight-unit affordable housing complex is slated for construction adjacent to the owner-built housing project, and Robin is actively recruiting owner/builder applicants for additional Habitat for Humanity houses. She admits that

the additional 14 units will barely make a dent in the housing shortage but is hopeful that, when combined with other initiatives, they are a big step in the right direction.

“It’s a multifaceted, complex problem, and it’s going to require a multifaceted, complex solution,” she says.

Trust Montana, a statewide nonprofit, is supporting the project by holding the land where the homes are built in a trust. By placing the land in a trust, it ensures that the homes will remain affordable long into the future. And because the cost of land isn’t calculated into the mortgage, its more affordable for the homeowners who pay a small monthly lease on the property.

Financing for the projects is provided by Altana Federal Credit Union.

To qualify for the low interest mortgages, Kristen, Tanya and Terry Sue have had to take financial literacy classes, which teach them the basics of saving, lending and investing.

“It’s shown me how to set myself up for my future,” Terry Sue says.

Throughout the process, the women have supported each other and helped with the construction of each other’s homes.

Though they didn’t know one another before, they’ve become close friends.

“I can’t imagine working with a greater group of women,” Tanya says. “We’ve become our own little community out here.”

“We each have our strengths and we each have our weaknesses and we play off each other in the most positive way,” Kristen adds.

“To work side by side with them this year with all the joy and tears and the successes has been amazing,” Kristen says. “We’ve proven to ourselves that we can do hard things.” ✻

Kristen, Tanya and Terry Sue will be neighbors for at least the next 30 years, and that’s just fine with them.

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aring CFOR THE COMMUNITY SHAWN HINZ LEADS PUBLIC HEALTH THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS written by LINDA HALSTEAD-ACHARYA photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN

SHAWN HINZ

is on a mission: to help the residents of Yellowstone County lead healthier lives.

As deputy health officer and vice president of Public Health Services at RiverStone Health, Shawn oversees a dedicated staff of 80. They serve as school nurses, sanitarians, prevention health specialists and so much more. They provide guidance and information for good maternal practices, nutrition, smoking cessation, emergency preparedness and even HIV prevention. It’s a big umbrella, and Shawn is constantly impressed by her team.

“Everybody has a different role,” she says. “It’s a great team to work with – we’re small enough to be nimble but big enough to implement programs we want and the community needs.”

Speaking from her fourth-floor office in RiverStone’s Lil Anderson Building, Shawn looks out toward the city spread out beneath the Rims. She sees her role as improving the health of everyone within her view, in every direction. In any given year, she says, 180,000 people are affected by the work and programs at RiverStone.

substantive changes rather than flash-in-the-pan headlines. Her steady demeanor and her ability to communicate clearly have paid off over the long haul.

Shawn has had her hands on countless programs: Better Babies, the Nurse Family Partnership, Healthy by Design and the new Off the Streets Shelter (see related story, pg. 32), to name a handful.

She’s served on the incident command team during emergencies and she has sat at the table with numerous agencies — the YWCA, Montana Department of Corrections, Tumbleweed and the Mental Health Center. Yet, all of her roles share a common theme. She’s one among a coordinated team working to make a difference for the people of Yellowstone County, using programs to help with food, housing and everything a person needs for a basic existence.

“If we’re working at the level of policy, systems and environment to meet those basic needs, we’re helping improve their health,” Shawn says.

“It is humbling work,” Shawn says. “If it’s true public health, we are prolonging people’s lives and that has such an impact on our community.”

Within RiverStone’s walls, Shawn takes pride in the team effort that earned national accreditation — and recently reaccreditation — for public health in Yellowstone County. As only the 44th in the nation to earn the recognition, “Montana stands out across the United States,” she says.

To achieve that goal takes time, and it’s an effort that can often go unrecognized. Shawn finds her reward in making slow,

The programs that helped meet the accreditation requirements are dear to Shawn’s heart. One, KidsFirst, assesses the health of

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children placed in foster care and delves into the reasons behind the increasing numbers.

“We are making sure kids have everything that’s optimal so that they can thrive in situations that are less than desirable most of the time,” Shawn says.

Another is the Child Advocacy Center, an evidence-based program that seeks to minimize the trauma suffered by children subjected to abuse or neglect.

Simply by coordinating services, the child has to be interviewed only once, rather than by each agency. “That’s a great win, especially for the kids,” Shawn says.

Project. With a diploma in sociology and psychology from Eastern Montana College, she landed her first career job at Gateway House in Billings, where she answered the crisis line and ran the shelter for victims of domestic violence. In 1992, she joined RiverStone Health when she was hired for a position in Maternal Child Health. She referred to it as her “heaven-sent job.”

IF IT’S TRUE PUBLIC HEALTH, WE ARE PROLONGING PEOPLE’S LIVES AND THAT HAS SUCH AN IMPACT ON OUR COMMUNITY. — Shawn Hintz

Shawn’s desire to support others seems to come naturally. Her mother, a teacher, raised Shawn and her brother after their father died in a car accident.

“My mother always said that you only need one person in your life that believes in you and she was that person for both of us,” Shawn says. “My role as a social worker was grounded in her philosophy of advocacy and interest in people.”

A Montana native, Shawn grew up between Billings and Huntley

“We were so honored to be in their homes and to know that we were making a difference, because people told us we were,” she says.

Working in Maternal Child Health opened Shawn’s eyes to the power of prevention – a passion that has inspired her throughout her career.

Such real-world experiences served her well when she went on to earn her masters’ degree in public health from the University of Montana.

Today, Shawn balances her work with activities she enjoys: camping, traveling and spending time with her family – particularly her grandchildren. Yet, her life remains inextricably linked to her sense of purpose. Even in her “free time,” she serves on various boards, volunteers for organizations and participates in fundraising events.

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“I am a lifelong learner,” she adds, “and I don’t mind giving up a weekend if I can go somewhere, attend an event and learn something.”

That craving to learn took on a global perspective when Shawn hosted Kunthy Ok, a public health nurse from Cambodia.

Kunthy spent a month observing public health practices in the United States, after which Shawn traveled to Cambodia to help implement Kunthy’s action plan. The experience touched Shawn on a deeper level.

“Probably most vivid for me was the trauma that the people faced there under the regime of a dictator who ruled during my lifetime,” Shawn says, her voice trailing off. “She (Kunthy) took me to the killing fields. … Just seeing how resilient people were. … They were building again upon their strength to just survive.”

Kunthy took what she learned in Montana and, without running water, tried to duplicate the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children program in the most rural areas of Cambodia. She worked to end childhood illness through vaccination efforts. Using grant money, she transported people in from the countryside to educate them about healthy habits.

“That was extremely inspiring,” Shawn says “Facing those forces in the most difficult situations, she was vibrant and optimistic.

She just knew change was on the horizon. Her action plan was that she’d have to educate people before they would change their behaviors. It does take time.”

Despite the striking contrasts of cultures, both women face the same major challenge: to convey the vital role that public health plays in their communities. They also strive to broadcast the benefits of public health’s on people’s lives, in efficiencies and ultimately on the economy.

Even here, Shawn still finds that the community is often unaware

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of the distinction between public health and medicine in general. Although both are related to health, public health focuses on the health of a community while a sick person making a doctor’s appointment focuses on the health of the individual.

health from its “under-the-radar” role and pushed it to the forefront, the crisis demanded a Herculean response. The department had long-standing plans for emergency preparedness, but those plans didn’t come close to anticipating the extended crisis that Covid created.

“We (at public health) are really trying to change the trajectory of health,” Shawn says.

“Day by day, we didn’t know what we “It looks at the health of a community as a didn’t know,” Shawn says. “We had to whole, the science pivot on a dime behind that and how and decide what’s to prevent disease. most important WE (AT PUBLIC HEALTH) ARE REALLY Even the masking, that day and do TRYING TO CHANGE THE TRAJECTORY distancing and it. We just did it.”

OF HEALTH. IT LOOKS AT THE handwashing – those At the peak of the primary preventions HEALTH OF A COMMUNITY AS A pandemic, when are all focused on WHOLE, THE SCIENCE BEHIND THAT public health preventing disease.

AND HOW TO PREVENT DISEASE. staff struggled to That’s much different — Shawn Hinz keep up, Shawn’s than the clinical long-established health piece, where partnerships paid people present on a off in a big way. one-on-one basis for United Way helped coordinate testing illness.” and the city of Billings — and even the This spring, with Covid-19 case numbers library — provided backup. dropping, Shawn was about to embark on “Library employees were not being used a long-overdue holiday. But before heading in traditional roles, so they helped with out, she paused to reflect on the “year that contact tracing and investigations,” no one will forget.”

Shawn says.

When Covid-19 abruptly yanked public

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JOHN FELTON & SHAWN HINZ

“I have a very supportive husband of 41 years, Derek, who jumps in and helps with keeping life together at home and otherwise,” Shawn says. Her daughter, Shanna, and son, Shayne, along with their spouses and children, brought bright spots to Shawn’s endless days.

“If there wasn’t time to connect to talk, they would text,” Shawn says.

A note on Shawn’s desk, which arrived with flowers from her family, reminds her of the months she felt overwhelmed. It expresses thanks to public health for its role and then offers a more personal message.

“Hang in there! Give yourself some grace and always remember, we’re your biggest fans!!!”

By the end of July 2020, with 30 cases a day in Yellowstone County, the contact tracing felt insurmountable. By November, the number of cases had jumped nearly five-fold.

The same networks that came to the rescue during the pandemic continue to occupy Shawn’s work schedule. She credits those collaborations with laying the foundation for most everything she’s accomplished.

“Everyone was juggling 100 balls,” Shawn says. “It seems so long ago, but it’s still so vivid.”

“I think I have enough connections to call on people when I need them and they can call on me,” she says.

As cases skyrocketed and the pressure ratcheted up, Shawn relied on her family.

John Felton, president and CEO of RiverStone Health, recognizes Shawn’s vital role in those partnerships and as a leader at

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RiverStone.

“She has spent a lifetime helping families succeed,” he says. “Thanks to Shawn’s leadership, our unified whole is much more than the sum of our parts.”

Just as Covid fortified existing partnerships, the pandemic taught lessons that will take public health to a new level. Those in the trenches learned the value of strong leadership and the need to communicate the science behind public health guidance.

The pandemic also spotlighted inequities in medicine and in the local public health system —particularly regarding the high rate of Native American mortality — and has prompted attempts to address those inequities. Likewise, staff learned how to make their way despite material bottlenecks and funding challenges.

Covid even forced advances in technology.

“Truly, we started the pandemic on paper,” Shawn says. “By December (2020) a programmer had developed a program for us.”

Shawn is excited by the progress made under pressure and sees a bright future for public health, both locally and statewide.

The University of Montana now offers bachelor and advanced degrees in public health. Simultaneously, public health training centers have sprung up across the state. And in Billings, RiverStone Health has grown into its own.

“I think the horizon for public health in Billings is rich,” Shawn says. “It’s an exciting time for public health in Montana.” ✻

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on the

street

WHAT A NIGHT OF HOMELESSNESS FEELS LIKE IN BILLINGS written by JULIE KOEBER photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN

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ON A MONDAY evening in late May, some of the homeless people in Billings gather as they do every night at this time, sitting on the benches that line the front of the Community Crisis Center. It’s 5:03 p.m. and, any minute, the Salvation Army van will pull up with the night’s street-side dinner.

“It’s like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get,” says 28-year-old Bailey Desper, one of the nearly two dozen people here waiting for a meal. Tonight, it’s sweet and sour chicken and rice with a side of broccoli.

BAILEY’S STORY “I started out on the streets two years ago and at the time, I had a 6-year-old little boy,” Bailey says. “I tried to get into basic shelter through the Montana Rescue Mission. I was shut out of that resource for the simple fact that I am transgender.”

Bailey says the only place she could go to was the Community Crisis Center. But she has a minor child, she says, and “you can’t bring a child here because of the violent and sexual offenders. The next morning, my son went to CPS (Child Protective Services). It’s been an ongoing battle ever since.” Then she adds, almost as an afterthought, “This is my third time being homeless.”

In April and May, the Yellowstone County Continuum of Care, a coalition of community leaders and volunteers working to reimagine care for the homeless, hosted a tour of agencies that serve the homeless. Those experiencing homelessness served as guides and talked about what they face on a nightly basis.

“I am staying at Off the Streets,” Bailey says, referring to a low-

barrier shelter on Second Avenue North. People don’t need to maintain sobriety to stay the night at Off the Streets; they simply have to prove they’re not a threat to themselves or others.

“Without Off the Streets, it would be very difficult,” Bailey says.

“You aren’t guaranteed a bed at the Crisis Center because they are meant for people in crisis and not the homeless.”

In the past, Bailey spent nights sleeping on the benches outside the Crisis Center. It’s not good for the degenerative discs in her back, a condition that has kept her from holding down a steady job. She’s been waiting more than eight months to see if she qualifies for Social Security disability.

“I am in this limbo stage which created a situation for me to be homeless,” she says.

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will pat her down, looking for sharp objects or weapons. She’ll fill out an intake assessment that will screen her for mental health issues, the need for crisis counseling or red flags for drug or alcohol addiction. It’s the same form she filled out 24 hours earlier, so case workers could refer her to Off the Streets, where she’ll stay from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.

