FASHION:SPORTS:TECH:MUSIC:MOREgREAT CANAdIAN SkI dESTINATIONS

INSIdE:wINTER

wARRIOR

gO bIg THIS SEASON

A lOOk INTO OUR STATE’S SkI AREAS

December 2012 issue 15corridormag.com

1st AnnuAlCORRIdORchoiceAwArds

vote todAy!missoulA.com/corridorchoice

2 dECEMbER 2012

Pg.14

Pg. 21 Pg. 34

December 2012 issue 15THIS ISSUE

Pg. 20

around the weird. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4community corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5fashion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6grapevine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8the sip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9musings from the dark side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10the upload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11ski canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12ski montana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14warren miller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18winter warrior. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20bigfork’s christmas village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21christmas time in polson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26missoula events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

the haps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30nw montana events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32bitterroot events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33sufjan stevens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34irish christmas in america . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35dolce canto. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36lisa lampanelli. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38act out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40sound check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41crossword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44sports page. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45sudoku . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46wtf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

dECEMbER 2012 3

Readily available in racks across western Montana, and inserted in the largest local newsprint product, the Missoulian, Corridor is a cultural hub for music, art, events and all things Missoula. With over 50,000 copies distributed monthly Corridor is an expressive extension of the Missoula Valley and everything it embodies.

from the publisher

PUblISHERJim McGowan

SAlES ANd PROMOTIONS dIRECTORBrooke Redpath

brooke.redpath@corridormag.com

SAlES ANd PROMOTIONSScott Woodall

scott.woodall@corridormag.com

EdITORSherry Devlin

sherry.devlin@corridormag.com

ART dIRECTORMichael Lake

mike.lake@corridormag.com

dESIgNERSJesse Brockmeyer

Diann KellyMegan Richter

Corridor was created to provide you with a one stop view of the culture, events, and happenings that make Missoula the interesting and fun place we all love. Published the first Friday of every month we hope this becomes a monthly tool for you to use to find out what to do and where to go over the next month. Enjoy this positive look at our great community and all it has to offer!

www.CORRIdORMAg.COMFOllOw US ON TwITTER ANd FACEbOOk FOR

UP-TO-THE-MINUTE ENTERTAINMENT NEwS

ON THE COvER:dISCOvERy SkI AREA PATRON ENjOyINg ONE OF THEIR MANy bIg AIR OPPORTUNITIES.

NO PART OF THE PUblICATION MAy bE REPRINTEd OR REPROdUCEd wITHOUT PERMISSION. ©2012 lEE ENTERPRISES, All RIgHTS RESERvEd. PRINTEd IN MISSOUlA, MT, USA.

The December issue focuses a great deal on skiing and all its glory for Missoulians. I admit I am a pretty horrible skier but I have deep respect for all the people who get out there and enjoy all the health and entertainment benefits of downhill and cross country skiing, as well as snowboarding. Winter season is really what you make of it, so fight off the couch dwelling and enjoy the outdoors. I wish all of our readers a

very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May the new year bring you and yours the promise of health, happiness, and prosperity.

See you in 2013!

Sincerely,

Jim McGowanPublisher, Corridor

CONTRIbUTORSDarko ButoracRachel Crisp PhilipsBrian D’AmbrosioVince DevlinBrian D’AmbrosioTandy KhamenehMike LakeHeather ThuesenTia TroyCory WalshKelli WempleWineGuyMike

AdvERTISINg & SAlESTara HallsAshley HoltzappleDeb LarsonDeanna LevineLinda OtwayShelly PargeCliff Reilly Mindy Tweet

4 dECEMbER 2012

PINk ElEPHANTS ON PARAdERecently, in the Indian village of Dumurkota, a herd of elephants went on a mammoth-

sized rampage. The debauchery began when the pack of pachyderms discovered a stash of moonshine and helped themselves to the libations. Mere minutes later, 500 liters of the liquor had been consumed through the elephants’ gullets and that’s when things really got crazy. Dozens of houses were demolished during the incident as the aggressive mammals searched for more booze to fuel their craze. Local police officer Asish Samanat commented, “They were like any other drunk - aggressive and unreasonable but much, much bigger,” before adding, “They’ll have one heck of a hangover.” (Daily Mail)

wHAT bIg TEETH yOU HAvENear the village of Novo Biryuzyak, in the Russian Republic of Dagestan, Aishat

Maksudova was tending to her herd of cattle and flock of sheep when she heard the cries of a calf being attacked by a wolf. As soon as the 56-year-old grandmother saved the calf from the wolf’s grasp, it began to attack her instead. Though it leapt at her hand with an open mouth, she was undaunted and attempted to pry it’s jaws apart in her desire to throttle the animal’s throat. When the jaws would not budge she reached for the nearest weapon, her axe. “‘And then I took the axe and hit him on the head,” recalled Maksudova, “I was not even frightened.” (Metro)

CAll A lOCkSMITHAn investigation is underway in Britain where an intruder has attempted to burgle the

Tower of London, home to many priceless artifacts, including the crown jewels themselves. Apparently the suspect stole a set of keys which, while they did not open the Tower itself, certainly highlighted a serious breach of security. Since its birth in the 1080s by William the Conqueror, the Tower has seen much in its vast history of monarchs and executions. However, this is the brashest attempt on its security since 1671 when Colonel Blood and his gang overpowered the watchmen. All the locks have since been changed. (Reuters)

MISTER SANdMANWhile passing through the town of Billings, Montana, a 57-year-old man decided

to take a long walk near the edge of town. Though he claims to have had no intentions of sleeping, the weariness soon overcame him once he stepped off the road and walked several feet into a nearby cornfield. His sleep was surely sound, as the man dozed through the sound of the landowner starting up his combine for an afternoon harvest. However, he was brought to harsh consciousness by the sensation of being sucked into the machine’s blades. Fortunately, the alert farmer heard his cries and stopped the equipment in time. Miraculously, the injured man survived without a single life-threatening injury. (Billings Gazette)

FOR SCIENCEJeffrey Meldrum, an anatomy and anthropology professor at Idaho State University,

has received approval on his proposal to float a blimp over the mountainous Northwest in order to locate concrete evidence of the cryptozoological Bigfoot. While funding must still be raised, Meldrum is excited to collect never-before-seen documentation of the mythic creature in its natural habitat. The Falcon Project, as it has been deemed, will hopefully launch next spring but has yet to raise much funding despite cable TV interest in documenting the project. (Reuters)

AROUNd THEwEIRdRACHEl CRISP PHIlIPS

dECEMbER 2012 5

Every day at Open Aid Alliance, we work with people who are trying to pick up the pieces of their life after an HIV diagnosis. Many of our friends are battling not only

the virus that resides in their body but the social and emotional effects of dealing with a highly stigmatized disease that still frightens many people.

One client shared with me that he’s been rejected by 23 potential partners- and he’s not just looking for physical intimacy, but true companionship. It starts to weigh heavily on a person. Through my experience working with others like this fellow, I’m convinced many of our clients suffer from some form of post traumatic stress disorder brought on by the initial diagnosis, the process of telling family and friends, navigating the complicated health and financial implications and dealing with the social isolation. HIV is no longer the death sentence it once was and we are grateful for the advances in treatment; but it’s still very complicated. Living and surviving with HIV means that

you are reminded of the virus that resides within you by the medications you take every day, every job you apply for or new friend you meet you wonder if you should share your HIV status, and then wonder how they will respond. We have clients who aren’t welcome to attend Thanksgiving dinner with extended family because someone is afraid of their disease.

Maybe you’re reading this and you didn’t know that Open Aid Alliance existed, or you have no idea

what services we offer. I had a woman who tested positive for hepatitis C once tell me, “I always thought your organization was for those other people until I became one of them.” Open Aid Alliance is here for the Missoula and western Montana community as a resource for sexual health, and that includes education, referrals, HIV and hepatitis C testing, support groups, housing assistance for people with HIV and free

condoms and personal lubricant. It’s true we serve the other people, some of the most underserved and marginalized people in our community, but we also serve your neighbors, family members and friends. OAA is a safe place to seek answers and receive open and non-judgmental support.

We are always looking for ways to connect to our community and tell our story- though it’s sometimes hard to

tell stories about things most people don’t talk openly about. The 2013 calendar we’ve created is our interpretation of what sexual health can look like in our community, it’s playful and celebratory and most importantly it’s beautiful. We need your support to continue doing what we do, please consider supporting Open Aid Alliance and our programs through the purchase of this calendar or other products this holiday season. You can see the whole line on our website or at various businesses throughout Missoula. You can also learn more about our programs, schedule an HIV or hepatitis C test, and find other resources on our website www.OpenAidAlliance.org

Christa Weathers is executive director of

Open Aid Alliance. She can be reached

at 543-4770.

COMMUNITy CORNER

CHRISTA wEATHERS

open Aid AlliAnce

6 dECEMbER 2012

kEllI wEMPlE

M issoula’s 40 year old downtown retail footwear, more space has been dedicated to boots than ever before, with an increased variety of styles, heights and colors that are on display just this year.

80 dIFFERENT STylES ANd COlOR COMbINATIONS.

Among the available inventory are: Short and tall fashion boots in smooth and suede leather styles, boots with straps and brass hardware or zippers and buttons; fancy boots with high heels, more casual boots with low heels; western inspired boots, cozy sheepskin boots and wool-lined boots. For practical purposes there are fashionable waterproof boots, functional winter boots, American-made work-boots and the list goes on and on…

This time of year, functionality aside, boots are often the centerpiece of any fabulous outfit. On chilly days, boots make skirts wearable. They also give polish to jeans and

add a down-to-earth feel to more delicate pieces. Boots increase the versatility of your clothes, and every woman should have a pair or two or three…

HERE ARE A FEw FASHION TIPS TO HElP yOU PUll TOgETHER A gREAT COOl-wEATHER OUTFIT:

When pairing a fuller skirt with high-heeled boots, the look is more refined for your hem to fall just over the top of your boot. With a fitted shape, allow a few inches between your hem and your boot.

Wear thigh-high stilettos with a

mini or wear flatter boots. Either way, consider wearing tights, you’ll look more conservative and pulled together. Wear chunkier boots (wedges) with longer styles, but save your beat up boots for jeans!

Wear ankle boots with pants. They slip on easily under your pants and don’t feel restrictive on your legs, or for an ultramodern edge and even more popular — a lower cut called the “shootie.” Slouch boots go well with skinny pants & leggings or tuck those inside taller boots for a glamorous air.

Visit any online fashion website for more ideas and to browse for the numerous styles available to choose something that would suit your taste. Sometimes you have to look at a lot of styles before you find something you like.

HIdE ANd SOlE TIP: Be extra careful about buying boots from a catalog or online store since every boot (and shoe) fits differently and really needs to be tried on. There are extra potential problems in the way a boot will fit your foot, your ankle and especially your calf. So it really is best to shop locally or in a store where you can try on as many different styles, cuts, widths and heights as possible. Take your time in choosing the best combination of at least four criteria: fit, comfort, price and looks. And remember, if you find the right combination, just give yourself the BOOT!

bOOTS bOOTS bOOTS

dECEMbER 2012 7

8 dECEMbER 2012

gRAP

EvIN

E

Established in northern Italy’s Tren-tino region over a century ago, Fer-rari has earned a worldwide reputa-tion as the premier source of luxury Metodo Classico sparkling wines

from Italy. The legend of Ferrari began with a

man, Giulio Ferrari, and with his dream of creating a wine in Italy inspired by the very finest French Champagne. A skilled enologist Ferrari studied at the prestigious School of Viticulture in Montpellier, France.

Ferrari was founded in 1902 by Giulio Ferrari. After studying in France, Giulio returned to Trentino convinced that his native region’s terroir was ideal for growing Chardonnay grapes suitable for the production of world-class sparkling wines. A pioneer in Italian viticulture, Ferrari was the first Italian winemaker and viticulturalist to dedicate his vineyards almost entirely to Chardonnay – and by 1906 Ferrari was producing award winning sparkling wines. Ferrari was well on its way to producing what would soon become the most famous sparkling wine in all of Italy.

Trentino – Alto Adige is a region located in the northeastern portion of Italy featuring two distinct areas. Trento is located in the southern portion of the region and is steeped in Italian culture. The Alto Adige area is located in the northern territory at a higher altitude near the Adige River and is predominantly a Germanic culture.

Cantine Ferrari’s vineyards are located in the Trento area, situated on south facing high altitude slopes. The Adige River runs parallel to the vineyards and is governed by the Trento D.O.C. During the day warm Mediterranean influences from the Veneto wine region flow into the vineyards surrounding Trento. Late afternoon glacial breezes from the Dolomite Mountains in the Italian Alps funnel cool air into the vineyards. The cool night air slows the ripening process, concentrating the fruit and sugar of the grapes. Glacial water rich in mineral content is another important component of Trento’s terroir, aiding in producing spectacular grapes.

There is a special saying in this Alpine region that speaks to the importance of wine; Pane e vino fanno un bel bambino or “bread and wine make a beautiful baby.”

In 1952 Giulio Ferrari having no children of his own, chose friend and local merchant Bruno Lunelli to succeed him as owner of the business he loved. Giulio continued to work in the winery until his death mentoring Lunelli insuring the vision for quality and success would continue. Thanks to meticulous labor in the winery, combined with his innate entrepreneurial verve, Bruno Lunelli increased production until it reached one hundred thousand bottles a year. Today Lunelli’s sons, Gino, Franco and Mauro, continue the legacy of producing exclusively award winning Metodo Classico sparkling wines.

All Ferrari wines are produced according to the regulations of the Metodo Classico Trento D.O.C, a process used by the finest Champagne houses. Ferrari’s best known wines are produced as blanc de blancs, these are sparkling wines made from 100% Chardonnay. Ferrari sparkling wines are beautifully crafted, restrained, integrated, and subtly complex. These wines are excellent companions for rich holiday meals, cheese courses, or to be enjoyed on their own.

The bouquet and flavor of Ferrari sparkling wines is second to none due in part to exceptional winemaking led by chief winemaker Marcello Lunelli. Proprietary yeast cultures developed by Giulio Ferrari, glacial water rich in minerals, and ideal growing conditions are also important components of Ferrari sparkling wine.

Today, the third generation of the Lunelli family is at the helm, overseeing 300 acres of prime estate vineyards in Trentino. This pursuit of excellence is an enduring family legacy.

Under the Lunelli’s watch, Ferrari is a 22-time winner of the Tre Bicchieri award, Italy’s highest wine accolade. For a complete review of the Ferrari sparkling wines, visit WineGuyMike.com and click on Corridor.

Liquid Planet is located in the heart of Downtown Missoula, for your ultimate wine shopping experience. They feature a large selection of wine accessories and Riedel stemware perfect for your holiday gift selections. Missoula’s “Best of Beverage”.

