SEPTEMBER 2017
Prime Awards Winners, p. 3
SPECIAL ISSUE!
Senior Center Listings & Menus, p. 26-31
2 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
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Honoring Those Who Make a Difference The Chronicle’s 24 Over 64 Prime Awards honor those who have made a difference to our community and/or their profession. Each honoree has been nominated by others. All are inspirations. Enjoy their stories. All honoree profiles written by Hannah Overton, Bozeman Daily Chronicle Special thanks to our exceptional photographers John Jurmu & Lisa Reuter
Award Winners
3rd Annual Awards Gala at the
Hilton Garden Inn
Tuesday, August 29, 2017 Event Program 5:30 p m
No-Host Cocktail Reception & Gala Entertainment
6:00 p m
Dinner, Dessert and Coffee
7:15 p m
Presentation of Awards
Page
Carl Nichols......................................................3 Carl Tange Jr.....................................................4 Col. Ted Campbell............................................5 Darrel Choate...................................................6 Dr. John Patterson .............................................7 Dr. Dennis Wentz...............................................8 Dr. Donald Mathre.............................................9 Dr. Robert L. Hawks.........................................10 Edith Reichmuth..............................................12 Gail Weingart ................................................13 Helen Frank....................................................14 Janet Colombo................................................15 Kasey Stanish ................................................16 Kathy Brown & Bob Wade................................17 Dr. Loren Acton ..............................................18 Michael Money...............................................20 Page Dabney...................................................21 Bob C. Haraden ..............................................22 Dr. Sharon Eversman ......................................23 Ted Williams...................................................24 Thomas Bitnar.................................................25 Tom LeProwse.................................................26 Senior Center Listings & Menus................. 26-31
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 3
Carl Nichols:
Observing Discovery & Giving Through Faith “There’s a tremendous, indescribable joy in knowing that you’re helping people. It doesn’t matter if they know Christ or not.”
In
the mid 80’s, Carl Nichols was trying to figure out a more efficient way to sort Talc from Dolomite at a Yellowstone mine. There were 48 people on his team who spent their days hand sorting the minerals. Nichols had put together a ceramic slide and was throwing the minerals against the slide. He had been playing with the slide for a week with no progress. He was feeling dejected when he had an
AHA! moment. “It never occurred to me that what we were measuring was a coefficient in friction,” Nichols said. “The sliding coefficient friction of Talc was half the sliding coefficient friction of Dolomite. I used my knowledge of physics to design a machine that would sort Talc at the rate of 75 tons per hour.” His boss called it a once in a lifetime discovery. “Well, I’ve had seven oncein-a-lifetime discoveries,” he laughed.
Nichols earned his degree in chemical engineering from the University of Arizona. He had a 27-year career in the mining industry, where he created 7 US and 50 international patents. His patents included creating a sort of talc sunscreen for apples and grapes to keep them from over heating in the sun and a small particle separator. He wrote operating procedures for about 200 different chemical processes throughout his career. Throughout his busy career, Nichols always found ways to stay involved in his community. His oldest son, Christopher, is disabled, and Nichols made sure to keep him involved in Special Olympics, REACH, and Eagle Mount. Nichols became involved himself, forming a handicapped bowling team in Bozeman. He traveled with the team to Helena and took them skiing in Idaho. When his wife died suddenly of a pulmonary embolism in 2001, Nichols began leading Grief Counseling at Grace Bible Church. He met his second wife, Robin, at a Special Olympics dinner. Nichols had three children from his first marriage, and he adopted Robin’s two children after they married. Together, the couple became licensed and fostered over 30 children. Nichols believes that fostering children was educational for his own kids as they learned how to care for others. At 65, he still has three teenagers at home. “We decided we needed some children of our own, so we adopted Carlos and Peter out of Guatemala.” In 2009, Nichols had a stroke, but it hasn’t slowed him down. “Mine was
minor in the sense it didn’t kill me.” he joked. “They said they weren’t sure I’d be normal. That part could be true.” Once recovered, he was back at it, reading, volunteering in his church, and mentoring for the Chemical Engineering Department at MSU. It is important to Nichols that his class conducts experiments relevant to real life. He spends hours researching and preparing comprehensive studies for his students. Recently, Carl and Robin have begun volunteering for Crossroads and Red Cross Disaster Relief. Crossroads involves corresponding with inmates to encourage learning and growth and helping them in their Bible studies. As part of Disaster Relief, they are on call to help people going through tough times. Recently, they provided advice to a couple who just lost everything in a fire. They have also delivered first aid supplies to Lame Deer. “Basically, you got to be set up before people evacuate,” he said. “When there’s a forest fire, you have to be prepared.” Nichols derives his generous spirit from his love for God. “Our Christian base is that Jesus loves all people,” he said. “He tells us if we can’t love our brother, then how can we say we love God?” As long as he is able, Nichols will continue to learn and help others. “Robin and I moved into retirement 11 years ago. Well, we’re busy! We still got children we’re raising. It’s been good. We haven’t had to struggle with what to do.”
4 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
day, he remembers his schoolteacher
fondly. He attended high school in
grow some too, and future visitors
Stanford University because my mother
left California and came to Montana,
Outlook, Montana. “Then I went to
said, ‘I have a friend who could get us
into Stanford, and that’s where you
should go.’ My brother and I both went
Carl Tange Jr.:
The American Dream “I’m just one of those guys that worked to make a living. I came off the farm and was very successful. I just wanted to build things.”
T
he son of a home-
steader from Den-
“There was enough (land) for three
families to run part of it and make a
Bozeman.”
The year was 1966. Interstate 90 was
there.”
graded and staked. Tange held a Holi-
work buying and selling oil refineries all
on what is now 19th Avenue and began
job as a banker, but he turned it down.
Once the Holiday Inn was complete he
make my choices based on good moves.
Best Western Plus GranTree Inn,) the
After a stint in the Navy, he went to
over the world. His uncle offered him a “I knew it was a good move, but I didn’t
day Inn franchise, purchased 36 acres to grow Bozeman’s lodging industry.
went on to build a Ramada (now the
I made my choices based on what I
Thrifty Scott (now the Days Inn), the
That mindset led him to several
on Oak Street. “I didn’t want to run a
wanted to do.”
more jobs and a couple of cross-country moves. When his college roommate,
Don Weaver, told him there was plenty of opportunity in Montana, he was
Hampton Inn and three office buildings hotel so I sold them,” he said. “Many
of the best hotels in Bozeman are right around that area.”
Tange still owns 10 undeveloped
family business for the Tanges, but it
frequently stayed in hotels, conducting
through selling half the land I owned, I
do for the rest of his life. When he
children enjoyed lodging at Holiday
ing a lot of money. I made a few million
Montana, on Dec. 30,
Farming proved to be a lucrative
1923, during a snowstorm. He grew up
was never something Carl wanted to
wood, and watched Carl Sr. turn his
wasn’t farming, he attended a one-
320-acre allotment into 2,500 acres.
I decided to bring a Holiday Inn to
acres of his original 36-acre property,
good living,” he recalled.
on his father’s homestead near Plenty-
might need a place to stay. “So when I
ready to return home.
mark, Carl Tange Jr.
was born in Scobey,
new hometown of Bozeman might
room school in Plentywood. To this
During his traveling years, Tange
business while his wife, Helen, and their
Inns. The company was expanding
across the country. Tange thought his
but he’s done building. “When I got
decided to retire. I’m not a guy for makdollars. That’s enough.”
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 5
His wife has Montana roots, and
they spent several vacations through-
toddlers and people with disabilities.”
deserve partial credit for why he enjoys
ning with Warriors and Quiet Waters
serving so much, but Campbell feels service is a necessity.
In the Air Force, Colonel Campbell
worked as a squadron commander and
T
here is a whole-
heartedness about the way Ted
Campbell discusses
Warriors and Quiet
Waters or Sunrise Rotary. His genu-
ine enthusiasm and loyalty to service is apparent in everything he has done for the community.
Campbell and his wife both retired
from the Air Force and moved to
Bozeman in 2003. Being on active duty for 26 years and the son of a career
military father meant a lot of moving
around. “This is where I’ve lived lon-
Bozeman, it feels permanent, which is
different than wherever I lived before.”
to reintegrate post 9/11 wounded
combat veterans into society. WQW
flies in Iraq and Afghanistan veterans
air operations center in Qatar. The
solely with volunteers. Campbell was
them. Before 2010, the organization ran
center is still in use today.
instrumental in hiring full time profes-
of the Air Force is ‘Service Above Self.”
hundreds of volunteers.
exactly the same, so it seemed natural
port staff before serving on the Board
Rotary International’s official motto is
sional staff which still uses and recruits
Campbell started on the WQW sup-
for Campbell to join Rotary when he
of Directors. On the board, he helped
Sunrise Rotary 2010-2011 and was
Team Leader is a senior guy who plans
Year. He currently serves as head of the
as it is happening,” he says. “That’s very
oversees East Gallatin Recreation Area
little bit.”
retired. He was President of Bozeman
named 2015-2016 Rotarian of the
community service committee which
plans, Fix Up Festival and Kid’s Fishing
create the concept of Team Leader. “A
the whole event and manages the event
gratifying to help those guys relax a
He is excited for Fix Up Festival at
Day. His eyes light up when he talks
the end of September. Rotary mem-
Area. “We have been instrumental in
through HRDC and local churches
about the East Gallatin Recreation
every improvement you see at Bozeman
bers identify elderly or disabled people
who need improvements to their homes.
Beach,” he smiles.
Bozeman Sunrise Rotary plans the
and conduct improvements to Boze-
tions into teams and raises funds to fix
His committee continues to plan
man Beach. Soon, all of the roads will be paved, there will be a new south
entrance and the beach will double in
gest in my life,” Campbell says. “I don’t size. One project at East Gallatin that mind it too much, but I’ll tell you what, he is particularly fond of is a new kids’ every time I leave and come back to
(WQW). The local foundation aims
and coordinates fly fishing trips for
Interestingly, one of the core values
“To those that are granted a lot, you owe a lot to society. I’ve been extremely lucky in my career and where that’s left me. I was allowed to retire early in a place I chose, which left me with energy, ability, drive and interest to serve my fellow man.”
Campbell was there from the begin-
a deputy group commander. He set up
and debugged a $60 million combined
A Genuine Enthusiasm to Serve
be low, natural grade so it is friendly to
out their careers in Bozeman. His
affinity for the Gallatin Valley may
Col. Ted Campbell:
recirculating pump,” he says. “It will all
interactive learning natural park. “It’s
going to start with a mountain that
has a stream coming out of it with a
repairs, organizes other local organizaup 12 homes in the Gallatin Valley each
year, for the past 7 years.
“I’ve been very lucky,” Campbell says.
“I feel driven and obligated, actually, to do what I can for the Bozeman com-
munity, and the international commu-
nity at large.”
6 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
industry, and I was part of it, but the
person who should get the most credit
is one of our city commissioners, I-Ho
restaurant and brought it to the Boze-
ing manager who helped launch the
member. The international organization
tic missiles in space before they could
C
trucks to help Japanese fishermen haul
for bringing the Soviet Union to its
through that effort, and purchased two
knees,” he said.
