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Flathead Valley City liFestyle™

LIFESTYLE LETTER

January Reset

January 2026 PUBLISHER

For the last three years, I have jotted down “learn to sew” as one of my New Year’s resolutions. And at the end of each year, I look back through my tattered notebook and see that unaccomplished goal glaring back at me. My focus goes straight to that empty box with no check mark in it. Once again, I have allowed 365 days to pass without even touching the “Ready Set Sew” book that sits on my coffee table. While it can be easier to focus on our shortcomings, especially in a world of comparison, I must remind myself that I do have accomplishments to celebrate, and while they may be minor, they are mine. This year, I learned to make biscuits, taught my toddler the ABCs, and finally put my iPhone pictures onto a hard drive. Of course, none of these were on my bucket list for 2025, because they seemed so small compared to my “big goals.” (Did I really think I’d be able to volunteer on a weekly basis as a mom to two toddlers?!) But as I reflect back on the year, I see that braving the mundane is the cornerstone of those loftier goals. It is exactly the easily overlooked moments, the showing up when it is uncomfortable, that make up the everyday. As I look out over the fresh snow blanketing the earth, I am reminded that January is not a time to romanticize the impossible, but to prioritize the achievable—those small wins. Going for a walk when it's cold, taking a deep breath when someone cuts you off, and refusing an impulse purchase while waiting in line at the grocery store. As a famous philosopher once said, “Your thoughts become your words; your words become your actions; your actions become your habits; your habits become your character; your character becomes your destiny.” We can’t do it all, (though sometimes we’re made to feel like we can or should) and rather than be bogged down by the weight of possibility when it comes to New Year’s resolutions, I choose to remember the joy I have in the humdrum of life. And if I happen to learn to sew this year, that’s just the cherry on top.

S U M M E R Z A L E S K Y, E D I T O R @ F L AT H E A D VA L L E Y C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

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Summer Zalesky Summer.Zalesky@CityLifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R

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Glacier Nordic Club, Hope Kauffman Photography, New Moon Doula Photo, Porsche Jean Photography CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sydney Ludden, Kelsie Ring, Julie Schnieders, Susie Wall, Summer Zalesky

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inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 6 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

20 26

Featured

14 20 26

Hands on Healing

Individualized healthcare at Physio Whitefish.

Be a Big, Love a Little

Big Brothers Big Sisters and the power of a mentor.

Three Minutes of Sacrifice

The Frozen Chosen's fellowship of benefactors.

On the Cover

Departments

The Frozen Chosen showcases the epitome of optimal health in the Flathead by bringing together the community, creating opportunities for veterans, and doing hard things TOGETHER, such as jumping into an icy lake!

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Spa Day BEAUTY

Expert Help BEAUTY

Skin Care BEAUTY

Giving Back HEALTH + WELLNESS

Get Active SPORTS + RECREATION

Healthy Lifestyle HEALTH + WELLNESS

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Events

Photography: Summer Zalesky

SECURE WHAT MATTERS MOST

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JANUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

AMBER LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

JOURNEY MORE

AMBER LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

1: Elysian Institute offers cold plunge, infrared sauna, cryotherapy, Montana’s only Frost Locker, and more. 2: The ribbon cutting at the grand opening of Elysian Institute. 3: Nancy and Doug Mahlum, owners of Elysian Institute 4: The pool house at the Overlook at Flathead Lake 6: Luxury lodging at the Overlook 7: The Overlook at Flathead Lake wedding venue

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JANUARY 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

ISO Writers We are hiring writers who have a heart for the Flathead Valley and an ear for a good story. If you love talking to people, learning about their lives, and want the opportunity to share those stories with the community, we want you on our team. Prior experience in AP style is preferred but not required. Send writing examples to Summer.Zalesky@CityLifestyle.com.