“Prior to the Off the Streets shelter, the last two winters, we were getting — there’s no other way to say it — killed with people who could not get into shelter care services,” says MarCee Neary, the program director for the Community Crisis Center. “We’d have 20 to 30 extra people every night. We only have 18 beds for stabilization.”

Off the Streets, on its busiest night this past May, sheltered 72 people.

A COORDINATED EFFORT While intake forms and paperwork seem like a chore for someone seeking a roof over their head, it’s key in helping serve the homeless community.

For nearly three years, social service agencies have shared a database known as the coordinated entry system. It takes a person’s personal and up-to-the-minute information — their work history, health risks, family status, etc. — and uses the information to identify the best plan to get that person help. The system prioritizes the most vulnerable.

“We are gathering this data for every single person, every single night,” MarCee says. That data is put into a weekly report showing a snapshot of how the homeless and at-risk population is being served.

Those facing domestic violence are sent to the YWCA’s Gateway House.

Those under the age of 24 will be referred to Tumbleweed. If a person needs detox, they are sent to Rimrock Foundation. Those in crisis might stay at the Community Crisis Center. If they are clean and sober, they will be diverted to the Montana Rescue Mission. If the person is battling substance abuse, they are shuttled to the Off the Streets shelter.

“We are just trying to keep people from dying overnight on the streets for a variety of reasons,” MarCee says. “It’s not just from freezing to death. People are victims of assault. What you’ll hear from those on the streets is, it’s an ugly thing.”

A TOUR TO SPARK AWARNESS Kari Boiter, a volunteer with the Continuum of Care, was the mastermind behind this tour. She wanted to paint a picture for the community of what it’s like to be homeless.

“People experiencing homelessness are just like us,” she says. “Their stories are just like ours. I can relate in so many ways and I say, man, that could have been me.”

Kari suffers from Ehler Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disease that can cause extreme pain, debilitating migraines and a multitude of other symptoms. It’s hard for her to hold a job, she says, adding that her longest stretch of employment was 18 months.

“I have lived in my car, actually,” Kari says. “Just through luck, I have been 34

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— FROM JANUARY 1 TO JUNE 1, 2021—

907 adults - 53 with children experienced homelessness and sought services in Billings.

97

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KARI BOITE

R

able to have something better for myself.” Not only for herself, she says, but for her 2½-year-old son. “There are tons of people like me who are in the cracks.”

volunteer working nearly full time on trying to fill gaps, she says, “The more we succeed, the more we work.”

As she moves the tour outside to catch a ride to the Off the Streets program, she announces to the group, “We found out at 4:38 p.m. tonight, the Montana Rescue Mission has chosen not to take part in the tour.” Recently, the Mission, which has been serving the homeless since 1957, has faced harsh criticism from other nonprofit organizations. The Mission reportedly is embarking on a roughly $13 million plan to create a unified campus to serve the homeless. To prepare for construction, MRM recently sold its Women and Family Shelter. Calls inquiring about the timetable of the project went unanswered.

BRACING FOR AN URGENT NEED

“They are housing all folks together in one facility,” says Tess Besaw, a consultant who has helped agencies train and become a part of the coordinated entry system. “They have assured us that they have separate areas. None of us have seen that. They were providing community meals Sunday to Sunday. They have stopped doing that now and they are only providing community meals on Sunday night,” Besaw says.

Daily meals reportedly stopped on May 13 and since then, Saint Vincent de Paul has rallied to fill the need, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Roughly 300 dinners each week are prepped and delivered thanks to the volunteer-led nonprofit Eat Share Give.

“Today, before I came here, I was physically at First Church making the food – pulled pork sandwiches,” Kari says. As a 36

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When the tour rolls into the Off the Streets shelter, Jordan Monga, who helps manage the day-to-day operations, describes the intricate check-in process. After putting their belongings in a tote, guests grab a bed roll with a towel and a laundry cord to wrap around their clothes. Once settled into their room, they can take a warm shower, put on the pajamas provided by the program, and set their clothes out in the hall to be laundered overnight.

“We are making an impact,” Kari says. “Look at these folks. People have a place to stay at night. When you wake up in the morning with eight hours of sleep and clean clothes in the morning, how do you feel compared to having slept on the street or even worrying about where you are going to sleep?”

Federal pandemic funding may have helped launch this lowbarrier shelter to serve as a Covid quarantine and isolation site for the homeless, but now all 40 rooms are being used as shelter. Homefront of Billings, formerly known as the Housing Authority, purchased the old Western Inn in October of 2020. The organization leased the building to the Continuum of Care for a year so Off the Streets could operate. That means, however, that as of this Oct. 31, the program may itself be homeless.

A task force is starting to look at the issue and Patty Webster, the CEO of Homefront, told tour-goers she’s eager to hear what the

community has to say about a permanent low-barrier shelter.

What many expected would be a shelter housing 30 to 50 unique individuals has provided shelter to 313 unique guests since opening in November.

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“We didn’t see that coming,” says Off the Streets Director Craig Barthel.

On the night of the tour, one message rang out loud and clear: Billings service providers are all bracing for what appears to be a perfect storm for the homeless population.

“How bad is it going to get?” Craig says. “Everyone is guessing, but the people I have talked to who have been around for many years say this is as bad as they have ever seen it.”

What’s driving the need? Craig says the pandemic was incredible in the way it affected the labor force. Signs of inflation are starting to appear and the cost of housing has taken a steep jump, in many cases pricing out those who might otherwise be able to afford a home. Year to date, the average home price in Billings is up 22 percent. Rental properties, if you can find them, are up 8 percent.

“We can certainly use some housing for homeless people,” says Lisa Donnot, the executive director of Family Promise of Yellowstone Valley. The nonprofit works with volunteers at faithbased congregations to provide meals and shelter for families experiencing homelessness.

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“It is at a really horrible stage right now but it is getting ready to become a real crisis for a lot of homeless people and those experiencing generational poverty,” she says.

As an example, Lisa points to the recent sale of the Lazy K-T motel in the 1400 block of First Avenue North, which reportedly is going to be demolished. Of the hotel’s 50 rooms, 30 are occupied by families in need. They stay in hotels, Lisa says, because it’s difficult to find landlords willing to work with the low-income population. To make matters worse, on June 30, the Centers for Disease Control’s Eviction Moratorium for Renters expired.

“We’ve had a huge uptick over the past two weeks of phone calls,” Lisa says. “We are getting 15 phone calls a day, at least, of people who are looking for housing that are going to be evicted.”

Since the pandemic, Family Promise hasn’t been able to partner with churches to house the homeless. So, it’s been using its day shelter and transitional living apartments as emergency shelters.

Right now, roughly 80 families are on the waiting list to be helped by the nonprofit to find housing.

“A majority of those families have Housing Authority vouchers but there’s nothing on the market. There’s no rentals,” Lisa says.

“There’s no place to put anyone.”

By mid-June, Family Promise was hoping to launch a handful of static sites in churches to add more beds to the program.

Yellowstone Valley Walk

The Yellowstone Valley Out of the Darkness Walk is a journey of remembrance, hope, and support.

It unites our communities and provides an opportunity to acknowledge the ways in which suicide and mental illness have affected our lives and the lives of those we love and care about.

SUN • SEPT 19TH • 12:30PM Opening Ceremony begins at 2pm.

Help bring suicide Out of the Darkness by registering early and participate in individual fundraising.

Register you & your team today!

Fundraise $150+ and earn an event T-shirt. Stay connected with us on Facebook to remain updated on all pre-walk events. We look forward to walking with you in September.

REGISTER & WALK WITH US! afsp.org/yellowstonevalley JULY/AUGUST 2021

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Lisa Harmon, pastor of First Church on the corner of Third Avenue North and North 27th Street, was one of the guests on the tour. She’s seen and served this population firsthand for years. Two winters ago, the church launched a program called My Backyard. When the temperature dipped below freezing, the church would activate the program, serving as a low-barrier shelter for low-risk members of the homeless community. Each night they opened their doors, roughly 15 people used their space to keep warm overnight.

fight with my mom’s mental health issues.”

Her life has gone into a downward spiral. She talks of being attacked and sexually assaulted while spending the night at North Park. She’s been a victim of robbery as well. Today, her anxiety runs high. She’s both angry and fearful.

“Tonight, I will be staying at OTS (Off the Streets). I don’t know who I will be in a room with. I don’t know what situation they will be in,” she says.

“All those things — My Backyard, Off the Streets — that’s all a demonstration to show we need to do more here for people who are experiencing life on the streets,” Harmon says. “Until we do that, we are going to be struggling because numbers are rising.”

Craig Barthel, who serves the homeless daily, admits it’s a messy and broken population.

“I don’t have to fix you. It’s OK that you are messy and you use vulgar language and you smoke cigarettes and you don’t have great manners.

That’s OK,” he says of some of his clients. “I don’t know what you’ve experienced and been through. I am just going to be here for you and befriend you and when you are ready to get some help, you will come talk to me.”

THE FACES OF HOMELESSNESS As the tour came to a close, Wesley, a middle-aged father of a 12-year-old boy, talked about his trials with being homeless.

He moved here from out of state. His wife, who struggles with addiction, forced the family down a desperate path.

Since then, he says, it’s been difficult to find a place for him and his son.

He says that model of help has proven itself time and time again.

“These are people that everyone else called untouchable and yet here they are having a conversation about what they can do to get off the streets,” Barthel says.

“I want to know why people are judging me with my child.

WESLEY (LEFT), BAILEY AND WESLEY JR. LEAD That ain’t his fault. It’s due to As the conversation continues A GROUP AROUND BILLINGS TO SHOW WHAT relationship problems that IT IS LIKE TO BE HOMELESS IN BILLINGS. about a permanent lowme and my son ended up on barrier shelter and the need the streets,” he says. Wesley for housing for the homeless, has a job but, for now, he isn’t Lisa Harmon stays engaged in making enough to afford a place of his own. “I am a grown man,” the issue, hoping the community will help to ease the pressure he says. “I know how to survive. But my son? That hurts.” and volunteer, donate to community programs, and become a “I’ve watched him (Wesley) go through all of this by himself,” says Jada, another homeless mom who’s been staying at Off The Streets. “I know the painstaking crap that we go through on the streets. I don’t know how he handles this with a 12-year-old.”

Jada goes on to share her story. Her grandparents were taking care of her kids, but when both grandparents passed away, she says, “I walked away from my family because I didn’t want to 38

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part of the conversation.

“I really hope that people see themselves in the story,” Harmon says. “I hope they can say, what if that was me and I had no more bridges to cross? Would this be a city that could welcome me and help me?” ✻

overnight stays

764 December 2020 932 January 2021 1,171 February 2021

0

1,360

March 2021

1,440

April 2021

1,836

May 2021

ON THE RISE

500

1000

WAYS YOU CAN

1500

2000

help LEND A HAND TO THE HOMELESS

VOLUNTEER WITH FAMILY PROMISE OF YELLOWSTONE VALLEY

DONATE OR VOLUNTEER TO EAT. SHARE. GIVE.

visit familypromiseyv.org to learn more. You can also donate diapers of all sizes to their community diaper bank.

an outreach that creates community meals for distribution through St. Vincent de Paul. Visit eatsharegive.org/get-involved

DONATE FOOD AND TOILETRIES TO THE COMMUNITY CRISIS CENTER, visit

Serve a meal, make a sack lunch, help clothe the needy through ST.

VINCENT DE PAUL’S CLOTHING AND ESSENTIALS PROGRAM

crisiscenterbillings.org/donate for a complete list of their needs.

or donate your gently used clothing or blankets to their program. Visit svdpmt.org/ get-involved to learn more.

sen to i L • JOIN US FOR •

International Overdose Awareness Day

with

Lynne Turner

Fitzgerald

August 31 | Rose Park Shelter 6pm Food Trucks | 6:30pm Program Starts

The Award Winning

RADIO PROGRAM

Speakers, T-shirts, Music Reflection on our loved ones lost to overdoses BRINGING AWARENESS TO DRUG OVERDOSES AND TO REMEMBER THOSE LOST TO DRUG OVERDOSES. • F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N V I S I T •

@OVERDOSE AWARENESS MT

that takes you on a daily journey in the ‘Wayback’ Machine.

Lisen Daily

at 8:33 am

5:33 pm

8:50 am

at 12:50 pm

5:50 pm

JULY/AUGUST 2021

39

FINDING PASSION AND PURPOSE IN OUR COMMUNITY written by JULIE KOERBER photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN and FOR THE BLANK

THE IDEA IS SIMPLE. Take a white board and a dry erase

homeless man in downtown Billings wrote the word “sobriety” and talked about the challenges he has just making it through the day.

marker around town. The board reads “For the” and then below those words sits a box. Those who grab a hold of the board can write down one word or phrase, something that describes what lights THE their soul on fire. The grassroots campaign PURPOSE IS REALLY photographs the person and his or her TO CHAMPION LOCAL word. The photo and all its good vibes are ORGANIZATIONS then blasted over social media. As those THAT ARE CREATING behind the effort say, they develop a POSITIVE CHANGE AND A conversation, they listen, they cheer and MEANINGFUL IMPACT IN then they connect.

