A native of Lambertville, Michigan, Isabella LaFreniere trained at Toledo Ballet, Northeast Academy of Dance, the Joffrey Academy of Dance, and the School of American Ballet, where she studied on full scholarship and received the Mae L. Wein Award for Outstanding Promise. She joined New York City Ballet in 2014, was promoted to soloist in 2022, and principal dancer in 2023. Her repertoire includes principal roles in works by George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, Justin Peck, Christopher Wheeldon, and others, as well as originating roles in new ballets by leading contemporary choreographers.

Ryan Tomash was born in Toronto, Ontario. He began his ballet training at age 10 at Canada’s National Ballet School under Sergiu Stefanschi, Alexander Gorbatsevich, Raymond Smith, and Ana Jojic. In 2017, Tomashjoined the Royal Danish Ballet as a member of the corps de ballet, becoming a Soloist in 2021 and a Principal Dancer in 2022. Tomash originated the role of Romeo in the world premiere of Iñaki Urlezaga’s Romeo and Juliet at Teatro Argentina in 2023, and he has also performed as a guest artist with Tivoli Ballet and Hamburg Ballet. In August 2025, Tomash joined NYCB as a Soloist.

Joining MBC, LaFreniere, and Tomash is the Bozeman Symphony, conducted by Norman Huynh.

Norman Huynh is Music Director of the Bozeman Symphony and the Britt Music & Arts Festival in Oregon. He has earned widespread acclaim for his natural musicality, technical command, dynamic presence on the podium, imaginative programming, and ability to connect with new audiences. Huynh has guest-conducted many of North America’s leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, San Diego Symphony, Seattle Symphony, Minnesota Orchestra, Oregon Symphony, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, among others.

In addition, MBC has expanded its collaboration within the Bozeman arts community to include Genevieve Trygstad-Burke, Co-Founder and Executive Artistic Director of Raison D’être Dance Project and Development Director of Opera Montana, and Riley O'Toole, Associate Artistic Director of Montana Shakespeare in the Parks.

The tale of Sleeping Beauty, known for its enchanting storyline and timeless appeal, has captivated audiences for generations. Through its rich symbolism, memorable characters, and enduring themes of hope and destiny, Sleeping Beauty continues to resonate with viewers of all ages, securing its place as one of the most cherished ballets.

Sleeping Beauty will run for three performances, Saturday, March 7 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 8 at 2 p.m.

---------- Sleeping Beauty Special Events ---------

Step into a world where fairytales come to life. MBC’s Spellbound Masquerade Ball is an enchanting evening supporting MBC ~ where elegant attire, ornate masks, and imagination reign and the arts are celebrated in their most magical form.

The evening’s events will include a Bozeman Symphony live string quartet; Arial dancers from Mountain Air Dance; photo opportunities with Montana Raptor Center Ambassadors, Bu the Great Horned Owl, and Chaco, a Swainson’s Hawk; ballroom dancing with instruction by MBC Company Dancers; a live and silent auction; paddle raise; full bar and small plate dinners.

Sponsored by US Bank Private Wealth Management and Sanctuary Interior Design, Spellbound will be held at the Armory Hotel on February 27 at 6:30 p.m.

To purchase tickets for Spelllbound visit MontanaBallet.org or call 406.582.8702.

Season after season, MBC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, produces quality performances, enchanting audiences with new and updated artistry of dance, choreography, music, and design.

BOZEMAN – Game wardens with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks are seeking information on a bull moose that was shot and killed along Middle Cottonwood Trail near Bozeman.

FWP received a report on Jan. 28 of a dead moose about 2 miles up the trail. FWP staff found the moose carcass intact, though its antlers had shed naturally, with a single fatal bullet wound.

Middle Cottonwood Trail is on the west side of the Bridger Range, just north of Bozeman.

Anyone with possible information about this incident is encouraged to visit tipmont.mt.gov to provide details. You may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

Photo Chloe Nostrant

LIVINGSTON - Restaurant Week brought energy, creativity, and a lot of full tables to Livingston, while raising $6,572 for the Livingston Food Resource Center.

21 Park County restaurants, bars, and coffee shops participated, each finding their own way to make the week special. The Office donated proceeds from every burger sold, Sunflower Coffee featured breakfast sandwiches and lattes that became morning favorites, and a signature cocktail at the Murray was the talk of the town. Service industry professionals celebrated the end of the week with a thank you party at The Attic.

