Yellowstone Ballet Company (YBC) presents The Little Mermaid on Thursday, June 18th 6:30 p.m. at the Willson Auditorium, Bozeman. Kathleen Rakela, YBC Artistic Director and recipient of a prestigious Montana Arts Council Fellowship in the Performing Arts, has created an enchanting multi-media production that will delight all ages, with magical costumes, delightful choreography, and projected ocean images. 

Daniel Parker, former conductor of the Hartford Ballet, composed the compelling score interwoven with moving narration of the Hans Christian Anderson fairytale (not Disney version) by orator Robert Worobec. 

The title role of the Little Mermaid will be danced by Fiona Lee of the world renown Royal Danish Ballet. Ms. Lee started training at the Yellowstone Ballet Academy at age five and danced at the school for nine years. She then received a full scholarship for the School of American Ballet’s (SAB) summer program in New York City and was invited to continue at the school year round. She packed her bags, left her carefree Montana childhood behind and moved to the Big Apple to learn the rigorous Balanchine-style ballet technique.  During the Covid lockdown she auditioned for the Royal Danish Ballet and was accepted into the world famous company.

The role of the “Prince” will be performed by Marko Micov.  Mr. Micov began his ballet education at the State Ballet School in Skopje and was awarded the Special Prize at the International Ballet Competition. In 2011, Micov danced as a guest artist with Croatia Ballet in a co-production with the Madrid Ballet on an international tour in South America. In 2012, he was invited by the legendary Gelsey Kirkland to join her company, where his performances were noticed by major publications, including The New York Times, Huffington Post and Ballet. In 2016, Micov joined Ballet San Antonio where he was promoted to Soloist. He then joined Milwaukee Ballet and received the national award, Menada, for Young Artist of the Year. 

One child goes free with every adult ticket purchase and all children receive a free seashell. After the performance, parents may take pictures of their child with Fiona Lee. The company will supply various costumes such as Little Nemo, jelly fish, gold fish and a starfish.

Reserved seating tickets for The Little Mermaid are $30, $40, $50, $65 and $80. Please do not purchase tickets from third parties who charge more than our box office prices and may sell seats that do not exist. Real priced tickets can only be purchased online at YellowstoneBallet.info  or at the door. For more information or group rates, email yellowstoneballetco@gmail.com.

Sure, social media is in front of people multiple times a day — but are they truly engaged, or simply scrolling to numb their brains?

When someone picks up Bozeman Magazine from a rack at their favorite grocery store, restaurant, hospital, or hotel, it’s an intentional choice. They are choosing to engage with a tangible storytelling publication, one that creates a lasting impression, carries credibility, and offers a far more meaningful experience than a fleeting doom scroll.

Unlike a digital post that disappears in seconds, Bozeman Magazine stays with readers. It moves from countertop to coffee table, nightstand to vehicle, and is referenced again and again over time. Our publication isn’t mailed randomly only to end up in a recycling bin; it is actively sought out by engaged Bozemanites looking for local information, experiences, and community connection.

It also reaches newcomers to the area — people actively searching for businesses, services, and brands they can trust.

If you've been thinking print marketing is no longer an effective method of advertising, please think again. It's the most tangible, sought-after, and trusted form. Sometimes the old-fashioned way is still the best. And, our website isn't bad either; it has all of the print content and more! We also keep up on social media; our channels have over 19,000 followers, and we post daily to stay top of mind and give scrollers interesting local info and event updates.

We are always hearing from readers about how much they love Bozeman Magazine, Bozeman's Choice, and the Food Scene Dining Guide:

“I appreciate your magazine tremendously. Thank you for doing it.” KZ

“All around, just a high quality publication.” – NE

“You rock! Appreciate all your work fostering the community in Bozeman!” – EL

“Thanks for this awesome community resource.” – AM

"Like most people in town, love the magazine!" DT

“Thank you for including our restaurants in the latest Food Scene Dining Guide — there is always a copy in our home, car or both!” – MP

"I have to say I so love the Bozeman magazine, and all of the work and love you guys put into it! My family and I look forward to each new monthly edition, the articles about restaurants to try, learning info about old Bozeman, and so many events in the area. The calendar is so jam packed full of events, so much greatness to check out locally. Thanks for all you do." AB

If you are looking for a way to get in front of an audience that is engaged, excited about new information, and hungry for more, we'd love to be part of your marketing strategy this year! Email us today at info (at) bozemanmagazine.com, or call 406-219-3455. We look forward to hearing from you.