OUR COMMUNITY.

“When we started to reach out and have people tell us about themselves, it was surprising how many were willing to talk and share their stories,” says Kelsey Wagner, one of the women who is a part of the allvolunteer For the Blank grassroots campaign. “It got personal.”

“We just really want people to know that their passion has a purpose,” says Leah Swalley, who helps with the operational side of For the Blank.

A teen working at a downtown boutique — Leah Swalley, For the Blank wrote the word “equality” and shared why her purpose is to bring light to everyone in life, no matter who they are. A Fed Ex driver chose The idea was sparked when a handful of people sat the word “kindness,” and spoke about how he uses the around a table at Church for the City. The group, led by simple act of smiling to make another person’s day better. A Pastor Kalen Brown, noticed a lot of good going on in town. They

40

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wanted to find a way to celebrate it and create a chain reaction of good.

WHAT’S YOUR BLANK

“The purpose is really to champion local organizations that are creating positive change and a meaningful impact in our community,” Leah says.

GET INVOLVED IN THE CONVERSATION

Aside from carting the white board around town, the effort spotlights nonprofits and what they do to try to champion their mission. Each month features a different organization, highlights its team and then issues a public call to action for the community to lend a hand with their effort. Leah hopes when someone sees the awareness campaign, it flips a switch inside them.

“I hope they say, ‘I could be a part of that. That’s right here in my city. I can put actionable hands to the things that inspire me.’”

✱ Follow For the Blank on Instagram @fortheblank ✱ Take pictures of yourself volunteering or engaging your community and tag @fortheblank. ✱ Nominate an organization or individual for a For the Blank mention. Simply email them ideas at fortheblankmt@gmail.com

For the Community Crisis Center, people were urged to buy items like bus passes or laundry soap for the center’s clients. A diaper drive for Family Promise brought in roughly 8,000 diapers. Leah adds, “Child Bridge asked for Foster Families and they got some.”

So far, For the Blank has featured Youth Dynamics, the Community Crisis Center, Child Bridge, Family Promise, LaVie, Pack the Place in Pink, Big Sky Economic Development and the Her Campaign. They’ve also sought nominations to highlight individuals making a difference.

“I just didn’t know how inspired I would be by these people,” Leah says. “Their stories are amazing and inspiring. It is just so encouraging to know these people are in our community. They give us their time.”

September of 2020 was the first time Leah and Kelsey hit the streets with the signature white board in hand.

“In the middle of a pandemic and during an election season, here we are walking around with a clipboard downtown,” Kelsey says with a laugh. “We probably didn’t think about that all that well.”

But with each new excursion, they feel a groundswell of support brewing.

“It’s crazy to think that it has been less than a year since we’ve launched this,” Kelsey says. “It just keeps growing.”

If you ask Leah and Kelsey what their “blank” is, they, just like many of the people they meet on the street, don’t hesitate.

“Mine is ‘hope’ because you only need a little bit of it,” Leah says.

When prodded, she goes on to talk about a time in her life 20 years ago that she still vividly remembers.

“I know what it feels like to live without it,” she says. “There was a time in my life when I didn’t have hope.” She battled thoughts of suicide. With a lot of self-love, work and hope, she’s now a happily married mom of two.

“All of us are a work in progress. I’m passionate about people knowing that they deserve love and support as they try to figure out life. All of us make mistakes but we still deserve to be treated well. We all deserve to be loved.”

Because of the connection she’s felt while asking people about their “blanks,” Kelsey rarely leaves home without the “For the Blank” whiteboard. She’s shared it while getting a haircut. She’s taken it along to an art class. “It’s just something that has become a part of me,” she says.

As the effort grows steadily, both women are looking forward to the next year when they’ll add more community organizations and inspiring people to their list of awareness effort.

“Through that,” Kelsey says, “we are getting to shout from the rooftops all that is going on in our community.” ✻

Kelsey says her “blank” is “For the Work in progress.” She explains:

JULY/AUGUST 2021

41

BATTLING

PERIOD poverty 16-YEAR-OLD LILY WILSON MAKES IT HER MISSION written by JULIE KOERBER photography by LOVELY HITCHCOCK

SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD Lily Wilson knows that on any given day, at least one of her female classmates will walk the halls of Senior High School and will face the shame of having her period without having feminine products on hand.

“I am lucky enough. I’ve never had to deal with that,” Lily says.

But in doing research for a high school project, all signs pointed to a serious need. The issue has been dubbed “period poverty,” and the statistics show one in five American girls miss all or part of a school day because of their periods. The research also shows most low-income students equate menstruation with shame.

“If these products were easily in the bathrooms, they could continue their education and not have to miss days or make up work,” Lily says. “It just seems like an obvious need.”

She’s tackling the need head-on with a Go Fund Me page designed to get product dispensers in every girl’s bathroom in the high school.

“I compared a map of the Senior High School district and poverty rates in billings. The Senior High School district definitely overlapped more with the impoverished areas of town,” Lily says, 42

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adding, “There are a lot of homeless girls at Senior.”

Right now, neither the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as the federal food stamp program, nor the Women, Infants & Children program allows women to use subsidized funding to purchase feminine hygiene products.

“It’s horrible. Imagine having to choose between your food and your hygiene products for the month,” Lily says. “It’s a financial burden yet you need them every month. There’s no way around it.”

“It’s something our school definitely needs,” says Senior High Principal Jeff Uhren. “We’re an old school. We don’t always have the funds to update things like this.”

Right now, feminine products are available at both the attendance and counselor’s offices, but Lily says if you have a class on the third floor, it’s a hike to access the free products. A girl might have to miss a good chunk of her class time just to walk down three flights of stairs, wait for assistance, head to the bathroom and then back up to class.

“Not only is it a hassle but it is embarrassing. I am pretty sure some of the attendance offices have men present. You don’t want to go down there during the middle of the day,” Lily says.

Lily estimates it will cost about $300 to get one dispenser in one bathroom. All told, the cost would be roughly $2,000 to equip all the bathrooms. From there, Lily would like the rest of her funding to be set aside to keep each dispenser stocked.

“If I got additional money, I definitely want to do this across the city,” Lily says. “I know West and Skyview don’t have something like this.”

LILY'S

GO FUND ME PAGE

Lily’s mom, Mamie Wilson, says her daughter has always been passionate about her causes. When she came home one day and shared her idea, her mom was surprised.

IS DESIGNED TO GET

PRODUCT DISPENSERS IN EVERY GIRL’S BATHROOM

“I feel like my generation, we just didn’t talk about this stuff,” Mamie says. “Maybe you talked with your friends but I don’t think I talked to my dad once about having my period. Telling him about Lily’s project was a little hard. He thought it was amazing.”

Aside from serving a need, Lily says she hopes the project helps break the stigma of menstruation. She doesn’t think something all women endure should be a point of shame. She’s hoping by the time school starts next fall, the dispensers will be installed and some of her classmates can breathe a little easier.

“The freshman girls coming in will never have to go to high school and not have access to those products, which I just think

AT SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL is so cool,” Lily says. “It’s not something that they should have to worry about when they are coming to school to learn.” ✻

TO LEARN MORE and contribute to Lily Wilson’s cause, visit her Go Fund Me page at gofundme.com/f/feminine-products-atsenior-high-school.

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43

m o d e e r F ON TWO WHEELS REPEDAL STRENGTHENS LIVES FAR BEYOND A DONATED BICYCLE written by LAURA BAILEY photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN

44

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WHEN JODIE

Stovall met Marie (whose name has been changed to protect her privacy), the young woman was working 10hour shifts as a dishwasher at a South Side restaurant.

She was staying at Passages, a women’s correctional prerelease center and walking several miles a day to and from work, often at night.

Marie’s entire focus was staying sober and getting her life back on track.

Jodie gave her a bicycle – one that was donated and then fixed up. Marie was so overwhelmed with gratitude, she could hardly speak, Jodie says. The bike was more than a gift. It provided Marie with safe and affordable transportation, and it represented a leap forward in her pursuit of independence.

Jodie is the founder of Billings Environmentally Sustainable Transportation (BEST), a small nonprofit founded in 2018. Repedal, which provides recycled bikes to those in need, is a program of BEST, and over the past three years, Jodie has taken in dozens of donated bikes, fixed them up and distributed them to people like Marie.

A variety of local social services agencies refer their clients to Jodie for bikes, and the recipients of the bikes are often in recovery from addiction, transitioning out of correctional facilities, or living in poverty. Sometimes they struggle with mental illness or homelessness. No matter what their circumstances, if they can use a bike, Jodie will give them one.

“A bicycle can make all the difference,” she says.

In addition to giving away bicycles, Jodie also hosts bike maintenance workshops almost every Saturday at Gratitude in Action, a thrift store on South 30th Street. The workshops are open to everyone, but she especially wants to help those who have received one of her bikes learn to fix a flat tire and take care of their bikes.

“When people find they can do something for themselves, it’s really rewarding for everyone involved,” Jodie says.

Used bikes in good condition can be dropped off during

business hours at Gratitude in Action. When a used bike comes in, Jodie does most of the repairs herself, but she is always looking for volunteers with some expertise in bike repair and maintenance.

“I’ve never had a problem finding people to give bikes to. The challenge is finding bikes and fixing them up so they’re safe,” she says.

Jodie’s passion for biking started about 15 years ago when she found an old road bike at a garage sale.

She was living in Kalispell at the time and figured it would be a good way to get some exercise. She quickly fell in love and went on to complete a century ride – 100 miles in a day – several years later. She still rides every chance she gets and enjoys mountain biking as well.

Jodie is a real estate agent and operates Repedal in her free time.

“It’s honestly one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done,” Jodie says. “People are sincerely grateful for what you’ve given them.” ✻

YOU CAN SUPPORT REPEDAL

by shopping the online store at www.repedal.org. The selection includes lots of fun bicycle-branded home décor, fashion and accessories. All profits from the store are used to purchase new bikes and safety equipment, including helmets, lights and locks, for those who need affordable, reliable transportation.

DONATE YOUR WHEELS If you have a bicycle in good working condition that you would like to donate to Repedal, you can drop it off during business hours at Gratitude in Action, located at 10 S. 30th St.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING HOW TO FIX A FLAT TIRE & MAINTAIN YOUR BIKE? Repedal offers free workshops on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon, starting on July 10. For details check out the Repedal Facebook page at Facebook.com/Repedal.org.

JULY/AUGUST 2021

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Rallying for Red Red Lodge Lodge for FUN RUN, FOUNDATION AND FERVOR MAKE FOR A VIBRANT COMMUNITY written by LINDA HALSTEAD-ACHARYA photography by MERV COLEMAN 46

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IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT THE MONEY. It’s about what that money can do. And $3 million — raised from Red Lodge’s annual Fun Run — has planted plenty of seeds to help Red Lodge thrive.

It didn’t happen overnight, and it didn’t happen without an army of volunteers. But over the past 17 years, the Red Lodge Area Community Foundation’s Fun Run for Charities has helped fund countless projects that have touched the lives of just about every resident.

Tracy Timmons, executive director of the community foundation, has been leading the charge for the past 11 years. Within minutes of meeting her, you know why the foundation has flourished.

In fact, you’ll find yourself ready to sign on to her mission. The woman simply effuses energy and enthusiasm.

“People like to be asked,” Tracy says, smiling. “Sometimes, it’s just sharing what we’re doing and they get excited and they invest in it. Very seldom do you need to ask for help — they just ask how they can help.”

Tracy’s forward motion seems limitless. As founding board member Merv Coleman put it, “When I come in for a board meeting, I just buckle my seat belt because Tracy has so much going on.”

hands make light work.”

Like clockwork, Tracy begins every run day at Lion’s Park, where the race starts.

“At 6:30, I’m the only one there,” she says. “By 7:30, there are 60 booths and all hands on deck. The race starts at 9 o’clock and by 11:15 the race is over. There’s not a piece of trash in the park and no one ever knew we were even there.”

Tracy didn’t launch the first Fun Run. Rather, she followed the footsteps of a core group of volunteers, led by Sally Martin.

“They were working at it long enough to get the fun run vibrant,” Tracy says. “We just took it to the next level.”

ALL CHARITIES, IN ORDER TO QUALIFY FOR MATCHING FUNDS, HAVE TO DO A CERTAIN NUMBER OF HOURS OF VOLUNTEER TIME. MANY HANDS MAKE LIGHT WORK. — TRACY TIMMONS

The Fun Run is not the community foundation’s only fundraising event, but it’s by far the most visible. Last year, the foundation raised $241,787 during its first “virtual” Fun Run for Charities.

The event takes place every Labor Day Saturday. Organizers are planning both a virtual and in-person run this year.

The event draws together a brigade of volunteers that seems to have operations down to a science.

“All charities, in order to qualify for matching funds, have to do a certain number of hours of volunteer time,” Tracy says. “Many

The path that brought Tracy to her current role began with her desire to volunteer when her young family moved to Roberts. The Billings native was trying to figure out how she could contribute to her newly adopted hometown.