HRDC’s Community Café and worked
allowed him to help large groups of
to both endeavors as huge team efforts.
do something to help individuals. He
clean water, having installed small sand
theoretically helping someone to really
less fortunate with good food and
filters in schools and homes in Haiti
and Honduras with the nonprofit Pure
he could see. “It was a transition from
touching them and being a part of them
and helping them up. I think that’s part
Water for the World. “I was just down
of my motivation.”
take credit for moving to Bozeman. He
there a couple months ago and it was
people or groups of people he believes
for their students.”
that they finally have drinkable water When he went to Honduras to help
In the end, Choate wouldn’t even
accredits that to his wife. Robin grew up in the Gallatin Valley and wanted
to retire to the sunshine after 40 rainy
drill wells with the West Texas Diocese
years in Seattle. So, thank you, Robin
needed a compressor. “It was donated
lucky to have you both.
pointing out that his entire profession-
tsunami in Fukushima, Japan. “I’m
of the Episcopal Church, the team
the interview, he flipped through a list
money to help Japan with their fishing
by a man in Butte. So none of these
sometimes given credit for raising
people. When he retired, he wanted to
wanted to give back in a palpable way
for Bozeman com-
al career took place in Seattle. During
Working for Boeing, Choate believes,
He is passionate about providing the
really fun to see the teachers smiling
Take the relief effort for the 2011
team. “Some people credit our studies
their catch to restaurants.
of “his” noteworthy accomplishments
accomplishments,
hit the United States. Choate was the
Boeing representative on the Star Wars
hoate wasn’t convinced
deserve the praise.
a system intended to intercept ballis-
took the $15,000, got the money tripled
in the Mobile Soup Kitchen. He refers
munity service and
also worked on the Strategic Defense
clubs when they pay their dues. Cho-
He has served food with the
and, in each case, gave credit to the
first XM satellites into outer space. He
Initiative, widely known as Star Wars,
ate and fellow Rotarian Lesley Bredvik
he deserved an award
in Seattle. He was the system engineer-
matches donations for specific causes by
“taxing” clubs and individuals within the
“When I get into humanitarian things – and I’m happy to talk about them –I want to have one overriding (message.) And that is that almost all are a part of something bigger. The first on the list of people helping me would be my wife, Robin.”
Before he came to Bozeman, Choate
had an impressive career with Boeing
man Rotary, where Choate is an active
The Team Player
team effort.”
Pomeroy,” he said.
Pomeroy raised $15,000 through her
Darrel Choate:
things are something I did. It was a
Choate, for retiring to Bozeman. We’re
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 7
practice residency at the University of
Utah, then looked into practice op-
kick out of it.”
flying since he was 20 years old, so
son is most excited about is Gallatin
portunities in the West. He had been
airports, along with mountains, fly fish-
through Bozeman, he set up a precep-
was the first time he had ever heard of
year, he was working as a full-time fam-
by it. “Different things get into people’s
to be right, because I looked forward to
for a total of 12 years. Dr. Patterson has
Dr. Patterson worked for 38 years
D
had just landed a
My joke from retirement on has been
He has been on Love INC’s board
been involved with Love INC from
nearly the beginning, and he has loved
in Bozeman, building a reputation as
watching the program grow. Currently,
ate with his patients. He became a
an intake worker. He conducts phone
still practicing full time, making him a
specific needs and connects them with
being gentle, kind, and compassion-
member of Rotary International while
he volunteers in the Clearinghouse as interviews with people who have
member for nearly 20 years. The motto
volunteers that can provide for those
Patterson believes that that is what God
board, making decisions, and to now be
of Rotary is ‘Service Above Self.’ Dr.
long did it take to adapt to retirement?’
the organization, and he was captivated
hearts, and this won me over,” he said.
every day,” he smiled.
r. John Patterson
him to a “Plant the Seed” dinner. This
ily physician for the same practice. “My
decision to go into family medicine had
“I know we are all called to do these things. God gives us different gifts and expects us to use them. When you’re using your gifts, God gives you the energy, the enthusiasm. You don’t burn out.”
County Love In the Name of Christ, or
Love INC. Years ago, a friend invited
torship with a family practice. Within a
Finding Purpose Through Spiritual Gifts
The organization that Dr. Patter-
ing streams and a college were on the
couple’s list of necessities. Upon passing
Dr. John Patterson:
to learn Spanish,” he said. “I really get a
expects of us. He is happy to have more time to participate in the organization.
“The meetings are at noon. If I got there
needs. “It’s fun to have been on the
able to be interacting with our neigh-
bors in need and the volunteers,” he said. Dr. Patterson loved his career, but he
before the meeting was over every week,
is having a lot of fun in retirement. He’s
he said.
and his two sons and their families. He hobbies, like playing golf, fly fishing
I felt I was lucky. Now I get there early,” He has always been an active member
Cessna 172 when
‘about three minutes,’” Dr. Patterson
in church, attending First Presbyte-
Chronicle for
number of organizations and activities
Session, is on the Rockhaven Camp
happy to spend more time with his wife
also likes dedicating more time to his
rian Church. He serves on the church
and flying. He has even managed to
that I enjoyed.”
Operational Board of Directors and
Valley to the hospital foundation. For
had taken one of the club’s two little
a passion for medicine he attributes
Vacation Bible School. Through Rocky
he enjoys and using his God given gifts
tin Valley. Flying is just one of the hob-
medical school at Ohio State, he and
traveled to Mexico on several mission
he came into the
his interview. He is a member of the
Manhattan Flying Tigers Club, and
airplanes out for a spin over the Gallabies Dr. Patterson has been enjoying
since retirement. “When asked, ‘How
laughed. “I had already committed to a
Dr. Patterson grew up in Ohio with
to his physician father. After finishing
his wife Judy knew they wanted to
move West. Dr. Patterson took a family
enjoys being able to volunteer for
Mountain Ministries, Dr. Patterson has trips, providing medical care to people
in need. “It’s given me the opportunity
donate a few trips around the Gallatin
Dr. Patterson, life is about doing what
to provide and prosper. “I look forward
to every day of retirement just like I did my practice. This is a hoot!”
8 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
Dr. Dennis K. Wentz: Music and Medicine
“I think music and arts are important because that sort of culture binds people together. Its a force in a community that aims to our higher aspirations; not the daily, run-of-the-mill get to work and out, but to our senses of why we are human, why we exist. Music, at that level, transports us into a new dimension.”
T
he first time Dr. Dennis Wentz saw an opera in Bozeman, he was taken aback. “A dear friend, Lila Bishop, gave us tickets to Trovatore. I went expecting an amateur production, with out-of-tune notes,” he chuckles. “I found an amazing production. I said,
‘This is Bozeman? Unreal!’ I was actually sold on the quality of the preforming arts here. Amazing.” Before coming to Bozeman in 2010, Dr. Wentz had an extensive medical career. He grew up in Napoleon, North Dakota and discovered early on he had a passion for music. He learned to play piano and went to Minneapolis on
business trips with his father to hear the the musical scene here,” Dr. Wentz says, Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra play. “I was asked by Jane Hodges to join the He attended college at North Central board of Intermountain Opera Bozeman, in Illinois where he debated a career in and over time I became president. I’m music over a career in medicine. “When entering my third year as president of the the University of Chicago accepted me board.” into medical school, I decided to do that,” Dr. Wentz served as president of the Dr. Wentz says. Montana Chamber Music Society board, He graduated in 1961 and served his overseeing the organization of concerts residency and internship at the Uniand developing support to keep the conversity of Maryland. After finishing a certs going. The Intermountain Opera gastroenterology fellowship at Scott and is getting ready to celebrate its 40th anniversary, so there is a big year ahead for White Clinic in Texas, he was offered the the board members. The Intermountain position of Chief Resident of Medicine Opera Bozeman brings in professional in Baltimore, where he met his wife singers to perform the lead roles for Anne Colston Wentz, MD. two different operas at the Willson. Dr. “Anne was going to Hopkins to do Wentz oversees all of this. her OBGYN residency,” Dr. Wentz says Dr. Wentz wants everyone to be aware fondly. “She was one of the pioneers of in of the amazing shows and performances vitro fertilization in the United States.” going on in Bozeman. A multi-organizaDr. Wentz’ professional career took tion project partnered with PBS now has him all over the US. He worked in university hospitals including University of monitors in the Bozeman Airport displayMaryland and Vanderbilt. The Ameriing schedules of all music and arts availcan Medical Association invited him to able in the Gallatin Valley. A new website, Chicago to lead their unit on continuwww.bozemanarts.com, lists upcoming ing medical education. By that time, Dr. events for every professional performing Wentz was no longer practicing medicine, arts organization in town. All of this was but serving as a bureaucrat. “I was full accomplished with the leadership and time administrative medicine because I cooperation of Dr. Dennis Wentz. thought physicians should be involved Dr. Wentz has published many in setting health policy in hospitals. I scholarly articles in journals of science was made a Distinguished Fellow of the and medicine throughout his career. Last American Academy for Physician LeadApril, he wrote a paper for the American Osler Society entitled The Affinity Beership in April in New York in terms of being one of the early birds in involving physicians in management.” Initially, the Wentzs’ retired to Beaver Creek in Colorado. As they got older, they decided to move to a lower elevation. Dr. Anne Wentz had spent time fly fishing in Montana and they had a godson living here. Once Dr. Wentz saw the opera, he knew Bozeman was where he wanted to be. “I was overwhelmed by the quality of
tween Music and Medicine. “Its amazing how many famous doctors were fabulous musicians as well,” he says. “I think that’s what one has to do in terms of giving back; helping the arts survive. We have the Opera, the Symphony, Chamber Music, the Ballet, great theater, Shakespeare in the Parks, and the many creative forces at MSU. Its just my absolute delight and pleasure to be a part of it.”
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 9
a professor, Mathre received several professional and personal awards. He was head of the Plant Pathology Department in 1987 and the Associate Dean of Research in the College of Agriculture from 1990 to 1993. In 1989, he served as president for the American Phytopathological Society. Throughout his 11 years with the professional society, Mathre held other positions including secretary, vice-president and counselor. In 2000, he was awarded Professor Emeritus status at MSU. One of Dr. Mathre’s favorite accomplishments was the work he did with the Montana Wheat and Barley Committee. He worked with a team conducting research and negotiating with China to lift an embargo that had been placed on US wheat in 1973. US wheat crops were carrying a disease called Dwarf Bunt, or TCK Smut, and the Chinese were convinced that the insignificant, easily controllable disease would wipe out their own wheat crops. “I’m spending most of my time with the Gallatin “After over 25 years of negotiation with Gardeners Club. I’m the head gardener and we China and working on the disease and sell all our produce at the farmer’s market. All the working with a Chinese plant patholoproceeds we get we give away.” gist, China lifted the embargo on US wheats in 2005. We can now sell wheat r. Donald Mathre State. He went on to get his Ph D in to China again,” Mathre smiles. remembers workPlant Pathology at UC Davis. Mathre Since retiring, Mathre has stayed busy. ing in a Victory stayed in California for three years “When I retired I needed something to Garden in Kansas after graduating before getting an do. I didn’t want to sit around twiddling during World War offer to work at MSU. “We arrived in my thumbs,” Mathre says. “I was also II. “My dad got me started in garden- Bozeman almost 50 years to the date diagnosed with a rare form of blood ing and I’ve been gardening for 70 that we are speaking,” Mathre says, cancer. It was treatable, but I needed years,” he laughs. “July 1st, 1967.” something to take my mind off that. It Mathre has that laid-back, friendly Dr. Mathre taught plant pathology hasn’t slowed me down one bit. So that midwestern way about him. He was and mycology to MSU students for motivated me to get involved.” born in Kansas and grew up in Iowa, approximately 35 years before retirHe has served as a moderator, panelwhere he majored in Botany at Iowa ing in 2000. Throughout his career as ist, and “phone-answerer” for Montana
Dr. Donald Mathre: Cultivating Service with a Green Thumb
D
Ag Live for 15 years. Montana Ag Live is a MontanaPBS call-in information program that deals with agricultural and gardening topics specific to Montana. Dr. Mathre is also a volunteer with the MSU Athletic Department, keeping score and running the clock at the college basketball and football games for over 30 years. In the winter, he works with the non-profit Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA program) to do taxes for low income earning individuals in the community. His favorite volunteer activity is as the head gardener for the Gallatin Gardeners Club. This local non-profit works hard to grow and sell flowers and vegetables from home gardens and a market garden located on the MSU Horticulture farm. They also host an annual plant and tool sale every Memorial Day Weekend. All profits are turned into grants which go back into the community. The GGC has given away over $100,000 in grant money since its founding in 1982. “We give scholarships to MSU, money to the food bank, elementary school gardening programs, Sage Gardeners; last year we gave $16,000 away.” Dr. Mathre finds inspiration in his wife, Judy. “My wife was the first woman mayor of Bozeman,” he says affectionately. “She’s done a lot of volunteer activities in the community as well. We’re both interested in service.” They have two daughters together, one is a teacher and one is president of the Gallatin Gardeners Club. Certainly, in the Mathre family, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
10 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
planning document for the future
growth of the city.