Cover art by John Henry Hasseltine and Javier Moreno. Bozeman Magazine features the art of Montana artists on EVERY cover.

Bozeman-born creator Tyler Johnson has launched a Kickstarter campaign for Goblins & Gunslingers, an independent Wild West fantasy trading card game built around frontier duels, goblin chaos, fantasy factions, and tactical card play.

Goblins & Gunslingers blends the grit of a western with the imagination of fantasy. Players build decks around the strange characters, factions, monsters, magic, and gunslingers of the Wild Frontier, then face off in fast-moving card battles where outlaws, goblins, deputies, beasts, and spell-slingers all collide. The project began as a personal creative experiment and has grown into a larger world spanning physical cards, online play, and a broader tabletop setting.

Johnson, who was born and raised in Bozeman, designed the game as an original Montana-made creative project. The core rules and game systems are already built, and the Kickstarter campaign is focused on funding the next stage of production: final card artwork, physical card printing, packaging, and getting the game into the hands of players.
“I wanted to make something that felt familiar and completely strange at the same time,” Johnson said. “The western genre has this great sense of danger, dust, and frontier myth, and fantasy adds magic, monsters, and weird factions. Goblins & Gunslingers is where those
ideas meet.”

The game is designed for players who enjoy collectible and tactical card games but want a setting that feels different from the usual high fantasy or sci-fi worlds. Instead of castles and knights, Goblins & Gunslingers leans into saloons, sheriffs, bounty hunters, goblin tricksters, frontier towns, and black-powder magic. The result is a weird-west card game world with room for humor, strategy, lore, and big dramatic showdowns.

In addition to the physical card game, Goblins & Gunslingers has an online presence at goblinsandgunslingers.com, where players can learn more about the world, explore the game, and follow development. The project also connects to a broader Wild Frontier setting, giving Johnson room to expand the world beyond a single deck of cards.

The Kickstarter campaign is currently live and invites backers to help bring the first full version of Goblins & Gunslingers to life. Supporters can follow the campaign, pledge, and share the project with tabletop fans, card game players, western enthusiasts, fantasy readers, and anyone interested in seeing an original Bozeman-made game reach production.

For Johnson, the campaign is about more than launching a card game. It is a chance to prove that an independent creator from Bozeman can build a strange, ambitious world and bring it directly to a community of players.

Kickstarter:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/gngtcg/goblins-and-gunslingers-the-wild-west-fantasy-card-game

Website:
https://www.goblinsandgunslingers.com

The Downtown Bozeman Association, Downtown Bozeman art galleries and retailers, and Emerson Center for the Arts and Culture are proud to present the 2026 Downtown Bozeman Art Walk Series. This year’s Art Walks will occur on the 2nd Friday of the month; June through September from 6 to 8 PM, with a special Winter Art Walk in December.

Over 35 participating businesses will feature local artists and often provide hors d’oeuvres and complimentary refreshments to the visiting community members. All business participants and their monthly featured artists will be available on our robust website https://downtownbozeman.org/artwalks - please stay tuned! This go-to guide will be updated frequently throughout the Art Walks season and features a printable map for planning purposes.

Along with supporting this community tradition, our business sponsors help provide live performances by local musicians! A special thank you to Bozeman Daily Chronicle, First Security Bank, KBZK, Outside Bozeman, and 94.7 "The Moose". Look for live performances from local bands and musicians throughout downtown!

Art Walks are open to the public and will take place rain or shine! For more information, please visit https://downtownbozeman.org/artwalks or ring the DBP Office at 406-586-4008.

Nothing captures the festive spirit quite like the warm glow of Christmas lights, transforming your business into a winter wonderland that attracts customers and enhances their shopping experience. But before you dive in, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your display is both captivating and safe.

This guide is tailored to help you navigate the world of commercial Christmas lights, offering insights on design, safety, and maintenance. From choosing the right lights to understanding essential safety practices, we'll cover everything you need to create a stunning display. 