“Since in a small town you’re ‘from somewhere else,’ I had to create my own avenues for volunteering,” she says.

She first volunteered in the school library, then graduated to “recess lady” and 4H leader. Eventually, she took on grant writing for the district.

When the School Board needed help to expend the money, she successfully ran for School Board trustee.

From school to town politics, she next spearheaded the creation of a Roberts Town Council that remains vital today.

“It’s really just getting people to talk to each other,” she says.

When she was ready to stretch her wings, Tracy applied for a part-time position coordinating the foundation’s Fun Run. When the foundation hired Tracy, she became its first paid employee.

The year was 2008 and Jo Ann Eder was just coming on as board JULY/AUGUST 2021

47

JO ANN EDER & TRACY TIMMONS

chair. Tracy credits JoAnn with strengthening the organization and serving as an inspiration.

community. Tracy sees her role as listening to her community and believing in the possibilities.

“She is an amazing human being,” Tracy says. “She is a philanthropist, a humanitarian and very visionary. Believe me, I had the best mentor.”

“The community foundation can be whatever the community wants and that changes over time,” she adds.

Within two years, Tracy was named executive director. Almost overnight, the foundation added its first AmeriCorps worker and Tracy wrangled a building — the former Red Lodge Post Office — to serve as the foundation’s headquarters and as a shared service center for nonprofits where charities can meet, rent filing cabinet space and tap into back-office services.

With that simple mission in mind, the foundation has kickstarted a myriad of projects. Last year alone, it provided financial assistance for seniors to purchase local produce, collaborated with the fire department on a firewood assistance project and partnered with the Salvation Army to enlist volunteers for the annual kettle drives.

When Covid-19 hit, the foundation responded with a countywide Covid-19 THE COMMUNITY SAW A In the decade since, the foundation’s Relief Fund that began granting funds NEED, VOICED IT AND TURNED IT assets ballooned from $90,000 to $2 within three days. Even during a year INTO AN OPPORTUNITY. million, its staff grew from two to 18 of lockdown, the foundation marched — TRACY TIMMONS and it has reaped the benefits from on, breaking ground on a home-building 25 energetic AmeriCorps workers and program in partnership with the more than 300 local volunteers.

Helena Area Habitat for Humanity and providing fiscal sponsorships to help Ever expanding, the foundation has revamp the Hellroaring Skate Park and rebuild the city pool. since taken ownership of the Roosevelt Building. The project was the upshot of a partnership with the Carbon County Arts The list goes on. Putting a high priority on seniors and kids, the Guild, whose members had been seeking additional space for foundation offers a “Safe Sitter” training program for youths in studios and art exhibitions. Today every room in the old 1920s grades six through eight, has granted more than $60,000 to early school has been rented, thus bringing in revenue to continue its childhood education and awards grants to help youth participate rehabilitation. Leaving no stone unturned, local youth helped in activities they might otherwise be unable to access. turn an unused area outside the building into a welcoming green At the other end of the age spectrum, the community foundation space. has supported the Senior Ark project with funding to help seniors “The community saw a need, voiced it and turned it into an age in their place of choice. Just months ago, the community opportunity,” Tracy says. foundation took on another major endeavor when it launched CART, the no-fee Carbon County Area Ride and Transit.

The foundation’s projects share one common source: the 48

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The project has proven so popular — a small van offers rides within Carbon County and makes twice-a-week trips to Billings — “people are starting to make doctor appointments around the (CART) schedule,” Tracy says. “And we’re already doubling the number of vehicles we have.”

Tracy’s ability to “rally the troops” seems boundless.

“People are attracted to the work, and they realize that a lot of roads lead to the community foundation,” she says. “People sign on to steering committees and help guide the project the whole way.”

Now splitting her days between her grandkids in Billings and her many hats in Red Lodge, Tracy ponders her next move.

“My dream job?” she asks herself. “Inspiring the foundation’s culture, engaging the next generation and conversations to connect with people. I feel that’s where I can do the most good now.” ✻

LINDA HALSTEAD-ACHARYA, writer A long-time resident of the Columbus area, Linda Halstead-Acharya enjoys spending time and learning from her rural neighbors. She has a degree in wildlife biology but for the past 25 years has pursued a career sharing other people's stories in print. She loves riding, writing and traveling.

THE ANNUAL FUN RUN FOR CHARITIES HAS RASIED MORE THAN

3 MILLION IN 17 YEARS

$

for more than 60 nonprofits

23 US STATES

FROM WHICH PEOPLE PARTICIPATED IN THE

VIRTUAL EVENT

19,085

$

MATCH FUNDS DISTRIBUTED

241,787

$

DISTRIBUTED TO NONPROFITS FROM FUN RUN 17

SUPPORT LOCAL

ARTISTS Visit the

ROOSEVELT CENTER TODAY! By revitalizing the Old Roosevelt school building, our mission is to:

Improve Economic Benefits to Main Street 10K • 5K • 2 MILE

Register, Donate, Celebrate!

This year Fun Run 18 will be both an in-person & virtual race.

Visit the Carbon County Arts Guild Satellite Gallery featuring two floors of galleries!

Rent the Roosevelt for your Next Event!

September 4, 2021 • Red Lodge, MT Our main goal is to raise funds for 62 awesome Carbon County charities!

redlodgefunrun.org

519 Broadway Ave S | Red Lodge, MT | 406.425.0480 www.rooseveltcenterredlodge.org JULY/AUGUST 2021

49

MY LITTLE PANDEMIC

PET

B

M

YV W CO LUMIST

written by KAREN GROSZ photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN

WHEN MY HUSBAND and I were young and in love (you remember those days don’t you, the days when Mr. Right was never wrong, and even his end-of-the-day smell was intoxicating?), we lived in a house in the middle of a horse pasture that had all the charm of a ’70s trailer house, including the mice. Not a lot of mice, I suppose, just enough to help me to decide I never wanted to live in another house in the middle of a field, or in the middle of nowhere.

One little mouse would dash across the living room and into the nursery, hop into the crib, do a once-around and dash back out. I know the path because being the kind of people who didn’t want our baby to lose a finger in a mouse trap, we chased the mouse, on its circuitous route, with a broom, or towel, or whatever we had handy at the time of its wanderings.

We wrapped the crib in netting, kept watch and after a few days, the mouse, tired of the game, moved to a house of its own that was not infested by two-footed pests.

That made room for a mouse to move into the kitchen towel drawer. I didn’t know this until I whipped open the drawer, a mouse ran up my arm, and was subsequently flung across the room, landing on the floor, while I screamed what has now been lovingly dubbed my mouse scream. Apparently, this scream is unmistakable, and it has always elicited the same reaction. Mr. Right, on the night of that first scream, dashed into the room, surveyed the situation and, understanding the gravity of the fight, rushed not to my side, but to the mouse, administering soothing sounds and caresses until it regained its equilibrium and could be carried outside to tell it’s tale of a

IN EVERY ISSUE 50

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close call to the assembled mouse masses.

Yes, my friend, Mr. Right decided that night to protect the weak, to minister to the shaking, and to laugh whenever I scream because of a mouse. I think that may have been when I decided Mr. Right had a few flaws, not enough to send him scurrying, mind you, but enough that when we were offered the opportunity to live in Alaska, a place mistakenly said to be mouse-free, I packed our bags faster than you can sing “Three Blind Mice.”

We never had a house-mouse in Alaska, but we had pets.

Cats, dogs, Guinea pigs, frogs and fishermen (fishermen have the same knack as a pet for showing up at dinnertime and enjoying a good nap). Our house was full of hair, sounds and smells, but never a mouse. Then we moved to Montana, life changed, and pets were a treasured memory, our nest was comfortably empty, our suitcases always ready for adventure.

Until Covid.

Realizing that life was short and precious, and the house a little too quiet, I got a kitten with the admonition that her job was to capture mice at the cabin and never to be an actual pet. She spent the first 10 days of her life here sleeping on my husband’s shoulder as he was in quarantine, and after a start like that there’s no going back. We taught her to sit, to shake, to high-five and to beg for bacon in the morning, which is when I realized we really needed a dog.

So, I — and I am admitting this only to you — gifted him with

a pup (I’m still trying to convince him she was his idea, so if you see him, remind him it was his idea, please). If he had brought the dog into the house, the ensuing chaos could be his fault and I could pet the kitty while he deals with the dog.

The dog, not a simple, quiet purse pet like the ones smart people got during Covid, is a rambunctious chocolate Lab, who sleeps in my office until she hears me silently run the mouse over “End Zoom Meeting,” and then erupts in wiggles and happy whines, sure that it is time for another walk. She was walked at 6. a.m., mind you, after Lights a 30-minute living roomZoo floor cuddle with her master, and given a bone, at 9 a.m. after which Takeright time on outschedule, of the holiday shopping frenzy, she packplayed up thefetch, familywhen in the wasenjoy old news, at 9:45. thebone car and a magical holiday light display during ZooMontana’s Zoo Lights.The display will be open in December - the 7th-8th, 14th-

On dayand two20th-24th we realized had was 15th, fromwe 5pm to problem.

9pm eachShe night. zoon o mher o ntbed, a na .where org she had dragged it, under the Christmas tree, and she had all her toys displayed in front of her. If we moved a toy, she moved it back. If we Cha se hawks Rodeo moved them all, she would find them all, seeming to count exactly Touted as there one ofwere. the best stock rodeos America, the Chase how many We,rough the empty nestersinwith suitcases always Hawks Rodeo takes place in the Rimrock Auto Arena on December by the door, now have a drill sergeant to answer to, one who does 22nd.Top cowboys and stock come straight from the National Finals not take kindly to being ignored or excuse tardiness for any earthly Rodeo in Las Vegas to compete right here in Billings, Montana. reason.

And best of all, it’s for a great cause. The Chase Hawks Memorial Association works to bring comfort and assistance to families during Soon after her arrival, like minutes, she was given the name Katmai times of tragedy and crisis.m e t r a p a r k .c o m

(cat my) which is a river in Alaska. My son-in-law, who is ever clever, suggested it went well with the cat’s name, which is Caddis (a worldclass fishing-fly, guaranteed to catch things — dare I hope, mice?).

Now, when someone needs to be called, it is a litany of k sounds and finally a rattling of the treat bag, of which I am the most susceptible k around. To add to the chaos, the cat is not a girl but a boy, so goes by she, he, it, or you, interchangeably, with either Paul and I correcting the other about the cat’s identity.

Our house is not quiet. Now, it is full of tear-inducing laughter as the antics of a gender-confused cat and an OCD puppy play out across our days. And, it is full of half-eaten toys and more hair than a barbershop, and we are scheduling play dates, not for a child, but for a pet and her friends, because, like us, it seems everyone went a little pet crazy last year.

So, if you see me out and about, and my hair is a mess, my pants h a ve u r basket e v e n t sfull l i sof t esqueaky d h e r e , rubber e m a i l pigs, know I stained withTo mud andyo my e s snot ica@ l l ihope n g s 3that 6 5 .cMr. o mRight will remember am out of my mind, jbut outb iof this was all his idea and send me to a spa to regain my calm. ✻

Beauty & the Bea st Billings Studio Theatre presents “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Junior,” January 10th-13th. Brainy and beautiful Belle yearns to escape her narrow and restricted life including her brute of a suitor, Gaston.

Belle gets adventurous and as a result becomes a captive in the Beast’s enchanted castle! Dancing flatware, menacing wolves and singing furniture fill the stage with thrills during this beloved fairy tale about very different people finding strength in one another as they learn how to love.b i l l i n g sst u d i ot h ea t re. com

Caddis

FRinge FestivaL Venture Theatre presents its Fringe Festival, January 18th-19th and 25th-26th.The festival features four nights of shows featuring local and regional performing artists of all types including dance, standup comedy, theater improv, one act plays, musicals, performance art, spoken word/poetry, and puppetry.vent u ret hea t r e . or g

souL stReet danCe This high energy show comes to the Alberta Bair Theater on January 19th and presents a new era in dance, while pushing the artistic boundaries of street dance. Soul Street concerts consist of a mix of movement that will keep you at the edge of your seat. The music is combined with an electric mix ranging from hip-hop to classical.

It’s a show that will make you laugh and keep audiences of all ages entertained.

Katmai

a ConCeRt Fo R the whoL e FamiLy Billings Symphony presents its Family Concert on January 26th at the Alberta Bair Theater. Four timeGROSZ, Grammywriter nominees, “Trout Fishing KAREN in America,” will performGrowing along up with the Billings Symphony. Trout in the shadow of Mt. Rushmore gave Fishing in America is a musical which performs folk Living rock and Karen anduo appreciation of high ideals. in Alaska for 25 years gave her a frontier spirit. Life children’s music. b i l l i n g ssy mp hon y. c om in Montana finds her building community. A selfdescribed "multipotentialite," she loves coaching others with her business, Canvas Creek Team Building.