ITAly’S FINEST bUbbly

wINEGuyMIkE

dECEMbER 2012 9

One of my absolute favorite poets, Edgar Allan Poe, wrote once about a topic I never thought the dark depths of his soul ever would – beer. “Fill with mingled cream and amber, I will drain that glass

again. Such hilarious visions clamber through the chambers of my brain. Quaintest thoughts, queerest fancies, come to life and fade away. What care I how time advances? I am drinking ale today.” Unlike Poe, I don’t tend to name one particular beer or beer style as a favorite. However, I recently refueled my love of Belgian Ales as I had a dizzy reconnaissance with a bottle of Delirium Tremens Strong Ale. And really what’s not to love, with its gorgeous aromas of citrus candy and creamy banana whirled into a coriander-spiced floral yeastiness? Even with its higher 9% abv (alcohol by volume), its superb sip-ability makes it no surprise that it ranked as Beer of the World in 1998. And who doesn’t enjoy a beer that bears a label covered in pink elephants?

Now granted, Belgium is a very small country yet it boasts probably about 400 different ales, each with a very distinctive personality and profile. But what’s in an ale? On the technical front, these are beers that use yeasts that ferment at the top of the fermentation vessel at higher than average temperatures than lagers (about 60°-75°F) which make quicker 7 to 8 day fermentation periods. On the profile front, because of the esters produced by ale yeasts, the profile of these beers tends to be more floral and fruity in nature. Belgian ales, perhaps to the horror of more puritanical beer producers such as the United States or Germany, have a time-honored tradition of using wild yeasts in the brews. Candi, a type of sugar produced by crystallizing concentrated sucrose solution on cotton threads, is extensively used by Belgian brewers in these unique brews. Because it is easily dissolved and fermented because of its purity, candi is believed to enhance head retention, produce very distinctive flavors and also lightens the beer’s body in order to better produce the stronger Belgian profiles.

There are a few categories of note for Belgian beers. Trappist beers came about from the five monasteries around Belgium: Chimay, Orval, Rochefort, Westmalle & Westvletteren. Much like French wine districts, these beers are classified as an appellation controlée, or controlled designation, of beers by the Belgian government. Using the traditions of the winemaking monasteries in the southern lands, the monks in these grape-less lands established breweries and out of these came two relatively constant styles of trippel and dubbel beers. Trippel style Trappist beers are the strongest at about 9% abv, and relatively pale compared to the amber dubbels, which fall at around 7% abv. Chimay, one of the best known Trappist ales, makes a range of three brown beers that have the wild yeast characters of Belgian ales but vary in their alcohol content and resulting flavor profiles. Orval Abbey beer is a very distinctive flavored ale that I happen to greatly enjoy. It’s not particularly strong because of its 5% abv, but it’s hoppy nose and three malts in a trippel makes it absolutely delicious and unlike any of the other Trappist offerings.

Belgian Abbey beers fall in line in a similar style of Trappist ales but typically are brewed by commercial brewers either taking the name of the local abbey or working in conjunction

with them. Saison beers tend to encompass the quotidian Belgian experience, as it were, with this beer style being not overly strong or overly flavored, being the standard (and delicious) fare of the general populace. Beers that don’t fit the particular profile of the more famous varieties drop into being classified simply as specialty beers. They can range anywhere from pale gold to dark malt and have profiles of rich, soft flavors to sparkly and dry. One of the most famous of these specialty beers is Duvel (meaning ‘devil’) out of the Moortgat brewery. If you haven’t tried this beer, it’s absolutely crazy in its profile. Wild and blond, with a silky smooth citrus and apple flavor, this beer is deceptive in that it is crisp and refreshing but packs a punch at 8.5% abv.

Adding to the distinction of Belgian beers is the fact that each one is typically served in its own special glass, from goblets to thistle-or-tulip shaped glasses. I am actually quite proud of my goblet-shaped Duvel glass, and it definitely lives up to the hype of making a huge difference in how the beer itself presents both with head retention and releasing aromatics. Not to mention the fact that it makes an easy and classy gift, pairing a beer with its own glass always presents well on any occasion. For those of you who know beer lovers, nothing says “I know you have awesome taste, have a beer” more than “Here is also a glass to put it in!”

So Belgian ales look pretty in a glass, and have some history. Does this make Belgian beer worth the purchase over your average brew? Granted, Belgian ales like Chimay tend to come in a corked 750 mL bottle, which may or may not be intimidating to someone unfamiliar with this beer class, but some are also in a smaller and possibly more spendy vessel. I think it is worth noting that Beer Advocate, a top notch community of beer enthusiasts and industry professionals, have consistently rated many a Belgian ale in their Top 100 Beers on Planet Earth every single year. You have to have faith in a resourceful group whose motto is “Respect Beer” and whose sole purpose is a commitment to “waking the masses to better beer options.” There is a reason that this small country keeps making an appearance on the Top 100 list- they simply make exceptional, exotic and wholly original beers.

Are you ready to jump into these Belgian specialties? Fear not, the hunt for Belgian ales and even the corresponding glassware is not a fruitless one. Liquid Planet has not only many of Beer Advocate’s top Belgian beers, but also a fine selection of many of the Top 100 beers in general. It also boasts a great selection of the various goblets and tulip glasses that perfectly complement each beer style. You will be absolutely spoiled for choice, and they couldn’t make it easier to shop for all of those people on your gift lists, whether it is for the holidays or any other occasion.

It seems appropriate around this season to take a pause like our friend Edgar, and enjoy the cream and amber of beautiful Belgian ales. And as always, please drink responsibly.

Heather Thuesen is a sometime-Missoulian who fell in love with the poetry and flavors of the beverage realm at Liquid Planet. Constantly on a quest for connection, she is determined to find how many different sips are at the center of our global and social experiences. HEATHER THUESEN

CURINg wHAT AlES yOU

10 dECEMbER 2012

MUSINgS FROM THE dARk SIdE

I t’s that time of year again. The shopping (holiday) season is upon us, and everywhere we go we’re surrounded by Santas, lights and of course, the ubiquitous music

repertoire. On one hand, I love holiday music. On the other, too much repetition and I’m tired of it long before the real St. Nick makes his appearance. (Note to box stores – please don’t play the stuff before Halloween).

December is also a good time to spend in the kitchen – from reworking Thanksgiving leftovers to baking shortbread cookies. Could we combine the two together? Is there such a thing as a perfect holiday music recipe?

First, we need to look at the status quo – are there common threads that connect the dots between works a disparate as the “Nutcracker,” “Jingle Bells,” “Baby it’s Cold Outside” and the “Christmas Song?” Is there a musical theme that permeates this repertoire once the sappy lyrics and movie associations are removed?

If we take a step back, we can broadly generalize that Christmas music makes us generally feel either happy and elated, or warm and reflective (think “Hallelujah Chorus” vs. “Silent Night”). This, after all, is very much the essence of the spirit of the holiday itself. And so, to construct our musical recipe, we’ll need some major chords, an upbeat tempo, high registers, and bright instrumentation to create a musical sugar high (“Sleigh Ride,” “Joy to the World,” “Feliz Navidad”). But then

we’ll want to add a little reflection to our masterpiece, by peppering our song with minor chords and dissonances in key places (imagine the line “fall on your knees” from O Holy Night – gives me goose bumps just to think of it). And let’s finish with a side dish of melancholy by sticking to the darkness of string instruments, low registers and slow pacing.

Since we’re now well on our way to producing the next holiday smash hit, let’s not forget the importance of percussion. Take the lyrics out of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You,” and you just have a pretty average 90’s pop song. But if you pay closer attention, you’ll notice three essential ingredients for a Christmas tune: the celesta, bells, and sleigh bells. The celesta is a keyboard instrument which produces a very high, pure, heavenly sound (hence the name) – it was first used by Tchaikovsky in the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.” The bells add a hint of solemnity and the sleigh bells make the snow begin to fall. Bam – we’re ready for the big time – serve with a generous glug of eggnog and side of Santa cookies!

Darko Butorac is music director of the Missoula Symphony Orchestra. For the “perfect holiday musical recipe,” the Missoula Symphony Orchestra and Chorale perform their ever-popular Holiday Pops concert December 1 at 7:30 p.m. and December 2 at 3 p.m

One part major, a dash of minor, sprinkle liberally with bells

dARkO bUTORAC

dECEMbER 2012 11

the

google released another ultra portable device this past October. I felt it worthy of a write-up since we live in a college town and said town is full to the brim of tech

savvy, 20-somethings without any money. The new Chromebook is a laptop. But this laptop functions more like a tablet.

Since it runs on Google OS – which is essentially a web browser on steroids – the normal overhead of a traditional operating system (OS) is gone. So power-up-times are dramatically reduced. Like, sub 20 seconds, which is similar to a tablet, in that you push a button, and ‘presto’, you have a computer ready to deliver.

Here’s the kicker though, the Google Chromebook starts at $199. For you starving college kids, and even you “expendable cash” teenagers, this is a steal. By comparison, an iPad 2 runs from $399 to $549. Similarly, an Apple Macbook Air laptop can cost well over a $1000. If you’re paying attention here, you could be on to a fantastic holiday gift idea.

But it’s a gift that can keep on giving. It’s perfect for school. Repeat – a little louder for those parents out there – it’s perfect for school. It’s near weightless at 3 pounds. It’s about the dimensions of a sheet of paper, perfect for a backpack.

And it’s less than an inch thick. It’s nearly trouble free - gone are the days of worrying about virus attacks, since there’s no pesky operating system getting in the way. It can handle online research like a champ with a built in dual band Wi-Fi. And it can support multiple users in the event you have more than one student in the house.

If you are worried about simple word processing, or power-point creation, or any

other multitude of MS Office tools that an eager student might need, worry not. Google Docs has all of that covered. Which is convenient since Google is responsible for the OS anyways. Need email? Gmail. Need an instant messenger or video conferencing? Google Chat. How about GooglePlus, or Hangouts?

If it’s on the internet, Google’s got it covered and brilliantly integrated into the operating system. For those music enthusiasts you can enjoy a wide selection of your favorite songs, videos, and movies on a new Chromebook. You can stream music with Pandora or organize your music and/or movie collection with Google Play Music and Google Play Movies.

There are a few downsides, however. Battery life – a whopping 3.5 hours. Best to keep that sucker plugged in, forever. Horsepower. Not that this machine is meant to have a ton of horsepower, or that you’ll even notice the lack of oomph when playing an FPS, which you probably won’t. Which brings us to another downside. The $199 version has no DVD/CD drive which is par for a laptop of similar design. Again, not that you’ll need it. Most everything you need is on the internet anyways.

If you are interested in buying this lovely device, like I am, check out this link. http://www.google.com/intl/en/chrome/devices/

And if you’re interested in learning more about the Google OS, start here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QRO3gKj3qw

Happy holiday shopping, and remember this gift idea if you plan on buying me anything.

Cheers.Michael Lake is the art director for the

Corridor. He can be reached at mlake@missoulian.com.

PHOTO COURTESy OF gOOglE TM

MIkE lAkEENTER THE CHROMEbOOk

12 dECEMbER 2012

venture north in winter and you’ll find some of the biggest ski hills in the world, just over the border from Montana in British Columbia and Alberta.

Here’s a guide to a few of the areas beckoning from the north land. Lift ticket prices are in Canadian dollars and may not include taxes.

CANAdA OlyMPIC PARk: Built for the 1988 Winter Games, Canada Olympic Park has developed into an integral part of the winter sports scene in Alberta. The park has all the amenities that one needs for winter sports, from rentals to retail to professionally certified instructors. Features like free parking and adult race leagues keep the area busy all winter long. Situated in the heart of Calgary, Canada Olympic Park is a little slice of winter fun in the big city. Lift tickets are $44 for adults, $39 for ages 13 to 17, $34 for ages 6 to 12, $39 for ages 65 and older, and $10 for ages 5 and younger. Phone: (403) 247-5452. Website: www.winsportcanada.ca/cop.

FAIRMONT HOT SPRINgS RESORT: Fairmont provides spectacular views of jagged Rocky Mountain peaks, friendly service, and plenty of family ski programs. It offers a halfpipe and snowboard park, triple chairlift and 13 runs. Fairmont Hot Springs is four hours north of Kalispell in southeastern British Columbia. Full-day lift tickets are $43 for adults, $33 for ages 65 to 74, $33 for ages 13 to 17, $23 for ages 6 to

12, free for ages 5 and younger and 75 and older. Phone: 1-800-663-4979. Website: www.fairmonthotsprings.com.

FERNIE AlPINE RESORT: Fernie is renowned for its superb natural snow conditions. Snow arrives at the end of November and stays well into April with an annual average snowfall of 29 feet. There are more than 100 trails, with five alpine bowls and acres of tree skiing. Fernie is located about 2 1/2 hours north of Kalispell in the southeast corner of the British Columbia. Lift tickets are $79.95 for adults, $63.95 for ages 65 and older, $55.95 for ages 13 to 17 and $25.95 for ages 6 to 12. Phone: (250) 423-4655. Website: www.skifernie.com.

kIMbERlEy AlPINE RESORT: Kimberley is famous for consistent snow conditions and a variety of terrain, from beginner to extreme. Sixty-seven runs provide access to 2,465 vertical feet on 1,800 acres, and there’s a new terrain park and halfpipe. The family resort has full day care facilities, ski and snowboard lessons, and day and evening activities. Located in the southeast corner of British Columbia, Kimberley is a four-hour drive from both Calgary, Alberta, and Spokane, Wash. Lift tickets are $67.95 for adults, $53.95 for ages 65 and older, $47.95 for ages 13 to 17 and $21.95 for ages 6 to 12. Phone: (250) 427-4881. Website: skikimberley.com.

lAkE lOUISE SkI AREA: Lake Louise is located in the heart of Banff National Park. With 4,200 acres and 139 runs,

SkI CANAdAOUR NORTHERN NEIgHbOR’S bIggEST SkIINgTANdy kHAMENEH

continued on page 39

bANFFplenty of landing pads with annual average snowfall of 30 feet

dECEMbER 2012 13

14 dECEMbER 2012

by TANdy kHAMENEHOUR STATE’S AREA ROUNdUP

SkI MONTANA

Montana offers the best of the best in downhill skiing: acres of powder, miles of verticality and the easiest lift lines in the West. So get out there this winter and

explore Big Sky Country’s big snowy open!Here’s a look at each of Montana’s ski

areas, with basic info on location, lift tickets and terrain.

bEAR PAw SkI bOwl: Located 29 miles south of Havre, this ski hill has adult tickets for only $20 a day, $18 for students 9 to 18. Children 8 and younger and adults older than 80 ski free. The hill is open only Saturdays, Sundays and school holidays, January through April (snow permitting),

from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. With one chair, one hand tow and a vertical drop of 900 feet, this is a small mountain, just perfect for beginners. Ski and snowboard rentals are available in Havre. Phone: (406) 265-4712. Website: www.skibearpaw.com.