With more people moving to Boze-
man every year, exponential growth is
of them stopped me about 15 years
election in 1988, Hawks found that
its one of the best things that ever
the shelf. “When I got off of the board,
community and I’ll never forget, one
later to apologize and said, ‘You know, happened here.’”
City Commissions elected follow-
I saw all of the growth planning we
ing this period were somewhat on the
that shelf. The reason I ran for office
the codes matched the Master Plan and
had done over several years go up on
was to try to make sure something was implemented.”
D
planting the seeds. There were some
the development of the city, has been
master plans often gathered dust on
“My life has been centered on a curiosity gained through exposure to diverse lifestyles in diverse locations. The quality of one’s life, the way people are able to live and interact with each other in a community, I think is one of the most important things we can create.”
and growth of Bozeman. “We were
real outspoken people in the business
going on since the 1950’s. Up until his
Planting the Seeds for Bozeman to Grow
thought given to the development
a topic on everyone’s minds. A “Master
Plan” process, which outlines a plan for
Dr. Bob Hawks:
awareness of architecture design and
He was elected to the Bozeman City
Commission in 1988 and mayor in
rebound in resisting the changes, but
were legally difficult to undo. “Often
the window of time is quite narrow for significant political change and it can
be disruptive. I am happy to say the
1990 serving a four-year term. “It was
revisions came about with heavy public
We decided to revise our antiquated
excellent professions.”
the new Master Plan, a process that
practice in 2005. He was elected into
a tumultuous two-year period as mayor. development codes to be in sync with
participation and the guidance of many Hawks retired from his optometry
represented a fairly significant change.”
the Montana State Senate, serving pri-
ing a sign code, setting guidelines for
tees until 2013. He is still an advisor to
architectural review of buildings within
vation, and serves on the Wonderlust
Those changes included launch-
entryway corridor design, instituting
marily finance and education commit-
the National Trust for Historic Preser-
historic districts, creating the tree and
Board of Directors, MSU’s Univer-
designated open space and view-shed.
Council. He has served as the Gallatin
lifestyle, as well as to improve the ap-
tee Chair and on the Montana Heritage
maintenance district, and establishing
“The aim was to address a changing
sity Council and President’s Advisory
County Democratic Central Commit-
r. Robert Hawks
of what a wonderful place it was, and
back to Montana
to keep it that way.”
the community.”
I didn’t think was important.”
in Bozeman, Hawks was appointed
time as an optometrist, helped oversee
ten times, to serve on a board with the
military for almost 15 years. “I looked
in 1981. He was part of the team that
ment guidelines, changes not everyone
eyes,” he said. “There was a recognition
Districts and an updated progressive
remembers coming and the family
ranch, after being
away at college and overseas in the
at Montana with a whole new set of
how we should think in terms of trying While working as an optometrist
to the City County Planning Board
helped create Bozeman’s Historic
pearance and development process of
Hawks, who was still working full
Commission. “I didn’t do anything that “Life just happens,” Hawks says. “Of-
this revamping of the city develop-
right people, where each contributes
was excited or ready to accept. There
expected happens through that collabo-
did seem to eventually be an increased
their expertise, something bigger than
ration. I find that exciting.”
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 11
C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S to t h e
P R I M E AWA R D S W I N N E R S
Congratulations to our Prime Awards Winners!
We would like to thank all the winners and recognize their service, contributions and time spent helping in our
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local communities across Southwest Montana.
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Celebrating
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Congratulations to Intermountain Opera Bozeman President,
• Kettle Donation Drive November-December. Volunteers needed! • Contact the Salvation Army for more information.
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Seasons
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The Tender Land February
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12 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
She loved being a teacher, and im-
mediately recognized a desire to help
people. “It makes me happy. To see the
tired, I said ‘I better do something,’ and
to make sure they have taken medica-
Reichmuth found no shortage of
places to serve in the Bozeman com-
E
members being a little
lot for school and work and they didn’t
she came to Denton,
Colorado, Minnesota, Oklahoma, and,
overwhelmed when
Montana from Panama.
stay in Denton for long. They lived in
who aren’t feeling well, making sure
everything is ok. Sometimes, people
tax returns. She worked with Love Inc.
anyone older,” she says.
years, until her eyesight began failing
ties is working at the information desk
do. “I really recommend this program to One of her favorite volunteer activi-
making it impossible to drive at night.
at the hospital. She gets to direct people
after dark, but Reichmuth keeps a
also sits with families of pre-op patients.
It is frustrating to not be able to help
positive attitude and finds other ways
to help her community. “Whenever I
soldier. Her husband moved around a
tion. She also checks in with people
just want to chat, which she is happy to
and delivered Meals on Wheels for
dith Reichmuth re-
involves calling people at certain hours
munity. She volunteered at the Boze-
man Senior Center helping file income
“Do what you enjoy. Keep busy. Try to help as many people as you can without expecting anything. Love with all your heart.”
excited to be a part of is the Crisis
Center. She provides telecare, which
I started looking for volunteer work.”
Serving from the Heart
A big project that Reichmuth is very
students’ progress they made was a big
incentive for me,” she says. “When I re-
Edith Reichmuth:
With all my heart.”
help someone, it is very fulfilling to me.
It gives me more energy!”
She spent so much time volunteer-
ing as a translator at the District City
Court, a judge offered to pay her.
Reichmuth agreed to accept a little money, “Not too much,” she says.
She works as a translator for Span-
ish speaking families for free in the
through the confusing hallways. She
“The families are so stressed. I offer
them prayers, never force them, and they love it.”
Reichmuth is a spiritual woman. She
attends both Holy Rosary and Resurrection Parish and volunteers at both.
“It helps my spirit and my soul. I need some soul cleaning, too,” she smiles.
She comes by her will to serve hon-
estly. As a child, Reichmuth remembers her mother was always active in
finally, Bozeman. Reichmuth, who had
Gallatin Valley. She has met some of
their community. For her, community
little English. “It was quite an experi-
a Spanish teacher at MSU. She taught
simply call her. Reichmuth has built a
cant in leading a fulling life. She plans
and a blessing, because everyone was
day, she still has students recognize
The year was 1956, and she spoke very ence,” she says. “It was a small town,
like family. Everyone used to ask me to
been a teacher in Panama, got a job as
the families through church, and some
for 22 years, retiring in 1992. To this
reputation as a translator, so whenever
on serving the Bozeman community as
her when she is out and about. “Some
name is the first to come to mind. “I
tant, I think, for anyone that has good
there is a family that needs help, her
say (The Lord’s Prayer) in Spanish.”
of the students say ‘Señora! I saw the
learn a lot from the people that I help,”
because she had married an American
laughs. “I always wore high heels.”
they call me, and I do it with pleasure.
Reichmuth moved to Denton
service and staying active are signifi-
high heels, and I knew it was you,” she
she says. “Anyone that needs any help,
long as she is able. “It is very impor-
health to keep busy doing something.
The activity will help anyone,” she says.
“Keep moving, kids!”
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 13
order to to navigate new life challenges.
“Not in a directing way,” she says, “but as a support. That works whether you’re 8
years old or 28.”
Since retiring, Weingart has stayed
busy. Throughout her life, she trav-
G
ail Weingart was
teaching physical
education in Canada
when the principal
of the school sug-
on to have a 35-year counseling career,
working with all ages and walks of life.
“I just could not imagine a better job,” she said.
As a counselor, she began working
gested she go into counseling. As a PE
in a middle school and then at Boze-
the school’s sports teams and had got-
working with kids struggling to fit
She agreed that counseling would be a
rewarding. Weingart has also done
teacher, she was required to coach all of ten very close with a group of students.
man High School. It was a tough job
in and navigate life, but she found it
good route.
grief, family and mediation counseling
at Montana State University. She went
facilitate services in a community in
Weingart entered a master’s program
for adults. She likes helping people
management practices.
Weingart loves music. She played
violin in the Bozeman Symphony for
called “Baskets and Beads,” selling
the Willson Auditorium. She continues
in America. “It was a business,” she said,
“Take advantage of opportunities. If there aren’t any, you make some.”
also helped companies clarify goals and
25 years. She was an integral part of a
tribal African-made baskets to stores
: Taking Initiative to Serve
and career and college readiness. She
eled to Africa several times with her
husband. She even started a business
Gail Weingart:
lum in social and emotional learning
“but it did (benefit the tribes) because
many of the groups I worked with had
no access to banking or mailing. They
had no way of exporting it.”
In Bozeman, Weingart has been
team that raised $5 million to renovate to be amazed by the variety and avail-
ability of entertainment in the Gallatin
Valley. “I mean, just last night, there was
Music on Main, an amazing movie with
Bozeman Film Society, and we went
to an incredible restaurant for dinner
before,” she said. “Just to be able to do
a member of Montana Connection
that in little Bozeman—there are some
works to educate the public about
community.”
children. She also fundraises to sup-
had many wonderful experiences and
nected with helping Afghan women in
man. She recommends to anyone who
of Afghan Women for 10 years. She the hardships of Afghan women and port on-the-ground businesses con-
big town experiences in this very small Weingart is happy with life. She has
is thrilled to have ended up in Boze-
jail for deserting abusive relationships.
wants to serve, “Do it! I’ve met so many
class citizens. They have no rights,” she
I think they’re serious about it, but they
“Women aren’t even as high as second
says. “My heart just broke when I read some of the stories. Somebody had to
people who talk about doing something;
never get around to doing it.”
“I think it’s wonderful that the Chron-
help them.”
icle is recognizing people in certain
just returned from Denver where’d she
so many amazing people! All of us who
At the time of the interview, she had
categories, but Bozeman is filled with
been working with Americorps Vista.
have been identified, it took one person
poverty within the United States. For
to those people.”
The goal of Americorps Vista is to end eight weeks, she helped create curricu-
to get the form completed. I’m grateful
14 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
driving a semi truck hauling cattle with
her two daughters balanced on the
Humane Society. For Thanksgiving, she
thing wasn’t ever going to go anywhere,”
families in need. At Christmas, Frank
seat next to her. “I could see this whole
Frank said. “I hung in there for a while.” She left her husband and took a job
Frank said. “We did everything we
chise and brought a new one to Boze-
in Eagle Mount, making her a volun-
think that’s why I’m tired now.”
beginnings in Bozeman. In addition to
continued working multiple jobs. She
W
through-
hold. Of the seven, she was one of two
obstacles out their
lifetime, most Prime Award winners
are stumped. A majority of them
nies throughout Montana, and she
where she found herself in a tumultu-
blessed, and as a result, they happily
ous marriage. She had two daugh-
given to them.
support her family. She remembers
give back to the community that has
ters and worked three jobs trying to
from our devoted community members, such as the one and only Helen Frank,
I started, the houses were cheap, like
her family for 28 years (since the begin-
producing real estate agent. “When
$20,000. You had to sell a lot!”
Even with an insane work schedule,
Frank found the time to help those less
final Camp dinner with the support of ning of BSK history!)”
She wishes she could do more for
people, but due to health problems,
fortunate than her. “I always had the
Frank is limited. In the future, she
we were in Billings, we used to go to an
Family Promise. “I want to help more,”
and take them food. I just had an inter-
Throughout everything, Frank re-
est in helping.”