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dress2 IS BACK

written by VICKI-LYNN TERPSTRA photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN

THE

IT’S WEDDING SEASON, THE PERFECT TIME FOR FLOWY, FLIRTY FASHION

YOUR

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YVW MAGAZINE

COLLEGE

ROOMMATE,

your neighbor’s son, or your even cousin are all jumping at the chance to gather their friends and families for a celebration of love and reconnection as they walk down the aisle. As you celebrate in style, it’s a change to look polished and maybe a little more sophisticated than this time last year. While brides already said yes to the dress, it’s our turn as guests to hit up local shops, fully stocked with some of our favorite frocks. As a bonus, we’ve even picked out some looks for your plus one. ✻

2

TIPPING OUR

hat2

Though a well-dressed man in a crisp Cinch button up, starch jeans and cowboy boots makes you think of dancing the night away, its truly the gal he spins that turns heads. This couple pairing is perfect for the casual outdoor wedding that comes with barn dances, backyard lights and a bit of jitterbugging. Animal print in a classic black and white combo is a statement that you have arrived to have a good time. Sensible sandals allow your feet to be footloose and fancy free all night long.

WHAT ANDREW IS WEARING: Cinch silver label jeans, $49.99; Cinch button up shirt, $59.99; Justin belt, $38; Justin Caddo Brown boot, $224.95. All can be found at Shipton’s Big R.

WHAT RACHEL IS WEARING: Renuar dress, $124; Matisse Goddess sandals, $129; necklace, $82. All can be found at Cricket Clothing Co.

OWN THE

room2

(OPPOSITE PAGE) Dressing up hasn’t lost its luster and as a true fashionista this high-low dress with knee high boots reminds everyone just how trendsetting you are even after a year of casual cotton and slippers.

Own the room in this head turner, not to outdo the bride, of course. The wrap dress is flattering on all shapes and the high-low hem elongates the legs for a taller silhouette. When you have a statement dress and fashion forward footwear like this, keeping the jewelry simple is key.

WHAT RACHEL IS WEARING: Billini Novena boot, $98; Buddy Love Drew Kitty dress, $108; Athena Designs thin link necklace, $59. All can be found at RocHouse.

JULY/AUGUST 2021

53

award2

BEST DRESSED

2812 2nd Ave N | Billings, MT 59101 | somethingchicclothing.com

Spread the

Joy

294-1701 | 1524 24th St W | Billings | www.thejoyofliving.com 54

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Truly high-end events that require cocktail attire or Montana’s version of black tie doesn’t mean you have to wear floor-length dresses or satin sheaths. The elegance that resonates from wearing a matching set ensemble is first-class fancy. Black on black of course takes elegance to a new level but this simple silky tank and pull-on trouser is chic as well as effortless. You will look well put together and also incredibly comfortable for the entire festivities.

Pair with the most on-trend braided sandal and you will be collecting compliments all night.

WHAT RACHEL IS WEARING: Deluc satin high neck tank, $55; Deluc satin drawstring pant, $79; Dolce Vita braided strap heel, $120; Kinsey Designs mini chandelier earrings, $39. All can be found at Something Chic.

FASHION IS WHAT YOU BUY. STYLE IS WHAT YOU DO WITH IT. -UNKNOWN

JULY/AUGUST 2021

55

SATURDAY swagger2

The sun is shining and smiles are bigger and brighter, right along with our party outfits. Floral dresses always convey a sense of joy, perfect for a marriage celebration. Coordinating colors doesn’t mean you have to be a perfect match. Rather, choose complementary colors, perfect for pictures. Warm-toned pants paired with a small and simply patterned shirt partner perfectly with her bloomfilled midi dress.

WHAT ANDREW IS WEARING: Brax cooper pant, $185; Bugatchi Oooh cotton shirt, $125; belt, $75; Samuel Hubbard flight low top shoe, $195. All can be found at Jasons Clothing for Men.

WHAT RACHEL IS WEARING: Joules Kimia Strappy Dress, $105; Brighton Christo Banff bracelets, $58; Brighton Marrakesh earrings, $38; Blossom Hill Butterfly Necklace, $98.

All can be found at Neecee’s.

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EDITOR’S NOTE:

Hair and makeup compliments of stylist Brooke Becker of Sanctuary Spa and Salon.

VICKI-LYNN TERPSTRA, writer With nearly a decade long career in retail, Vicki-Lynn has cultivated a true passion for fashion.

Even though her day job involves event planning and social media for the largest insurance agency in the Northwest, she uses her style and industry know-how to help keep women in the Yellowstone Valley looking their best.

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57

REFRESHING

Summer Sips COOL BEVERAGES FOR WARM DAYS written by STELLA FONG photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN

SUMMER SIPPING becomes more fun with a pretty drink in hand while lingering by the pool or chilling on the patio with family and friends. The levity can rise to sass and sophistication with a glass of Sparkling Cherry Sangria or fun with a Paloma or joy with a Lavender Bee’s Knees. Take a sip of a Strawberry Raspberry Kombucha Mojito to receive a surge of refresh.

Sangria is the fruit wine-based drink originating in Spain. This concoction can be made days ahead of time, readied for a crowd

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with adding the club soda at service. The Paloma, a popular tequila-based cocktail in Mexico is believed to be named after “The Dove,” a popular song from the 1860s. To shout summer, serve up a Lavender Bee’s Knees or Strawberry Raspberry Kombucha Mojito. The Mojito gets its bubbles and tartness from kombucha along with some sweetness. Otherwise, the drink is naturally sweetened from the addition of ripe strawberries and raspberries. ✻

lavender bee’s knees SERVES 2 In my pantry, I always have a bottle of honey from Sunshine Honey from Lance and Patty Sunberg’s bees in Columbus. In the summer, lavender flourishes in my herb garden. For this drink, I recommend using Trailhead Spirits Gin with traditional botanicals like juniper and coriander with the addition of hops and Heather tips with native plants like sweet grass and bitterroot.

3 T. lavender honey syrup ½ c. gin ¼ c. fresh lemon juice 2 lavender flowers FOR HONEY SYRUP ½ c. honey ¼ c. hot water 2 t. lavender buds

strawberry raspberry

kombucha mojito mocktail SERVES 2

This mocktail sings summer with natural sweetness from fresh fruit. Kombucha, fermented tea with yeast and bacteria, is a potential source of probiotics, believed to help boost metabolism and decrease inflammation. The brew contributes minute amounts of alcohol so add of an ounce of vodka per serving for a spirited drink. Evergreen Café offers some fun flavors that would go nicely in this mocktail.

16 ounces strawberry (or another berry) kombucha ½ c. fresh strawberries quartered 6-8 fresh raspberries 8 mint leaves 1 c. sparkling water Juice of ½ lime 2 mint sprigs

DIRECTIONS

2 slices lime

Combine hot water with honey and stir until evenly mixed. Stir in lavender. Let cool, approximately 30 minutes. Strain through a fine mesh to remove lavender.

DIRECTIONS

Into a shaker, add lavender syrup, gin, and lemon juice. Add ice and shake vigorously until chilled. Drain into cocktail glasses.

Garnish with lavender flowers.

Muddle the strawberries, raspberries, mint and lime juice until pureed. Divide puree into 2 mason jars, add kombucha, ice, and top off with sparkling water. Garnish with mint and lime.

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sparkling cherry sangria SERVES 8

From Flavors Under the Big Sky: Recipes and Stories from Yellowstone Public Radio and Beyond Sangria is one of the best ways to enjoy the cherries of the season.

Early on, sour cherries are the first to be harvested. Later, Bing cherries ripen and can go into this spirited drink. The cherries marinate in the wine and spirits overnight and become more flavorful and intense. Using rosé wine lets the cherries shine and not be masked by a deep red wine. I use Yellowstone Cellars and Winery Syrah-based rosé. The aromas of raspberries, strawberries, pomegranate and notes of lilac and violets make the perfect backdrop for this sangria. Salud!

2 c. cherries, pitted or frozen cherries, thawed 1 bottle dry rose wine ½ c. brandy ¼ c. gin ¼ c. Cherry Herring or other cherry liqueur 1 liter club soda, chilled Whole cherries with stems, for garnish Mint and thyme sprigs, for garnish FOR SUGAR SYRUP ½ cup sugar ½ cup water DIRECTIONS In a small saucepan, bring sugar and water to a simmer, cooking until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and allow sugar syrup to cool.

In a pitcher, add syrup, cherries, rose, brandy, gin and cherry liqueur. Chill in refrigerator overnight. Just before serving, add club soda. Pour into glasses filled with ice. Garnish with cherry and sprigs of mint and thyme.

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paloma SERVES 2 The Paloma cocktail will linger forever in our memory as this was our Covid cocktail du jour. Walkers Grill put together a cocktail survival kit and renewed my husband and my love of citrus with tequila.

Equal mixture of salt and sugar, about ¼ c.

2 pink grapefruit wedges ½ c. fresh pink grapefruit juice 2 T. fresh lime juice 2 t. sugar ½ c. mezcal or tequila ½ c. club soda DIRECTIONS Pour salt and sugar mixture on a plate. Rub half of rim of a highball glasses with grapefruit wedge. Dip rim of glass in salt and sugar. In a small pitcher, combine grapefruit juice, lime juice, and sugar. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Stir in mezcal. Pour into glasses add ice, and top off with club soda. Garnish each glass with grapefruit wedge.

STELLA FONG, writer

Stella divides her time between Billings and Seattle and is the author of two Billings-centric books, Historic Restaurants of Billings and Billings Food.

Her writings have appeared in Big Sky Journal, Western Art and Architecture, the Washington Post as well as online at lastbestplates.com.

3.

1.

6.

1. Emile Henry Ceramic Tart Dish: Narrow $44.95 2. Emile Henry Round Deep Tart Dish in Burgundy $49.95

2.

3. Now Designs Oven Mitt in Gingham $9.95 ea.

5.

4. DII Dishtowels: 4th of July $9.95 ea.

5. HIC Ceramic Pie Weights $6.95 6. Dexter Russel Pie Server, Walnut Handle $21.95

8.

4.

7. Dexter Russel 4” Turner/Server, Walnut Handle $21.95 8. Boston International Cocktail Napkins: Edelweiss $4.95

7.

Red, White and Blueberry

TART

INSTRUCTIONS

MAKE THE TART SHELL 1.

Whisk together sugar, salt, and flour. Add butter and using a pastry cutter, blend the mixture until it resembles coarse meal with a few pea-size pieces remaining.

Drizzle in the egg and mix gently with a fork until the dough just comes together.

Serves: 8-12

2.

Turn out dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth (a few dry spots are okay). Form dough into a disk. Wrap in plastic and chill until firm, at least 2 hours.

3.

Remove tart dough from the refrigerator. Lightly flour your work surface. Roll out into a rectangle roughly 14”x 10” Transfer the dough into the tart pan and gently press into the side and bottom. Trim the edges. Prick the bottom all over with a fork and chill in the fridge for one hour.

4.

Preheat the oven to 375º. Remove the tart dish from the refrigerator. Line with parchment paper and fill with pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes, until the dough is just starting to change color and set. Remove from the oven and let sit for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment paper liner and pie weights, and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, until golden. Allow to cool completely before filling.

You’ll need a large, rectangular tart pan for this recipe, approximately 12.5” x 8.5” such as the Emile Henry Tart Dish: Large ($59.95)

INGREDIENTS PASTRY DOUGH 1 tablespoon sugar ½ teaspoon kosher salt 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for surface 6 tablespoons chilled unsalted butter, cubed 1 large egg, beaten to blend

CREME FRAICHE FILLING 16 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 cup creme fraiche ½ cup powdered sugar ¼ teaspoon Nielsen Massey Almond Extract TO DECORATE 1 pint blueberries 2 pints raspberries

MAKE THE CREME FRAICHE FILLING 1.

In the bowl of a food processor, combine the cream cheese, creme fresh, powdered sugar and almond extract. Process on medium speed until completely smooth.

2.

Gently pour the filling into the tart crust and use a spatula to smooth out.

Refrigerate for 4 hours to allow it to set before decorating with berries. You can decorate your Red, White, and Blueberry tart however you like - we used blueberries and raspberries to recreate the flag. If decorating this way, you’ll need a pastry bag fitted with the star attachment.

4 0 6 - 5 3 4 - 8 4 2 7 | 1 1 0 N 2 9 T H S T | B I L L I N G S | W W W. Z E ST B I L L I N G S .C O M

s i m u c u C s u v i t a S

COOL AS A

(THAT’S A CUCUMBER!)

TA ST E OF T HE VAL LEY

written by KAY ERICKSON

WHAT DO YOU KNOW about Cucumis sativus?

The cucumber is one of America’s top five garden vegetables, although botanically it is a fruit (it contains seeds). Another fun fact — it’s a member of the same family as watermelon, pumpkin, muskmelon and squash.

A brief history of the cucumber, published by the University of Missouri, says it’s native to India and has been grown as a food source for more than 3,000 years. Columbus is credited with bringing the cucumber to the New World.

Being 96 percent water, it’s naturally low in calories, fat, carbohydrates and sodium. The cucumber a good source of phytonutrients such as flavonoids, lignans and triterpenes, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer benefits. And before you grab that vegetable peeler, you should know It’s the peel and seeds that are the most nutrient-dense part of the cuke.

While many slice them to throw into a salad, cucumbers can be a salad all on their own with the easy-peasy Quick Ranch Cucumber Salad. The refreshing recipe Cucumbers in

IN EVERY ISSUE 62

YVW MAGAZINE

Vinegar and Oil is also a nice break from a typical summer greens salad.