bIg Sky RESORT: This is the state’s biggest resort – no one else can compete with the amount of terrain, vertical drop and number of lifts. Big Sky offers instant access to some of the most diverse skiing and snowboarding amid breathtaking vistas. Float down a 2,000-vertical-foot, powder-filled bowl beneath Lone Peak; bob and weave through the Bavarian Forest; ride the Lone Peak Tram for a bird’s-eye

view of untamed wilderness. You’ll find almost twice as many acres as skiers. Snowboarders will find a halfpipe, rails and other features to grind on. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. An adult ticket is $89 a day, but deals are offered throughout the year, as well as discounts available online and through package and pass deals. Youth ages 11 to 17 are $69, and children younger than 10 are free with an adult. Big Sky is located about an hour south of Bozeman through Gallatin Canyon. Phone: (406) 995-5900. Website: www.bigskyresort.com.

blACkTAIl MOUNTAIN SkI AREA: Overlooking Flathead Lake about 45 minutes from

downtown Kalispell, Blacktail provides skiers and snowboarders with 1,400 feet of vertical serviced by one triple chair and two doubles. It has an average snowfall of 250 inches. The family-friendly resort offers a variety of terrain from beginner to advanced. Open 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday and holidays. An adult ticket is $36. Teens ages 13 to 17 are $25. Ages 8 to 12 are $16, and children 7 and younger ski free. Seniors ages 70 and older are $16. College students or active military with ID are $30. Phone: (406) 844-0999. Website: www.blacktailmountain.com.

bRIdgER bOwl: Skiing enthusiasts have

bIg SkyFull of wide open spaces and big views

Montana Office of Tourism

dECEMbER 2012 15

16 dECEMbER 2012

enjoyed the area known as Bridger Bowl since the mid-1940s. Skiers love this hill, which is known for its “cold smoke” powder. Bridger Bowl is a nonprofit community ski area offering world-class skiing at small-town rates. The Bridger and Deer Park lifts have been replaced by one triple chairlift. An adult lift ticket price is $49. Ages 7 to 12 are $16, seniors 70 and older are $22, and children 6 and younger are free. Bridger Bowl is about 20 minutes northeast of Bozeman. Phone: 1-800-223-9609. Website: www.bridgerbowl.com.

dISCOvERy SkI AREA (COvER PHOTO): Only minutes from Fairmont Hot Springs, Discovery provides 1,670 feet of vertical on 63 trails. The ski area, overlooking Georgetown Lake, has a good variety of terrain to suit many abilities for skiers and snowboarders. Annual snowfall is 215 inches. Adult tickets are $40 for a full day and $32 for a half day. Ages 12 and younger and seniors are $20. Ages 5 and younger are free. Phone: (406) 563-2184. Website: www.skidiscovery.com.

gREAT dIvIdE: Twenty-three miles north of Helena near the old mining town of Marysville, Great Divide offers 1,560 feet of vertical on 140 trails. Tickets are $36 for adults, and $30 for middle schoolers, high schoolers, college students, seniors and military. There are five terrain parks for skiers and snowboraders. The mountain’s five double chairs can efficiently move others around. Special lift and rental packages are available for beginners. Phone: (406) 449-3746. Website: www.skigd.com.

lOOkOUT PASS SkI AREA: A family ski area since 1935, this resort is located 30 miles northwest of St. Regis off Interstate 90. The high mountains generate about 400 inches of snow annually. With 1,150 feet of vertical, the hill has 34 runs at a midweek rate of $35 for adults, $38 weekends and holidays, with reduced rates for students and seniors. The mountain is open Thursdays through Mondays, as well as during Christmas break and on holidays. Phone: (208) 744-1301.

Website: www.skilookout.com.lOST TRAIl POwdER MOUNTAIN: Lost Trail

sits atop the Continental Divide on U.S. Highway 93 where Montana and Idaho meet. With more than 300 inches of snowfall every year, these still-undiscovered slopes await your visit. The terrain includes 1,800 feet of vertical. Adult tickets at the ski hill are $37. Ages 6 to 12 are $27, and 5 and younger are free. Seniors ages 60 to 69 are $29, and 70 and older are $14. The area is open Thursdays through Sundays with extended hours over the Christmas season and on holidays. Phone: (406) 821-3211. Website: www.losttrail.com.

MAvERICk MOUNTAIN: Hidden in southwestern Montana’s Pioneer Mountains, Maverick boasts low rates and two nearby places to plunge into hot water – Jackson Hot Springs Lodge and Elkhorn Hot Springs. The ski hill features 2,020 feet of vertical spread out across 24 trails. The mountain’s annual snowfall is 180 inches, accessed by one double chair and a rope tow. Adult tickets are $32. Juniors and

seniors are $20. Phone: (406) 834-3454. Website: www.skimaverick.com.

MONTANA SNOwbOwl: Located only minutes from downtown Missoula, Snowbowl is famous for its tricky terrain. Two high-capacity double chairlifts quickly carry skiers and snowboarders to the top of the mountain for the 2,600-foot drop. Forty-two runs – including one that cruises for three miles – spread out winter enthusiasts. The adult rate is $43 a day. Students and seniors are $40, while ages 6 to 12 are $19 and children 5 and younger are free. Phone: (406) 549-9777. Website: www.montanasnowbowl.com.

MOONlIgHT bASIN: Big Sky’s next-door neighbor may be smaller, but it’s got some grand terrain. Located on the north side of Lone Mountain, the hill boasts 4,150 feet of vertical and 92 runs. Experts can try the ridge’s upper chutes, while beginners and intermediates can stick to the lower mountain. Average snowfall is 400 inches. An adult full-day ticket is $59. Ages 11 to 17, college students, seniors and active

bRIdgER bOwlskiers love this hill, which is known for its “cold smoke” powderMontana Office of Tourism

dECEMbER 2012 17

military are $50. Children 10 and younger are free. Phone: (406) 993-6666. Website: www.moonlightbasin.com.

REd lOdgE MOUNTAIN: Red Lodge Mountain is Montana skiing pure and simple. Just minutes from downtown Red Lodge, at the base of the magnificent Beartooth Mountains, the ski area has 2,400 feet of vertical accessed by 65 trails. Average snowfall is 250 inches. Snowboarders can frolic in the terrain park, or take to the trees to track powder. The adult rate is $50 a day. Ages 13 to 18 are $40, ages 6 to 12 are $20, ages 65 to 69 are $42, ages 70 and older are $16, college students are $36 and military are $32. Phone: 1-800-444-8977. Website: www. redlodgemountain.com.

SCHwEITzER MOUNTAIN: If you’re looking for big hits and rails, the three-hour-plus drive to Schweitzer Mountain in Sandpoint, Idaho, is worth it. Schweitzer’s premiere attraction is its terrain park, the Stomping Ground, which was named the best terrain park in the Pacific Northwest by

Powder magazine. Schweitzer also offers a beginner park for the less daring. For those looking for steep, fast runs, be sure to check Siberia and Pucci’s Chute in the Outback Bowl. Schweitzer also has smooth, mellow groomers for the whole family. Average snowfall is 300 inches. Schweitzer is open seven days a week. Lift tickets are $68 for adults, $58 for students and seniors, and $50 for teenagers. Kids 6 and younger ski for free. Phone: (208) 263-9555. Website: www.schweitzer.com.

SHOwdOwN MONTANA: High atop the Little Belt Mountains, Showdown offers a family environment, while nearby White Sulphur Springs serves up a hot pool. Showdown, which celebrated its 70th season last year, is famous for its early snowfalls that average 245 inches a year. The mountain’s 1,400 feet of vertical drop are serviced by one triple and two double chairlifts. Adult full-day tickets cost $38. Ages 6 to 12 are $20, and ages 70 and older are $28. Phone: (406) 771-1300. Website: www.

showdownmontana.com.SIlvER MOUNTAIN: Located 130 miles

from Missoula in the Idaho Panhandle, just a short hop from Interstate 90 in Kellogg, Silver Mountain is a ski resort and indoor water park. On the mountain, skiers have access to 2,200 feet of vertical, with the longest run measuring 2 1/2 miles, all serviced by seven lifts that include a gondola and magic carpet. Average snowfall is 300 inches. It’s $52 for an adult lift ticket. Ages 7 to 17 are $37, college students and military are $47, seniors ages 62 and older are $42, and children 6 and younger are free. Phone: 1-800-204-6428. Website: www.silvermt.com.

TURNER MOUNTAIN: Located 22 miles north of Libby, Turner Mountain sells adult tickets for $37, $25 for ages 13 to 18, $20 for ages 7 to 12, and $30 for seniors, while children 6 and younger ski free. The ski area has 25 runs with 2,110 feet of vertical drop. While only one chair serves the mountain, half of the terrain is considered

expert. The hill is only open 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday, except during the Christmas break and on holidays. Phone: (406) 293-2468. Website: www.skiturner.com.

wHITEFISH MOUNTAIN RESORT: The second-largest ski area in the state, Whitefish Mountain provides northwestern Montana with its own bragging rights. Located eight miles northwest of Whitefish, the mountain has 2,353 feet of vertical crisscrossed by 94 trails. Three quad chairlifts quickly whisk skiers and snowboarders to the top of the mountain, which sees 300 inches of annual snowfall. A terrain park features gaps, berms and tabletops for snowboarders. The adult rate is $67. Ages 7 to 12 are $36, ages 13 to 18 are $59, ages 65 to 69 are $52, ages 70 and older and 6 and younger are free. Phone: 1-877-754-3474. (406) Website: www.skiwhitefish.com.

wHITEFISH MOUNTAIN RESORT: the second-largest ski area in the state

Montana Office of Tourism

18 dECEMbER 2012

In 1950, Warren Miller produced his first full-length ski film, “Deep and Light.” Since then the company he founded, Warren Miller Entertainment, has produced a film every year,

showcasing winter sports athletes and their exploits in every corner of the globe. Now, at 87, with over 750 sports films to his credit, Warren Miller is still an active writer, philanthropist and passionate skier.

Most folks, especially those of us that reside in the wintery reaches of the Rocky Mountain West, know Miller for his ski films, but have likely given little credit to the fact that his movies have transcended wintery slopes and spawned an entire genre of sport, media and culture. Without him, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, kayaking and every other sport that shares the outer reaches and upper echelons of their craft through the lens of a video camera might have never developed into the collective “action sports” that we know them as today.

Miller not only created an entirely new category of film, he created the framework for the grassroots tour that is still the primary way action sports films first reach their audience. In the early days, he took his films personally from town to town, venue to venue. Premiering in theaters, gymnasiums, town halls, anywhere he could fit ‘em in, Miller would narrate the films personally with anecdotes and stories of the mountains and athletes on the screen. The film tour that began with

Warren, his projector and a microphone originated in a handful of ski towns; it now reaches hundreds of cities and venues around the country… not mention the international tours that bring the film across Canada, Australia and much of Europe.

What began as an endeavor by Miller, meant to fuel one ski bum’s dreams of an endless winter, has evolved into a massive undertaking that ushers in the start of colder months for gravity junkies around the globe.

Warren Miller Entertainment’s production crews are filming virtually year-round in order to capture skiers and snowboarders in far-flung locations on both halves of the planet. From New Zealand and Chile to Alaska’s Chugach Mountains and the northernmost reaches of Scandinavia the crew’s destinations grow more exotic every year. This year’s film, “Flow State” takes viewers above the Arctic Circle to Svalbard, Norway, an isolated archipelago with seemingly limitless skiable terrain, and to the island of Hokkaido, Japan home to some of the world’s most pristine and consistent powder, as well as to Austria, Alaska, Colorado, California and Utah.

When the crews return to home base in Boulder, Colorado they’re toting hundreds of hours of footage of dozens of athletes. At this point, Kim Schneider, the primary editor of more than 40 Warren Miller films, goes to work.

wARREN MIllER

“What began as an endeavor by Miller, meant to fuel one ski bum’s dreams of an endless winter,

has evolved into a massive undertaking that ushers in the start of colder months for gravity

junkies around the globe.”

by TIA TROy

dECEMbER 2012 19

Leaving his home in Sun Valley, Kim moves to Boulder each summer to tackle the daunting task of stitching together footage, soundtrack and narration to create the final film. For many years Kim simply lived out of his van in the parking lot off the Warren Miller Entertainment offices, knowing that there was little time, or need, for creature comforts between 20 hour editing sessions.

By the end of September the film is complete, the venues are booked, the posters are printed and it’s time to send “the baby”—referring to the film that the production crew has so painstakingly raised—out on the road. Five crews are needed to reach all the cities on the 10-week-long national tour. The road crew

is a mixed bag of seasonal employees, ski bums, aspiring athletes and/or videographers looking for work before the snow flies or a way into the professional ranks of the ski industry.

It’s this merry band of pranksters that bring the movie to the masses, albeit on a little larger scale than when Warren was a road crew of one. And though Warren Miller no longer films or tours the movies that bear his name, they still provide as he intended, an opportunity to join family and friends for a celebration of winter; to see the feats of snow sports’ finest athletes while dreaming about deep powder turns and a sense of freedom that only the mountains can provide.

This year’s film, “Flow State” descends

on the Wilma Theatre Friday, Dec. 7 at 8 p.m. as a benefit for the West Central Montana Avalanche Foundation, www.missoulaavalanche.org. The first 400 entrants to the premiere will receive a 2-for-1 lift ticket to Lookout Pass ski area. There will also be a benefit raffle at intermission with chances to win free lift tickets to Whitefish Mountain Resort and thousands of dollars in gear from ski industry manufacturers. The MSO Hub is hosting a ski photography showcase and autograph signing with Warren Miller athletes beginning at 5 p.m. as part of Missoula’s First Friday evening. Tickets to “Flow State” are currently available at The Trail Head and Rockin Rudy’s, they’re $12 in advance and $15 at the door.

Friday, dec. 7 THE wIlMA

Show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are currently available at The Trail Head and Rockin Rudy’s, they’re $12 in advance and $15 at the door.

20 dECEMbER 2012

western Montana is serious about two things: fun and winter. The people who live here, work here, play here and recreate here do so because

– to put it simply – here in the wilds of Montana, winter is rad.

Here at Glacier Country, we think the radness of western Montana should be celebrated. As such, we’re giving our coolest season some much-needed attention with our new winter advertising campaign: the Winter Warrior.

As part of the campaign, we’re inviting winter lovers everywhere to become a

winter warrior at winterwarrior.glaciermt.com. Once on the site, winter lovers can select their most loved snow-based activity, enter their information and request a winter warrior packet. As an added bonus, everyone who enrolls to be a winter warrior is automatically entered to win weekly prizes – including lift tickets, Glacier Country gear and travel destination packages – all winter long.

The main goal of the winter consumer marketing campaign is to highlight and promote western Montana as a “must visit” winter destination. Many of the ads have been placed in publications and outlets

that reach outdoor enthusiasts, as well as regional target markets. As part of the campaign, advertising has been placed in a variety of national and print online media outlets, including Powder, Mountain, SKI, SnoWest, Canada.com and StarTribune.com, as well as in-state print and online outlets.

And while much of the media placement is outside of Glacier Country and Montana, it’s here in the heart of western Montana that the action is taking place. Local winter lovers can pick up winter warrior stickers at a variety of locations throughout the region, including

local ski areas and visitor centers. They can also get in on the action by sharing photos and videos of them doing their favorite winter activity, with select photos and videos being highlighted on our website and social media channels. Users can share photos on twitter and instagram by tagging them with #GCWinterWarrior. Videos and photos can also be shared on our facebook page at facebook.com/glaciermt.