Frank moved to Billings in 1958,
“We were showered with generosity
who has been graciously providing our
ready moved out, held several jobs, and
and good health. They have been
are grateful for positive upbringings
Camp every year. In a 2012 Eagle
into the Million Dollar Club as a top
orphanage that was close to our house
was helping to support her family.
families, she has hosted the final dinner
Mount newsletter, Lisa Batzler wrote,
who graduated from high school. By
came from strong foundations. They
donating to the auction and sponsoring
four different Roto Rooter compa-
rental properties, opened and sold
was one of seven children in her house- urge to help someone,” she said. “When
the time she graduated, Frank had al-
teer with the program since its humble
of Eagle Mount’s Big Sky Adventure
Through hard work, she made her way
grew up in Roundup, Montana. Frank
Last year was her 34th year involved
worked as a property manager for
earned her license as a real estate agent.
about
could. We used to go sleigh riding, to
football games.”
When she moved to Bozeman, she
Helen Frank is a little different. She
(through MSU) for at least 30 years,”
family. After years of running Roto
man. “I was busy. Too busy,” she said. “I
hen asked
coats, boots, scarves, hats and gloves.
tant, did laundry, and prepared banquets
Rooter in Billings, Frank sold that fran-
“Just keep working at it, and pray for a good time.”
provides homeless children with new
“We worked with international students
at the Federal Building to support her
Stronger
would put together baskets of food for
running a Roto Rooter franchise in
Billings. She also worked for an accoun-
Helen Frank:
on the Board of Directors for the
“She gives because she knew how
important it was when people gave to us,” said Frank’s daughter Cyndi.
Frank was a Pink Lady at the hospital.
She worked with the Battered Women’s
Network. As an animal lover, she served
hopes to host a dinner for Bozeman she said. “But I don’t know how.”
mains happy and grateful for a lifetime
of experiences. She is one tough lady!
Her favorite accomplishment is motherhood, and she is very excited to be a
grandmother. “I learned a lot from the different jobs I had,” she said. “I did it
on my own.”
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 15
became licensed with Lutheran Social
Services. Eventually, the system
ily Promise. This organization helps
tion would immediately be placed with
to stay overnight in churches. She has
changed so that babies up for adop-
their adoptive families. “They didn’t
need us anymore, which is good,” she
cooking for them.”
from the State Department of Human
a good cook. She started Colombo’s
their homes. In some special cases they
in 2009. Pizza isn’t the only thing she
T
letin post at her church for Lutheran
the little boys she fostered ended up in
of their fundraisers. “My kids tease me,
United Methodist. She taught Sunday
high school,” she laughs.
of the church, she still participates in
people less fortunate than her. She re-
Colombo was excited when one of
the Bell Choir, worked on the Mission
Team and served as chairman on the Social Justice Team.
As part of the Social Justice Team,
she worked hard to raise awareness
told her she was helpful in getting the
hospital to understand the plight of low
income families. “I do know while I was
lombo had to take a step back from her
her own, but she loved the idea of tak-
on couches in other people’s homes
she is selflessly taking care of someone
saw the post and encouraged her to do
that task force ended, all these little
way than helping others. “Find your
to nudge very hard,” she laughs.
we did something to get that aware-
more than what you give. Every time.”
that she would gravitate toward work-
Colombo already had three children of
the wheels turning. “Kids are sleeping
they’re funny,” she says, discussing why
ing care of infants. Her 13-year-old son or in their cars,” she says. “Even after
don’t judge you. They’re wonderful.”
and one of her fellow board members
force didn’t solve the problem, it got
and while she feels her special task
They’re clever and loving and they
members serving on the hospital board,
wasn’t just me.”
by foster parents until their adoptive
more back than you ever give to them.
She has always been an advocate for
sionate about helping homeless youth,
demeanor that could
she loves kids. “You just get so much
but I won the Betty Crocker Award in
on the board, we really increased our
Bozeman. Colombo is still very pas-
ing with children. “They’re fun, and
sausage and pepper sandwiches for one
about the growing homeless youth in
Social Services. At the time, adoptions
put anyone at ease. It seems natural
can cook. Joe is a member of the Lion’s
Club, and for years, Colombo made
Janet Colombo. She has a soft, maternal
won the MSU’s Family Business Award
kids five and under.
School for 20 years. An active member
nately calming about
Colombo has a reputation for being
Pizza with Joe in 1985. The restaurant
her Sunday school class at Bozeman
25 years ago, Colombo saw a bul-
program,” she says. “I usually end up
Services asking them to take care of
happily obliged, taking care of a few
here is something in-
it started in the Gallatin Valley 10
adoptive parents.”
children who had been removed from
“I just think it’s unfair. Everybody should have a home.”
been involved with the program since
years ago. “Family Promise is the best
Occasionally, they would get calls
The Care Taker
homeless families by allowing them
says. “I think it’s better for the kids.
They can bond immediately with the
Janet Colombo:
Colombo has volunteered for Fam-
were closed and babies were cared for parents finalized all the paperwork.
it. “He nudged me, but he didn’t have Colombo and her husband, Joe,
things started happening. So maybe
ness out there.”
charitable giving,” she says. “I know it Last year, when Joe got sick, Co-
community service projects. Once again,
in need. For Colombo, there is no other calling. Like I said, they all give back
16 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
Stanish attended Bowling Green
University in Ohio, where she studied
35 years, Stanish and her husband re-
BGSU, she felt a strong wanderlust to
went to MSU and stayed in Montana
to Colorado. Stanish taught physical
grandchildren. Stanish wanted to be
physical education. After graduating
head West. She left Ohio and moved
education for a year, but then decided she was too young to be a teacher. “I
felt like I wanted to learn how to ski. I had never skied. And then
after a year of doing that, I thought
‘huh, maybe I want to be a surfer.’ So I moved to Waikiki,” she laughs. “I
rented cars for Budget Rent-a-Car
and surfed all the time.”
Hawaiian paradise was fun for a
while, but Stanish couldn’t deny her
Kasey Stanish: Active at Any Age
At
72, Stanish is
longing for mountains and snow. After
Stanish attends the Main Street
preforming
Fitness cross-fit class three mornings a
cal capacity
and early so she has plenty of time to
tired to Bozeman. Both of her children
after graduating, and she now has four closer to her family, and her grandchil-
dren help keep her active. “I used to tell
my grandchildren I would give them $5
if they beat me at arm wrestling. Only two have beaten me.”
After moving to Bozeman, Stanish
continued snowboarding at least twice
a week. She knew she was fit, but she
wanted to get into better shape to pre-
pare for the winter season. That’s when she started cross fit at Main Street Fit-
ness. “I’m in my 70’s, and I want to go
a year in Hawaii, she moved back to
into my 80’s like I’m still in my 70’s.”
she met her husband on the chairlift.
Kasey. “I used to finish the (snowboard-
David and we got married 14 days
I go into the season and I’m already in
love at first sight.”
outside, breathing the good air, and
Denver. During a ski trip in Aspen,
They had a whirlwind romance. “I met
“I’m just not much of a sitter!”
After teaching physical education for
later,” Stanish smiles. “It was definitely Kasey and her husband have been
married for 47 years. After marrying in
Ohio, they moved into a cabin in Vail,
where they lived for 35 years and Kasey
Cross fit has been incredible for
ing) season and be in great shape. Now
good shape,” she says. “It’s about being having a beer.”
Stanish takes care to monitor her
diet. She likes protein shakes and
lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.
taught physical education at the middle
Lunch is usually peanut butter and
walk her dog, Grady. “I’ve run that dog
an avid mountain biker, riding exten-
relaxed, but she admits that food has
personal trainer at Main Street Fit-
day I take him a mile and a half down
She skied nonstop in the winter. “I
Award because she views Kasey as a
out partner.”
ter turned 13, snowboarding caught on,
and old. “Kasey is a major part of our
was a director of health and physical
remembers strapping her Sorrel boots
ore said in her nomination email.
physical activity as a child. I just love
at a physithat could
rival 20-year-olds. Jackie Gilmore, a
ness, nominated Stanish for a Prime role model to all of her clientele, young morning workout community,” Gilm-
week. She gets her workouts in bright
probably 5,000 miles in 12 years. Every
the road. Grady is definitely my work
school level. All the while, Stanish was
an apple. Dinner is a little more
sively in Moab and Fruita, Colorado.
never been a big motivator for her. “I
skied for 21 years, and when my daugh-
our mid-sixties, the amount of food
Stanish was born in Ohio. Her father and I thought, ‘I gotta try that!’” She
enjoy eating, but when we got into
we consumed decreased.”
Her advice to anyone trying to get
into shape is to just get started. “Find
education. “I was exposed to a lot of
into a men’s board when the sport first
out what you like to do and do it! If it is
to play.”
ever since.
Just get started!”
took off. She has been snowboarding
walking, start walking! It doesn’t matter.
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 17
her masters in counseling. When Kathy took a sabbatical in 1989, she was
a little more complicated than I thought
Kathy said. “Bob had been up here for
Bob, who has completed the Ridge
Run 13 times, now looks at the courses
Bozeman and see what happens.’”
blood. “I truly was addicted to run-
What happened was the married
duo fell in love with Montana. They
returned to Guam to continue teaching
with Montana Senior Olympics, Big
K
know exactly what
moving to Bozeman in 1999.
is. Both are ac-
they were both teachers. Bob taught
that extra “stuff ”
tive members of the Big Sky Wind
Drinkers, a local running club started
Kathy and Bob met in Guam, where
everything from elementary education
try to keep a low key, open-to-everyone
years. However, most of their time goes
our Wednesday Fun Runs.”
time they were members of the Wind
Bridger Ridge Run, the Wind Drinkers
plenty of experience with running clubs.
Run and the Frank Newman Marathon
ning Club, which has now been around
in the country, with an entry fee of $3.00.
served for 15 years and was chair for 3
Drinkers, Bob and Kathy already had
On Guam, they started the Guam Runfor half a century and hosts 50 races every year. “It’s a sense of community. As
we’ve traveled around, wherever we’ve gone, we’ve been able to find running
really good runners, we’ve got walkers,
got 3-year-olds, and they all come out on In addition to the Fun Runs and the
are also responsible for the Sweet Pea
and Relay. This marathon is the cheapest The Big Sky Wind Drinkers make
several donations to local organizations,
including Gallatin Valley Land Trust
and Gallatin Valley Food Bank. Last
groups,” Kathy said.
year, they awarded four college scholar-
the Wind Drinkers, Bob lovingly refers
counties. “Its all pay-it-forward type
When it comes to their roles with
to Kathy as “management.” In addition to race directing and timing, she helps
banners, water coolers, and clocks. “We
high school counselor after receiving
fast one runs, but that one runs.’ “We
we’ve got people pushing strollers, we’ve
hood development and ended up a
have both served as president and vice
and Frank Newman. Kathy and Bob
ning club was ‘It is not important how
reation and Parks Advisory Board. He
served on the City of Bozeman’s Rec-
organize the equipment and the people
Guam. Kathy started in early child-
Drinkers. The original motto of the run-
attitude,” Kathy explained. “We’ve got
to college classes at the University of
in Red Lodge in 1973 by Andy Blank
It has never been about competi-
Brothers and Big Sisters. Bob also
to the Big Sky Wind Drinkers. By the
been involved in the organization since
in town and Kathy was going home, I
tion with Bob and Kathy, or the Wind
The retired couple have volunteered
husband, Bob Wade,
be running six days a week. If we were
this condo and then we were gone two
nently moved in in ‘99,” Bob said.
president of the club and they have
ning,” he said. “For thirty years, I would
would run home.”
years teaching in Europe. So we perma-
athy Brown and her
and ensures safety. Running is in Bob’s
and after 25 years total, they retired to
Bozeman in 1997. “In ‘97 we bought
“Most runners think of themselves as lonely individuals out there running. You know, just them and their running shoes, but they do need the support, the water. There’s a lot of stuff that comes along with it.”
it was going to be,” Kathy said.
a physics teachers conference and liked
Bozeman and he said, ‘Well, let’s go to
For the Love of the Run
them and usually people go, ‘Oh, that’s
interested in experiencing the winter
season. “I had never lived in a winter,”
Kathy Brown & Bob Wade:
put on a race, we sit down and talk with
used at the races. This includes flags,
loan this stuff out. If people want to
ships to seniors in Gallatin and Park
things,” said Kathy.