Whip up some Tzatziki Sauce as a star condiment for fish, especially grilled salmon. You can also use it to top and spice up a grilled burger. Cucumber Soup is a cool summer meal first course. And, with just a few ingredients, Refrigerator Pickles can become a sure-fire family favorite.

So, dig into that garden and pull out a whole new way to enjoy the cool Cucumis Sativus!

Enjoy! ✻

KAY ERICKSON, writer Kay has spent her professional career in public relations and broadcast news, currently at Yellowstone Public Radio. Her journalism degree is from Northern Illinois University. Her passions include her family, sports and food. Her mom and an aunt taught her the finer points of cooking and instilled a love of good food and family mealtime.

cucumber soup

tzatziki sauce

2 medium cucumbers

½ c. finely grated cucumber

1 qt buttermilk

1 c. whole fat plain Greek yogurt

1 T. chopped scallions

1 T. freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 t. salt

½ T. extra virgin olive oil

¼ c. chopped Italian parsley DIRECTIONS Peel cucumber, remove seeds and grate to make 1 to 1 ½ cups of grated cucumber. Place in a strainer and allow to drain for about 30 minutes. Combine the cucumber, buttermilk, scallions and salt in a bowl and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for an hour. Mix again before serving and garnish with chopped parsley.

NOTE For added “pop,” add a dash of hot sauce.

1 garlic clove, grated ¼ t. sea salt 1 T. chopped fresh dill 1 T. chopped mint, optional DIRECTIONS Place the grated cucumber in a dish towel or several layers of paper towel and squeeze out the excess water. In a medium bowl combine the cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, dill and mint (if using). Chill until ready to serve.

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refrigerator pickles 1½ c. white sugar 2 T. kosher salt 1 c. white vinegar 6 c. peeled and sliced cucumbers 3 peeled whole garlic cloves DIRECTIONS Stir together the sugar, salt and vinegar together until the sugar is almost completely dissolved. Pour into a container with a lid that is large enough to hold everything. Add the cucumber and garlic cloves and stir to coat. Cover the container and refrigerate for at least two days, stirring occasionally.

cucumber in vinegar and oil

quick ranch cucumber salad

1 cucumber, thinly sliced

1 cucumber

1 small onion, thinly sliced

1 t. salt

2 T. sugar

½ c. Ranch Dressing

1/3 t. salt Dash of freshly ground pepper ½ c. white vinegar ¼ c. canola oil Salad greens DIRECTIONS In a small bowl combine all the ingredients. Cover and refrigerate at least two hours Drain and serve on bed of salad greens.

NOTE For attractive presentation, l peel away strips of the outer peel for a “striped” look.

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DIRECTIONS Peel and thinly slice the cucumber, sprinkle with the salt and let drain in a strainer for 30 minutes. Put the drained cucumbers on some paper towels and pat dry. Combine the cucumber and ranch dressing and chill for about 30 minutes. Serve.

NOTE For added crunch, you can add two sliced scallions, both white and green parts, or some thinly sliced red onion.

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or use the Albertsons Delivery & Pick Up App *When you spend $75 or more on Drive Up & Go™. Enter Promo Code SAVE20 at checkout. *THIS OFFER: Not valid on orders fulfilled by Instacart. Order by 12/31/2021. Minimum $75 purchase required. Minimum purchase calculated based on subtotal of all qualifying items in cart at checkout, excluding alcoholic beverages (where available), tobacco and fluid dairy products and calculated after deduction of all other charges and discounts, such as any applicable taxes, delivery fees, bag fees, bottle deposits, promotional discounts, coupons, and savings. Enter Promo Code SAVE20 at checkout. VALID ONLY FOR 1ST TIME ONLINE GROCERY DRIVEUP & GO™ ORDERS. LIMIT 1 PER HOUSEHOLD. May not be combined with any other free/reduced delivery fee or offer. We reserve the right to modify or cancel offers and/or to correct typographical, pictorial and other ad or pricing errors.

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lightness of being at the

evergreen café CYDNEY HOEFLE BRINGS A HOMEGROWN TASTE TO BILLINGS written by STELLA FONG photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN

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THERE’S A LIVELINESS at the Evergreen Cafe and in its owner, Cydney Hoefle. It is no wonder a fresh and fizzy beverage, Big Sky Kombucha, made by her husband and co-owner, Stu, is one of its signature offerings. The cheer continues with partner and son, Mitch, selecting the dominant color of spring green in the industrial farmhouse-themed space.

Cyd, as she is known, describes her new restaurant as “an extension of my childhood mixed in with my children’s creativity, the barnwood from our ranch, the bright colors and the signs.” She says, “I told someone not too long ago that we’re not a traditional cafe. We are more like your grandmother’s kitchen and we treat our customers as if they are guests in our home.”

Inside the Evergreen Ace Hardware store in midtown, the Hoefles opened their cafe in June of last year as restrictions loosened during the Covid pandemic. In the newly rejuvenated area that once housed the deli of the Evergreen IGA grocery store, ranchinspired sandwiches, soups and charcuterie plates accompany the living bacteria fermented drink.

the traditional meat and cheese combination. Koch, who brought 25 years of experience from Chalet Market, helped establish the menu, refashioning recipes from Cyd’s family collection.

“Our menu is not that big. We wanted to keep it simple,” she says of the menu that pays homage to her family, as evidenced by offerings named “Momma’s Chicken Salad” and “Aunt Mern’s Egg Salad.” “The Rancher” and “The Stampede” sandwiches with Boar’s Head delicatessen meats honor her ranching background.

The menu has about 15 items, and its simplicity gives her time to pursue other responsibilities. Stu and Cyd are the publishers of Raised in the West magazine, and she contributes stories to Yellowstone Valley Woman magazine as well.

I TOLD SOMEONE NOT TOO LONG AGO THAT WE’RE NOT A TRADITIONAL CAFE. WE ARE MORE LIKE YOUR GRANDMOTHER’S KITCHEN AND WE TREAT OUR CUSTOMERS AS IF THEY ARE GUESTS IN OUR HOME.

At both the cafe and her magazine, she attributes her success to: “Surround yourself with people who know what you don’t know.”

Cyd grew up north of the Yellowstone River on a ranch between Greycliff and Reed Point. Her father was a registered — Cyd Hoefle Hereford rancher running “between 500 and 700 head of cattle, with the number fluctuating with the economy Skip King opened the hardware business and the abundance or lack of grass.” in February, with room in the northeast Here, she learned to feed a crowd at an early age. corner primed for an eatery. Though at first the Hoefles were only looking for an outlet to sell their kombucha, nicknamed “The Big “I remember doing dinners when I was 9 years old,” she says. “I Hooch,” Cyd laughingly admits, “The food thing just got in the made cornbread and hamburgers for the ranch hands. I’d put the way.” meal out and it’d get eaten.” With two older brothers followed by Her son’s past influenced their decision to offer food. “All he has done in his whole life was landscaping. He said crews going from one job site to another needed sandwiches,” she says. He then came up with the idea of the charcuterie tray.

Cyd and kitchen manager Lorie Koch added fruit and vegetables to

two younger sisters, her parents had a lot of help. “Dad picked the boys. Mom picked me.”

“I remember as a child standing in a chair, sauteing onions in butter on the stovetop,” she recalls.

With seven people in the family, “We would put out a feast every JULY/AUGUST 2021

67

single meal,” she says. They ate the meat they raised and the bounty from their garden.

At Big Timber High School, Cyd was on the drill team and student council and was a member of 4H and the Future Homemakers of America. “My greatest claim to fame was winning a ribbon at the county fair for ‘Cyd’s Surprise muffins,’” featuring a dollop of jelly.

Five years ago, Cyd took her daughter, Melanie, to the fair so she could “experience some of me.” To their amusement, they came across a purple ribbon awarded to a participant who had baked her surprise muffins.

“I was the worst horseman of all of us,” she says. She took on chores of feeding the cattle and working the bailer, but favored her place in the kitchen.

“Mom and Dad were good on one-on-one time,” she says, nurturing the unique skills and talents of each child. Her father shared his passion for books, especially stories by Louis L’Amour.

He always wanted six boys. “He got his first two, and then decided the third boy (me) would be named after his dad, Sidney Fraser.

They were so sure they were having another boy, they hadn’t even thought of a girl’s name.” Her mother suggested a change in the spelling to Cydney. “But I was always Little Cyd to him and I looked like my grandmother, so we always had a special 68

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connection.”

With reading came writing. Hoefle remembers the clicking of the typewriter in her childhood home as her mother, the editor of the Montana Hereford News, worked. Her mom also wrote letters because the short time limit on the party line telephone didn’t allow for lengthy chats.

Cyd fondly remembers reading out loud a creative story she wrote for her class. The mystery tale of a girl who discovered something hidden inside a cabin under a pile of pelts awed her classmates.

For her, she says, “I realized I liked the detailing of story writing.”

After studying at Montana State University in Bozeman, she took her knowledge from her home economics business studies to Sigman’s Furniture Company.

“I am a born salesman,” she says with a smile. The skill of selling came from the yearly cattle sale productions her family put on. “I love people. I love getting to know them,” she says. At the furniture store, the other salespeople always gave her the more difficult clients. “I knew they were never mad at me. They were just grouchy.” She found joy in discovering “why people are the way they are.”

Underneath it all, a lightness of being surrounded her. “My mother had a deadly sense of humor. She was a practical joker.

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April Fool’s was my dad’s favorite holiday.”

One day in 1984, at the airport, she met the man she was to laugh with for the rest of her life. She was waiting for her sister, and Stu for his brother. “I am pretty sure I asked him out and I was the one who proposed,” she says.

“Our lives paralleled. God knew that if we had met earlier, it wouldn’t have worked out.”

She admits, “I am very easily entertained. I was a cheap date. All Stu had to do was make me laugh.” The laughter brought them to the altar two years later.

“I’m an optimist. He’s a realist. He’s always been my best friend. He’s always made me laugh,” she says of her husband of 35 years.

Laughter helped sustain the Hoefles when their daughter Lindsey, then 19, was in a car accident in 2010 that put her in a coma with traumatic injuries.

For two years, Cyd helped rehabilitate her daughter, who “has made a miraculous, complete, and full recovery with graduating from college.” Cyd says, “She’s our miracle child.” She’s now 29 and expecting her first child.

The miracles continue. “We started three businesses after we turned 60," Hoefle says.

For now, her wishes of traveling with her husband and embracing new adventures have been set aside as she builds new friends at Evergreen Cafe. “We have many customers say they just love to come in and feel the warm vibe and casual atmosphere,” she says.

“I bring my computer to work and often times during the day, I find time to work on the magazine. I have my laptop open right at the counter and sometimes have the opportunity to tell my customers about our ‘other business.’ Often times, she will share with a customer the story she is writing and “sometimes they will know someone we featured, or someone we should feature. It’s just another connection between us, making our place, and us, more authentic and down to earth.”

Though Cyd confesses that if she and Stu “had known that Covid was going to hit and realized how much work it would be to run a cafe, let alone a kombucha business, we wouldn’t have done it.” These days, the cafe, magazine and kombucha are doing well, rewarding the Hoefles for embarking on a path not even considered by others in the same chapter of life.

With a confident laugh, Cyd says, "Taking risks is tough but we must ask the question: Would we regret it if we did not try? If the answer is ‘yes’ then you must do it!” ✻ 70

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BIG SKY KOMBUCHA THE FIZZY, FLAVORFUL DRINK THAT’S GOOD FOR YOUR GUT Kombucha is a drink fermented with a SCOBY, a slimy jellyfish, mushroom-like mass. Its name is an acronym for “symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast” that converts tea to a fizzy, slightly sour drink called kombucha. The unflavored drink, similar in flavor to apple cider vinegar, is believed to produce probiotics that aid in digestion, cleanse the body of toxins and boost energy levels.

At Evergreen Cafe, brew master Stu Hoefle named his concoction Big Sky Kombucha. For over 10 years, with the help of his son Mitch, he begins the brewing process with white, green and black tea leaves. After sweetening the tea, the SCOBY is added for the 12-day fermentation in stainless-steel kettles.

After fermenting, flavoring is added in the form of fruit juices, flavor extracts, spices or fresh ingredients such as basil. To make his beverage even fizzier, Hoefle forces in carbon dioxide.

Pickle kombucha is Big Sky Kombucha’s signature brew.

Customers can sample any or all of his eight rotating flavors or take home a pint or growler fills.

JULY/AUGUST 2021

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the2

TEXTURE of place

LOCAL AUTHOR CARRIE LA SEUR PUSHES HER BOUNDARIES written by LINDA HALSTEAD-ACHARYA

EDITOR’S NOTE:

There are many interesting authors who call the Magic City home. That’s why YVW will be chatting with some of them throughout 2021, telling you about their latest work and what you might want to pick up to read when you have a little downtime.

LOCAL AUTHOR

Carrie La Seur penned two novels set in the Billings area. But “author” is merely one of the many paths she’s chosen.