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Whitefish Disco Skate A continued labor of love has kept the Whitefish Disco Skate open for the thirdyear running. This free community event takes place every Saturday evening (weather permitting) and will get you outside and moving in the cold of winter. WhitefishDiscoSkate.com

Northern Roots Chiropractic Looking to reclaim your health this year? Northern Roots Chiropractic is offering a new patient special that includes a consultation exam, x-rays, and a personalized care plan. Call or email today! NorthernRootsChiro.com

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NUR T UR ING YOUR INNE R GL OW THE MIND, BODY, AND SOUL CONNECTION OF SKINCARE AT WELLNESS BAHR

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY LUDDEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY PORSCHE JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY

S PA DAY | BEAUTY

Rebecca Bahr didn’t set out to open just another beauty bar. She moved to Montana from Georgia to care for her father-in-law during his battle with prostate cancer, taking shifts with her mother-in-law through chemo treatments and the difficult days that followed. It was during this time that Rebecca enrolled in aesthetics school, watching how skin conditions emerged alongside cancer treatment—the lymphatic buildup, the sensitivity, the changes that came with each round of chemo and radiation.

“I wanted to focus on that,” Rebecca shared. She completed training in oncology aesthetics, partnered with Bryght (an oncology-safe skincare line), and in 2021 opened The Wellness Bahr to help people in the Flathead Valley undergoing treatment. “This has always been a place to come and relax and get treatments,” she said. “But now we’ve expanded to treating all kinds of people.” Today, The Wellness Bahr sits in Kalispell’s medical district, just down from the hospital, offering everything from custom facials and massage, to acupuncture and waxing. But what sets this practice apart isn’t just the breadth of services—it’s the approach. “We focus on holistic care, which begins with understanding skin at a cellular level,” Rebecca explained. Most clients come in looking to fix something like hyperpigmentation, melasma, cystic acne, or a compromised skin barrier. The process always starts the same way: a 30-minute deep consultation. “It’s not just going to be about your skin but also your lifestyle, stress, and work. What are you doing to pour back into yourself?” Rebecca asked. “We believe there is a mind, body, soul connection.” Take the client who came in struggling with cystic acne. She’d been to the gym regularly, used whey protein, had tried Accutane in the past, but the acne returned. She was ready for a holistic approach. Rebecca and her team asked where the acne was happening and why. They created a protocol: weekly facials, nurturing products, supplements, and stress management. Today, that client is 85 to 95 percent clear and moving into phase two, which focuses on resurfacing the skin and addressing scarring. “We really take the time to explain why the condition is happening, how long it will take to heal, and support them all the way through,” Rebecca said. There’s a phased protocol here, not just one treatment at a time.

What began as a one-woman practice has grown into a team of seven, including a general practice doctor who often suggests complementary wellness services for her patients. Rebecca doesn’t see herself as a manager but as part of the team. She treats patients daily, specializing in acne, hyperpigmentation, and compromised skin barriers, and spends the other half of her time supporting what the rest of the team needs. “I don’t feel like just because my name is on the building, I’m the priority,” she said. Her advice for winter wellness? Protect your skin. Cracked skin is one of the leading ways infection enters the body, so wear lotion and gloves. Use a sun lamp to support your circadian rhythm through Montana’s darker months. And most importantly, take time for your overall wellness. “It’s not just aesthetics,” Rebecca reminded me. “Are you feeding your soul? Are you feeding your mind? It all ripples into each other.” Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s one of the highest forms of responsibility. You become a better spouse, friend, and community member when you do. “We love giving people confidence in their skin,” Rebecca said, “but we really love nurturing their inner glow. That’s why we call it the Wellness Bahr.”

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FL ATH E A DVA L L E Y

ARTICLE BY SYDNEY LUDDEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEW MOON DOULA PHOTO

Hands on Healing Individualized healthcare at Physio Whitefish Devin Harms was in her twenties, shortly out of grad school, and found herself working as a physical therapy clinic director in San Francisco. “I didn’t know a thing about management, but I ended up managing 10 people and learned a ton about marketing, finances, and running a business,” she says. “But I got overwhelmed.” She ended up seeing way too many patients a day and running herself ragged, so she started her own practice in 2007. When she met her now-husband and moved to Montana in 2014, she brought that entrepreneurial spirit with her, opening a solo practice in Whitefish. The journey since then has been one of growth, learning, and ultimately, simplification. “I remember my dad telling me, ‘Stick with what you know,’” Devin shares. After experimenting with wellness center concepts and independent contractors, she restructured Physio Whitefish in 2022 with the help of Nicole Macaluso, PT, DPT, CMPT, OCS, whom she now considers her COO. They built a full-time staff, let go of what wasn’t working, and returned to what Devin does best: quality physical therapy in a space designed for healing. Today, Physio Whitefish is Devin’s dream business—a thriving practice with seven therapists, three support staff, and a culture built on balance and quality care. “I want to