So what are you waiting for western Montana? Let’s show old man winter that we’re just as rad as he is.

wINTER wARRIORby TIA TROy

top photo credit: Glacier Country Tourismbottom three photos photo credit: Montana Office of Tourism

dECEMbER 2012 21

For a summer resort town, Bigfork sure gets in the Christmas spirit.

Two and a half months after the waves of tourists who flood the community at the northeast corner

of Flathead Lake have ebbed, Bigfork’s year-round residents turn their downtown – including the aptly named, judging from all the lights that go up, Electric Avenue – into a wondrous Christmas village.

They’ve been doing it for more than 30 years.

The result is quite spectacular – requiring 70 volunteers to gather 500 trees and test thousands of bulbs one Saturday, 100 or more volunteers the following Saturday to get it all put up in a day – and it’s hard to believe the whole thing sprang from a casual conversation between three men decades ago.

As Edd Blackler recalls, he, Don Thompson of the Bigfork Summer Playhouse and Frank Crane, a retired military man, were all chatting one day on Electric Avenue as the holidays approached.

One of them – Blackler isn’t sure who – mentioned that the town could sure look a lot more Christmas-y than it did.

“There was nothing commercial about it,” Blackler says. “We just wanted the village to look a little more festive.”

And so it began.

That first year, it meant nothing more than approaching the U.S. Forest Service about cutting down some trees to use to decorate the town. They received permission to take

some smaller trees from under power lines, and tied them up around the downtown area.

“Frank Crane, being ex-military, he named us the Bigfork Elf Force,” Blackler says. “He promptly went to an Army Surplus store and bought officers’ insignias, and everyone was given a rank.”

By the next year, the Bigfork Elf Force was ready to take their notion to the next logical level.

“We got the bright idea to add lights,” Blackler says, and so they hit up local

businesses for donations during the warm months, and purchased some Christmas lights and extension cords.

Now, once the holidays arrived, Bigfork looked every bit as Christmas-y as most every other town that decorates, and that might have been that.

Except Denny Boland, a former Bigfork resident, mentioned to the Bigfork Elves that he had a friend in Chicago who owned a company that made Christmas lights. Boland was pretty sure his friend would cut the Bigfork Elf Force a sweet deal if they wanted more lights.

Turned out Boland was wrong. His buddy, who often visited Boland in Bigfork in the summers, wouldn’t give them a discount.

He’d just give them lights for free.“This man, I don’t remember his

name, donated I don’t know how many thousands of lights,” Blackler says. “An incredible number.”

Since then, it’s taken a small army to decorate Bigfork. Bruce Solberg, executive director of the Bigfork Chamber of Commerce, says he has no idea how many lights are

involved, or even how many strings of lights go up.

dEC. 8: carriage rides and santa appearance, 2-5 p.m.holiday parade, 6 p.m.

“A touch of christmas” concert, 7 p.m.

dEC. 15: carriage rides and santa 2-5 p.m.children’s holiday party.

dEC. 22: carriage rides and santa, 2-5 p.m.

bIgFORk’S CHRISTMAS

vIllAgE

by vINCE dEvlIN

courtesy Bigfork Chamber

22 dECEMbER 2012

“There are buckets and buckets of lights,” he says. “I do know we put up 11,000 feet of garland, and it’s all lit.”

Bridges, lampposts, railings, storefronts and more all get the Christmas treatment. Deb Navratil of Flathead Lake Lodge is the head elf.

The Bigfork Elves spend one Saturday (this year on Nov. 10) cutting down 500 trees, and checking every last light, on the annual “tree-gathering and bulb-twisting” day, and the next Saturday (Nov. 17) putting everything up.

“Turns us into a little Whoville,” Solberg says.

The lights come on as they go up during the day, plugged into the outlets of the decorated businesses that foot the electric bill. They’re done by 7 p.m., at which point they light the large community Christmas tree at the Bigfork Inn, sing a couple of carols, and Donna Lawson reads “The Night Before Christmas.”

It kicks off the holiday season, which in the weeks after will also include a holiday concert, parade, performances of “The Nutcracker” and a Festival of Trees at the Bigfork Museum of Art and History, along with carriage rides and appearances by Santa Claus.

It’s grown quite a bit since those three fellows thought the town could stand a few more Christmas decorations.

“We really pride ourselves on being Montana’s Christmas village,” Solberg says.

Of course, when it comes time to take it all down in mid-January and store it away for another year, the Elf Force numbers magically dwindle.

“I’d say we have 100 volunteers on decorating day,” Solberg says, “but it’s a different story on un-decorating day.”

How many show up to turn the Christmas village back into Bigfork?

“About 12,” Solberg says with a chuckle.

“We really pride ourselves on being Montana’s Christmas village”

courtesy Bigfork Chamber

dECEMbER 2012 23

24 dECEMbER 2012

dECEMbER 2012 25

26 dECEMbER 2012

Here in Polson, when Christmas approaches, downtown store windows come alive.

For approximately the sixth straight year, Polson merchants will replace their usual displays with human beings in an annual event they call “Living

Windows.”It takes place on Friday, Dec. 14, from 4-7 p.m., capping

three straight festive Fridays in the city at the south end of Flathead Lake.

It starts Friday, Nov. 30, with the town’s annual Parade of Lights at 6 p.m. The town’s Christmas tree, located between the Glacier Bank drive-through and Showboat Cinemas, will be lit then as well.

If it moves, and has holiday lights on it, it’s eligible for the parade down Main Street.

“We’ve had everything from a cement truck to a grocery cart,” says Jackie Cripe, owner of Jackie M’s Footwear.

And it’s not limited to things with wheels. “People light up their animals, too,” Cripe says. “It just

needs to be something that moves, and is lit.”Santa will be taking orders (for kids’ Christmas wishes, not

pizzas) at the Cove Deli that day from 4 p.m. to approximately 5:45 p.m. – he’s got a parade to get to that night – and be back on the two ensuing Fridays from 4-7 p.m. A professional photographer will be on hand, and moms and dads are welcome to take their own pictures as well.

On Friday, Dec. 7, the Sandpiper Gallery heads up an art walk, and participating businesses will also have something arts-y up for all to enjoy. Could be an artist’s display, could be a music – “Whatever art is to (the business owner),” Cripe says.

Don’t worry about getting cold. In addition to ducking into the many businesses, people can warm themselves around a bonfire in front of the Cove as well on the Fridays.

Then, on Dec. 14, shop windows will go live.

CHRISTMAS IN POlSON

by vINCE dEvlIN

PUT THE MANNEqUINS AwAy

courtesy Pete Ramberg

dECEMbER 2012 27

living Windows began with a historical bent and an assist from the Flathead Historical Museum, which supplied period clothing, Cripe says, but it’s evolved into a community-

wide event that embraces most any theme.Scouts set up a camp in one window. The

high school speech and drama team mimes in another.

“People may be making cookies or painting ornaments” in the live displays, Cripe says.

In fact, you never know what you may run into.

Dick Bratton, owner of Alpine Tipis, remembers one year when he and his wife, Sandy Farrell, put up a speakeasy when their business had a Main Street window.

“We kind of went all out,” Bratton says. “We set it up as the Mint Bar, had a mirror we took to get a computer-cut graphic in it that said ‘The Mint Bar’ behind the bar. We brought in a piano and Patty Ferdinand played honky-tonk, we had her (late) husband Jerry with his big handlebar mustache bartending in a white shirt and vest, and we brought in a little whiskey, wine and beer to serve.”

There were Old West dancehall girls and some beautiful paintings decorating the place. Well, Bratton says, it didn’t take long for the word to get out that one living window featured adult beverages.

“The bar filled up,” Bratton says, and one customer had perhaps one too many.

Bratton and Farrell had already left when they got a call from police saying their glass door was in a thousand pieces.

“I said, ‘Was somebody trying to break in?’ and they said, ‘No, somebody fell out,’ ” Bratton says.

The speakeasy was back when businesses focused on historical themes.

“We worked with the museum to dress up,” Cripe says, “but last year

we just went with living windows. We have school kids and Scouts who take part, and we’ve also invited school groups that are raising money for various things to have booths out on the street where they can sell cookies or wreaths or whatever.”

Previous years have also featured a Friday with a Christmas-around-the-world theme, but the downtown business owners decided the final Friday this year, Dec. 21, fell too close to Christmas Eve and Christmas day.

So they’ll stick to parade-art walk-living window Fridays in 2012 to help get everyone in the holiday spirit this time around.

Vince Devlin is a reporter for the Missoulian, covering Lake and Sanders counties. He can be reached at 1-800-366-7186 or by email at vdevlin@missoulian.com.

courtesy Irene Marchello

28 dECEMbER 2012

MSlA7 First Friday reception, 5-8 p.m., betty’s divine, 521

S. Higgins Ave. Featuring “In Our Neighborhood,” multiple pieces by local artist Amber Prouty. Call 721-4777.

7 First Friday reception, 5-8 p.m., Missoula Art Museum, 335 N. Pattee St. view exhibitions in six galleries, sample wine, beer, and nonalcoholic beverages. Explore the new body of ceramic sculptures created by Missoula artist Shalene valenzuela. A gallery talk with valenzuela is at 7 p.m. Call 728-0447 or visit missoulaartmuseum.org.

7 First Friday reception, 5-9 p.m., Montana Art and Framing, 709 Ronan St. Featuring “world of Structures,” drawings and paintings of barb Schwartz karst, Courtney blazon and Candice Mancini. Call 541-7100.

7 First Friday reception, 5-8 p.m., The brink gallery, 111 w. Front St. Featuring “Art House Matinee” by Missoula artist Tim T. Thornton. Call 728-5251 or visit thebrinkgallery.com.

7 First Friday reception, 5-8:30 p.m., Rocky Mountain Map gallery, 1710 brooks St. Featuring “The Art of Maps,” a selection of contemporary, vintage and antique maps that embody various artistic elements and styles as a means of conveying geographic, historical and cultural information. Call 542-1541.

7 First Friday reception, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Montana building, 101 E. broadway, Suite 406. Featuring “Solstice Surprises,” an evening celebrating the holiday spirit.

7 First Friday reception, Union Club, 208 E. Main St. Featuring “Merry Mayan Christmas Stocking Stuffers for the End of the world,” artwork UM drawing students.

7 First Friday reception, 5-9 p.m., vonCommon, 127 E. Main St., Suite 316. Featuring the “Art blizzard,” a holiday fine art and jewelry sale featuring creations from Marlo Crocifisso, lady Pajama, jess Abell, Erin Sipe, julie Tompkins and vonCommon resident artists b. jean S., jonathan Marquis and Adelaide Every, and more. Call 360-7452.

7 First Friday reception, 5-7 p.m., Families First Children’s Museum, 225 w. Front St. Featuring artwork by the golgi Clinic, plus demonstrations by

Tandem doughnuts. Call 541-7529.7 First Friday reception, 5 p.m., Upcycled, 517 S.

Higgins Ave. Featuring the art of store owners donovan Peterson and kay langland. Peterson makes sustainably crafted gear from reused bike tubes, including wallets, bags, belts and earrings. langland creates interesting artwork and jewelry from recycled copper, other metals, and pieces from recycled vCR’s and computers. Call 239-2538.

7 First Friday reception, 5-8 p.m., The Artists’ Shop, 127 N. Higgins Ave. Featuring “born and Raised: The Alley Cat Series,” acrylic on canvas by Rich lande of Hamilton. Call 543-6393 or visit missoulaartistsshop.com.

7 First Friday reception, 5-8 p.m., Monte dolack gallery, 139 w. Front St. Featuring the release of the new limited edition archival digital print “Chief Cliff” by Monte dolack. Music by jared Ricci. Call 549-3248.

7 MCT Inc. hosts an open house, 5-8 p.m., 200 N. Adams St. Family-friendly festivities include Santa, treats, live holiday music, building tours and raffles. Call Cate, 829-5219.

7 “ko’komiki’smm: The Moon in blackfeet Mythology” presented by Rosalyn laPier, instructor, University of Montana Environment Studies Program, 6 p.m., Mansfield library, East Faculty Office. Call 243-4548.

7 Author signing, 5-7 p.m. Fact & Fiction, 220 N. Higgins Ave. Featuring Sneed b. Collard III signing “Cartwheel,” Theo Ellsworth signing “Understanding Monster” and Erin Saldin signing “The girls of No Return.” Supports Sussex School and also is a celebration for the 2013 Open Aid Alliance calendar. Call 721-2881.

7 Missoula Community Chorus presents spritely music and drama from Henry Purcell’s “king Arthur,” 7:30 p.m., St. Anthony Church, 217 Tremont Ave. Tickets $8; available at Rockin’ Rudy’s, missoulachorus.net or at the door. For more information, call 493-9255.

7 Clark Fork Coalition’s annual holiday party, 5 p.m., 140 S. Fourth St. w. Appetizers, beer, wine, raffle and live music. Free for current members; new members can join for $10. Call 542-0539 or visit clarkfork.org.

7 Missoula Community Theatre presents “Miracle on 34th Street,” 8 p.m., MCT Center for the Performing Arts, 200 N. Adams St. Tickets $21. Call 728-7529 or visit mctinc.org.

7 Annual kids Night at the jeannette Rankin Peace Center, 5-7 p.m., 519 S. Higgins Ave. drop off the kids with a budget and list of holiday gifts to buy. volunteers will help them pick out gifts and wrap them. Call 543-3955.

7 Hellgate Rollergirls sign their 2013 calendar, 5-8 p.m., break Espresso. A dance party with the Rollergirls will be held 7-10 p.m., at the badlander, 208 Ryman St.

7 Ewam’s garden of One Thousand buddhas fundraiser, 7-10 p.m., Crystal Theatre, 515 S. Higgins Ave. Featuring music by Alma desnuda plus silent auction of items from Nepal and India and wine and beer for sale. Tickets $10; available at Ewam buddhist Center, 180 S. Third St. w. Call 726-0555 for more information.

7 veterans appreciation event serving a spam and egg breakfast, 8-10 a.m., grizzly Peak, 3600 American way. Call 721-2292.

7 First Friday reception, 5-8 p.m., Rocky Mountain School of Photography, 216 N. Higgins Ave. Featuring “SElF” by photographers Sarah van Nortwick and wyatt McCollum. Call 543-0171.

7-8 27th annual Holiday Sale and juried Show, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, University of Montana, Art Annex. Presented by the Emerging Ceramic Artists and the Student Sculpture Association of the UM School of Art. Call 243-5893.

______________________________8 Helping Hands of Alberton’s 17th annual benefit

auction, River Edge Resort, Alberton. Fish and chips lunch, noon; auction, 1 p.m. Call (406) 722-3338.