La Seur published “The Home Place” and “The Weight of an Infinite Sky” and is currently at work on a third novel. Her resume, however, includes a law degree from Yale, a Rhodes Scholarship, a history of advocating environmental law and a lengthy list of articles, stories and poetry published in notable journals and magazines.

The breadth of her experiences reflects her drive for pushing her own boundaries. At the same time, La Seur remains anchored by place. And that place is Montana.

“Montana has always been a place my family came back to, over and over,” she says. “I have so many complicated feelings about this place now.”

As a fifth-generation Montanan, her blood runs thick with local ties — ties that have sculpted her life and shaped the words she writes. Her roots trace back to 1862, when her great-greatgreat grandfather Robert Curtis first scouted the area. Those roots also include Harriet Crow (an Anglicization of the German name Groh), a Christian Scientist credited with healing the sick

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during Billings’ tuberculosis epidemic of 1900.

Thus, the Big Sky State hasn’t only rooted La Seur’s family but entwined this place in the family tree.

And with such deep-seated history comes an awareness of the hardships so many endured. That awareness serves as a reality check when she writes. It gives her work an edge and steers her clear of romanticizing.

“There’s a lot of beauty (in Montana), but it’s harsh,” she says. “There was an instinct for survival.”

That gritty, gut-level sense of place also served her well as an attorney for Plains Justice, the legal nonprofit she founded. Although she has since shifted back to private practice, she remains devoted to the landowners she represented over energy and environmental issues.

“It was really interesting work and compelling clients,” she says.

Touching on themes that pulse through her life, La Seur spoke with particular passion about This House of Books, a cooperatively owned, independent bookstore she helped found in Billings.

“The idea was, we could all have an ownership stake that could be passed on to the next generation,” she says. “I am an owner but now there are hundreds.”

With the store poised to mark its fifth year, she marvels at its success.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate a fifth anniversary this year, with

strong sales despite the pandemic,” she says.

La Seur’s love for books is mirrored by her lifelong compulsion to write.

When she was barely able to put pen to paper, she had squirreled away a notebook to scribble her thoughts. By the sixth grade she had signed up to learn typing in summer school. “So I could type my stories faster,” she says.

Tied to the land and driven to write, La Seur typed the first pages of “The Home Place” while clerking for a law firm in Australia.

“I felt so far from home and wondered if I would ever go back,” she says.

“I was thinking about what ties you to place. That’s what got me started.”

La Seur spent years on the project, squeezing in her writing between her family life and her full-time law career. The book’s protagonist — Alma, a young female attorney — returns home to the Billings area to deal with her sister’s tragic death. “The Home Place” earned La Seur a High Plains Book Award, was short-listed for the Strand Critics Award for Best First Novel and was named one of the Great Falls Tribune’s Top 10 Montana Books for 2014.

“It (the High Plains Book Award) was a tremendous honor,” La Seur says, noting that she is currently judging poetry for this year’s event.

Local readers seem to relish La Seur’s spot-on descriptions of the Billings area and the local landscape.

“People have said that they can pick out the places that the book walks you around,” she says.

She refers to it as “texture” — writing about a place one knows so well and conveying sensations that run deeper than the obvious.

“It’s not all that you see with your eyes,” she says. “It’s many layers.”

In her second novel, “The Weight of an Infinite Sky,” she gives voice to Anthony, the book’s main character. Like La Seur herself and Alma in her first novel, Anthony is drawn back to Montana after living away. Some elements of the plot shadow Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.”

“I love Shakespeare,” La Seur says. “I sometimes work in Shakespearian themes without really realizing it.”

Today she laughs as she speaks of her third full-length undertaking, which does not take place in Montana. She’s writing “Darling Clementine” as a “novel in short stories,” several of which have already been published in journals and magazines.

“It feels like I’ve written it 10 times,” she says. “It’s a historical novel, very research heavy. It’s going to take a long time.” ✻

CARRIE LA SEUR’S

READING LIST SOME OF HER FAVORITES BY • MONTANA AUTHORS • “Bitterroot, A Salish Memoir of Transracial Adoption”

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PORCH APPEAL

Creating a relaxing and inviting space

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CHIME IN

Create & enjoy the gentle sounds of a DIY wind chime

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UP, UP AND AWAY

Skyrocketing lumber costs impact housing market

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JOURNEY FROM THE FARM TO ELDER GROVE LANE JULY/AUGUST 2021

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PORCH appeal

CREATING A RELAXING AND INVITING SPACE written by SUE OLP photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN

NOTHING SAYS SUMMER like a welcoming porch that makes outdoor living relaxing and fun. How do you create that warm and inviting space? We invited Billings experts to weigh in on the essentials for capturing that porch appeal.

Jeremiah Young, creative director for Kibler & Kirch, an interior design firm, notes that front porches are an American invention.

“I can’t think of another place in the world where porches are,” Young says. “I think they are a uniquely American experience.”

The covered area jutting out from the front of a house blocks the sun while allowing in a refreshing breeze, he says. That makes it a pleasant place for family and friends to enjoy time outside on a hot summer day. Talking specifics about designing a comfortable porch, Young suggests groupings of furniture, like chairs and small tables, to facilitate conversations or make it easy to grab a bite of cheese or a sip of iced tea eat while reading a good book.

Young’s preferred place to sit is a rocking chair. He employed them to great effect on one of his favorite assignments, a bunkhouse in Big Horn, Wyoming, that was transformed into 76

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a house. Accenting the long porch, two pairs of rocking chairs faced each other, with small tables in between. He chose Grove Park rockers from Old Hickory, what he calls “classic American kind of stuff.”

“Rockers are something I love to have on porches,” he says. “It’s not only prototypical, it sits up a bit so you can see over a railing.

The steady motion lets you fidget, and typically they’re light enough to let air pass through.”

Rockers, which also make it easier to stand from a sitting position, are as American as porches, Young says.

SUE OLP, writer Sue Olp worked for many years as a reporter at the Billings Gazette, covering everything from healthcare and education to county government, tribal issues and religion, not to mention plenty of humaninterest stories. Now retired, she is a freelance writer and enjoys gardening, reading and spending time with her family, including her grandchildren.

let there be light To give a little glow to the space, try the beautiful and practical decorative lantern, says Lisa Pugrud, owner of Real Deals, a home décor and clothing boutique. She suggests hanging or placing two lanterns of different sizes outside with timed candles inside that flicker like real flames and turn on and off automatically.

“They look natural and add ambiance,” Pugrud says.

The lanterns also heighten the illumination that makes it easier to see during the evening twilight. The decorative lamps come in different sizes and styles, ranging from white to black, natural wood to metal.

“We typically do a larger lantern with a couple of planters,” she says. “Or you can change the decorations every season, combining a lantern with pumpkins in the fall, in the spring flowers or greens and on the Fourth of July, make it an Americana look.”

Even just hanging a small wreath on top of a lantern “is a great way to bring color,” Pugrud says.

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PET HAIR PROBLEMS? an extension of your home So many ways exist to make a porch charming, relaxing and colorful, while keeping it clutter-free, says Tiff DavidsonBlades, part owner of Davidson Home Furnishings & Design. She sees the space as “an extension of our interiors, so I like to keep it simple.”

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your comfort your way.

blossoms & herbs It’s no surprise that Jim Gainan, president of Gainan’s Flowers, suggests that flowers and plants can add a nice touch to a front porch. A container garden, a patio pot or a hanging basket provide a rainbow of colors that will be enjoyed by the home’s residents as well as those who pass by. Another nice element is a pot filled with herbs such as chives, rosemary and parsley.

“Think of scent and color both on a patio,” Gainan says. “If it’s beautiful, smells good and is welcoming, it’s a nice place to sit outside and read a book.”

He suggests decorating with a few mid-sized to larger pots, which retain water better and are easier to care for than a dozen small pots “unless you’re home all day.” A longtime favorite for a sunny spot is a combination of geraniums, sweet potato vine and a spike plant in the middle for height, or mix a blend of succulents and geraniums. In the shade, try impatiens, or ferns that can add lushness and are a bit easier to maintain.

To keep porch plants healthy and happy, Gainan suggests rotating pots to keep their growth uniform, giving them a quarter turn when fertilizing. It’s best to water flowers and plants in the morning, he says, with a small touch-up in the evening if needed. Fertilizer is a must, as is keeping an eye out for insects and fungus. And don’t forget to deadhead and prune the plants during the season.

“It’s really not something you can put out and leave out three to four months and think it’s going to look good,” he says. “It takes a little bit of effort, but it’s fun and relaxing and it forces you to take some time. It’s good to touch something living.” ✻

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Chime In LOOK WH AT W E FOU ND

written by RACHEL JENNINGS photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN

CREATE & ENJOY THE GENTLE SOUNDS OF A DIY WIND CHIME

IN EVERY ISSUE 82

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IMAGINE YOURSELF SITTING on your patio or porch with a gentle ring as the wind moves by. Wind chimes can be one of the most pleasing sounds of summer. The good news is, you can make a simple one to enjoy as you soak up our warmer weather. You might have used this salt dough recipe for Christmas decorations, but the dough works just as well to create a one-of-akind chime to enjoy outdoors.

LET'S GET STARTED Mix salt and flour in a bowl by hand, slowly add small amounts of water until you get a soft dough. Roll out the dough to about a ¼-inch thick. Using your clay cutter, cut out the shapes just like cutting out cookies. I cut out 15 to 20 shapes. I won't use them all; I just wanted a few extras for potential mishaps. From here, take the drinking straw and make holes close to the top of each cutout. The straw makes a good-size hole to run your cording through easily. Bake the cutouts at 200 degrees for 15-30 minutes.

After fifteen minutes, be sure to check on your shapes in the oven because they can burn. Make sure to flip them at the halfway mark. They are done when they have hardened with a light to medium beige color. I overcooked mine but I liked the rich brown color they turned. Once they’re done, let them cool.

When they are completely cooled, spread the cut-outs on a newspaper outside and spray on a clear coat to protect them in the weather. Spay several coats, letting them dry between each coat. Flip the cutouts over and repeat the clear coat steps on the other side.

These wind chimes are not 100 percent weather safe. The more coats of the clear coat spray, the better it will hold up to weather.

It's best to find a covered spot to hang these, or even inside by the window.

Once the cutouts are dry, it's time to let your creativity flow.

When assembling, there are a few things to consider. The strands should be fairly close together in order to create that relaxing sound. I tied cording on both ends of a branch so I could hang my chime from a hook on my deck. Another thing to consider is how the strands will hang on the branch, since no branch is totally straight.

I cut six pieces of cord about 12 inches long, one cord about 18 inches long, and another roughly 24 inches long. I chose a suede cord because I loved the color. Take the six 12-inch pieces and start stringing the beads and cut-outs on each strand. To create a look similar to mine, add one clay cut out onto the cord, tie a knot, add a bead, tie a knot, add another bead, tie a knot and then tie the cord onto the branch. I did this three times. Then I took the longer 18-inch cord, added a clay cut out, tied a knot, added six beads without knots in between and then tied it to the branch. Grab the leftover 12- inch strands and continue the pattern of clay cutout, knot, bead, knot, bead, knot, and then tie to the branch.

Remember, my idea is just a starting point. You can create your own pattern of cutouts and beads.

What you will need...

• 2 c. flour • 1 c. salt • 1 c. water • Rolling pin • Beads • Cording • A drinking straw • Spray clear coat • Clay cutters or small cookie cutters • Foraged stick from your yard • E6000 glue

Dough Recipe • 2 c. flour • 1 c. salt • 1 c. water

Now grab the 24-inch cord and tie each end to the branch. This is how you will hang it from a hook outside.

For extra security, add a drop of E6000 glue to each knot on the back of the branch.

This will really secure the cords. Once the glue is dry, trim the ends of all the cords.

Once you’ve hung your chimes, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the gentle and peaceful sounds. ✻

EDITOR’S NOTE: Have you tried one of our DIY’s? Show us your projects! Simply post on social media and tag us or use the hashtag #yvwdiy so we can see your handywork.

RACHEL JENNINGS, writer Rachel is a self described "Junker," who not only loves all things old, but LOVES the challenge of trying to make something new out of each find.

While she is a Hair Stylist by day, in her off time you can often find her covered in paint, trying to repurpose something she's found.

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UP, UP AND AWAY SKYROCKETING LUMBER COSTS IMPACT HOUSING MARKET written by TRISH ERBE SCOZZARI photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN

TODAY’S LUMBER PRICES are all over the board. “We don’t know week to week what prices will be,” says Tim Johnson, manager of Thomae Lumber of Billings. “Every week we see an increase,” adds Wayne Schaefer, outside sales rep for the company.

With record-setting increases in wood products, it’s challenging for builders and Do-It-Yourselfers to complete projects, let alone start new ones.

“And that’s if you can even find lumber,” says Tim. “What you

buy today may not be available on the open market. And with trucking, it might be a month to a month and a-half away.”

One of the hardest pieces of lumber to get a hold of is Oriented Strand Board (OSB), probably the most recognized and certainly the most common building material used. OSB hit an all-time high this spring, when the price of a 4-by-8 sheet soared from $10 to $65.

“The numbers are staggering,” Tim says. “Nationwide, OSB is up 600 percent compared to last year at this time and lumber is up 200 percent per thousand board feet.”