“It is a real leveling of society,” Bob
said. “We don’t get into discussions
about politics or religion. We just want to do the run.”
18 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
Dr. Loren Acton: Bozeman’s Space Man
“The two things that are most beneficial in terms of personality traits are curiosity and enthusiasm. I was fortunate to be endowed with both.”
T
hroughout my interviews with this amazing Prime Award winner, several people kept asking “Have you talked to Loren Acton yet? He’s a space man, you know.” I arrived at The Daily Coffee for our interview with David Bowie’s Space Oddity buzzing in my brain. The last time I had studied space, Pluto was still a planet. I wondered if Loren Acton’s high level of technical expertise would make it hard to talk to him. He greeted
me with a hug and a cheerful “Hi Hannah!” It was as if we were old friends. Acton and his wife, Evelyn, are about to celebrate 60 years of marriage. They met at church while Acton was attending MSU. Evelyn was the pianist. “I was really lucky to marry this Bozeman girl,” Acton exclaimed. “I married someone who knew how to work, and she paid my way through college.” Loren Acton, the last of six children, was raised on a ranch in Lewistown, Montana. As a child, he discovered he did well in science and math, and had little
desire to work on a farm. When he came to Montana State College, his original plan was to study mechanical engineering. His oldest brother, Winston, talked him out of it. “He said, ‘Why don’t you take physics? It’s harder,’ Acton said. “I took his advice and got started on the science track.” He went on to get a Doctor of Philosophy in Astro-Geophysics in 1965, around the time the space program was taking off. For 29 years, Acton worked for the Lockheed Palo Alto Research Laboratory in California. During his time with Lockheed, the nation built a space shuttle that did not require everyone on board to be a career astronaut. “I was a member of the committees that considered how this new vehicle would be used for science, and it occurred to me, hey, I could fly on that sucker,” he laughed. In 1978, his team in Palo Alto sent a proposal to NASA, Acton passed a physical, NASA agreed, and he was selected as a Payload Specialist for the mission. The training program took seven years until Space Lab 2 launched in 1985. The first launch attempt was an abort, but on the second launch attempt, despite one of the engines failing 5 minutes out, Challenger made it into orbit. Acton spent eight days in outer space, traveling 2.8 million miles and orbiting the earth 126 times. Being on a shuttle that blows an engine during takeoff would terrify most people, but not Acton. “I’m just not the kind of person that is terrified by things I understand,” he said. “My reaction was ‘Oh crap, we’re going to have to land somewhere and it’ll take NASA two or three years to put it back together again. I’m not convinced Evelyn will put up with that.” Fortunately, the launch went ahead on the 2 remaining engines and Acton made it safely to orbit and back to Earth. He continued working as a solar scientist
and came to Montana State as a research professor in 1993. He would build and fly experiments throughout his career. “My favorite experiment was flown on a Japanese/US/UK mission called ‘Yohkoh,’ for which I was responsible for a telescope that takes pictures at x-ray wavelengths so that I got direct pictures of the Sun’s lovely corona.” Acton has tried retiring three times, but his curiosity and enthusiasm for new knowledge keep him working. He retired from Lockheed in 1993, when he became a research professor for 15 years. He retired from MSU once, and then “un-retired.” He’s no longer getting paid, but he continues to do solar physics at MSU. “I’m sort of quasi-retired,” he jokes. “It’s just so exciting to learn new stuff and see the beauties of nature. It is a privilege to be able to do it.” Though he isn’t currently on any boards, Acton has served for the library foundation, Museum of the Rockies, the Montana Chamber Music Society, and the advisory committee for The Ellen. He is happy to be back in the Gallatin Valley “I think one of the most fortunate things was being able to move back to Montana. We lived in a lot of places. Palo Alto was our home base for 30 years. To be a member of the Bozeman community has been highly rewarding for over 20 years now.” Acton thinks it is important to surround one’s self with positive people. He greatly admired the team he got to work with on Space Lab 2 and the others he met throughout his lifetime. He believes that we are a reflection of the people we spend the most time with. His advice is, “Try to find good relationships. You are largely who you chose for friends. If you chose quality friends, chances are you will be a quality person.” That, and, “Take physics, it is harder.”
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 19
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to our
Prime 24 over 64 award winners! Rotary unites problem solvers around the globe behind one goal: to do moRe good our members are driven to bring communities together to create lasting change.
ROTARIANS ARE PEOPLE of ACTION!
teD Williams
Darrel Choate
Dr. John Patterson
CONGRATULATIONS! Each award winner helps to make our community a vibrant home. We thank you all for your efforts!
406.585.3800
bozemannoonrotary.org
5509-001
Helping families celebrate a life lived.
Congratulations to the 24 over 64 Award recipients!
“There is a difference.� 406.587.3184 www.dokkennelson.com info@dokkennelson.com 113 South Willson Avenue in Bozeman
20 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
in need. “I’ve always been involved
we’re just sort of out of space. We don’t
Adopt-A-Sox and Green Coats, I am
tions, but to work along side of them.”
in something, like right now, besides
also involved in the mentoring program
ophy. He believes that we are called to
people. But you need people who are
have to be there, kind of like a catcher’s
there assisting and to work with, and
a “major doer,” but he is. He serves
he meets as an MSU Mentor. Money
A-Sox and Salvation Army. Last
ing the Earth and Science Depart-
year, Adopt-A-Sox sent 140 packages
loaded with everything from scarves to
M
he was 14. He
they just couldn’t make it.”
remembers
his mother
Money comes by his drive and com-
nel stationed in Kuwait, Iraq, and more.
roads you run down … they’re not all
“The four years I spent in the Air Force was the most educational and growing experience I had,” he says. “I learned
heartwarming.”
The Salvation Army is close to
Money’s heart. He empathizes with
the homeless community in a way that
Somehow, he has always found time
outside of work to dedicate to those
successful in college without the help
give back to the students. “A lot of these paved. You gotta figure it out.”
That extra bit of support goes a long
way, and Money knows it. As president
of the Chamber of Commerce in 1994 and 1995, he and the Board created
a plan to turn around the Chamber’s
finances. It was a tough job, but Money took the challenge and came out successful.
In one way or another, he has helped
shape Bozeman since joining the
City-County Planning Board in 1981.
allows him to see them as people, not
Whether he was planning the growth
man’s homeless community is going
aging the young professionals of tomor-
problems. He knows that fixing Boze-
to take more than cash, and there is a
and development of Bozeman, encourrow, or providing a family in need with
long way to go. “The Salvation Army is
a hot meal, he has been there to offer a
says. “We have the facility downtown
road and a lot of it was muddy, but I
and we are maxed out. We provide
built it; you name it I did it,” he smiles.
work with an organization,” he says.
“To know that you’ve touched people is
and a banker. “I planned it, I zoned it, I
elders in the community. “She didn’t
“She just did it. I watched her celebrate
would make you cry,” he says sincerely.
a helping hand up, not a hand out,” he
and beyond as a city planner, a Realtor
table. In her spare time, she would help
“The letters we have received back
passion honestly. He has gone above
working long hours to put food on the
and Architecture Edward Groenhout.
of those two men, and Money likes to
personnel go through.”
and go home. I watched her cry when
ment’s Bob Taylor and Dean of Arts
there. In previous years they sent as
and experienced what our military
his father when
had his own mentors in college includ-
It would’ve been a lot harder to be
many as 400 boxes to Montana person-
when people got to leave the rest home
He enjoys encouraging the students
beef jerky overseas to Kuwait for the
Montana Air National Guard stationed
ike Money lost
mitt. Catch ‘em, help them get back on
their feet and keep things moving.”
as president on the board for Adopt-
“Where did they sleep last night? Did they have breakfast today? Where did they get those clothes? When you break it down like that, you become extremely concerned about that segment of the community.”
help our fellow men and women. “You
I’ve always tried to be in that circle.” He may not think of himself as
The Catcher’s Mitt
Money adheres to a Christlike philos-
at MSU,” Money says. “I don’t call
myself a “major doer,” like a lot of the
Mike Money:
want to compete with other organiza-
for drug addiction counseling, alcohol
counseling, food and clothing for those
in need. We help with families and
hand. “I’ve been down an awful lot of
like where I’m at,” he says. “Bozeman is
a great community. I’m excited to have been involved in its growth.”
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 21
and spent four years as a fishing guide.
Eagle Mount, Tech Ranch, Red Cross,
living off of it, and it wasn’t a good use
member of Trout Unlimited,. He has
“It was fun, but I knew I couldn’t make a of my education. So I went to work for
D A Davidson in 1984 and I’ve been here ever since,” he said.
Now the Senior Vice President and
a financial advisor for the Bozeman
Branch, he still finds time to be an
active volunteer for the community.
His favorite areas of service are land
conservation, and more recently, people.
Preserving Montana’s Natural Heritage
P
age Dabney began to
I was just struck by the fact that one
on the community
that’s when I started getting involved in
an individual can have when he moved from
Denver to Bozeman in 1981. “I was
the inevitable growth of the county. In the mid 90’s, he joined the Montana
I became a CAP mentor and a Befriender,” he said.
CAP, or Child Advancement
involves mentoring children who often situations. Befrienders matches volun-
teers with senior citizens who are look-
board member today. “That’s something
don’t like the idea of people in our com-
ture Conservancy and is still an active
richest, most meaningful stories, and I munity not having friends to connect
to protect big chunks of this state and
with,” Dabney says.
traditionally been in,” he said.
and community service that he was
to the Gallatin Valley Land Trust Board,
Community Service Award by D.A.
keep them in the uses that they have
Dabney’s conservation work extends
where he served as board member and
President from 2004-2009. He is still a a local non-profit called Adventure
community service.”
studying the presence of micro-plastics
Dabney has done so much volunteer
awarded the Bragg Lewis Knutson
Davidson. The award is the highest
honor D. A. Davidson gives, celebrating
outstanding volunteer efforts. Dabney stays modest about his accomplish-
ment, saying, “I’m not much for awards.
to gather research data and has been
That’s not why I do this stuff.”
in the Gallatin River drainage, and
to show gratitude. He is grateful
samples while he hikes. “I love to hike
and for the easy access to the rivers and
father brought him up to Montana on
Dabney volunteers to collect water
age and partly because Denver is so big,
college and working several corporate
and it’s a way to do something useful
cided he wanted to do something else
In addition to the aforementioned
it just never really struck me when I was
jobs in the energy industry, Dabney de- and give back while you’re hiking.”
make a difference. When I moved here,
with his life. He moved up to Bozeman groups, Dabney has volunteered with
living down there that one person can
to-person sorts of things. At that point
ing for friendship. “The elderly have the
Scientists. The group uses volunteers
fishing trips as a kid. After graduating
ago, decided to shift to more person-
chapter of the State Board of the Na-
thinking of it before you came in (for
the interview,) and partly because of my
“I kind of intentionally, several years
times come from challenging home
person really can make a difference, and
Dabney grew up in Denver. His
of meetings, he was ready for a change.
of the board was to help prepare for
and Bozeman was much smaller in 1981, supportive member. He also works with
realize how much effect
and Dabney admits that after decades
Program, is part of THRIVE, and it
that I am very passionate about; helping
“What makes this community so great is all the people that are so passionate and so involved in it. Get involved. You will get so much more back than you give.”
been on many boards in his lifetime,
In the late 80’s he joined the Gallatin
County Planning Board. The purpose
Page Dabney:
Montana Trout Foundation, and is a
Dabney volunteers because he wants
everyday for the community he lives in
mountains. The people also play a huge
role in his adoration for Montana. “I
just love hearing people’s stories. Human connection is so important.”