EXP E RT H E LP | BEAUTY

give people a space to work where they feel well cared for and appreciated,” she shares. “I’m about patient care, quality care, and a healthy balance for my staff. I don’t want them to burn out or myself to burn out.” What sets Physio apart is time and touch. Everyone gets a full hour with a physical therapist—all hands-on manual therapy, no rotating through aides or machines. The team specializes in everything from neurological issues (spinal cord injury, Parkinson’s, vertigo) to sports injuries and ACL rehab. Four therapists offer dry needling with STEM. Nicole and Kirby Ahlstrom focus on pelvic health. Devin, PT, DPT, Cert. DN, Kate Brady, and Bryan Michel all specialize in manual therapy. Kim Givler is their neuro specialist, and Kenny Carpenter is the sports guy, doing amazing work with high-level athletes. It’s the whole team that makes the dream. “We cater to the individual,” Devin explains. “What works for someone doesn’t work for everyone. For me, it’s nice to have someone come in and feel like it’s a challenge—it’s fun to figure out the mystery of the body.” But beyond the technical skills, there’s something else happening at Physio. The space doesn’t feel clinical. “I want people to feel comfortable and be able to let down their guard,” she says. “It is imperative

" I want to give people a space to work where they feel well cared for and appreciated."

that our patients feel as though they are walking into a soothing climate where they feel safe enough to release tension, share their story, and trust their therapist.” Physical therapy, after all, involves more than just treating the body. “As soon as you touch someone’s body, they open up, and there is an opportunity to connect with them. It’s almost impossible not to become friends with some of your clients. It’s a healing thing to have someone

carry you through the healing process—it’s both physical and it can be mental and emotional.” Her advice in the depths of ski season? Don’t wait. “It’s easier to work on an acute injury than a chronic one. People generally wait way too long. Don’t ignore little things—they often turn into big things.” We only have this one body, after all. Let’s give it the attention it deserves. JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FL ATH E A DVA L L E Y

MORE THAN ARTICLE BY SYDNEY LUDDEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOPE KAUFFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Skin

DEEP

Covet: the one-stop shop for beauty When Ashley Nicole Edmisten opened Covet Beauty in 2019, she was stepping into something entirely new. After 15 years in law enforcement, she was ready for a different kind of challenge—one that combined her interest in wellness and beauty with her vision of creating something more than a traditional salon. “I wanted to push the boundaries,” Ashley shared. “A one-stop shop for all things beauty.” And she’s done exactly that. Today, Covet offers hair, skincare, bridal services, and as of November 2025, a wellness component that’s redefining what it means to feel your best. As the business grew over the first few years, so did the space and they expanded next door to create a 5,000-square-foot studio. But Ashley wasn’t interested in simply adding services or hiring independent contractors. When it came to medical aesthetics, she wanted to do something different. “When you own a business by yourself, you’re the person who does everything,” she said. “But I thought, instead of hiring a nurse, why not partner with a nurse who loves our brand and build it together?” Enter Jen Bailey, RN, BSN, CPN—Ashley’s friend of over 10 years and a longtime Covet client. At the time, Jen was working as a pediatric nurse in the hospital and had been considering a move into aesthetics. “Within a week of that conversation, we had a business model built out,” Ashley recalled. That was July 2023. Two and a half years later, Covet Skin has five team members and a reputation for natural, regenerative aesthetics. Now, there’s Covet Wellness.