“Never in history have we seen increases like this when comparing bids to six months ago or to last year.

It’s due to availability. Normally, this time of year we have three times more (inventory) than we have. We have to be careful where our stock goes as our loyal customers come first,” says Tim. He’s thankful Thomae Lumber is a part of the Mead Lumber family. With 42 locations, the company has “good buying power.”

Home Builder Jarrett Smith counts on this partnership. Like many builders, he and his company, Branding Iron Construction, continue to build homes in the valley. He’s also coming face-to-face with how the dramatic increase in lumber costs changes the dynamics for new-build homes.

“It’s really hard,” he says, “as I have to explain to the owner whose house is currently under construction it’ll be an additional $8,000. This limits the extras going into the home. They may not get a fence as the

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dollars are going somewhere else. Costs are changing quickly.”

The costs keep spiking while the housing market keeps booming, so what is causing this major shift in soaring lumber prices and availability?

“It’s supply and demand,” Tim says. “Covid caused production levels to go down due to staffing at the mills and, there’s demand.”

“We had a decade that was kind of stagnant so now we have pent-up demand,” Jarrett adds. “We have urban migration.

Young professionals and young families are moving here.

They don’t want to be in urban areas.”

This influx of people places a demand on residential building while adding to the local economy. “Our area should be good,” says Jarrett, “as long as people keep coming in from the outside.”

Tim is also optimistic. “Production needs to get back to normal as it’s the procurement of materials,” says Tim. “Once production re-establishes, we should be fine. Business looks good the remainder of the year.” ✻

THE NUMBERS ARE STAGGERING. NAT IONWIDE, OSB IS UP 600 PE RCENT COMPARED TO LAST YEAR AT THIS TIME AND LUMBER IS UP 200 PERCENT PER THOUSAND BOARD FEET. — Tim Johnson

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journey SHARON AND JIM DEWIT’S

journey from the farm to Elder Grove Lane sounds a bit nomadic as Sharon counts the many times they’ve moved over the years.

“We lived on our farm in Fort Peck for 35 years,” she says. “We sold the farm and invested in motels but moved to Billing,s as our two grandkids are here. And one now goes to Elder Grove School.”

As Realtors (Sharon is also a broker), how could they go wrong buying a great piece of real estate on the far West End when moving to the Magic City? They found the ideal property just off 64th Street and developed 18 one-acre lots, forming DeWit subdivision.

“We used to mow all the lots here,” Sharon says, laughing. “Now I do just our mowing, and we have a lot of yard space.”

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After downsizing this past year from a 4,000-square-foot house, she says, “We moved into a camper, then rented an apartment for six months while building.” Today, the couple are settled in their lovely three-bedroom, three-bath home. Jim uses the fourth bedroom as an office.

The one-level modern Prairie style home harkens to the surroundings of its pastoral setting. Granite boulders guard the entrance into the subdivision as well as border the front area of the home’s impeccable landscaping.

Its 2,571 square feet of spaciousness offer a southern exposure displaying four over-size Pella windows running the length of the main living area. Elder Grove School sits in view across the open field. From the front yard, the Beartooth Mountains rise up in the background.

y6FROMTO THEELDERFARMGROVE LANE written by TRISH ERBE SCOZZARI photography by DANIEL SULLIVAN

“It’s light and bright,” says builder Jarrett Smith, owner of Branding Iron Construction, LLC. “I like incorporating big windows into a home.”

“Jim picked the floor plan and he picked the dog,” quips Sharon.

“He told me I could pick out anything I wanted because we’d moved too many times. So I did!”

Two large windows on either side of enormous double sliding glass doors invite in the natural light on the north side of the open-concept living room/kitchen space. The lush back yard showcases purple flowering crab apple trees enveloped in black fencing. It provides a delightful respite for gatherings on the covered patio, complete with a stacked granite fireplace mirroring the edging of the home’s façade.

Sharon went right to work with Denise Audet, an accredited interior designer at Cabinet Works. Denise helped Sharon choose the cabinetry, tile, flooring, colors and countertops, and assisted with a myriad of details. “It was one-stop shopping at Cabinet Works,” says Sharon. “Glad I didn’t have to run around for all this.”

Jim’s 30-by-50-foot shop sits close by. Oliver, or “Ollie,” the couple’s handsome Chow, keeps tabs on everything and everyone no matter which side of the glass doors he’s on.

During this process, the guys stayed equally busy. “I distracted Jim,” Jarrett says. There was plenty to figure out with the shop, three-car garage, driveway, extra parking spot, and more.

“We started with our client’s vision of what they wanted,” says Denise. “We went with what Sharon said ‘feels good’ and ‘it makes JULY/AUGUST 2021

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THE INSPIRATION OF THE KITCHEN IS THIS BENTLEY CAMBRIA QUARTZ CENTER ISLAND. —Denise Audet, Interior Designer at Cabinet Works

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Beautiful

me happy.’”

Sharon’s happy place is the hub of the home — the kitchen. It sparkles with an exquisite glass tile pinwheel design backsplash. “I saw this backsplash at Cabinet Works,” says Sharon. “I loved it so I said, ‘Why can’t we do that?’” Denise replies, “I said, ‘we can!’”

The artistic beauty of the silver-colored glass provides a unique focal point. A black stainless hood over a black stainless electric induction stovetop sings in harmony, as do perfectly spaced fridge and wall ovens on either side. Setting it off is the bold blackon-white quartz-topped center island from Stone Wild Quartz & Granite.

“The inspiration of the kitchen is this Bentley Cambria quartz center island,” Denise says.

The artistic flair of the quartz brings to life black brush strokes on a white canvas. “The top is as big as we could get,” Jarrett says.

“It’s 128 inches (just over 10½ feet long).”

Functionality is top priority, with the island’s base providing extra storage space.

The dishwasher is tucked in among soft-

close cabinet doors and drawers giving the homeowners easy access from sink to dishwasher. Two glass pendants from One Source Lighting float above the island, balancing the look of this stunning heart of the home.

Enhancing the main kitchen area is a built-in hutch displaying Sharon’s decorative dishes and glassware.

Glass-door upper cabinets featuring incabinet lighting draw the eye upward.

The hutch countertop serves as a coffee bar, which happens to be on the path to Jim’s office.

A wine cooler is conveniently set in the lower cabinet. The same pinwheel design backsplash behind the stovetop graces the space between the lower and upper cabinetry.

“The grout color is onyx,” Denise notes, “giving a shimmer to the backsplash.”

“It’s got glitz,” Sharon adds.

Grey speckled quartz on the hutch countertop adorns the other counter JULY/AUGUST 2021

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space, as well, delivering luscious contrast to custom glazed alder cabinets painted Midnight White. The look and feel of the kitchen area help create a modern, sophisticated style.

The elegance of clean lines blends effortlessly into the living room as the kitchen ceiling transitions into cathedral ceiling highlighted with stainless-steel fans. The focal point of this area — top to bottom — is the porcelain polished tile. A linear fireplace and big-screen TV receive honorary status on this distinctive wall with a built-in bookshelf sitting on the side.

HONORED TO BE PART OF THIS

EXQUISITE HOME!

“It’s absolutely beautiful,” Sharon says. “It’s my favorite part of the house, along with the kitchen.”

The openness of the living space creates airy comfort while soft gray walls give warmth. “The walls and ceilings are handtextured,” Jarrett notes. Luxury plank vinyl flooring in light-tomedium oak tones adds to the overall richness and texture.

On the west wing sits Jim’s office, guest bedroom, guest bath, laundry room and mudroom. The east wing comprises charming Jack-and-Jill bedrooms with bath in between, making the grandkids happy campers.

LOCALLY OWNED SINCE 1972

406-252-3419 • rockymountainseamlessraingutters.com 92

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In the master suite, the homeowners’ personal space reflects serenity and a graceful ambiance. A tailored set of gray barn doors lend privacy to the en suite. This luxurious spa-like sanctuary accommodates a sauna and a walk-in porcelain tiled shower sporting rain showerhead on one side and a hand-held

REVITALIZE

YOUR SPACE! CALL NOW AND MAKE AN APPOINTMENT.

BEFORE

AFTER

CUSTOM DESIGN Office | Kitchen | Bath | Laundry | Closet 3D Renderings | Installation | Design Consultation Accredited by the National Kitchen & Bath Association and Certified Living In Place Professional.

THIS LOVELY HOME OFF 64TH STREET IS POWERED BY YELLOWSTONE VALLEY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE.

— LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED — Natural Stone, Quartz & Laminate Counter Tops Free In-Home Estimates

252-1106 94

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5850 Interstate Ave • Billings www.magiccitygranite.com

on the other.

Sleek-designed lighted mirrors above two separate vanities offer touchscreen lighting and anti-fog finish. “The middle of the mirror never clouds over,” Sharon says.

The spacious master suite is just as dreamy. As daylight drifts in through the large window, Sharon easily lowers white and light gray-colored blinds. These chic soft blinds pamper all the windows in the house, though only the bedroom blinds offer blackout coverage for “better sleeping,” Sharon says.

“And this is the door to the patio,” she says.

“We can go out and step into the hot tub.”

A plethora of moves and stops in-between have come and gone for Jim and Sharon.

They seem satisfied to be settled in their new home on Elder Grove Lane. It’s a quick minute over to the school to pick up their younger grandchild. They’re close to town while still enjoying a bit of that country farm feel, and Sharon has only their lot to mow. As for Ollie, he’s one happy Chow. ✻

REFRESHED. REVIVED. REINVENTED. And that’s just the mattress.

AS LOW AS

38/

$

MO.

60 Months Financing O.A.C.

RECEIVE $300 BONUS CASH

when you purchase a Tempurpedic Mattress Set. See Store For Details

enc TEM

RETAILER INFO

Feels long, feelin

406-656-4900 www.conlins.com

739 S. 20th St W Billings, MT

Copyright 2019 Tempur-Pedic North America, LLC. All rights reserved.

OSL is proud to partner on this beautiful home!

100 24th St. West, Suite 3, billings, mt 59102 p 406.655.7949 I f 406.655.0441 | w onesourcebillings.com

JULY/AUGUST 2021

95

builder7 SPOTLIGHT

JARRETT W. SMITH, SHARON DEWIT AND DENISE AUDET

A PERSONAL TOUCH HOME BUILDER JARRETT W. SMITH,

owner of Branding Iron Construction, LLC, focuses on “quality and value.”

He’s been building custom homes for well over two decades taking every detail to heart.

“Every project from initial planning and lot selection to the final walk through is managed by me,” says Jarrett. “This gives my customers a personal touch that is hard to find in today’s fast paced world.”

Jarrett is also a Realtor which allows him to keep up on the area’s

FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit www.brandingironconstruction.com and www.meridianre. com

HOME | AUTO | RECREATION VEHICLES | SMALL BUSINESS

FO R H AVING

STRE C KE R ELECTRIC

Jennifer Massey-Norman

INSURANCE AGENT / OWNER

L IGHT UP Y OUR B EAUT IFUL HOM E!

406.534.8008 839- 6976 · 1129 WILD BLUE COURT · BILLINGS

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“We are not just building dream homes, but lasting relationships,” he says. ✻

Let us point you in the right direction!

THANK YOU

96

real estate. Being able to find the perfect location for a client’s new home equals that personal touch.

JM Insurance Group, llc

1111 Main St | Suite 6 | Billings, Montana EMAIL: jennifer@jminsgroup.com | jminsgroup.com

7

new listing

1910 SAGEBRUSH DR

new listing

new listing

Under Contract

Under Contract

2610 AVALON RD

2311 IVY LN

5220 PRYOR MOUNTAIN VIEW DR

new listing

Under Contract

1125 BROADWATER AVE

MONT VISTA LOTS (5)

new listing

new listing

sold

sold

4281 BRANDYWOOD DR

sold

5252 HIGH TRAIL ROAD

1 CEDARWIND DR

426 E ALKALI CREEK RD

sold

sold

1315 SAINT JOHNS AVE

sold

3323 REIMERS PARK

4427 JANSMA

1617 ROADRUNNDER DR

sold

sold

5330 BLUE HERON DR

3038 CENTRAL AVE

Working with Team Hanel was a wonderful experience. They are

extremely hard-working and the clients always come first. Team Hanel was readily available to answer questions and very helpful in connecting us to contractors/vendors when needed. Robin’s kind and sincere personality made selling a smooth process.

— Rigdon Family

• • • • •

TEAM HANEL

• • • • •

TOM HANEL ROBIN HANEL 406-690-4448 406-860-6181 Tom@TomHanel.com

Robin@RobinHanel.com

KORINNE RICE 406-697-0678

Korinne@TeamHanel.com www.berkshirehathawayhs.com

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WESTERN APPAREL BIG R WEST 2600 Gabel Road (406) 652-9118

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BIG R EAST 216 N. 14th Street (406) 252-0503 BIG R HARDIN 1001 N. Center Ave. (406)-953-5111

www.shiptonsbigr.com

75 Years

OVER OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE Stop By Our New Showroom And Meet Our Cabinet Specialists

KADY

SHAY Owner

Designer

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STEVE Designer