1. Plan Your Design
Ready to make your business shine this holiday season? Start by getting clear on your design. First, understand your space. Take a good look at your building's architectural features and the surrounding environment. This will help you create a cohesive design that complements your space. Next, choose a theme that aligns with your brand. Whether it's a classic red and green or a modern monochrome look, your color scheme should reflect the message you want to convey to your customers. Finally, map out the layout. Sketch where you'll install each type of light to avoid last-minute changes and ensure a seamless setup. 

2. Choose the Right Lights
As a business owner, selecting the ideal Christmas lights can transform your space into a holiday wonderland. Start with commercial-grade LED lights like 5mm, C7, and C9. These are not only energy-efficient but also boast a long lifespan, saving you money in the long run. Learn more.

For a more interactive display, consider RGB and smart lights. These allow you to change colors and patterns, creating a dynamic atmosphere that captivates customers. Additionally, ensure your lights are durable and weather-resistant. Outdoor-rated lights withstand harsh conditions, safeguarding your investment.

3. Safety First
As a business owner, you want your holiday displays to dazzle without the risk of electrical mishaps. Prioritizing safety while installing Christmas lights is essential. Start by securing electrical connections with outdoor-rated extension cords, keeping moisture at bay. To prevent overloading circuits, calculate the total wattage of your lights, ensuring it doesn't exceed the circuit's capacity. This holiday decorating safety tip is a must-follow to avoid potential hazards.

Additionally, using Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets can prevent electrical shocks, adding an extra layer of security to your festive setup. For high-quality options, explore commercial Christmas lights from brands like Christmas Designers. Stay diligent with your safety measures, and your business will shine brightly and safely this holiday season.

4. Installation Essentials
As a business owner, setting up your holiday display can be both exciting and daunting. To start, use clips, hooks, and stakes specifically designed for outdoor lights. These tools will secure your lights safely and maintain a professional appearance. If your display is complex, consider hiring professionals for the installation. They ensure safety and compliance with local regulations, saving you from potential headaches.Don’t forget regular maintenance! Inspect your lights regularly for damage or wear, and promptly replace any faulty bulbs to keep your display shining bright. For more tips on using commercial Christmas lights, check out Christmas Designers.

5. Do's and Don'ts
Decorating your business with Christmas lights can draw in customers and create a festive atmosphere, but it's important to approach the task with a plan and safety in mind. Here are some practical do's and don'ts to guide you:

Do's:
Use LED Lights: They're not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. LED lights consume 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent lighting. Learn more.

Plan Your Layout: A well-thought-out design will streamline the installation process and enhance the overall aesthetic.

Secure Your Setup: Ensure all lights and cords are properly secured to avoid accidents and keep everything looking tidy.

Don'ts:
Avoid Indoor Lights Outdoors: Indoor lights are not built to withstand the elements, which can lead to safety hazards.

Don't Overload Circuits: Overloading can cause power outages or even fires, so keep an eye on electrical loads.

Never Leave Lights On Unattended: This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of fire.For more insights and options, check out commercial Christmas lights from Christmas Designers.

Conclusion
Safety should always be a top priority, so ensure you use outdoor-rated equipment and follow proper installation guidelines. Regular maintenance checks are essential to keep your display running smoothly throughout the season.

For more insights and a wide range of products, check out Christmas Designers. Make your business the highlight of the holiday season by combining creativity with safety and efficiency. Happy decorating!

The intensity of the final weeks before a major election is unlike anything else in the printing world. Orders pour in as candidates realize they need a final boost in visibility to cross the finish line. The pressure is immense and constant.

Factories that usually handle standard commercial work often find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer volume of these sudden requests. It takes a specialized setup to keep up with the demands of thousands of candidates all wanting their materials at the same time.

Successful teams rely on statewide & national campaign fulfillment to navigate the seasonal chaos without missing a single deadline. Having the right infrastructure in place prevents delays that could otherwise derail a promising run for office. This level of reliability is vital for everyone.

Scalable Printing Hardware and Technology

Modern printing technology has evolved to handle massive workloads that were once impossible to manage in a short timeframe. Flatbed UV printers provide the flexibility to print directly onto rigid surfaces with incredible speed and accuracy. This hardware is the backbone of production.

When the order numbers reach into the tens of thousands, high speed screen presses become the most efficient tool for the job. These machines are built for repetition and consistency, ensuring that every board looks identical to the first one off the line

.Scalable manufacturing means having a fleet of machines that can work in parallel to meet a sudden surge in demand. It allows a facility to pivot between small custom orders and massive national rollouts without slowing down. Technology makes this output possible.