S KIN CA R E | BEAUTY

Launched during Ladies Night Out in Whitefish, this newest offering focuses on hormone replacement therapy and weight optimization. But Ashley is quick to clarify: “We’re not your place to come and get skinny. We want to help women not only feel their best but also gain control of their overall well-being.” Under the care of lead nurse practitioner Sarah Berg, DNP, FNP-C, clients receive a comprehensive evaluation and fasted lab panel to uncover what’s impacting their hormones and vitality. From there, a customized treatment plan unfolds—a one-year wellness program that considers supplements, lifestyle adjustments, and everything in between. “We understand some women want to lose weight,” Ashley said, “but that’s not what wellness is all about. We want to help you uncover what’s going on in your body to make you feel the best for the long term.” What sets Covet apart isn’t just the breadth of services, which include everything from tox and PRF to laser, microneedling, and acne consultations. It’s the culture. When Ashley and Jen build their team, they take their time. “We consider, do we want to have dinner, go for a walk, or take a gym class with this person?” Ashley explained. “You’re with your team more hours in the day than your family, so it matters.” And it shows. The team at Covet is bright, energetic, and empathetic. “We choose people who care about people,” Ashley said. At Covet, wellness isn’t just about what happens on the surface. It’s about feeling confident, healthy, and wholly yourself.

"We want to help women not only feel their best but also gain control of their overall well-being."

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FL ATH E A DVA L L E Y

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Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you? Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FL ATH E A DVA L L E Y

Be a Big, Love a Little Big Brothers Big Sisters and the power of a mentor Many people face the question, “Who is your role model?” at least once in their lives. From a young age, humans crave mentorship and people to be inspired by. In the digital age of social media influencers and increased screen time, people are in need more than ever of simple human connection. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Montana is working to provide children and young adults with just that: connection. Executive Director Danielle Kelly looks over the NW Montana division of the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization. This encompasses the Flathead Valley, Missoula, and surrounding areas. Big Brothers Big Sisters operates by matching up an adult with a child seeking mentorship, thus creating the core of their foundation. The adult represents a Big Brother or Sister, and the child or young adult represents the Little seeking a mentor. Many Littles have Adverse Childhood Experiences, also known as ACE. This is an experience that could potentially have negative short and long-term effects on their development. The positive effects of a mentor in their life showcase many statistical improvements to better mental health and overall well-being.

ARTICLE BY KELSIE RING PHOTOGRAPHY BY PORSCHE JEAN PHOTOGRAPHY

G IV IN G BAC K | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

The organization has two different ways to be involved: community-based or the school-based program. The community program allows Bigs to connect with their Littles for two to four hours throughout the week. This program involves more parent or guardian involvement with the planning and approval of activities in the area. The school-based program gives a Big an hour once per week to connect with their Little at the school where he or she attends. Both programs require a one-year minimum commitment to ensure the consistency and growth of the relationship. The Big Brothers Big Sisters team goes through a detailed process—an intensive background check and questionnaire—to help benefit the compatibility of each match.

“Many Bigs who volunteer say, ‘I learned more from my Little than I think my Little learned from me,’” Danielle said. That is certainly the case for pair Emily and her Little Autumn. Emily is 23 and Autumn is 12, and the two have been paired up for almost a year. Emily spends her days working in business operations for several different companies in the valley while also enjoying her time outdoors. Autumn enjoys art class at school and spends lots of time painting and drawing in her free time. Both girls love being creative and adventurous. “Autumn is just about the most considerate and loving person I have ever met. The second I met her, she ran up and gave me a hug. It’s been joy and happiness ever since,” said Emily. The two giggled throughout the interview, chatting together and reminiscing on their memories of the waterpark, pizza nights, and going through moments both good and bad. Emily emphasized how special it was to support Autumn through all seasons of life. Their conversation was filled with advice, laughter, and fond memories. “As an adult with responsibilities, you take things for granted,” Emily started. “But when you spend time with Autumn, it becomes so much more joyful, and you realize how blessed you are.” When Autumn was asked what she liked about Emily, she said all she needed to in these simple words. “She’s the best,” she exclaimed. The two showcase the true beauty behind the Big Brothers Big Sisters mission: a positive role model to count on, to laugh with, and experience the highs and lows of life. Emily and Autumn show how an afternoon hanging out at the park can change the wellbeing of children and adults alike.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FL ATH E A DVA L L E Y

SNOW

S t e wa r d s h i p How Glacier Nordic Club is keeping skiing sustainable and accessible

ARTICLE BY SUSIE WALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GLACIER NORDIC CLUB