22 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
National Parks Service as a civil engineer for the Eastern design office in Philadelphia. Haraden quickly got used to traveling. “We had assignments from 20 months to six years, but the average was 4 years in each place,” he said. “I had eight different assignments.” Haraden worked his way up in the National Parks Service. His professional career included serving as Assistant Superintendent for Yellowstone National Park and Superintendent for Natchez Trace National Parkway, Big Bend National Park and Glacier National Park. “The first time I became a Superintendent, my wife said she didn’t know how to act as a superintendent’s wife,” he laughs. “I told her to pick out the one she admired the most and follow her lead.” Often, his job was so much more than overseeing the park he was named head of. He was involved in the initial planning and the establishment of The Virgin Islands National Park in “There were a number of people along the way 1957. While overseeing Natchez Trace, who inspired me. People I worked for which extends 450 miles through and worked with. People who work for you Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, can be your mentors, too” Haraden also had a “side job” of helping establish the Gulf Islands National efore Bob Haraden National Parks. When I asked him if Seashore. He was given the Stephan retired, his favorite day he had a favorite park, he laughed and Mather Conservation Award during of the week was Monday. said, “Yeah I did. Rocky Mountain, his term as Superintendent of Glacier. He just loved working Sequoia, Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Though he worked hard, long hours, and the man has the Big Bend, and Glacier. Not a bad one Haraden still found time to enjoy the resume to prove it. Haraden has dediin the bunch.” parks. “I told my secretary that when cated his entire career to the preservaHaraden grew up in Bar Harbor, my boss calls, tell her I’m out on busition of the National Parks. He started Maine. He studied civil engineering at ness. “Business” was the name of my as a civil engineer for the State of the University of Maine and graduated sailboat,” Haraden laughed. Maine Parks System, and, among other in 1949. He was immediately hired to When Haraden retired in January high-ranking positions, he worked work for the Maine State Parks System. 1986, he and his wife Adelaide moved as Superintendent for three different After five years, he was hired on by the down to Bozeman. The Flathead area
Bob Haraden:
A Career in the Preservation of National Parks
B
was a little too overcast. Plus, he had family in Bozeman and Billings, and had spent time here while he had worked for Yellowstone. “We spent six years in Yellowstone, in Mammoth, and Bozeman was kind of our town,” he said. After retiring, Haraden became interested in driving for Meals on Wheels. Amazingly, he still delivers meals at 94 years old. He’s been volunteering for the non-profit for over 30 years. “I got interested in it after I retired. It seemed to be a simple thing to do and a way to give something back to the community,” he said. Haraden has volunteered for the HRDC’s Community Café, Eagle Mount Cross Country Ski Program for Disabled Kids, and, of course, the National Park Service. In addition to conducting inspections for national monuments, Harden spent a couple of weeks every summer for five years running the interpretation desk for the Norris Soldier Station in Yellowstone. Adelaide loved the parks too. Sadly, she passed away last April. She wanted her ashes to be scattered in Yellowstone. “We’ll do that this summer,” Haraden said. Haraden has always found inspiration in the individuals around him. He believes that you can learn a lot not only from the people that work above you, but those that work for you as well. “I’ve had a number of people that I worked for that taught me what I think I know,” he said. “The park service has some outstanding people and leaders in the endeavor; great conservationists, historians, managers of park service areas. I don’t know how I could be so lucky.”
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 23
had a ‘C’ on it. That was continuous tenure. That was perfect.”
Symphony since 1967. The commit-
female science teachers at MSU, and
six practices before a performance and
At the time, she was one of the only
one of two women to ever serve as
“I’m a botanist. You stop and look; identify this plant and look at this rock and identify this moss and look at this lichen. You don’t just walk to be walking. You’re paying attention to everything around you.”
S
haron Eversman remembers her parents discour-
aging her from studying
science. “I was growing up
in the 40’s and 50’s. Girls
could be secretaries, or they could be
“I said, ‘then I’m gonna do it.’”
Eversman earned a Masters in plant
ecology at Montana State. MSU hired
her to take care of labs, which she felt
was a dead end job. When she returned
Nobody in physics, nobody in engi-
served on both the Symphony and
never an obstacle.”
contract that I got the year I came back
Opera boards. “That was always my escape,” she says.
For a couple of years after retiring
from teaching at MSU in 2007, all
Eversman did was play. Eventually, she
the book she wrote or receiving the
she applied to be a docent at Museum
complishment, she doesn’t mention
needed something more stimulating, so
Mershon Research Award in 1999. The
of the Rockies in 2011. Every fall, she
est Service grants to research lichens
hibits. She leads tours for school groups
EPA, National Park and National For-
takes classes to stay current on the ex-
were major stepping stones in her career,
and the public.
excited about the work she did with
time reflecting on her deck after touring
but not her favorite achievements. She’s
the Native Plant Society and happy to
Humble and happy, she recently spent
gardens in Italy. She remembers looking
have served as Executive Director of
over the mountains and the barley field
Director of the Undergraduate MSU
pretty special. This is pretty good.”
the Montana Academy of Sciences and
Scholars program. Still, there is another organization, unrelated to plants or
in her back yard and thinking, “This is Eversman, who remains an ac-
tive volunteer at St. James Episcopal
lichens, that Eversman takes the most
Church, would like for us to know
“Playing in the Bozeman Symphony
in things won’t stop. You just keep
for 50 years has been pretty important,”
offering her a tenured position. “The
tra for the Intermountain Opera and
When asked about a favorite ac-
she was pleased to find that MSU was
parents said ‘you’re going to be a sci-
ence major? That’s not for girls.’”
ity in class, and as a teacher, but it was
joy in being a part of.
Ecology from Arizona State University,
school teachers,’ she remembers. “My
chemistry,” she says. “I was the minor-
from earning her PhD in Lichen/Plant
nurses, or they could be elementary
about eight different performances a
year. She has played in the pit orches-
neering. I don’t remember anyone in
Getting Her Hands Dirty
ment to the Symphony is huge, with
faculty council president. “I was usually the one token female on committees.
Dr. Sharon Eversman:
Eversman has played violin with the
she says.
something. “Most of us who are active
going because sitting around the house isn’t fun. I just like to do things that I think are worthwhile.”
24 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
who was taught by Ted Williams,” said
Doug Brekke, former president of the Montana Society of Engineers.
Throughout his teaching career at
Inspirational Leadership
T
ed Williams is a
family, and he was overwhelmed with
favorite part of the job will always be
and committees.”
cards sitting here that I got in the mail
liams says. “I don’t miss grading papers
adults. He spent several years as a Boy
most of World War II, and his years as
a DeMolay dad.
Williams attended Colorado State
University for both his undergrad and
“Williams has had a positive impact
sponsored by the Masonic fraternity. It
form of admiration and respect for him.
Molay is an organization for young men
he has met or worked with holds some
his graduate degree in civil engineering. has seven core values; Love of Parents,
Ted’s sharp mind and keen intellect are
University in 1956 and retired in 1990,
sense of humor,” writes Lloyd Mandev-
Personal Development. Williams, who
veteran who was missing in action for
from folks I haven’t seen in a decade.”
on so many lives in Montana. Everyone
but continued teaching part time for
career at MSU, his brother, a decorated
past couple of weeks,” he says. “I have
Scout leader and a DeMolay dad. De-
most prestigious
off. Instead, he focuses on his long
the response from the community. “Our
family has had a lot of support these
Reverence, Courtesy, Comradeship,
says he isn’t eager to have them listed
issues. He recently suffered a loss in the
the students. “I miss the students,” Wil-
He came to work for Montana State
accomplishments, he
These days, Williams isn’t as active
and Vice President of Research. His
humble guy. When
asked about his
because of the church.”
as he would like to be due to mobility
Williams likes working with young
“Whatever you do, be honest. Remember that a lot of people depend upon you.”
enjoy associations with good people
MSU, he held faculty positions includ-
ing Department Head, Associate Dean
Ted Williams:
“I like being with people,” he says. “I
another 12 years. “I made it through a
professional career, feel like I was quite successful at it without a PhD,” he
says. “I always felt like I was competing
against people that were smarter than I
was, and therefore had to work harder.” “There probably isn’t an engineer-
ing firm in the state of Montana that doesn’t have someone on the staff
Fidelity, Cleanness, Patriotism, and
was in DeMolay as a kid, taught these
values to young men from 1980-2005.
“Both organizations’ existence purpose
is making better men out of good boys,” he says.
He has attended First Presbyterian
Church for 60 years, serving as an elder, a teacher, and a Clerk of Session. He is
also a member of Rotary International.
matched by his modesty, kindness and
ille, who nominated Williams for the
Prime Awards. “His patriotism and loy-
alty are exemplary, and he instilled these
values in his children and all young
people he mentored over the years.’
“I appreciate the fact that the com-
munity has been good to me,” Williams says. “MSU has been good to me. I like
to give back.”
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 25
Thomas Bitnar: Design by Nature
“In my practice, I closely follow the pathway of creativity and simplicity and integrity… I believe in the rich potential of technology and scene as applied to architecture, particularly for sustainable design, urban planning and smart eco buildings.”
At
age seven, Thomas Bitnar knew he wanted to be an architect. He was born in Czechoslovakia and attended CVUT School of Architecture in Prague. Bitnar completed his post-graduate studies at CVUT and the Academy of Fine Art in Prague
and began working for architecture firms there. He came to the United States in 1980 and earned a masters degree from Columbia University. He worked for prominent architecture offices in New York before opening his own practice, Bitnar Architects, in 1990. Thomas and his wife, Randle, decided to move their family to Montana in 1996.
The size of the Bozeman community was perfect for Bitnar and his family, and they found Montana to be beautiful. “Montana State University was very important to me; I spent eight years as an adjunct professor teaching architecture,” he says. “I was on the MSU School of Architecture advisory board, and I continue to participate in student presentations and critiques.” Bitnar’s practice, which has projects in New York, Prague and the Pacific Northwest, is fully integrated into Bozeman. He grew up surrounded by the beautiful architecture of Prague and was delighted to find impactful buildings in Montana. “I was impressed by a few beautiful buildings done by my Bozeman architect hero, Fred Willson,” Bitnar said. “He did probably 2000 projects in his lifetime, and this was another (reason) we moved here.” Since moving to the Gallatin Valley, Bitnar has designed many buildings including the Avis Rent-a-Car Facility, Bridger Apartments, WeeBee’s Café (now The Red Chair,) Baxter Apartments, the Medical Arts Building on Fallon Street, and the Galusha Higgins Galusha Building in Helena. More recently, he designed the new Sidewinders American Grill, the Palisade Building, Talbach House condominiums, and the Excel Physical Therapy Building. His Bozeman projects have earned several awards. The Avis Facility won an AIA Montana Chapter Merit and an AIA Pacific Northwest Region Citation Award. The Bridger Apartments received a Bozeman Community Beautification Award. He has also gained recognition for his renovation projects. Villa Montana,
the Martin residence, and the Spinelli residence have received awards for renovation from the Bozeman Historic Preservation Advisory Board. The M&I residence renovation won an AIA Montana Merit Award, and Villa Montana won an AIA Continental Europe design award. Bitnar’s work illustrates his typological versatility and a blend of architecture traditions, a distinctly modernist approach and sustainability. “I strongly believe you have to understand and respect the environmental, social and historical context of a building,” he says. “And in Montana, you have to pay close attention to Mother Nature, with an eye to the open space, light and climate.” In 2015, Bitnar was elected a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects. This prestigious honor recognized him as a contributor to the advancement of the profession. He attributes his knowledge of architecture to living all over the world and seeing beautiful structures in several different countries. He expects his students to travel if they want to be successful. “I really highly recommend going abroad and seeing architecture all over the world,” he said. He has incorporated a modern style into the historical buildings of Bozeman, contributing to the way we see our city today. He takes his time with each design, getting to know the client and the building itself. “Bozeman has a public understanding of the evolution of architecture.” he says. “You walk around Bozeman and you see many new buildings with modern architecture showing up in the past 20 years. It makes me very happy. Architecture matters.”