Managing the Raw Material Inventory

Raw materials like corrugated plastic and metal stakes are the lifeblood of the industry during the peak season. If a warehouse runs out of these basics, production comes to a complete halt regardless of how many printers are available. Managing inventory requires planning.

Shortages often occur during the busiest months when every printer in the country is looking for the same supplies. A smart partner stocks up well in advance to avoid the price spikes and delays that plague the market. This stability protects the client.

Keeping a steady flow of materials ensures that the factory can remain operational even when the global supply chain faces challenges. It requires strong relationships with vendors and a deep knowledge of the market trends. Reliability starts with having the right supplies now.

Workforce Agility and Shift Management

Machines are only half of the equation when it comes to meeting tight deadlines during a rush. A dedicated workforce that can adapt to changing schedules is what truly keeps a facility running at peak performance. This agility is essential when orders arrive late.

Implementing twenty four seven production schedules allows a factory to maximize its output during the busiest weeks of the cycle. Teams work in shifts to ensure that the presses never stop moving, even in the middle of the night. This dedication wins.

Skilled technicians understand how to maintain the equipment while pushing it to its limits to meet a delivery date. They are the silent heroes who make sure every package is labeled correctly and shipped on time. Human expertise remains the core foundation.

The Rapid Response Manufacturing Model

The landscape of a political race can change in a single day, requiring new messaging almost instantly. A rapid response model allows a team to turn around new designs and get them into the field within forty eight hours. Speed is a advantage.

This process requires a streamlined workflow that connects the design phase directly to the production floor without any friction. Every minute counts when a candidate needs to respond to a new development or an attack from an opponent. Efficiency is the goal.

Having the ability to print and ship new materials on such a short timeline provides a level of flexibility that most campaigns lack. It allows for a dynamic approach to outreach that responds to the actual needs of the voters. Agility saves campaigns.

Partnering for Long Term Campaign Success

Choosing a partner with experience in high volume production is one of the most important decisions a team can make. It provides the peace of mind that the materials will arrive on time and in perfect condition. This reliability is the foundation.

A proven track record in handling the unique stresses of an election cycle is worth the investment. It prevents the costly mistakes that happen when a shop is overwhelmed by the scale of the work. Experience counts when the stakes are high.

Final reflections on the process show that the right infrastructure is a silent partner in any victory. By focusing on capacity and speed, an organization can reach its goals and connect with the community effectively. The right choice makes a difference.

Bozeman's landscape demands to be shared. Whether you're summiting the Bridgers at sunrise, floating the Gallatin River, or catching live music at the Rialto, the moments that define life in the valley are worth preserving. Yet capturing these experiences authentically—without lugging professional equipment or spending hours in post-production—remains a challenge for most residents and visitors alike. The gap between what we see and what we can easily document has narrowed considerably in recent years, thanks to advances in portable camera technology that make high-quality video accessible to anyone willing to learn the basics.

For outdoor enthusiasts and casual documentarians alike, the question isn't whether to capture your adventures, but how to do it in a way that feels natural and unobtrusive. Modern action cameras and smartphone accessories have evolved far beyond the early days of grainy footage and limited angles. Today's tools offer stabilization, versatility, and intelligent features that let you focus on the experience rather than the mechanics of filming. Whether you're documenting a bike camera ride through the valley, a ski run at Bridger Bowl, or a quiet evening at a local brewery, the right equipment can transform how you preserve and share these moments.

The Evolution of Adventure Documentation

A decade ago, capturing quality video during outdoor activities meant choosing between bulky camcorders, limited smartphone footage, or expensive professional setups. Today's landscape is radically different. Compact action cameras have become standard gear for athletes, travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Smartphone accessories designed specifically for video stabilization have made mobile filmmaking accessible to anyone with a phone in their pocket.

This democratization of video technology has changed how communities like Bozeman document themselves. Local climbers, skiers, and mountain bikers now regularly produce content that rivals professionally shot material. The barrier to entry has dropped so significantly that the question is no longer "Can I make quality video?" but rather "What story do I want to tell?"

Choosing the Right Tool for Your Needs

Not every filming situation requires the same equipment. A casual hike demands something different than a technical ski descent or a fast-paced mountain bike ride. Understanding your primary use case helps narrow the field considerably.