8 Authors signing all day at Fact & Fiction, 220 N. Higgins Ave. Pamalla Hays signs “Circling” and jeff galius signs “little black lies,” 10:30 a.m.-noon. doug Mcdonald signs “Montana before History,” joanne berghold signs “Old windows – Old doors” and jess E. Owen signs “Song of the Summer king,” noon-1:30 p.m. MIlan Tripp signs “Montana Untouchable” and gail jokerst signs “Hungry bear

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kitchen,” 1:30-3 p.m. gail jokerst signs and jerry Mcgowan signs “The Place,” 3-4:30 p.m. Supports the International Choral Festival. Call 721-2881.

8 griz Men’s bb – Montana vs. Carroll @ 7 pmgET TICkETS! 406.543.3300

8 Indoor Christmas caroling with daystar, 7 p.m., valley Christian School, 2526 Sunset lane. Call 721-6234.

8 Irish Christmas in America - dennison Theatre @ 730 pm

gET TICkETS! 406.543.3300

8 Saturday Family Art workshop, “Native bird Ornaments” with Samuel Case, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Missoula Art Museum, 335 N. Pattee St. learn about native birds and make delightful decorations for your tree. Fee is $5. Call 728-0447 or visit missoulaartmuseum.org.

8 Chief Charlo Elementary Holiday Craft Fair, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Chief Charlo Elementary School, 5600 longview. Forty local vendors, with performances by student musicians. kids can decorate cookies and make ornaments. Proceeds will raise funds for a new playground. Call Sindie, 396-2510.

8 The Met: live in Hd presents “Un ballo in Maschera,” 10:55 a.m., Roxy Theatre, 718 S. Higgins Ave. Tickets available at Rockin’ Rudy’s, box office at 328 E. Pine St. from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, or morrisproductions.org. For more information, call (406) 322-2589.

8 Missoula Community Theatre presents “Miracle on 34th Street,” 2 and 8 p.m., MCT Center for the Performing Arts, 200 N. Adams St. Tickets $17 matinee, $21 evening. Call 728-7529 or visit mctinc.org.

______________________________9 “Irish Christmas in America,” 7:30 p.m., University

of Montana, dennison Theatre. A show celebrating the customs, lore and traditions of Christmas in Ireland through music, song and dance. Tickets $25 in advance, $30 at the door, $15 students with Id and kids 12 and younger free; available at grizTix locations, Rockin Rudy’s, griztix.com or 1-888-666-8262.

9 watson Children’s Shelter holiday home tour, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 4978 buckhouse lane. Call 549-0058 or visit watsonchildrensshelter.org.

9 Treasure State Chorale Christmas performs, “we Need a little Christmas,” 4 p.m., St. Anthony Church, 217 Tremont St. Admission by donation.

9 String Orchestra of the Rockies presents “Holiday youth on Parade,” 7:30 p.m., University of Montana, Music Recital Hall. Featuring select high school musicians from the Missoula youth Symphony. For tickets and information, call 493-2990 or visit sormt.org.

9 The Ed Norton big band performs, 6-8 p.m., Missoula winery, 5646 w. Harrier drive. Cost is $5.

9 Missoula Community Theatre presents “Miracle on 34th Street,” 2 and 6:30 p.m., MCT Center for the Performing Arts, 200 N. Adams St. Tickets $17 matinee, $19 adults and $15 children evening. Call 728-7529 or visit mctinc.org.

9 Holiday Missoula MAdE Fair, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Holiday Inn downtown, 200 S. Pattee St. Presented by REcreate designs and Courtney blazon Illustrations. More than 120 local and regional artists. visit missolamadefair.com.

9, 16 Open Figure drawing, 3-5 p.m., Missoula Art Museum, 335 N. Pattee St. Non-instructed. Fee is $5/$7. This session provides artists an opportunity

draw from a live model in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Participants must be age 18 or older. Call 728-0447 or visit missoulaartmuseum.org.

9 Holiday String Orchestra – UM Music Recital Hall @ 730 pm

gET TICkETS! 406.543.3300 ______________________________11, 18 “Art for the Season” with Cindy laundrie,

4-5:30 p.m., Missoula Art Museum, 335 N. Pattee St. Fee is $35/$31.50. For ages 7-11. Each Tuesday, students will explore different holiday projects from cutout stars to dreidels – seasonal creations from traditions around the globe. Call 728-0447 or visit missoulaartmuseum.org.

11 Singles of Missoula, a 45-and-older singles group, monthly Coffee and Conversation meetup, 6:30 p.m., good Food Store, 1600 S. Third St. w. Call Nancy at 251-3330 or Peggy at 541-7577 to learn more.

11 Face painting, 1:30 p.m., Families First Children’s Museum, 225 w. Front St. Call 721-7690 or visit familiesfirstmontana.org.

______________________________12 Playgroup, 11 a.m., Families First Children’s

Museum, 225 w. Front St. Call 721-7690 or visit familiesfirstmontana.org.

12 Scotch Tasting with the Scotch gals, 5-9 p.m., The Rhino, 158 Ryman St. Eight Scotches for $25. A great way to try the wide variety of single malts available.

12 “let’s dance” with Matt Nord of Tangled Tones, 1:30 p.m., Families First Children’s Museum, 225 w. Front St. Call 721-7690 or visit familiesfirstmontana.org.

12 Teen Artist workshop, “Techno-cases” with Sahra Susman, 4-6 p.m., Missoula Art Museum, 335 N. Pattee St. Create a unique gift for that special someone – a one-of-a-kind case for your iPhone, iPod or other gadget using an array of fabrics, wires and beads. Sahra is a trained designer and photographer now working at Selvedge Studios. Pizza and snacks provided; all materials provided and free. Call 728-0447 or visit missoulaartmuseum.org.

______________________________13 Fit kids, 11 a.m., Families First Children’s

Museum, 225 w. Front St. Call 721-7690 or visit familiesfirstmontana.org.

13, 20 “Early Out Art Fun” with Melissa Madsen, 3-5 p.m., Missoula Art Museum, 335 N. Pattee St. drop-in fee is $12. For ages 6-12. Madsen will have an exciting art project ranging from Mondo Self Portraits to Renegade Recycled landscapes. She always has a wealth of projects to keep children creatively engaged and active. Students are welcome to arrive a little bit earlier or later depending on school release time. Call 728-0447 or visit missoulaartmuseum.org.

13 New york Polyphony – UM Music Recital Hall @ 730 pm

gET TICkETS! 406.543.3300 ______________________________14 Readers group, 6:30 p.m., book Exchange, liquid

Planet nook. discussion of “kings Oak” by Anne Rivers Siddon. Call Peggy to RSvP or with questions. 541-7577.

14 Second annual white Christmas ball for seniors, 4-8 p.m., grizzly Peak, 3600 American way. Happy hour, 4 p.m.; chef-prepared meal, 5 p.m. followed by evening of live music and dancing. RSvP to 721-2292.

14 Festival of Creches gala opening and viewing, 6-9 p.m., blessed Trinity Catholic Community, 1475 Eaton St. Hors d’oeurves, drinks, no-host wine and beer, musical entertainment, handmade goods from the diocese of Helena guatemala mission, raffles. donation of $20 in advance, $30 at the door. benefits Family Promise of Missoula and Habitat for Humanity. For tickets and more information, call 721-2405 or visit blessedtrinitymissoula.org.

14 Montana Shakespeare in the Schools presents “Macbeth” preceded by a madrigal dinner offered by the Frenchtown students, Frenchtown High School Commons and Auditorium, 17620 Frontage Road, Frenchtown. dinner, 6 p.m.; play, 8 p.m. dinner is $10, performance is $10, or $20 for both. Call 626-2730 for reservations.

14 dr. Seuss Reading Series Part 5, “One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, blue Fish,” 11 a.m., Families First Children’s Museum, 225 w. Front St. Call 721-7690 or visit familiesfirstmontana.org.

14 “Possessing the Moon: Recent views in Science Fiction on the Future of lunar Exploration,” presented by Rob browning, visiting assistant professor, University of Montana department of English, 6 p.m., UM, Mansfield library, East Faculty Office. Call 243-4548.

14 garden City ballet, Nutcracker – Mt. Theatre Par-Tv bldg. @ 730 pm

gET TICkETS! 406.543.3300

14 Art opening, 5-9 p.m., Art Attic Framing and design, 123 South Ave. w. Featuring the art work of Antonia wolf, Emily Hill, Frank Anderson and Chase Mcbride. Music by the Mountain breathers. Call 728-5500.

______________________________15 Children’s “gingerbread Tea,” 11 a.m.-noon,

blessed Trinity Catholic Community, 1475 Eaton St. Story hour, light meal, crafts and tour of creche display for children to age 12. donation $10 per child and adult companion, $5 for additional children. Reservations required. Call 721-2405 or visit blessedtrinitymisdoula.org.

15 Missoula Folklore Society contra dance, 8-11 p.m., Union Hall, 208 E. Main St. beginner workshop, 7:30 p.m. Music by Skippin’ a groove; caller Morna leonard. Cost is $6 MFS members, $9 nonmembers. visit missoulafolklore.org.

15 dolce Canto and artistic director Peter Park present “Serenity & Stillness,” 7:30 p.m., University of Montana, Music Recital Hall. Featuring guest artists the Missoula Mendelssohn Club and cellist Fern glass boyd. The program will feature familiar carol arrangements by Alice Parker and Robert Shaw, Norman lubboff and others. Tickets $15 adults, $10 students; available at Fact & Fiction, Rockin Rudy’s and dolcecanto.info.

15 Tea tasting, 2-4 p.m., lake Missoula Tea Co., Masonic building, 126 E. broadway, Suite 22. Featuring different varieties of green teas from around the world. Call Heather or jake kreilick, 529-9477 or visit lakemissoulatea.com.

15 griz Men’s bb – Montana vs. South dakota St. @ 7 pmgET TICkETS! 406.543.3300

15 dorothy Patent signs “dogs on duty” and “Horse and the Plains Indians,” noon-1:30 p.m., Fact & Fiction, 220 N. Higgins Ave. Call 721-2881.

15 garden City ballet, Nutcracker – Mt. Theatre Par-Tv bldg. @ 2 pm & 730 pm

gET TICkETS! 406.543.3300

15 The Met: live in Hd presents “Aida,” 10:55 a.m.,

Roxy Theatre, 718 S. Higgins Ave. Tickets available at Rockin Rudy’s, box office at 328 E. Pine St. from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, or morrisproductions.org. For more information, call (406) 322-2589.

15 griz men’s basketball vs. South dakota, 7 p.m., University of Montana, Adams Center. For tickets, call 543-3300.

15-16 Festival of Creches exhibit viewing, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, blessed Trinity Catholic Community, 1475 Eaton St. view the creches exhibit plus fair-trade coffee and chocolate available, handmade goods from guatemala, entertainment and raffle. donation $3 per person 12 and older, $1 per child. benefits Family Promise of Missoula and Habitat for Humanity.Call 721-2405 or visit blessedtrinitymisdoula.org.

______________________________16 lady griz bb – Montana vs. denver @ 2pm

gET TICkETS! 406.543.3300

16 jubellation Handbell Choir, holiday concert, 4 p.m., 1st United Methodist Church, 300 E. Main St.

16 garden City ballet, Nutcracker – Mt. Theatre Par-Tv bldg. @ 2 pm & 6 pm

gET TICkETS! 406.543.3300 ______________________________17 Christmas dance, 8-9:30 p.m., lolo Square &

Round dance Center, 2 12 miles west of lolo on U.S. Highway 12. Call 273-0141 or 251-2173.

______________________________18 kids klub, 4-6 p.m., Southgate Mall, Sears Court.

Call 721-5140. ______________________________19 Art Associates of Missoula, 5 pm., home of beverly

Cone. Cookie exchange. Call 543-5946. ______________________________20 lady griz bb – Montana vs. Northern Arizona @ 7 pm

gET TICkETS! 406.543.3300

20 zappa Plays zappa, 8 p.m., wilma Theatre, 131 S. Higgins Ave. Tickets $35-$62.50, reserved seating; available at Rockin Rudy’s, by calling 1-866-300-8300, jadepresents.com or tickets300.com.

______________________________22 lady griz bb – Montana vs. Sacramento St. @ 2 pm

gET TICkETS! 406.543.3300 ______________________________31 19th annual First Night Missoula, noon-midnight.

Showcasing more than 90 performances and activities in 25 venues throughout downtown Missoula, the University of Montana campus and Southgate Mall. Music, theatre, dance, children’s programs, visual arts and more. Special events include the children’s Parade of Hats, 1 p.m., Southgate Mall; ice carvings on the Missoula County Courthouse lawn; grand finale at the University Center with a choice of the Ed Norton big band and drum brothers. Admission buttons are $12 in advance, $15 on dec. 31, children 7 and younger free; available at more than 20 locations in Missoula and the bitterroot valley. For schedule of events, visit missoulacultural.org.

______________________________31 Contra dance First Night activities, 3:30-5:30

p.m., University of Montana, University Center ballroom. Music by Celtic knots; Elves will call. visit missoulafolk.org.

30 dECEMbER 2012

HAPSTHE

downtown Missoula is kicking it up a notch this holiday season by offering free holiday gift wrapping the first three weekends in December. Folks can bring their

gifts to the MSO Hub at 140 North Higgins on Fridays from 4-7 p.m .and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Wrapping, bows and tags are free, and tips will be donated to three Missoula-area nonprofit organizations:

• Ronald MacDonald House Nov.

30-Dec.2• RideForTannerDec.7-9• TheParentingPlaceDec.14-16

Sponsored by the Missoula Downtown

Association and the Downtown Business

Improvement District, the free gift wrapping services will be staffed by volunteers supporting the efforts to improve the quality of life in our community and beyond.

“This is a great service that shoppers really enjoy, and it provides a fun and

community-oriented way of supporting Missoula-area nonprofits,” said Todd Frank, owner of the Trail Head and Vice President of Advocacy for the Missoula Downtown Association. “I love that our downtown business owners are getting creative about the quality customer service you find downtown.”

Located at the corner of Higgins and Main, the MSO Hub is just across the street from the Central Park Parking Structure, where parking is always available and the first hour is always free. Additional parking is expected to be available in the new parking structure – Park Place – at the corner of Front and Pattee and will be free throughout the holiday shopping season. Additionally, all parking downtown is free evenings and weekends!

In addition to free parking and gift wrapping, downtown Missoula is hosting the Festival of Trees, Santa’s Arrival and the Parade of Lights, in addition to MCT’s “Miracle on 34th

Street” and the Missoula Symphony’s holiday Pops Concert the weekend of Nov. 29-Dec. 2.

The following weekend features downtown Missoula’s Holiday version of First Friday Gallery Night on December 7, which always offers exceptional shopping, dining and entertainment options throughout the evening. One of the highlights will take place at the MSO Hub where Glacier Country Montana will introduce “Flow State,” Warren Miller Entertainment’s 63rd release, and will host an autograph session with two of the film’s professional skiers. This ski film features a tour of the world’s most striking mountains, including those in Norway and Switzerland, and opens at the Wilma Theater Friday night at 8p.m..

That Holiday Shopping Weekend – December 7-9 – also features the incrediblypopular Missoula MADE Fair, held at the Holiday Inn-Downtown at the Park on Sunday from 11a.m.-6p.m..