While individual guest counts were not formally tracked, participating businesses reported much higher than usual sales during the week. The event was promoted statewide, and several businesses shared that diners traveled from outside the area, including Billings and Bozeman, to take part.

In addition to boosting restaurant business, Restaurant Week raised $6,572 for the Livingston Food Resource Center, helping support food access for local residents. The week highlighted what happens when local businesses, diners, and community partners come together around a shared goal.

Restaurant Week was organized by Small Plate Hospitality with support from Explore Livingston, local sponsors, and community partners.

BOZEMAN — The Bozeman Police Department (BPD) is now accepting applications for its nineteenth Citizens Police Academy. This dynamic, behind-the-scenes program connects the Bozeman community with the officers who serve it.

Led by BPD’s Community Resource Officer, Bre Sanders, this free, action-packed program runs for eight weeks. It meets on Thursday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. from March 26 through May 14 at the Bozeman Public Safety Center (901 N. Rouse Ave).

“The Citizens Police Academy is more than just a class; it’s an experience,” said Officer Sanders. “You’ll step into the world of police work, tackle real scenarios, and gain a better understanding of the challenges officers face while building stronger connections with our team.”

Participants will learn first-hand what it’s really like to be a Bozeman Police officer, from SWAT gear and techniques to crime scene investigations and the daily experiences of patrol officers and detectives. Each week offers something new to keep the program interactive and engaging.

“This isn’t a sit-and-listen course. We want our participants to be in the thick of the action, gaining firsthand insights from experienced Bozeman Police officers,” said Officer Sanders. “We want you to see what we do, how we do it, and why it matters.”

Spots are limited, and demand is high. Applications remain open until all spots are full. Interested members of the community can apply today at bozemanpolice.com/cpa or contact Community Resource Officer Breanne Sanders at bsanders@bozeman.net for more information.

BOZEMAN— The owners of Bozeman’s The Baxter Hotel are pleased to announce its partnership with the award-winning Noble House Hotels & Resorts (Noble House), a family owned hospitality group known for its approachable luxury hotels in awe-inspiring destinations, and Breakwater, a privately owned hospitality investment and advisory firm, to restore The Baxter Hotel as Bozeman’s preeminent historic boutique hotel.
 
The Baxter Hotel opened in 1929 and served as the town’s premier boutique hotel for nearly 50 years, hosting notable guests including Eleanor Roosevelt and Richard Nixon, before being converted into residential condominium apartments by a former developer in the 1980s. Noble House and Breakwater, in collaboration with the current owners, will restore this community’s beloved Art Deco “crown jewel” to its original purpose—Bozeman’s landmark boutique hotel—honoring its century-long legacy through uncompromising standards and genuine connection to Bozeman and its residents.
 
“For almost a century, people have been walking through these doors asking how they can check in—even over the past 50 years when The Baxter Hotel was no longer operating as a hotel. That’s the kind of magnetism you can’t contrive,” said Amy Horton, General Manager of The Baxter Hotel. “Now, as we reopen in time for our centennial, that question finally has an answer: welcome home.”

The Baxter Hotel has been majority owned since 2004 by the Loseff and Orizotti families from Bozeman and Butte, respectively, and they will continue to retain major ownership in The Baxter going forward.
 
“The opportunity to partner with the Colee family (Noble House) and Breakwater in reestablishing this landmark as our town’s premier boutique hotel is the realization of many years of hard work. It is a dream come true,” said David Loseff, The Baxter Hotel owner.

“I have been extremely impressed by the tremendous sense of stewardship and commitment to local heritage held by Noble House and Breakwater and I am excited about The Baxter Hotel's future,” added Loseff.
 
The restoration is slated to be completed by fall of 2027 and will include 32 guest rooms, a fitness center, a wellness center with cold plunge tub, infrared sauna, recovery room and treatment room, a member’s club and dining area, along with upgrading and activating The Baxter Hotel's grand lobby and its nearly 3,000 square feet of ballroom space for weddings and special events. Local Bozeman firms Intrinsik Architecture, Envi Interior Design Studio, Langlas & Associates, Inc. and other local groups are actively involved in The Baxter Hotel restoration project.