G E T ACT IV E | SP O RTS + R E CRE AT ION

Few outdoor experiences in the Flathead Valley can compare to gliding across a glistening blanket of snow on a peaceful winter day, the only sound coming from the swish of your skies and the sound of your breath. The dedicated folks of the Glacier Nordic Club have a passion for cross-country skiing experiences like this and make it their goal to spread their love of this sport throughout the Flathead Valley. The Glacier Nordic Club has been in existence for over 40 years. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, their mission is to promote and inspire a life-long love of cross-country skiing by introducing the sport to newcomers, encouraging friendships among cross-country skiers, and providing cross-country skiing programs to the community. Whether you have never strapped on a pair of skis, or you are just biding your time until the Olympics come calling, the Glacier Nordic Club is here to support you. Jennie Bender is Executive Director of the club. She is the only full-time, year-round employee, but a robust group of part-timers from trail groomers to coaches to administrative staff, as well as volunteers, keep the club active in the community throughout the year through three main branches of operation. The first branch entails grooming and maintaining trails. “Grooming basically means that we flatten a track and make sure it’s ready for skiers,” says Jennie. They groom up to 67 kilometers (around 41 miles) of trail across four locations. Jennie says, “A lot of people think the city is responsible for the grooming and maintenance of these trails, but we do it all.” The second branch revolves around the Glacier Nordic Center. Check in at the center to purchase a pass to ski at the golf course, rent skis and other equipment if you do not have your own, get your skies waxed, and take lessons run by club members. “If you’re in town and you want to go skiing, come on by,” says Jennie.

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/FL ATH E A DVA L L E Y

The third branch of operations is a particular passion for the club’s members, which involves producing a new generation of cross-country skiers. “If you can learn a sport when you’re young, then you can always go back to it,” says Jennie. “We hope to just get kids out in the snow, learning body mechanics, gaining balance and strength, and just fostering the ability to push through challenging things.” In addition to helping maintain a ski loop at Muldown Elementary School in Whitefish, the club offers several programs for youth in the community. “We’ve got programs for over 250 kids,” says Jennie. “We want kids to find a relationship with physical fitness, and if you find something you enjoy that’s fun, even better.” It should be noted that cross-country skiing is also a fairly inexpensive sport for children to get into compared with some other youth sports programs. The Chet Hope Youth League helps kids ages 4 to 10 years learn to ski and improve their skills. The Youth Laser Biathlon Program partners with the U.S. Biathlon Association to help kids and teens prepare for this challenging sport that combines cross-country skiing and shooting, in this case using biathlon rifles that “shoot” a laser beam. The list goes on, ranging from

G L A C I E R N O R D I C C LU B | @ G L AC I E R N O R D I C C L U B To become a member, volunteer your time for club events, donate, view the calendar of events, or to learn more about Glacier Nordic Club’s youth programs, visit GlacierNordicClub.org or check out their Instagram page @GlacierNordicClub.

G E T ACT IV E | SP O RTS + R E CRE AT ION

“ We w a n t kids to find a rel at ion ship with physical fitness, and if you find something you enjoy that’s fun , e v e n b e t t e r.” lessons for kids that have never been on skis to clinics that help more experienced youngsters improve their technique. Adults can also take advantage of Glacier Nordic Club’s efforts. Beginning cross-country skiers will benefit from private and group lessons taught by experienced instructors that cover both classic and skate skiing. In an effort to never stop learning, intermediate skiers will benefit from clinics that delve into specific techniques such as navigating hills and perfecting your glide. Starting and perfecting any new physical activity can be daunting, and cross-country skiing is no different. Jennie has some guidance for those who may be hesitant, or even scared, to get into the sport. “I hear people say ‘Oh, I tried it once and I fell so I hate it,’ or ‘It’s too cold,’” Jennie says. “Like any activity, it’s important to set yourself up for success. Technique and good gear go a long way. I always suggest everyone just take one lesson. And once you get on enough gear and start moving, you’re going to warm up.” Those who do invest a little time and money will not be disappointed as the physical and mental benefits reaped from cross-country skiing are abundant. Not only is it a great workout, but let’s face it, we all need a little motivation to get outside during a Montana winter. “Even if you can only go out a few times in the winter, I guarantee you will be stronger at whatever else you are doing,” Jennie says. “It starts at just being okay with challenging yourself and straying a little out of your comfort zone.”