Zootown Arts Community Center (ZACC) will offer gift wrapping there for a small donation. That evening at 8:30p.m. Sufjan Stevens, a talented singer-songwriter from Michigan, will perform at the Wilma Theater.

The third weekend of the month – December 14-16 – will showcase exceptional entertainment with “The Nutcracker“ performing at the Montana Theater on campus and “Pinocchio” at the Wilma Theater.

As you can see, Downtown Missoula is the hub for shopping, entertainment, dining and more this holiday season. Downtown Missoula is locally-owned, incredibly creative and unique with exemplary customer service, and lots of made-in-Montana products. These are things that will make this holiday season better than ever!

For more information, call the Missoula Downtown Association (543-4238) or the MSO Hub (543-3300).

dECEMbER 2012 31

MCT’s Miracle on

34th Street Nov. 30, Dec. 1-2, 5-9First Friday gallery Night Friday, Dec. 7

warren Miller’s Flow State Friday, Dec. 7

Holiday Shopping weekend December 7-9

Missoula-MAdE Fair Sunday, Dec. 9

Sufian Stevens in

Concert Sunday, Dec. 9

garden City ballet’s The Nutcracker December 14-16

Pinocchio Sunday, Dec. 16

dOwNTOwN CAlENdAR OF EvENTS

downtown Missoula Connecting Our Community!

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7 Reception for Holiday Show of Student Artwork, 6-9 p.m., Stumptown Art Studio, 145 Central Ave., whitefish. visit stumptownartstudio.org or call (406) 862-5929.

7 Reception for Members’ Holiday Art Show and Sale, 5-7 p.m., bigfork Museum of Art and History, 525 Electric Ave. Show runs through dec. 29. Call (406) 837-6927 or visit bigforkmuseum.org.

7 Opening reception for Russell Chatham’s “Montana landscape Through the Seasons.” 5-9 p.m., Hockaday Museum of Art, 302 Second Ave. E., kalispell. Exhibit runs through dec. 29. Reception is being held in conjunction with the downtown kalispell Art walk.

7 Christmas Stroll, 5:30-9 p.m., downtown whitefish. Special events include holiday pictures with pets and photos with Santa, music by the North valley Music School and Alpine Ringers bell Choir at the Presbyterian Church, a caroling competition and a k-9 keg pull. Craft and food vendors, wagon rides, bonfires, frozen turkey bowling and refreshments are also part of the festivities. Call (406) 862-3501 or visit whitefishchamber.org.

7 Christmas in Polson, 5-7 p.m., downtown Polson. Offerings include an art walk, raku pottery firing, music by the Flathead Flute Trio and a bonfire at the Sandpiper gallery. Pictures with Santa are available at the Cove. Call (406) 883-5800.

7 Night of lights, 6:30 p.m., Nucleus Avenue, Columbia Falls. Parade and Christmas celebration in downtown Columbia Falls includes craft vendors, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, lighted holiday village at Marantette Park and food. visit columbiafallschamber.com.

7 “belief,” a one-woman play featuring Salish actress julie Cajune, 7 p.m., bigfork Center for the Performing Arts, 526 Electric Ave. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door, available by calling (406) 837-4885 or emailing info@bigforktheater.org. The multi-dimensional performance is a mixture of interconnected Salish women’s stories, poetry and live music.

7 glacier Symphony and Chorale presents Handel’s “Messiah,” 7:30 p.m., blessed Pope john Paul II Catholic Church, bigfork. Tickets are $10-$28. Call (406) 257-3241 or visit gscmusic.org.

7 Alma desnuda in concert, 7-10 p.m., Ewam garden of 1,000 buddhas, Arlee. Tickets are $10, available

at the Ewam buddhist Center, 180 S. Third St. w., in Missoula. Fundraiser features a silent auction and concert. Call (406) 726-0555.

7-8 Holiday Show and Sale open house, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Sandpiper gallery, 306 Main St., Polson. Call (406) 883-5956 or visit sandpiperartgallery.com.

7-8 Port Polson Players present “The best Christmas Pageant Ever,” 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, john dowdall Theatre, Polson. Tickets are $12-$13, $45 for families. Call (406) 883-9212 or visit portpolsonplayers.com.

7-8, 14-15 Flathead valley Community College Theatre presents “Almost Maine,” 7 p.m., FvCC Theatre inside the Arts and Technology building, kalispell. Tickets are $10 general admission, $5 for senior citizens, free for FvCC students. Follow the lives of nine couples as they fall in love, fall out of love or discover a special something that had always been there. Call (406) 756-3814 or visit fvcc.edu/fvcctheatre.html.

7-16 whitefish Theatre Co. presents “Seussical: The Musical,” 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 4 p.m. Sundays, O’Shaughnessy Center, 1 Central Ave. Reserved tickets are $20 adults, $18 seniors and $8 students. Combining elements from at least 14 of dr. Seuss’s classics, narrated by mischievous Cat in the Hat, and filled with incredible rhymes and musical gems, “Seussical” centers around Horton the Elephant, who faces ridicule and danger while trying to protect an abandoned egg and the tiny whos. Call (406) 862-5371 or visit whitefishtheatreco.org for tickets.

7-23 Christmas Tours at the Mansion, 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Friday-Sunday, Conrad Mansion, 330 woodland Ave., kalispell. Admission is $10 adults, $9 seniors, $6 students, $4 children; reservations recommended. visit conradmansion.com or call (406) 755-2166.

______________________________8 Christmas in bigfork includes free carriage rides

from 2 to 5 p.m.; Magical Holiday Parade at 6 p.m.; a visit with Santa from 6 to 8 p.m. at bigfork Station; “A Touch of Christmas” concert by brach Thomson and Friends at 7:30 p.m. at the bigfork Center for the Performing Arts, 526 Electric Ave.; and late shopping at bigfork stores. Call the Chamber at (406) 837-5888 for more information.

8 Christmas Tea and Tour, 1 p.m., Conrad Mansion, 330 woodland Ave., kalispell. Tickets are $25, reservations required. Call (406) 755-2166.

8 glacier Symphony and Chorale presents Handel’s “Messiah,” 7:30 p.m., whitefish Performing Arts Center, 600 E. Second St. Tickets are $5-$28. Call (406) 257-3241 or visit gscmusic.org.

8 Montana ShamRockers’ Celtic Christmas Concert, 7 p.m., Elks Club, Thompson Falls. Tickets are $25 for dinner and show, $10 show only. Call (406) 827-7770.

______________________________9 glacier Symphony and Chorale presents Handel’s

“Messiah,” 3 p.m., Flathead High School, kalispell. Tickets are $10-$28. Call (406) 257-3241 or visit gscmusic.org.

______________________________10 Spirit of Christmas Concert, 6:30 p.m., glacier

High School Performance Hall, 375 wolfpack way, kalispell. Tickets are $12 and a food donation. Call (406) 755-7208.

______________________________12 Storyhill in concert featuring Chris Cunningham

and john Hermanson, 7:30 p.m., Polson High School Auditorium. Tickets are $12, $14 at the door. Call big Productions at (406) 676-2427.

______________________________13 Senior Tour and Tea day, 10:30 a.m., Hockaday

Museum of Art, 302 Second Ave. E., kalispell. Free admission for seniors age 60 and older. docent-led tour and complimentary coffee, tea and cookies. Call (406) 755-5268 or visit hockadaymuseum.org.

13 Children’s Christmas Event, 3-7 p.m., Conrad Mansion, 300 woodland Ave., kalispell. Tickets are $10 for children, $3 for adults; reservations required. bring your child to visit with Santa, receive a small gift and take a short children’s tour of the mansion. A complimentary photo of your child with Santa is included. Call (406) 755-2166.

13 Storyhill in concert, 7:30 p.m., kM Theatre, 40 Second St. E., kalispell. Tickets are $25. Call (406) 755-5321.

13 Megakarma, 6-9 p.m., East Shore Smokehouse, Highway 35, Polson.

______________________________14 Christmas in Polson, 5-7 p.m., downtown Polson.

Offerings include an art walk, raku pottery firing, music by the Flathead Flute Trio and the Historic living windows display. Pictures with Santa are available at the Cove. Call (406) 883-5800.

14 Ice Extravaganza, 7-9 p.m., Stumptown Ice den, whitefish. Tickets are $7-$12. Call (406) 862-7699.

14 Montana ShamRockers’ Celtic Christmas Concert, 7:30 p.m., john dowdall Theatre, U.S. Highway 93 S., Polson. Tickets are $10. Call (406) 883-9212.

______________________________15 Christmas in bigfork includes free carriage rides

from 2 to 5 p.m. and children’s holiday party from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Mosaic Restaurant. Call the Chamber at (406) 837-5888 for more information.

15 kick Out the kinks benefit Ski Race, 1 p.m., Izaak walton Inn, Essex. Entry fee is $10 for the annual 5k and 10k ski races. The inn also hosts a wine-tasting dinner that evening. Call (406) 888-5700 or visit izaakwaltoninn.com.

15 Christmas Tea and Tour, 1 p.m., Conrad Mansion, 330 woodland Ave., kalispell. Tickets are $25, reservations required. Call (406) 755-2166.

15 Montana ShamRockers’ Celtic Christmas Concert, 7:30 p.m., Elks Club, kalispell. Tickets are $10. Call (406) 257-6474.

______________________________17 “A Rockin’ Christmas” with Copper Mountain band,

7 p.m., Memorial Center, libby. Tickets are $12-$15. Call (406) 293-9643.

17-18 yuletide Affair, 7 p.m., whitefish Performing Arts Center, 600 E. Second St., whitefish. Tickets are $39. Enjoy an evening of holiday music and snarky irreverence, conceived by and starring Alpine Theatre Project actors and friends, who skewer themselves and everyone around them in this ninth annual event. Call (406) 862-7469 or visit alpinetheatreproject.org.

______________________________19 what About bob karaoke, 6:30 p.m., Finley Point

Nw M

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dECEMbER 2012 33

7 First Friday reception, 6-8 p.m., lisa Archer Silks, 213 Main St., Stevensville. Featuring a variety of local artists hosted by owner/silk artist georgine lisa Archer. Meet Shelley Peters of Alpaca Hills designs who taught herself to dye, felt, knit and crochet hats and shawls made from her Suri alpacas. Marvel at dazzling design jewelry created by designer Stacie barker. Pamper yourself with a treasure trove of natural beauty products crafted by Cookie grimes. Expand your imagination with julie Hoselton who will present zyto biocomunication. Indulge in the ecstasy of texture, design and stunning colors in one-of-a- kind silk clothing and accessories created by georgine. Call 360-3698.

7, 14, 21 Toddler Storytime, 10:03 a.m., bitterroot Public library, 306 State St., Hamilton. Call 363-1670.

7 Music performance by Charla bauman, 6-8 p.m., North valley Public library, 208 Main St., Stevensville. Call 777-5061.

7-8 A Montana Country Christmas, downtown Stevensville. The town radiates cheer Friday with the Parade of lights, lighting of the town tree, caroling, horse-drawn wagon rides, a live Nativity, Santa’s visit and refreshments. The Splendor on Main at 6 p.m. Friday at Rocky Mountain bank features hors d’oeuvres and a wine tasting. Tickets are $25, and benefit the Main Street Stevensville Association. A gift fair will be held both days. Call 777-3773 for details.

7-16 “The littlest Angel,” 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, Stevensville Playhouse,

319 Main St. Tickets are $8-$10. This classic Christmas story of a little angel who is transformed from a celestial pest to the toast of the Heavenly Host is brought magically to life in this humorous, touching and inspirational musical. Call 777-2722 or visit www.stevensvilleplayhouse.org.

______________________________11 Socrates Café, 7-8:30 p.m., bitterroot Public

library, 306 State St., Hamilton. Call 363-1670. ______________________________12 Preschool Storytime, 10:30 a.m., bitterroot Public

library, 306 State St., Hamilton. Featuring “Imagine That!” with storyteller Paula Prescott. Call 363-1670.

______________________________13 brown bag It! book discussion group, noon,

bitterroot Public library, 306 State St., Hamilton. Potluck for 2013 book selection. Call 363-1670.

13, 20 lego Club, 3 p.m., bitterroot Public library, 306 State St., Hamilton. Call 363-1670.

13 Hospice Tree of lights community remembrance, 4:30 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1220 w. Main St., Hamilton. Performing will be the Hamilton High School Choir and other local musicians. For more information, visit marcusdalyhospice.org or call 363-6503.

13 bitterroot Public library’s Fellowship Club, 6-7:30 p.m., 306 State St., Hamilton. discussion of “Change your Thoughts – Change your life: living the wisdom of the Tao” by dr. wayne w. dyer. Free and open to the public. Call 363-1670 or email jacostant@gmail.com for more information.

______________________________

15 Community Christmas Party, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., daly Mansion, 251 Eastside Highway, Hamilton. Tickets are $5 adults, $2 children, free for children age 6 and younger. veterans will get a $1 discount and their children are admitted free. The family celebration includes live holiday music by the bitterroot Ragtime Society and pianist joan Roe, dance performances by River Street dance Theater, self-guided tours, cookie decorating, crafting, children’s storytime with Mrs. Santa and photos with Santa. Call 363-6004, Ext. 3, or visit www.dalymansion.org.

______________________________19 Preschool Storytime, 10:30 a.m., bitterroot Public

library, 306 State St., Hamilton. Featuring “Here Comes Rudolph!” with storyteller dominic, aka Santa. Call 363-1670.

______________________________20 “Intro to the Internet” class, 1:30-3:30 p.m.,

bitterroot Public library, 306 State St., Hamilton. learn how to search, save and print websites. Pre-register by calling 363-1670; class size is limited.

20 web on wheels Computer Class with Missoula Public library instructors, 1:30-3:30 p.m., bitterroot Public library, 306 State St., Hamilton. Featuring “Intro to the Internet.” Call 363-1670.

20 Opening reception for “Harry Potter’s world: Renaissance Science, Magic & Medicine,” 6 p.m., Ravalli County Museum, 205 bedford St., Hamilton. The exhibition, using materials from the National library of Medicine, explores Harry Potter’s world, its roots in Renaissance science, and the ethical questions that affected not only the wizards of Harry

Potter, but also the historical thinkers featured in the series. “The victorian years” exhibit continues through december. For more information, call 363-3338.

______________________________21 Holiday crafts, 3:30-5 p.m., bitterroot Public library,

306 State St., Hamilton. Call 363-1670.21 Mark O’Connor and Friends perform “An

Appalachian Christmas,” 8 p.m., Hamilton Performing Arts Center, 327 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton. Tickets are $38.50. The concert is based on the third album in what has become a trilogy of recordings. Call 363-7946 or visit www.bartc.org.