26 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
School. A year later, he brought a swim-
it nothing less than the Taj Mahal,” he
some outstanding kids,” he says. “A lot
ful park.”
to be basketball players, but they had a
the Century Club. In the athletic schol-
ming team to the school district. “I had
of them didn’t have the size or range
lot of talent as wrestlers and wanted to participate.”
LeProwse taught for 32 years, intro-
T
Coach Clyde Carpenter got in touch
during the Montana
ride to play football for Montana State
starting captain
East-West Shrine game August 23,
1947. He kicked off the football and
with LeProwse and offered him a full
University. “I came to Bozeman, and what an upgrading we got!”
LeProwse was center linebacker for
education board meeting and suggested
tics was created.
Aside from introducing wrestling,
swimming and gymnastics to schools
helped build one of the most beautiful parks in the city. Still, he says his
says. “To live through that bunk house
from 1953-1973, winning 101 games.
All the while, LeProwse was running
a ranch. When he retired in 1984, he
was able to focus more on his custom
haying business. He also stayed active in the community, joining the Boze-
the mall. His name is engraved on the
a wrestling team to Gallatin High
been inducted in five halls of fame. He
He coached at Bozeman High School
experiencing success as a football coach.
track coach at Gallatin High School
bunk house with no running water when
field and from the sidelines. He has
greatest accomplishment was marrying
we went to Fort Benton to start a life.”
in 1953. He immediately introduced
provide students with an athletic outlet
in the Gallatin Valley, LeProwse was
the Optimist Club, he was on the team
They had been living in a one room
LeProwse’s contributions to Boze-
today. He won football games on the
which led to his job as assistant
football and basketball coach and head
against millionaires!”
gymnastics program. As a result, a na-
programs by incorporating LeProwse’s
game, he married his wife Joan. “I took
a shower for her,” he laughs. “After that
and one for my wife. That’s going
man High School athletics continue to
MSU for four years. After graduat-
ing, he was hired as a trainer at MSU
the buckle for best feed lot performance
that schools improve physical education
got the first tackle. He remembers that date exactly because right after that
every year for 37 years. Steer-A-Year is
calf twice,” he says. “I got one for me
tional program for high school gymnas-
om LeProwse was
in Steer-A-Year. He donated a steer
build two high bars, a trampoline, flying
Lund was at a national convention
“Just be happy. Be honest with yourself and plan for your future. Make it fun.”
arship program, LeProwse was involved
now part of the rodeo program. “I won
rings and parallel bars. Principal Hiney
For the Love of the Game
He was part of the Booster Club and
ducing gymnastics as a PE program
at Bozeman High School. He helped
Tom LeProwse:
says. “It turned out to be a very beauti-
his wife. “She could stretch a dollar,” he
and college housing, to have five kids
on a teacher’s salary, and moving into a
ranch when she wasn’t a rancher’s girl…
We overcame obstacles by sticking
together and living within our means.” He also recognizes the importance
man Optimist Club. As a member of
of friendly competition. “(Team
that built Bozeman Ponds Park, next to
emphasize the knowledge of comple-
main picnic pavilion. “When we started
friendships for life. You go on and have
on that project, we were going to make
sports) give an outlet for the kids and
tion,” he says. “Win or lose, you make memories that are forever with you.”
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 27
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 10-3
EXHIBITORS CATERING TO THE LIVES OF THOSE 50+ EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS EVERY 45 MINUTES
FOOD, FUN & MORE
The Commons: 1794 E Baxter Ln, Bozeman, MT 59718
FREE TO THE PUBLIC
28 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
If you have difficulty understanding words clearly over the phone, just fill out this form! You may qualify for free assistive telephone equipment through the
Montana Telecommunications Access Program! 118 North 3rd Street ˜ P.O. Box 638; Livingston, MT 59047
406-222-2531
Remembering Life Beautifully Lived
BOZEMAN LIONS CLUB Drop off your prescription and nonprescription eye glasses and dark glasses, as well as hearing aids and cell phones in the collection boxes at the Bozeman Senior Center, the Manhattan Senior Center, the Three Rivers Senior Citizens Club in Three Forks, and the Gallatin Gateway Community Center
For more information,contact Richard Reiley at 1609373
406-388-7840
The Montana Telecommunications Access Program (MTAP) provides FREE assistive telephone equipment to those who qualify, making it easier to use the phone to do business or keep in touch with family and friends.
Yes, I want to learn more about MTAP!
Equipment available through MTAP includes: • Amplified telephones • Captioned telephones • Loud bell ringers TTYs • Artificial Larynxes • And much, much more!
Return form to: MTAP P. O. Box 4210, Helena, MT 59604
Name: ____________________________________
Address: __________________________________
City: ______________________________________
State: _____________ Zip Code: _______________
Phone: _____________________________________
Visit us on the web at
http://e-clubhouse.org/sites/bozemanmt
For more information just mail us this form or call toll-free 1-800-833-8503
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 29
Hollowtop Senior Citizens Broadway St., Pony, MT • 685-3323 or 685-3494 ■ Serving Harrison, Pony, Norris and surrounding areas ■ Fee: $5 a year. Meals $3.50 members and $5 for guests ■ Dinner served on Wednesdays all year long and on Mondays October – May ■ Lending library and medical equipment
Manhattan Senior Center 102 East Main Street, Manhattan, MT • 284-6501
■ Fee: $10.00 a year ■ Meals: $3.50 over 60 years of age, $6 under 60 ■ Noon meal is served Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday; call Monday – Friday before 10:00 am to reserve a seat ■ Pinochle: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday after lunch Center Hall and kitchen are available for rental. Hall rental $50, kitchen and hall $75. Cleaning deposit of $25 and key deposit $10. Call Susan for more details to reserve the space.
Park County Senior Center
206 South Main Street, Livingston, MT • 333-2276 www.parkcountyseniorcenter.com • Open Monday - Friday 9-5
■ Please call Senior Center for news and events.
Three Rivers Senior Club 19 East Cedar Street, Three Forks • 285-3235 Director: Jean Farnam • 570-0800
■ Club Membership: $10 a year. Must be 50 or older to join. ■ Meals for Members and Nonmembers: $6 for those under 60. Suggested price for those 60 and over: $3.50. Noon meal is served Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays. Make reservations by 8 a.m.; call 406-285-3235 and leave message. ■ Birthday Celebration: Once a month on 2nd or 3rd Thursday. ■ Meals on Wheels delivered to homebound. ■ Pinochle Tuesdays through Thursdays after meal. ■ Extensive lending library of books, videos, jigsaw puzzles. Medical equipment such as walkers, shower seats, crutches, also available; call Jean. For info about the HRDC bus for Three Forks and Willow Creek residents, call Galavan, 406-587-2434.
Menu 5 – Baked Ham
6 – Chicken Parmesan
7 – Beef and Bean Burritos 12 – Soup and Salad 13 – Cod
14 – Spaghetti
19 – Chicken Tenders 20 – Swiss Steak 21 – Pork Roast
26 – Salmon Patties 27 – Roast Beef 28 – Chili
RSVP
Southwest Montana
807 N. Tracy Ave., Bozeman, MT 59715 • 587-5444 Debi Casagranda, Program Coordinator • (dcasagranda@thehrdc.org) 111 South 2nd, Livingston, MT 59047 • 222-2281 Deb Downs, Livingston Program Coordinator (debdowns@rsvpmt.org) www.rsvpmt.org
BOZEMAN: ■ AREA IV AGENCY ON AGING DATA ENTRY: Volunteer needed who is comfortable working on a computer to assist staff in the Bozeman office. This individual will enter records necessary fun funding and increased office efficiency. Experience desired, basic computer skills and able to navigate the internet and type up short paragraphs. ■ AREA IV AGENCY ON AGING RECEPTIONIST: Volunteer receptionist and information clerk to assist staff, need to have experience working with the public and in relaying messages. This individual will empower adults with disabilities, seniors and their families by connecting them with resources and information relevant to their situation. ■ CHILD CARE CONNECTIONS: Volunteer needed for the 3rd Monday of the month for a front desk receptionist from noon to 3:00 pm. ■ AMERICAN RED CROSS: Donor Ambassador needed. This would be someone who greets and assists blood donors at various blood drives. Blood drives can be held at the Bozeman Red Cross center or in the community. At the center the blood drives are on Friday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Looking for a volunteer who can work one or more 4 hour shifts per month, preferably someone who can commit to the same schedule each month. ■ CHILDREN’S MUSEUM STEAMLAB: Volunteers needed for hands on science activities, art projects along with electronic and robotic lab time. Monday-Saturady, 2 hour shifts.
■ MUSEUM OF THE ROCKIES: Docent needed, fall training starts on September 7th. Contact Christina at 994-6611 for a Museum application. LIVINGSTON: ■ BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS: Consider being a positive grandparent role model by being matched up with a child for only a couple hours a week. ■ FOOT CLINIC: is in need of help twice a month helping call patients with reminders of appointments and helping assist nurses with foot care for our seniors. Stafford Animal Shelter: desires gentle compassionate volunteers to socialize and play with the kittens and cats and walk the dogs. 1 hour safety training provided. Come share your love with a joyful animal. They’re always happy to see you arrive. ■ HANDCRAFTERS: If you enjoy the comfort of an old fashioned sewing circle come join us on Thursdays 1-2PM at the Senior Center, making new friends as you work on crocheted or knitted items. Sewers are needed to make simple pillowcases for our soldiers overseas. ■ YELLOWSTONE GATEWAY MUSEUM: Be a part of history with a variety of opportunities that exists in our museum. Make new friends and learn more about our local history. ■ FIX-IT- BRIGADE: Volunteers of all ages and skill levels are needed to help with small home repairs such as mending a fence, or something as simple as changing light bulbs. You will be helping seniors or veterans for a 2 hour or less task on your time schedule.
30 I September 2017 PRIME: 24 OVER 64
Bozeman Senior Center The Bozeman Senior Center will be closed Monday, Sept. 4 for Labor Day. WHAT’S NEW ■ FARMERS MARKET. Senior Fresh Produce Coupon Program – June - September, 2017. The Bozeman Senior Center has a grant again this year to provide lower income seniors, over the age of 60, with $20.00 to $50.00 in coupons to use to purchase fresh produce at the local farmer’s markets! Coupons can be used at the Farmer’s Market at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, or the Tuesday night market at Bogart Park. Coupons can only be used only in Gallatin County. Vouchers available at the Center. If you aren’t able to use them, please return to the Senior Center. ■ WAGON WHEEL RUG WEAVERS is starting!! Each Friday at 9:30 AM, starting Sept 15, learn the art of Round Wagon Wheel rug weaving, as done by the women traveling West by wagons to new territories. Volunteers needed to help roll balls of material, & weave rugs, so they are ready for Fall. Proceeds from the fundraiser & sale of the rugs will support ongoing programs & services at the Senior Center! Call Shannon at 586-2421 for more info. Wagon Wheel Weavers need material! The Weavers are looking for material from the ends of Pendleton blankets and rugs for weaving. ■ LOOKING FOR A FUN PROJECT – WE COULD USE SOME HELP! The bulletin board in the front entry way of the Bozeman Senior Center could use some attention! Anyone that is crafty or has a creative idea, please talk to Faye or Shannon. ■ NEW FOR FALL: Essentials of Tai Chi and Qigong – from October 17 to November 16, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 to 2:15 PM. The exercise reviews the essentials of Tai Chi and Qigong, comprising 24 half-hour DVD sessions. EVENTS ■ Labor Day Dinner – Friday, September 1, 12:00 Noon –Special lunch and dessert to celebrate the holiday!
• 807 North Tracy • (406) 586-2421 • www.bozemanseniorcenter.org Shannon Bondy, shannon@bozemanseniorcenter.org (Executive Director) Associate Director: Deb Earl, deb@bozemanseniorcenter.org Find us on Facebook!