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ARTICLE BY JULIE SCHNIEDERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE FROZEN CHOSEN

THREE MINUTES OF

Sacrifice THE FROZEN CHOSEN'S FELLOWSHIP OF BENEFACTORS

In the winter months, participants of the nonprofit The Frozen Chosen do the unthinkable. They go to icy lakes, steam rising, as they prepare to plunge into the cold. Outsiders think it’s madness, but to the dedicated, it’s a ritual of resilience and camaraderie. For the Frozen Chosen, it’s more than just a shock to the system–it’s a daily reminder of strength, community, and giving back to others. The Frozen Chosen took flight in January 2023 after Luke Opp, who is a Marine, realized that he desired to help other veterans and bring them together through an unforeseen outlet called cold plunging. His faith has led him throughout his life and he is fortunate to pay it forward through this venture. While cold plunging on Flathead Lake, Opp and his friends came up with the name the Frozen Chosen, a nod to the Battle of Chosin, a brutal battle in freezing weather during the Korean War. “It’s a play on the battle of Chosin. Three minutes of sacrifice. It’s a test. We have created a culture of camaraderie. If someone comes to me, I will say let’s go! If someone says they can’t do it, we coach them and assist them with their breathing,” Opp said. Cold plunge participant and personal trainer Heidi Rendina raved about her experience taking the plunge one cold morning in winter. “It was a great experience. Some people were newbies. People who were experienced encouraged others to do hard things. Camaraderie, coming together early in the morning, and great fellowship,” Rendina said. Cold plunges, once a fringe wellness trend, is now backed by growing research showing benefits ranging from improved mental clarity to reduced inflammation, less muscle soreness and faster recovery. Some studies suggest cold plunges may also reduce symptoms of mild depression and improve sleep, which may help some veterans.

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“It’s a play on the battle of Chosin. Three minutes of sacrifice. It’s a test. We have created a culture of camaraderie.” Many veterans also struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Cold plunging has been beneficial for both. Cold exposure activates the vagus nerve which, over time, helps the body to shift out of high-stress states to more calm states, improving the vagal tone. It helps people with TBIs to limit secondary brain injuries. Cold exposure stimulates the vagus nerve, improving parasympathetic balance, and leading to sharper focus and reduced fatigue. The Frozen Chosen not only helps build camaraderie and encourages healthy practices like cold plunging, it also provides funds for military families struggling financially. When Opp first started the nonprofit, he had hoped to offer a tank of gas or a free meal. Now Opp, who is a general contractor, is remodeling the home of U.S. Marine Warren Childs to make it ADA compliant. In 2009, Childs was left with a severe concussion injury after an incident during the Afghanistan War. The Childs Family has benefitted from the generosity and outreach of the Frozen Chosen through funds raised by the 4 Miles to Freedom Fun Run, an event put on by the Frozen Chosen and hosted by Happy’s Inn in Libby. Opp even provided a mobile cold plunge to the event for use after the run. The Childs family have been involved with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) especially in opening up their home to families in need when a suicide or other traumatic events occur.

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“It’s been a humbling blessing to be on the receiving end,” Christine Childs said, who is Warren’s wife. The 4 Miles to Freedom Fun Run took place July 6, 2025 and raised more than $50,000 for the Childs remodel. Tunnel to Towers, a foundation that supports first responders, military heroes, and homeless veterans, has also contributed to the Childs home renovation. Christine highlighted the safety that would come from the remodel, as well as the peace of mind that it would give Warren and his family. “We don’t have a bathroom that is safe if his body gives out on him,” Christine said. With the addition of a new ADA compliant bathroom, Opp is building a new office for Childs to regroup and have time away from his busy household of four children. When completed, the whole house will be ADA compliant. The remodel, which began in October 2024, is scheduled to be finished by April 2026. Opp extended an invite for the public to participate in July’s 4 Miles to Freedom Fun Run at Happy’s Inn as well as their daily cold plunges which take place before sunrise at Wayfarers State Park in Bigfork. Currently, Opp and his all-volunteer board are looking for referrals for the next veteran they can help when the Childs remodel is finished. For more information or to send a donation go to TheFrozenChosen.com.