______________________________22 joanne Puccinelli signs “Naughty Nello and the

Sleds,” 10 a.m.-2 p.m., valley drug, Stevensville. ______________________________27 “beowulf” performed by dave Caserio, 6-7:30 p.m.,

Ravalli County Museum, 205 bedford St., Hamilton. This dramatic performance, in Anglo-Saxon, of the epic Old English poem tells the story of grendel’s depredations upon the kingdom of Heorot and the warrior beowulf’s struggle to defeat him. A discussion of the material and the contemporary, literary, folkloric or historical questions it invokes follows the performance. For more information, call 363-3338.

______________________________jan. 2-3 Auditions for “Sweeney Todd – The demon

barber of Fleet Street,” 7 p.m., Hamilton Players Playhouse, 100 Ricketts Road, Hamilton. Copies of script available for checkout at Chapter One book Store or by calling 375-9050.

b-ROOT

grill, Highway 35, Polson. ______________________________21 Montana darkhorse band, 7-11 p.m., Finley Point

grill, Highway 35, Polson.22 Christmas in bigfork includes free carriage rides

2-5 p.m., Santa and late shopping. Call the Chamber at (406) 837-5888 for more information.

______________________________24 Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade, 6 p.m., whitefish

Mountain Resort. Santa and his elves ski down the mountain, escorted by a torchlight parade. visit skiwhitefish.com or call (406) 862-2900.

______________________________26 what About bob karaoke, 6:30 p.m., Finley Point

grill, Highway 35, Polson. ______________________________27 Community open house, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Hockaday

Museum of Art, 302 Second Ave. E., kalispell. Free

admission. visit hockadaymuseum.org or call (406) 755-5268.

27 “This wonderful life,” 7:30 p.m., O’Shaughnessy Center, 1 Central Ave., whitefish. Tickets are $20 adults, $12 children age 12 and younger. luke walrath, a founder of Alpine Theatre Project, will star in this one-man staged reading of the movie classic “It’s a wonderful life,” playing all the roles. Presented by the bet Harim jewish Community. Call (406) 314-4345.

______________________________29 Cruise the blues, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., whitefish Mountain

Resort. Participants ski as many runs as they can, listen to music and win prizes. visit skiwhitefish.com or call (406) 862-2900.

29 “A Christmas Carol,” 7:30 p.m., O’Shaughnessy Center, 1 Central Ave., whitefish. Tickets are $20 adults, $12 children age 12 and younger. Alpine

Theatre Project’s david Ackroyd will recreate all the familiar characters in “A Christmas Carol.” Presented by the bet Harim jewish Community. Call (406) 314-4345.

______________________________31 Cancer Network of Sanders County sky lantern

fundraising event, 6-8 p.m., Sanders County Fairgrounds. Free to the public. Purchase a lantern and launch it from the fairgrounds later in the evening for New year’s Eve. Chili and hot chocolate available for purchase. Contact kathy Miller at (406) 826-4278 or pln4278@blackfoot.net.

31 New year’s Eve dinner and party, 6 p.m.-1 a.m., bruMar Estate, 29408 broken leg Road, bigfork. Tickets are $60 per person, which includes gratuity, a champagne toast and wine with an elegant plated dinner. Reservations required. Call Margie at (406) 837-2231.

31 First Night Flathead, 2 p.m.-12:30 a.m., various venues, kalispell. The family-friendly New year’s Eve gala features music, performing arts, food and youth activities. Call (406) 253-2471.

31 New year’s Eve Rockin’ Rail jam and Torchlight Parade, 6:15 p.m., whitefish Mountain Resort. The evening is capped by a parade and fireworks. visit skiwhitefish.com or call (406) 862-2900.

31 New year’s Eve party, “what about bob” karaoke at 8pm and brats and champagne at midnight Finley Point grill, Highway 35, Polson.

______________________________jan. 1 Annual Polar bear Plunge, 2 p.m., Raven, woods

bay. Call (406) 837-5888 for details.jan. 2 what About bob karaoke, 6:30 p.m., Finley Point

grill, Highway 35, Polson.

34 dECEMbER 2012

by CORy wAlSH MUSIC

by CORy wAlSH

SUFjAN STEvENS

Sunday, dec. 9doors for the show open at 7:30 p.m., and the music starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale for $20, available by calling

1-877-4-Fly-TIX and online at ticketfly.com. (Note: Tickets for this show are not available at Rockin Rudy’s.)

dECEMbER 2012 35

Most touring bands have gone into hibernation for the month, and instead a wide variety of Christmas-themed concerts are making their way to town.

First up is indie folk singer-songwriter Sufjan Stevens’ oddly titled and elaborately staged performance at the Wilma Theatre on Sunday, Dec. 9.

The official name for the show is “The Surfjohn Stevens Christmas Sing-A-Long Seasonal Affective Disorder Yuletide Disaster Pageant On Ice,” with special guest Sheila Saputo. While the title is tongue-in-cheek, Stevens is serious about Christmas music. His catalog of holiday releases is heavier than some indie bands’ entire catalogs: His latest, “Silver & Gold,” has a staggering 58 tracks.

His label, Asthmatic Kitty, offers a disclaimer for any potential Scrooges:“All Grinches be forewarned: The show will consist entirely of Christmas music, inviting

audience participation. Be prepared to sing along with bawdy bravura! Song sheets will be provided. There should be plenty of low-production props and gags, dollar-store giveaways, inflatable unicorns, cheap confetti, make-shift costumes, and Gloria in excelsis deo.”

Tickets are on sale for $20, available by calling 1-877-4-FLY-TIX and online at ticketfly.com. (Note: Tickets for this show are not available at Rockin Rudy’s.) Doors for the show open at 7:30 p.m., and the music starts at 8:30 p.m.

IRISH CHRISTMAS IN AMERICA

Sunday, dec. 9Show starts at 7:30 p.m. at the george and jane dennison Theatre. Tickets cost $25 in advance or $30 at the door.

Student tickets are $15 with Id, and kids age 12 and under will be admitted free. Tickets are available at all grixTix locations,

Rockin Rudy’s, online at griztix.com or by calling 888-MONTANA.

A less unorthodox holiday experience is happening the same night across town.“Irish Christmas in America,” brings the Emerald Isle’s seasonal traditions to the U.S. with songs, dance and more.

The show is produced by Oisín Mac Diarmada, a member of the Irish group Téada, and features Aaron Jones of the Scottish band Old Blind Dogs, and

Séamus Begley, an accordion player and storyteller.Throughout the performances, the customs will be explained and narrated to help

American audiences understand the music and dance.The show is set for 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 9, at the George and Jane Dennison Theatre.

Tickets cost $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Student tickets are $15 with ID, and kids age 12 and under will be admitted free. Tickets are available at all GrixTix locations, Rockin Rudy’s, online at griztix.com or by calling 888-MONTANA.

The performance is a fundraiser for UM’s Irish Studies program.

Missoula’s own vocal ensemble Dolce Canto is presenting a holiday concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15, entitled, “Serenity & Stillness.”

Their annual holiday concert, which frequently sells out, will feature artists the Missoula Mendelssohn Club and cellist Fern Glass Boyd, professor of cello at the University of Montana and director of the String Orchestra of the

Rockies. This year’s program features familiar carol arrangements by Alice Parker and Robert

36 dECEMbER 2012

Friday, dec. 15The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. in the University of Montana

Recital Hall. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students. Tickets available at Fact & Fiction, Rockin Rudy’s,

or via the choir’s website at dolcecanto.info.

Shaw, Norman Luboff, and more alongside working composers such as Abbie Betinis, Ola Gjeilo, Patricia Van Ness and Kevin Memley.

The concert is set for 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15, in the University of Montana Music Recital Hall. Tickets may be purchased at Fact & Fiction, Rockin Rudy’s, or via the choir's website at dolcecanto.info. The cost is $15 for adults and $10 for students.

Frank Zappa set a sometimes impossibly high standard as a guitarist and composer, but his son, Dweezil, has proven up to the task of performing his dad’s Stravinsky-

inspired rock.While a guitar-magazine crowned

virtuoso in his own right, Dweezil has taken it upon himself to tour playing his

father’s work – which would be covered more often if it weren’t so difficult and elaborately arranged. (See “Peaches En Regalia, or well, almost anything he recorded.)

For “Zappa plays Zappa,” which has been an ongoing project since 2006, Dweezil recruits and rehearses with a band, and then conducts them live, just like Frank.

“Zappa plays Zappa,” is set for Thursday, Dec. 20, at the Wilma Theatre in downtown Missoula.

Tickets are on sale now. All ages, reserved seats are $62.50, including receive sound-check access and a special event poster. General admission is $35, additional fees may apply. Available at jadepresents.com, at Rockin Rudy’s, by calling (866) 300-8300, or at tickets300.com.

dOlCE CANTO

dECEMbER 2012 37

38 dECEMbER 2012

lisa Lampanelli is comedy’s lovable Queen of Mean. Heralded as “more than a standup -- a standout,” by comedy legend Jim Carrey, Lampanelli is a cross between Don Rickles, Archie Bunker, and a vial of estrogen. The popular insult comic is a frequent participant in celebrity roasts, known for her searing, often vulgar one-liners. Audience members in the first four rows at this show may feel the burn of

Lampanelli’s acid wit. As a staple of the annual Comedy Central roasts, Lampanelli has gotten on stage to

take shots at Chevy Chase, William Shatner, Jeff Foxworthy, Pamela Anderson, Donald Trump, and Gene Simmons. Furthermore, as a frequent guest on “The Howard Stern Show,” she’s also roasted fellow comedians Andy Dick and Artie Lange.

Lampanelli’s act often deals with issues of race and sex in a frank and outrageous way, saying things aloud that most people are afraid to think. Though she’s an expert at cutting others down, she’s not afraid to poke fun at herself either. Lampanelli’s memoir, “Chocolate, Please: My Adventures in Food, Fat, and Freaks,” recalls her childhood as an “attention whore” and her addiction to food and black men. She follows her memories of “fat rehab” with a variety of topics, from the Virgin Mary to vegans.

Lampanelli said in a recent interview, “I think it’s what they see on the inside. They know I’m just kidding around. Because if it’s funny -- if it’s a good joke, it’s a good joke.”

lISA

l AMP

ANEl

lIFRIdAy, MARCH 1 8 P.M. SHOw THE wIlMAThe doors open at 7 p.m., and the music starts at 8 p.m.

Tickets go on sale Friday, dec. 7 , at 10 a.m.Reserved seating, mature audiences, $49.50

Additional fees may applyTickets are available at Rockin Rudy’s, tickets300.com, or

charge by phone at (866) 300-8300.

dECEMbER 2012 39

Lake Louise is one of the largest ski areas in North America. There are beginner, intermediate and expert runs down from every chair. Lake Louise is located in Banff National Park, about 2 1/2 hours west of Calgary, Alberta. Lift tickets are $82.95 for adults, $62.96 for seniors and ages 13 to 17, $29.95 for ages 6 to 12, and free for ages 5 and younger. Phone: 1-877-956-8473. Website: www.skilouise.com.

NAkISkA SkI RESORT: Designed to host the alpine events of the 1988 Calgary Games, Nakiska continues to attract skiers from around the world. It has wide-open, corduroy-groomed runs, as well as world-class dining, accommodations and spas. Nakiska is a 45-minute drive west of Calgary, Alberta, in Kananaskis Provincial Park. Lift tickets are $69.95 for adults, $55.95 for seniors ages 65 and older, $48.95 for ages 13 to 17 and $22.95 for ages 6 to 12. Phone: (403) 591-7777. Website: www.skinakiska.com.

REd MOUNTAIN RESORT: Red Mountain has been named one of the Top 10 resorts in North America by Forbes magazine. It has an 890 meters of vertical on 1,685 acres, served by six lifts. Red Mountain is 3 1/2

hour north of Spokane, Wash., in British Columbia Lift tickets are $66 adults, $53 ages 13 to 18, $33 ages 7 to 12 and $43 for seniors. Phone: (250) 362-5553. Website: www.redresort.com.

REvElSTOkE MOUNTAIN RESORT: Revelstoke has 5,620 feet of vertical with 52 gladed and groomed trails, open bowls and steep chutes. There also are cat and heli skiing services for those wishing to explore even more mountain terrain. Revelstoke is located seven hours north of Spokane, Wash., in British Columbia. Life tickets are $76 adults, $59 ages 13 to 18, $27 ages 6 to 12 and $59 for seniors. Phone: 1-866-373-4754. Website: www.revelstokemountainresort.com.

SUNSHINE vIllAgE SkI ANd SNOwbOARd RESORT: Sunshine Village has an annual snowfall up to 30 feet, 12 lifts and 3,514 feet of vertical. Sunshine Village is 1 1/2 hours west of Calgary, Alberta, in Banff National Park. Lift tickets are $82.86 for adults, $62.86 for ages 65 and older, $59.95 for ages 13 to 17 and $29.95 for ages 6 to 12. Phone: 1-877-542-2633. Website: www.skibanff.com.

continued from page 12

FERNIEsnow arrives at the end of november and stays well into April with an annual average snowfall of 29 feet.

40 dECEMbER 2012

ACT OUT

gET CREATIvE AT THE MISSOUlA

COMMUNITy THEATRE

By Brian D’Ambrosio, media relations coordinator at MCT

The house lights dim. Hushed excitement builds as untested performers and savvy veterans await opening cues. Hours of rehearsal time and memorization

lead to this split second. Show time at last.If your curiosity has been piqued by

these descriptions, then you may want to come and be a part of the Missoula Community Theatre.

Since 1977, the Missoula Community Theatre has strived to be an integral part of the city of Missoula’s artistic and cultural life. For the benefit of those unfamiliar with our organization, please allow us to reintroduce ourselves and explain the nuts and bolts of what we do – Missoula Community Theatre 101, if you will.

First things first, we are friendly to all. “All auditions are open,” says MCT

artistic director Joe Martinez. “We don’t precast. We want people to know that all are welcome. We invite and do want people without experience.”

Interested parties need to be aware that community theatre productions require teamwork. Despite the fact that individual characters or starring roles have the ability to make or break a production, the cast and crew must come together as a cohesive unit for any production to be successful. Members of the cast and crew not only rediscover the tenets of responsibility and time management, and adapt to the rigorous necessity of practice, but understand that individual efforts shape the complete fabric.

“Community theatre is about building relationships,” says executive director of MCT Michael McGill. It is a strong benefit to actors, providing a community

connection and a place for those who wish to develop their craft. The doors here are open to a wide cross section of people in the region. Even those with no theatrical experience can find a place where they belong.”CONTEXT OF COOPERATION

Teamwork at Missoula Community Theatre means that you have to be ready to intervene and help another participant in rehearsals with a missed line or forgotten cue. It means developing a healthy amount of sensitivity to fellow cast members. Personal preferences and quirks no longer matter. Becoming your character in the larger context of cooperation is the greater purpose.

As they work to memorize their lines and develop their character, participants have the chance to help others and enhance their interpersonal skills.

Mark Heyka, chief meteorologist at NBC Montana, moved to Missoula in 1999, not knowing a single person. One year later, he was still looking for a place to belong. He found acceptance at the Missoula Community Theatre.