 
Importantly, The Baxter Hotel will remain open and operational throughout the restoration. Current businesses including Ted’s Montana Grill, the Bacchus Pub, and The Baxter Hotel’s grand ballroom weddings and events business will continue to operate uninterrupted while the upper-floor residential condominium units are thoughtfully restored into luxury hotel rooms.

 
“When you visit The Baxter Hotel, there is a palpable history and significance within its walls,” said Jamie Colee, Chief Executive Officer of Noble House Hotels & Resorts. “We’re grateful to work with the longstanding Montana owners and Breakwater, who have a deep appreciation for the storied legacy of this property, to restore this iconic project to its former glory.”

Noble House Hotels & Resorts is a collection of one-of-a-kind luxury destinations, including Michelin Three and Two-Key rated properties, each delivering a singular promise: cultural immersion, unforgettable experiences and genuine connections. The renovation of The Baxter Hotel intends to bring visitors to Bozeman an experience unlike any other, offering “unbuttoned luxury,” services and accommodations that are as richly elegant as they are familiar and comfortable.

“When we were presented with the opportunity to support the restoration of The Baxter Hotel, it was one we couldn’t pass up,” said Matt Brendle, Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Breakwater. “We know that The Baxter Hotel has been a longstanding central landmark property in the community for nearly a century, and as we seek to have a lasting, positive impact in the communities in which we operate, we know that The Baxter Hotel will be an incredible addition to our portfolio.”

The Baxter Hotel was originally built in 1929 through the collective funding of Bozeman's founding families. In keeping with that history, members from the Montana community are also investing alongside Noble House, Breakwater and the Loseff and Orizotti families in supporting the rebirth of The Baxter Hotel.

For more information on Noble House Hotels & Resorts and The Baxter Hotel, visit noblehousehotels.com and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

About The Baxter Hotel
The Baxter Hotel’s story began in 1929 when 250 Bozeman community members came together to create something extraordinary in Montana. The Art Deco landmark quickly became the town's gathering place—where celebrations happened, deals closed, and memories were made. Recognized as “Bozeman’s Crown Jewel,” The Baxter Hotel is now being restored to its original purpose as Bozeman's premier boutique hotel. Learn more at thebaxterhotel.com. 
 
About Breakwater
Breakwater is a community driven, hospitality investment and advisory company founded in 2019 and based in Charleston, South Carolina. Breakwater has invested or advised on hotels across the country including the Michelin keyed Wall Street Hotel in New York and other independent and soft-branded hotel properties. Visit breakwaterco.com to learn more. 
 
About Noble House Hotels & Resorts
The Noble House Hotels & Resorts portfolio is a collection of 30 luxury and upscale hotels, resorts, and experiences across North America—all designed for discerning travelers seeking to escape the daily routine. Noble House can be trusted to unlock the most authentic experiences in the most compelling destinations. This promise is delivered through their carefully curated collection that pairs boutique local charm with consistent high service and comfort standards. All concepts within their collection offer immersive, active adventure experiences that bring out the best of their destinations. Headquartered in Seattle, their family-owned business philosophy creates value for each concept’s community, environment, ownership, staff, and guests. The portfolio includes: over 75 restaurants, bars, and lounges; the Napa Valley Wine Train; a collection of spas, marinas, and private residences throughout the U.S. and Mexico; a range of beachfront resorts from California to Florida; luxury retreats in Jackson Hole, Wyo. and award-winning urban hotels in Seattle and San Francisco. In 2024 and 2025, Noble House was named one of the top 25 hotel brands on T+L’s annual World’s Best list. For more information, visit www.noblehousehotels.com or call 877.NOBLE.TRIP.
 
 
 

The idea of a family adventure is awesome. 

What's not to like about traveling and having fun with your family? Well, you find out when it's time to pack the car. The coolers, the sports gear, the diaper bag, the dog's stuff, that big giant case of 'just in case' things, and in the end, you're playing Tetris to fit everything and everyone in. And it doesn't end here. 

Once you get to your destination, it's a lot of back-and-forth to unpack, and then another game of Tetris when you pack to go home. 

Now, what about doing this, but in 'easy mode'? Is it even possible to do this in an easier way? Do you even know that there's an easier way? 

Well, it is, and believe it or not, it's called a 'wagon'.