For hands-free recording during high-motion activities, compact action cameras excel. They're designed to withstand impact, stabilize footage automatically, and mount securely to helmets, chest harnesses, or handlebars. For those who prefer keeping their smartphone as their primary device, gimbal accessories provide professional-level stabilization without requiring a separate camera system. These tools track movement intelligently and smooth out the jittery footage that typically results from handheld mobile recording.

The choice between dedicated cameras and smartphone accessories often comes down to lifestyle. If you're already carrying your phone everywhere, a stabilization accessory adds minimal bulk. If you're seeking a dedicated device built specifically for rugged environments, an action camera offers durability and specialized features that phones can't match.

Stabilization: The Game Changer

Shaky footage is the most common complaint among amateur videographers. Even slight camera movement becomes obvious when played back, making otherwise compelling moments feel amateurish. Modern stabilization technology has largely solved this problem through a combination of hardware and software.

Optical and electronic stabilization work together to counteract movement. Gimbals use motorized arms to keep the camera level regardless of how you're moving. Software-based stabilization analyzes footage in real time and makes micro-adjustments to smooth out vibration and jerky motion. The result is footage that looks intentional and professional, even when captured during genuinely chaotic moments like mountain biking or skiing.

This stabilization matters especially in Bozeman's terrain. The rough trails of the Bridgers, the variable snow conditions at local ski areas, and the unpredictable nature of outdoor adventure all create movement that would render unstabilized footage unwatchable. With modern stabilization, these challenging environments become opportunities rather than obstacles.

Audio and Perspective: Often Overlooked Elements

Video quality depends on more than just image stabilization. Audio captures the essence of an experience in ways that visuals alone cannot. The sound of wind on a ridge, the roar of the Gallatin River, or the ambient noise of a crowded downtown street all contribute to authentic documentation.

Most built-in camera microphones struggle in outdoor environments. Wind noise becomes overwhelming, and distant sounds disappear. External microphones designed for action cameras or smartphone accessories help capture cleaner audio without adding significant bulk or complexity.

Perspective matters equally. Wide-angle lenses capture expansive landscapes and immersive environments, while narrower focal lengths isolate subjects and create intimacy. Many modern cameras offer multiple lens options or software-based reframing that lets you adjust perspective during editing. This flexibility means you're not locked into a single visual approach when you're out capturing footage.

Editing and Sharing Your Story

Capturing footage is only half the process. Editing transforms raw material into a coherent narrative. Fortunately, modern editing software has become increasingly intuitive. Many cameras and accessories include companion apps that handle basic editing tasks automatically, using AI to identify highlights, synchronize audio, and apply transitions.

For those willing to invest more time, dedicated editing platforms offer granular control over every aspect of your footage. Color grading, sound mixing, and precise timing all become possible with relatively modest learning curves. The Bozeman community has embraced content creation enthusiastically, with local creators regularly sharing polished videos across social media platforms.

The key is recognizing that editing doesn't require professional expertise. Simple cuts, basic color correction, and thoughtful pacing can transform ordinary footage into something genuinely compelling. Many of Bozeman's most engaging local content comes from residents who've invested minimal time in learning editing fundamentals.

Building a Documentation Practice

The most successful content creators treat documentation as a habit rather than a special project. Carrying a camera or stabilization accessory becomes as routine as bringing water on a hike. This consistency builds skill naturally and ensures you're never caught without the ability to capture unexpected moments.

Start with simple projects. Document a familiar trail, a favorite restaurant, or a local event. Review your footage critically and identify what worked and what didn't. Gradually expand your ambitions as your comfort with the equipment grows. The learning curve is far less steep than it appears from the outside.

Bozeman's community thrives on authentic storytelling. Whether you're documenting personal adventures or contributing to the broader conversation about life in the valley, your perspective matters. The tools to share that perspective have never been more accessible.

Conclusion

Documenting life in Bozeman no longer requires expensive equipment or specialized expertise. Modern camera technology and stabilization tools have made quality video accessible to anyone willing to learn the basics. The mountains, rivers, and vibrant community around us deserve to be captured and shared. Your unique perspective on this place, preserved through thoughtful documentation, contributes to the ongoing story of what makes the valley special. Start simple, practice consistently, and let your adventures speak for themselves.