“I auditioned for The Wizard of Oz,” says Heyka. “Being from Kansas, it was rather ironic that while Dorothy was trying to get back home, I was yearning to call Missoula home. After that show, I was hooked on the magic of MCT and knew that it would be one of the reasons I would consider Missoula my home. Ushering, being a cast member, it’s just so much fun to be a part of my community. What a wonderful group of people.”FRIENdSHIPS ANd SkIllS

Broadcast journalist and Missoula

native Casey Chaloupek has been involved with the Missoula Community Theatre for two seasons.

“A college professor once told a friend and me,” Chaloupek says, “that if you go to see live theatre, and you don’t leave a changed person, it didn’t do its job. Live theatre should be able to reach to the soul of a person and help transform them for the better. MCT has given me that chance to explore and develop my interests and talents, and by doing so, I have been able to work with some of Missoula’s finest. Being mentored by exceptional directors, choreographers, and musicians has been one of the most humbling experiences I have ever been part of.”

Though her first show with MCT was in 1981, as an ‘apple seed’ in a Missoula Children’s Theatre production of Johnny Appleseed, Ann Bates only recently made her way to the Missoula Community Theatre; she and her daughter will be part of the ensemble cast of MCT’s next production, “Miracle on 34th Street The Musical”. A southeastern Montana native, Bates’ oldest daughter has participated in six Missoula Children’s Theatre productions and she considers MCT an extension of her family.

“We are completely exited to be a part of this production and look forward to seeing more MCT staffers in the weeks to come,” says Bates. “To be a part of Missoula Community Theatre at this time, and with this show, is truly a blessing and a full circle moment for me.”

Thirty-one years ago, Bates performed under the instruction of tour actor/director Michael McGill, now MCT’s Executive director and director of “Miracle on 34th

Street The Musical.” In November, she will join up with McGill once again.

“Now, here we are together, doing a musical adaptation of one of our favorite Christmas films,” says Bates. “MCT’s commitment to the performing arts allow for numerous creative and technical expressions for our community of Missoula, the US, and beyond. The dedicated staff at MCT is extremely cognizant of this and fosters an environment and message that we all need the performing arts in our lives and communities- no matter what stage of life we are in.” COMMUNITy THEATRE: NOT jUST AbOUT ACTINg

Becoming a thespian is not the only way for people to get involved with the Missoula Community Theatre. From ticket taking to lighting, to sound operation and concessions, there is plenty to do behind or near the scenes. Sets and props need to be carried and adjusted; the spotlight needs to be manned, and lighting has to be correctly placed. No matter how one decides to contribute, we will be appreciative of your presence.

“We respect people’s time,” says Martinez. “We do our best to be flexible with people’s time, while balancing that with the need to put on a quality production.”

For more information about becoming a part of the Missoula Community Theatre, schedules, and show times, call (406) 728-1911, visit www.facebook.com/missoulacommunitytheatre, or email mct@mctinc.org.

dECEMbER 2012 41

live Music in the Missoula Area

SOUNdCHECkdECEMbER7 Tom Catmull & The Clerics, Union Club,

208 E. Main St.7-8 Mark duboise and Crossroads, 9:30

p.m., Sunrise Saloon, 1101 Strand Ave. Call 728-1559.

8 wild Coyote band, lumberjack Saloon, graves Creek Road, lolo.

8 dimestock 2012 with Mahamawaldi, blessiddoom and Universal Choke Sign and a pink beard contest, 9 p.m., The dark Horse, 1805 Regent St. $5.

8 keaton wilson and Steve kalling, 7-9 p.m., Finn and Porter, 100 Madison St.

8 Russ Nasset & The Revelators, Union Club, 208 E. Main St.

9 The Ed Norton big band, 6-8 p.m., Missoula winery, 5646 w. Harrier drive. $5.

10, 17 Combat Entertainment, 9 p.m., The dark Horse, 1805 Regent St.

10 Ron dunbar with Travis yost playing Petrified Folk, 7-10 p.m., The Red bird, 111 N. Higgins Ave.

12, 19, 26 jam night/open mic night hosted by Neal Funk, 9 p.m., 9 p.m., The dark Horse, 1805 Regent St.

12, 19, 26 RMF Entertainment, Sunrise Saloon, 1101 Strand Ave. Call 728-1559.

13, 20 Rocking karaoke, 9 p.m., The dark Horse, 1805 Regent St.

13 Mark duboise and Crossroads, 9 p.m., Sunrise Saloon, 1101 Strand Ave. Call 728-1559.

13 Mega karma, 6-9 p.m., Eastshore Smokhouse, Montana Highway 35, Polson.

14 The Captain wilson Conspiracy with keaton wilson, keyboards; dR Halsell, guitar; and Steve kalling, double bass, 6-9 p.m., brooks and browns, Holiday Inn downtown at the Park, 200 S. Pattee St.

14 Cash for junkers, Union Club, 208 E. Main St.

14 Shane Clouse and Stomping ground, 9:30 p.m., Sunrise Saloon, 1101 Strand Ave. Call 728-1559.

15 blue & The vagus Nerve, Union Club, 208 E. Main St.

15 The Captain wilson Conspiracy with keaton wilson, keyboards; dR Halsell, guitar; and Steve kalling, double bass, 6-8:30 p.m., Ten Spoon winery.

15 Corporate defiance, 9 p.m., 9 p.m., The dark Horse, 1805 Regent St.

15 County line, 9:30 p.m., Sunrise Saloon, 1101 Strand Ave. Call 728-1559.

15 The wild Coyote band, 7 p.m., American legion, 825 Ronan St.

17 larry Hirshberg, 7-10 p.m., The Red bird, 111 N. Higgins Ave.

20 The Captain wilson Conspiracy with keaton wilson, keyboards; dR Halsell, guitar; and Steve kalling, double bass, 6-8:30 p.m., bitterroot brewery, 100 Marcus St., Hamilton.

20 Soul City Cowboys, 9 p.m., Sunrise Saloon, 1101 Strand Ave. Call 728-1559.

21 joan zen, Union Club, 208 E. Main St.21 Paydirt, 9:30 p.m., Sunrise Saloon, 1101

Strand Ave. Call 728-1559.21 The wild Coyote band, 8 pm., Eagles

lodge, 2420 South Ave. w.21 Montana darkhorse band, 7-11 p.m.,

Finley Point grill, Highway 35, Polson.22 Shodown, 9:30 p.m., Sunrise Saloon,

1101 Strand Ave. Call 728-1559.27 Northern lights, 9 p.m., Sunrise Saloon,

1101 Strand Ave. Call 728-1559.28 zeppo MT, Union Club, 208 E. Main St.28 Northern lights, 9:30 p.m., Sunrise

Saloon, 1101 Strand Ave. Call 728-1559.29 Russ Nasset & The Revelators, Union

Club, 208 E. Main St.29 Mark duboise and Crossroads, 9:30 p.m.,

Sunrise Saloon, 1101 Strand Ave. Call 728-1559.

31 New year’s Eve celebration with Mark duboise and Crossroads, 9:30 p.m., Sunrise Saloon, 1101 Strand Ave. $5. Call 728-1559.

31 keaton wilson and Steve kalling, jazz, 8-10 p.m., Finn and Porter, 100 Madison St.

31 21 The wild Coyote band, 7 pm., Eagles lodge, 2420 South Ave. w

31 New year’s Eve party with Russ Nasset & The Revelators, Union Club, 208 E. Main St.

31 New year’s Eve with the Tom Cats, 9 p.m., The dark Horse, 1805 Regent St. $5.

31 New year’s Eve party, “what about bob” karaoke at 8pm and brats and champagne at midnight Finley Point grill, Highway 35, Polson.

MSlA

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44 dECEMbER 2012

november’s puzzle answer

Answers online at corridormag.com/puzzles

dECEMbER 2012 45

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El Duderino is back, but you can call me The Dude if you prefer the whole brevity thing, bringing you this holiday edition of The Sports Page.

In the past year, I have Duded-up with what should have been in a 32-team playoff in college football’s bowl subdivision as simulated by my video game console and the All-Dude Teams, a very fitting, but somewhat misleading chronicle of who should have represented the American and National Leagues in the 2012 Major League Baseball All-Star game based on this Dude’s statistical analysis.

Now my buddy on the couch is getting me everything on my sports wish list this Holiday season and that leads us to The Twelve Days of Dudemas.

Well here goes, enjoy it or don’t, either way, the Dude abides, but please give me a little beat (blows in harmonica) to complete this …

On the twelfth day of Dudemas my buddy on the couch gave to me…

12 Denver Broncos wins! With only the Oakland Raiders circled as a sure win in their first five games and the likes of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Atlanta Falcons, Houston Texans and New England Patriots on the early schedule, a recovery from a 2-3 start to a 12-4 regular season finish wouldn’t only be remarkable, but is definitely not out of the realm of possibility

for the fighting Elway’s, errr I mean Manning’s. Look out for the Dude’s battle tested Broncos in January.

On the eleventh day of Dudemas my buddy on the couch gave to me…

An NHL Season at the 11th hour. The Dude doesn’t like to work as much as the next guy, but come on it’s a very long winter without hockey to watch.

On the tenth day of Dudemas my buddy on the couch gave to me…

At least 10 wins by Griz Football in 2013. After a rebuilding year and hopefully avoiding double secret probation, it will be great for the community and the University to have the men in maroon back on top and embarking on a deep playoff run in 2013.

On the ninth day of Dudemas my buddy on the couch gave to me…

What number were we on again? That pretty much explains it. Why I am playing this harmonica again?

On the eighth day of Dudemas my buddy on the couch gave to me…

ESPN the Ocho. It was alluded to in the movie, “Dodgeball” and I have been waiting very patiently with my buddy on the couch day in and day out since the initial tease.

On the seventh day of Dudemas my buddy on the couch gave to me…

Seven new sports video games. How

else is The Dude going to not be the best at exercising? Besides, I need to be able to put together my “scientific” polls for BCS buster reports. My buddy sure knows how to keep us glued to the couch.

On the sixth day of Dudemas my buddy on the couch gave to me…

Professional Curling League. The Dude always wanted to be a professional athlete and here is my chance. I really enjoy taking to the sheet and throwing some rocks, but sweeping anything would be like having a job and that will not stand, man.

On the fifth day of Dudemas my buddy on the couch gave to me…

5 Golden Toques. That is actually what Bob and Doug McKenzie from the Strange Brew fame got me for the Pro Curling League, my buddy on the couch took off in the middle of the song, what a hoser, but he is back for the fourth day.

On the fourth day of Dudemas my buddy on the couch gave to me…

The Missoula Osprey’s fourth championship ring since the club nested in Missoula in 1999. The Garden City’s professional baseball franchise that has been affiliated with the Arizona Diamondbacks since day one, have won the Pioneer League in 1999, 2006 and 2012. 2013’s theme should be All For Another Ring, that just really has a Dude-worthy jingle to it.

On the third day of Dudemas my buddy on the couch gave to me…

Retirement of the three worst national baseball broadcasters. ESPN Sunday Night Baseball color commentator Joe Morgan stepped down prior or my buddy on the couch could have delivered this to me on the fourth day of Dudemas, but really, Joe Buck, Tim McCarver and Dave Sims must go. Buck’s very crotchety and speaks in a robotic drone which makes listening to him unbearable. Combine that with McCarver and his groan-worthy puns and it makes The Dude want to pump up “Call Me Maybe,” while watching the World

Series on mute. There are social media pages dedicated to ousting the two as well as documenting the unintelligent things that come from this duo.

Dave Sims is something else in himself and couldn’t be missed when talking about broadcasters that need a career change. Sims is the only person that could make former Mariners color commentator Ron Fairly interesting. Even though Fairley was known for stating the brutally obvious, such as “That Dude has hit 29 homeruns this season and that gives you an idea of how many homeruns he has hit,” he is much more bearable than Sims, who is considered great if you are rooting for the opposition.

On the second day of Dudemas my buddy on the couch gave to me…

Pete Rose in the Baseball Hall of Fame. Known as Charlie Hustle and an integral part of the Cincinnati Reds’ Big Red Machine from the 1970s, the man banned from baseball for gambling on the game is reinstated based on his on-field merit and placed where he belongs in Cooperstown, NY. Rose is the major leagues all-time hits leader, won three World Series rings and was a seventeen time all-star at an unprecedented five different positions.

On the last day of Dudemas my buddy on the couch gave to me…

NBA back in Seattle. He saved the best for last on this one. Build the new arena and bring back the Seattle Supersonics to where they belong after being stolen away to Oklahoma City. Maybe Clay Bennett, who purchased the franchise and promised to never move it, will be forced to move by the league someday to the basketball utopia that is the North Pole.

I thought my buddy on the couch might end with a joint under the tree for the last day of Christmas, but seeing that we don’t frequent Washington or Colorado often, it was probably good that he refrained.

Until next time, Merry Dudemas everyone!

THE 12 dAyS OF dUdEMAS

by dUdE

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CORRIdOR ChoiCe awards

vote TOdAy!missoulA.com/corridorchoice

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November Puzzle Solution

dECEMbER 2012 47

As the end of the year rapidly approaches, we begin to prepare for the new year ahead. A new year is always full of hope and excitement. A chance for new beginnings, continued happiness, or eternal hope. And with the new year comes the New Year’s Resolution. That commitment we make around personal goals or lifestyle changes with the expectation that we will carry it

out to completion. This month’s WTF gets you completely prepared to embark on a new set of resolutions in 2013 as we uncover the truth about how this commitment to failure actually came into being.

did I say failure? Yes, I did. It is funny how this annual rite of passage turns optimism into failure rather quickly. Normally the New Year’s Resolution lasts as long as a hangover. A study done by the University of Bristol showed that 88 percent of those who set New Year’s Resolutions fail. Of those, 52 percent were confident they would succeed at the beginning. Want to improve your chances of success? Your success rate improves 22 percent if you set measurable goals. Chances improve 10% when you make the goal public or share with your friends. Ah, the beauty of peer pressure!

So where did this ritual begin? Somewhere long ago, say 2000 B.C, the Babylonians get some of the credit. They were known for having semi-annual festivals around spring and autumn equinoxes. They celebrated the New Year by paying off debts and returning borrowed goods during their celebrations. The Romans officially moved the practice to January. Romans made their resolutions around moral issues like “be good to others.” These resolutions were made to the god Janus. Janus is for whom January is named and was a two-faced god that looked backwards into the old year and forward into the new one. Hence, where we get new beginnings and eternal hope from the turn of the new year.

So enough of the technical stuff already. Let’s have some fun here. We have come up with five New Year’s Resolutions for Missoula in 2013.

1. Pedestrians shall not talk on the cell phone as they cross the street.2. Drivers will drive the right way on one way streets in downtown3. Bicyclists will actually stop at a stop sign.4. We will get a coffee stand on the remaining three corners of Missoula that

doesn’t have one.5. Dogs will train their owner to actually pick up their “poop” from the sidewalk.

Let’s hope our success rate is better than 12 percent.

w.T.F.wHAT’S THE FUNCTION

PROFESSOR FUNCTION

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THE NEw yEAR’S RESOlUTION wHOSE CRAzy IdEA wAS THAT ONE?

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