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BIÈRE D'ÉPINETTE ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUMMER ZALESKY

Pine soda: an all-natural alternative to Sprite

Somewhere in the depths of my memory, I recall the Boxcar Children sleeping on a bed of pine needles. Now that doesn’t exactly sound comfortable to me. Have you ever touched a pine tree? But I recently made the acquaintance of the Western White Pine, a tree whose soft needles may just convince you to cozy up around its trunk. This elusive tree inhabits the Pacific Northwest, and if you happen upon one, you must try your hand at a most advantageous winter refreshment. It goes by many names. Pine needle soda. Spruce beer. Or—my favorite because it makes me sound fancy— bière d’épinette. But a rose by any other name IS just as sweet (and just as healthful), for the drink contains four to five times the amount of vitamin C as orange juice. The drink has a flavor profile similar to Sprite, with notes of citrus and mint. Long ago, Native Americans used the needles as a way to cure scurvy in the cold winter months. Today herbalists use pine needles for their antibacterial and pain-relieving properties. The most identifiable mark of the Western White Pine is its banana shaped pinecones. Also look for soft needles in bunches of five and long white serrations in the needles. Ponderosa pine, Lodgepole pine, Norfolk Island Pine, and Yews should not be used as these are toxic.

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DIRECTIONS: Rinse your foraged pine needles in water. Cut off the hard stem part and add the sweetener and needles to a bottle or mason jar. Leave one or two inches of headspace at the top to allow for pressure build-up. Close the lid and shake to distribute the sweetener evenly. Leave the jar on your kitchen counter for two to three days to allow fermentation. Do not let it sit for longer than three days as the pressure will begin to build up. Strain the needles and serve with a squeeze of lemon or lime.

PINE SODA: INGREDIENTS: • 1 ½ cup filtered water • 1 cup pine needles • 2 tablespoons of sweetener (honey, sugar, or maple syrup)

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JANUARY 2026

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S

JANUARY 1ST

Polar Plunge at the Raven 15321 Montana Hwy 35, Bigfork 2:00 PM Every year, hundreds of people gather on the frozen shores of Flathead Lake to start the year off right - with a cold plunge! Bring a friend, dive in, and afterwards, grab a hot drink at the nearby restaurants to warm up! JANUARY 2ND

Brash Rodeo Winter Series 3630 US-93, Kalispell | 7:00 PM Rodeo isn’t just a summer sport for us Montanans. Chase away the January gloom by participating in one of Montana’s longest traditions: cowboys and cowgirls roping and wrangling. JANUARY 8TH

Open Mic Night at the Rendezvous

Markets available nationwide Learn more at future.citylifestyle.com

EVE N TS

810 1st Ave W, Columbia Falls 5:30 PM If you’re feeling cooped up and need a space to practice your creativity, Rendezvous’ open mic night is your best bet! All talents are welcome. Whether you’re a poet, comedian, storyteller, musician or singer, come share your gifts!

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GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK

JANUARY 17TH & 18TH

West Side Story in Concert Wachholz College Center | 7:30 & 3:00 PM Alpine Theatre Project and Glacier Symphony have teamed up to celebrate the 68th anniversary of the masterpiece West Side Story. This symphonic performance gets to the heart of the music while nationally acclaimed performers bring the tale to life. The performance will happen Saturday January 17 and Sunday January 18. To buy tickets, go to WachholzCollegeCenter.org. JANUARY 24 TH

Hack Your Health: Eat Like a Regenivore Natural Grocers | 11:00 AM

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A regenivore is a person who eats in a way that supports the soil, the planet, their health, and the local economy. With a degree in Food and Nutrition from Montana State University, Erik Buck will open your eyes to the power of eating with this type of regenerative mindset. JANUARY 3 0 TH

Cross Country Ski Under the Stars at Blacktail Mountain Blacktail XC Ski Trailhead | 6:00 PM Wild Montana is a statewide non-profit that aims to protect wildlife, waters, and public land through education. Through this moderately difficult trail, see Montana in a new light, or rather, in the dark. Let the stars illuminate your path as you take in the crisp winter air. To register, go to WildMontana.org/Events.

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