■ Storytelling & Performance Workshop – Friday, September 8 - 1:00 p.m. – The GeriActors starts at 1:00, workshop will discuss the difference between a soliloquy and a monologue, and introduce basics of storytelling as performance. This workshop offers practical exercises and concepts to inspire beginners and experienced writers, storytellers and performers alike. ■ Red Hats – Tuesday, September 12 - 11:30 a.m. - Unknotted – restaurant on Rouse - Enjoy lunch & fun conversation with other gals. Sign-up sheet at the front desk each month. New members welcome! ■ Bring Your Friend to Dinner Day – September 19, 12:00 Noon – Dinner and a Movie - Bring a Friend to Lunch Friend Eats for FREE! ■ Afternoon at the Movies – The Light Between Oceans,– Tuesday, September 19, 1:00 p.m. – A heart-breaking drama about fate, love, moral dilemmas and the lengths to which one couple will go to see their dreams realized. ■ Montana Telecommunications Access Program –September 20, 11:00 -12:00 p.m. – Guest Speaker Barbara Varnum will give an informative presentation about the Montana Telecommunications Access Program. MTAP oversees the Montana Relay program, allowing the Deaf to use telephone services, and offers assistive equipment and services to Montanans with disabilities. ■ AARP Driver Safety Class – Wednesday, September 20, 12:30 p.m. Driver safety class on adjusting to age related changes in vision, hearing and reaction time, aggressive drivers. Your insurance company may offer a discount on insurance rates with attendance. $14/person for members and $16/person for non-members. Call 586-2421 ■ Pancake Supper & Bingo - September 18, 5:30 p.m. – Senior Center dining room and enjoy delicious pancakes and Bingo. Cash prizes! $3.50 for all you can eat. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. ■ First Day of FALL Dinner – Friday, September 22, 12:00 Noon – Wear your favorite jeans and fall colors!
SERVICES ■ Forgetters & Friends: Wednesday, September 13, 1:00pm. ■ Reminiscing / Caregiver Chat Wednesday September 13, 2:00 pm. ■ Computer Assistance with Brenda, Paul, Jay, Mike & Molly. Please call 5862421 to make an appointment. ■ Medical Equipment available for check-out to those 50+. ■ Foot Clinic by appointment only. Mondays & Tuesdays. ■ Free blood pressure checks every Wednesday, 11:30am-1:00pm. ■ Association for the Blind, September 14 - meets 2nd Thursday, 1:30pm. Open to anyone who is visually impaired. HEALTH & EXERCISE Watch for new fall classes starting in October! ■ Mondays: 8:30am Strength Training, 9:00am Gentle Aerobics, 10:00am Core, 10:30am Aerobics Plus, 11:30am Tai Chi for Mind and Balance, 1:00pm Balance, 1:35pm Yoga, 6:00pm Yoga. ■ Tuesdays: 11:30am Yang Tai Chi, 12:30pm Strength Training, 12:452:00pm Tai Chi & Qui Gong video, 4:00pm Sep 26 Couch to 5k. ■ Wednesdays: 8:30am Strength Training, 9:00am Gentle Aerobics, 10:00am Core, 10:30am Aerobics Plus, 1:00pm Balance, 1:30pm Gentle Yoga, 6:00pm Yoga. ■ Thursdays: 11:30am Yang Tai Chi, 12:30pm Strength Training, 4:00pm Sep 28 Couch to 5k. ■ Fridays: 8:30am Strength Training, 9:00am Gentle Aerobics, 10:00am Core, 10:30am Aerobics Plus, 11:30am Tai Chi for Mind and Balance ■ The Hiking Program: Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m. - Throughout the months of June-September, meet us at the Bozeman Senior Center by 8:30am (Tuesday mornings) for a morning (or all day) hike. Carpooling is welcome! A complete itinerary and supply list is available at the center’s front desk or on our website. ■ Walking Program: Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. - Meet Thursdays in September at the Senior Center to carpool to the site. Pick up the seasonal schedule at the BSC front desk; or print from our website
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES ■ Wood Carvers: Mondays, 9:30am ■ Woodworker Shop: open daily to members 8:30am-4:00pm ■ Duplicate Bridge: Mondays, 1:00pm ■ Oil Painting: 1st & 3rd Monday (unless holidays), Sept 11 & 25, 1:00pm ■ Book Club: 2nd Monday, September 11, 10:30 a.m. – September Book: This Is Not the Story You Think It Is: A Season of Unlikely Happiness ■ Creative Writing: Tuesdays, 10:00am ■ Line Dancing: Tuesdays, 10:30am. Beginners, 10:00am ■ Cribbage: Tuesdays, 1:00pm ■ Bingo: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1:00pm ■ Sign Language: Tuesdays, 1:30pm ■ Singing Souls: Tuesdays, 1:30pm ■ Guitar Lessons: Tuesdays, 2:30pm ■ Watercolor Painting: Wednesdays, 9:30am ■ Ukulele Club: Wednesdays, 10:00am ■ Pinochle: Wednesday, & Thursday, at 1:00pm ■ Bridge: Wednesdays & Fridays, 12:45pm ■ Scrabble: Thursdays, 9:30am ■ Canasta: Thursdays, 10:00am ■Wagon Wheel Weavers, Fridays 9:30am ■GeriActors - Reader’s Theater, Fridays, 1:00pm ■Euchre card game: 1st and 3rd Friday, September 1 & 15, 1:00pm NUTRITIONAL SERVICES ■ Congregate Meals at the Senior Center - Monday-Friday, at Noon. ■ Meals-on-Wheels delivered MondayFriday to homebound individuals. ■ Frozen Meals available for pickup at the Senior Center Monday-Friday. ■ FREE Birthday Dinner Celebrations on Wednesdays during the month of your birthday for members – Come in and claim your free lunch! TRAVEL Complete itineraries for all trips are available at the bozeman senior center front desk, and on our website: www.Bozemanseniorcenter.org ONE- & TWO-DAY TRIPS: ■ YELLOWSTONE PARK DAY TRIP: Friday, August 25: Motorcoach to Yellowstone Lake Lodge, lunch and
PRIME: 24 OVER 64 September 2017 I 31
boat ride on Yellowstone Lake included. Cost: $85.00 ■ HISTORICAL HELENA, DAY TRIP: Tuesday, September 19: Tour Capitol Building, the Montana Historical Society, the Cathedral, and the Old Governor’s Mansion. Cost: $59.00 LONGER TRIPS: ■ PANAMA CANAL CRUISE: November 3-17. Ports of call include Cabo San Lucas, Acapulco, Costa Rica and more. ■ TROPICAL COSTA RICA; February 10 - 18, 2018. Enjoy Tamarindo, Monteverde, Arenal Volcano and Cano Negro. ■ GREECE AND ITS ISLANDS; April 9 - 23, 2018: Fly to Athens, Visit Athens, Thermopylai, Kalambaka, and Arachova. Travel along the Gulf of Corinth, on to Mycenae, the Bee Hive Tombs and the Lion Gate. Ferry to Mykonos and Santorini. ■ CRUISE THE INSIDE PASSAGE TO ALASKA: June, 2018. ■ NEW YORK CITY: July, 2018: 5 NITE TRIP, Staying at the Sheraton on Time Square. Two Broadway plays, ferry ride to Ellis Island, tour of N.Y. ■ CRUISING EDUADOR’S GALAPAGOS ISLANDS: September 16-24, 2018: Fly to Quito. Cruise 4 nights on a ship that only holds 34 passengers, seeing all the wonderful animals in their natural habitat. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES ■ Call 586-2421 if you are interested. ■ Meals-on-Wheels is looking for volunteers to deliver meals in Bozeman. ■ Foot Clinic is looking for current or retired nurses to help at our monthly foot clinic service! ■ Second Hand Rose needs volunteers with a truck, SUV, or large vehicle to take surplus donations to other thrift stores. ■ Second Hand Rose Thrift Store: 10am-2pm, MondayFriday. Bring donations 8:30am4:30pm, Monday-Friday.
Menu Mon-Fri at Noon 1 - LABOR DAY DINNER – Fruit, Chef Salad, Bread Stick, Dessert 4 - LABOR DAY – Senior Center closed 5 - Applesauce, Pork Cutlet, Potato Surprise, Steamed Carrots, Dessert 6 - GRANDPARENTS DAY, 3 Bean Salad, Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Broccoli, Dessert 7 - Cranberries, Turkey, Sweet Potatoes & Peas, Pumpkin Bars 8 - Cottage Cheese, Taco Salad, Chips, Dessert 11 - Potato Salad, Burger & Fixins’, Chips, Dessert 12 - Copper Penny Salad, Chow Mein, Rice, Egg Roll, Dessert 13 - Green Salad, Egg Salad Sandwich, Beef Soup, Dessert 14 - Fruit / Cottage Cheese, Chicken Salad, Bread, Dessert 15 - Fruit, Chicken Tenders / Honey Mustard, Sweet Potato Fries, Carrots, Dessert 18 - Fruit, Beef & Noodles, Beans, Dessert 19 - BRING A FRIEND TO DINNER, Broccoli Salad, Burger Steak, Hash Browns, Peas & Carrots, Dessert 20 - Jello with Fruit, Chicken Stir Fry, Sweet Potatoes, Spinach, Dessert 21 - Applesauce, Pork Loin, Red Potatoes, Vegetable Blend, Dessert 22 - Fresh Fruit, Quiche, Dessert 25 - Macaroni Salad, Grilled Turkey & Cheese Sandwich, Dessert 26 – 1ST DAY OF FALL, Carrot Raisin Salad, Ham, Sweet Potatoes, Spinach, Dessert 27 - Pea Salad, Meatloaf, Baked Potato, Vegetable Blend, Dessert 28 – Coleslaw, Baked Cod, Lemon Dill Rice , Broccoli, Dessert 29 – Fruit, Sloppy Joe, Baked Beans, Dessert Please make reservations for lunch so that we can have an adequate amount of food!
Belgrade Senior Center 92 East Cameron Avenue (406) 388-4711 www.belgradeseniorcenter.com Email: belgradesrcntr@bresnan.net Executive Director: Beth Resnick
The Belgrade Senior Center will be closed
Menu Mon – Fri at Noon 1 - Tater Tot Casserole 4 - Labor Day, CLOSED 5 - Spaghetti w/ Meat Sauce 6 - Roast Turkey Dinner 7 - Swedish Meatballs over Rice
Monday, Sept. 4, for
8 - BLT’s w/ Homemade Soup
Labor Day.
11 - Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
EXERCISE: ■ Movement in Motion: 9am MWF ■ Full Body Trim & Tone: 10am Tuesdays ■ Yoga: 9am Tuesdays, 8am Fridays
12 - Quesadillas Spanish Rice 13 - Grilled Ham & Cheese w/ Tomato Soup 14 - Salisbury Steak Rice Pilaf 15 - Roast Pork Smashed Potatoes 18 - Breakfast Surprise
COMMUNITY RESOURCES: ■ Blood Pressure Check: Noon, Sept 14th & 28th ■ ProPhysio Balance Instruction Sept 28th 1:00pm
19 - Chicken Alfredo 20 - “You Asked For It” 21 - Roast Ham Potatoes 22 - Turkey Pot Pie 25 - Bacon Mac & Cheese
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES: ■ Pinochle: 9am Thursdays; 12:30pm Fridays ■ Canasta: 12:30pm Tuesdays ■ Wednesday Bingo: 12:45pm EVENTS: ■ Pancake Breakfast, Sat Sept 16th 7-11am ■ Board Meeting: 1pm, Sept 25th
26 - Beef Stew w/ Biscuits 27 - Curried Chicken Salad on Croissants 28 - Stir Fry Eggrolls 29 - Baked Potato Bar w/ Salad
All Meals Include Roll & Drink,
Veggie & Dessert. Gluten and dairy free items upon request.
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