Why a Wagon Is Just What You Need

A family outing is the same thing as moving to a small village in a day. If you don't have kids, that sounds overly dramatic, but it's really not. You've got the people, the snacks (oh, so many snacks!), the sports stuff, the picnic blanket, and of course, the dog. And if you want to take it to the next level, now take all that from above and add you holding a toddler into the mix. Unless you've got a couple of spare arms hiding around, it'll be a bit difficult to manage everything.

There's no way you won't forget something, plus you'll probably end up with a stress headache before you even start the car. 

That's why a wagon is precisely what you need. In one single trip from the car, you can load in a toddler, the baby bag, a cooler, and the beach toys. All at once! 

Going to the county fair, heading to the soccer field, going camping, it can do it all. 

In short, it will make your life way easier. 

Tired little legs that whine because they can't walk another step have a ride, and you don't have to take Tylenol because the whining gave you a migraine. There's also room for the dog to lie down once they're tired from the hike. A wagon saves your arms, your back, and if we're being brutally honest, your patience. 

Because family outings surely test it. 

What to Look for When Picking Out a Wagon

If you're ready to buy a wagon, that's great, but don't act on impulse. Do a bit of research first and make sure the wagon you choose is actually good.

Here's what to look for.

Toughness and Durability
You're not buying a wagon to baby it but to drag it through sand, mud, and maybe use it as a temporary snack table/improvised seat.

That means that you can't buy something that will easily rust or have a fabric that'll tear the moment your kid climbs in it with cleats on. Once you find a wagon, run your hand along the frame and see if it feels sturdy.

Also, words like 'powder-coated' or 'aluminum' are good signs that the manufacturer thought about rust, and most people don't think about rust until it's eaten through half the wagon.

Safety First
If you're putting your favorite little people and pets in this thing, you have to make sure it's safe.

High sides are an absolute must because they keep everyone contained. If you have a toddler or a wiggly kid, you'll also want a built-in 5-point harness. If you think that's overkill, it's not because sooner or later, you'll go over a bumpy patch and thank the heavens you have that harness there.

For your dog, it's important that the interior is smooth without any sharp edges, so their claws don't get caught.

The wagon should feel stable overall, and it should be low to the ground.

Capacity and Size
Imagine how your usual departure looks.

Chaotic, right? Figures.

If you have one kid and one dog and you're going on a picnic, a small wagon will do fine. But if you're taking 2 kids, a giant cooler, sports gear, and a diaper bag? You'll need a lot more room, so the trick is to find a sweet spot where there's enough space for everything, but the wagon is still not too bulky or impractical.

Look up Lapp Wagons, or any other similar business that specializes in creating various types of wagons (e.g., kids, work, pony, foldable/collapsable, etc.), and check what they've got.

Ease of Use
If it's a pain to pull, you won't use it, so be careful.

The wheels are everything, and if they're plastic and little, move on. You want big, beefy wheels that make pulling easy. You don't want the wagon to give you a workout, after all. Another thing to think about is where you'll store it when you're not using it.

A wagon that folds down is very practical and easy to store wherever. 

Conclusion

A wagon isn't some kind of magic solution that'll make your kids stop arguing in the backseat, but hey. 

What is? 

Besides, it's not even about what you carry but what you make room for. You have a place for a few extra snacks and the dog without stressing over hauling everything around. The start to your trip gets a little easier, and that's really all you can hope for. 

The rest is up to… Well, who knows? You can't really control it; that's for sure.

But with a wagon, you can at least have SOME control over all that playfulness (chaos).

The Inside Belgrade economic development series continues on Wednesday, Feb. 18 from 11:30 AM to 1 PM at the Belgrade Community Library (205 E. Main St.).

Katharine King, the City of Belgrade’s Community & Economic Development Director, will present an overview of the Downtown Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District, including how TIF works and how it is being used to support infrastructure improvements and redevelopment in Belgrade’s downtown area. The session will also include updates from the City’s Planning and Building Divisions on current projects, development trends, and upcoming activity.

The first half hour will be for lunch and networking, and presentations start at noon. Lunch for this session is generously sponsored by Donovan HR Solutions and catered by Bar 3 BBQ.

The event is free and open to the public. Please register in advance to ensure adequate lunch is provided. RSVP here! A written summary will be available following the event for those unable to attend.