Bozeman, Montana, is known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant community. It's a place where each corner holds something new to explore, making it an exceptional backdrop for celebrating Mother's Day. 

Whether your mom delights in nature, savors exquisite dining, or cherishes relaxation, Bozeman offers a plethora of venues that can cater to any preference. From the charming streets of downtown to the serene ambiance of Hyalite Canyon and beyond, this guide walks you through fantastic locations in the Bozeman area perfect for honoring Mom on her special day. 

Charming Main Street

Main Street in Bozeman is like stepping into a cozy, picturesque world. It's dotted with unique shops perfect for finding that one-of-a-kind Mother's Day gift—imagine the smile on her face when she unwraps something chosen just for her. 

And let’s not skim over the delightful coffee spots and bakeries; they're ideal for kickstarting this special day. With Café M, Wild Crumb Bakery, Vienne, and others located close together, strolling down Main Street isn’t just dining or shopping—it’s creating memories with Mom in Bozeman’s heart. 

Hyalite Canyon for Outdoor Adventure 

For moms who crave a little adventure and nature, Hyalite Canyon is the ticket. Just a short drive from Bozeman, this spot unfolds like a scene from those vibrant postcards you always wish you were in. The canyon offers everything from serene hikes to picnicking by the crystal-clear reservoir—all against the backdrop of breathtaking mountain views.

It’s not just about soaking in the sights; it’s about creating those priceless moments with Mom. Whether you’re snapping photos, sharing stories on a trail, or simply enjoying the tranquil scenery together, Hyalite Canyon is proof that Mother’s Day doesn’t have to be all brunches and bouquets—it can be an unforgettable outdoor escapade, too. 

The Bozeman Hot Springs for Relaxation

After all the exploring and dining, mellowing out at The Bozeman Hot Springs can be the cherry on top for a perfect Mother's Day. Just picture it: you and Mom, unwinding in natural hot springs, surrounded by the serene Montana landscape. It's not just about soaking in warm waters; it's an invitation to slow down and cherish these moments of relaxation together.

And if Mom’s into pampering (who isn't?), surprise her with a spa treatment—maybe a massage or facial. It’s that blend of nature's tranquility and a touch of luxury that makes this spot an ideal finale to your celebration. 

Tanglewood Grill & Tap

Another must-visit spot for Mom's special day is Tanglewood Grill & Tap. Nestled comfortably within Bozeman’s bustling dining scene, this gem stands out with its unique blend of casual comfort and a slightly upscale vibe - kind of like that sweet spot between laid-back and fancy that not many places hit right. 

What sets Tanglewood Grill & Tap apart isn't just their drool-worthy food; it's also their cozy yet sophisticated ambiance. It’s airy, inviting, and exactly the kind of place where you want to linger over your meal, share stories, and just enjoy being together. Plus, their selection of local beers on tap (and we all know Montana does beer pretty darn well) can add an extra layer of chill to your celebration.

Forgot the Card? Send an eCard Instead

It’s not uncommon to craft the perfect Mother's Day itinerary but later realize you left the card on your kitchen counter or just somewhere. But this slip-up doesn't have to dampen the day. In today’s digital age, you can whip up a heartfelt gesture in no time. 

Numerous websites and apps let you create and send a virtual Mother's Day card that can be as chic, funny, or touching as you like. You can even add photos or custom messages to make Mom feel loved and appreciated. 

Conclusion 

So there you have it—a roundup of some standout spots in Bozeman that are sure to make this year’s Mother's Day unforgettable. From the cozy corridors of Main Street and the natural wonders of Hyalite Canyon to luxurious relaxation at The Bozeman Hot Springs, each location promises a unique way to celebrate.

Don't forget, whether you're dining under elegant art or sending a virtual Mother’s Day card from afar, the heart of the celebration is showing Mom just how much she means to you. Here's to creating new memories and honoring those priceless moments with your mom in Bozeman!

BOZEMAN — Montana State University’s ongoing efforts to strengthen rural education across the state received a boost recently with a $2.5 million grant from Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies.

The grant, which runs for two and a half years, will fund the second iteration of a program called Advancing Support, Preparation and Innovation in Rural Education, or ASPIRE. The project is housed in MSU’s Center for Research on Rural Education and aims to establish a blueprint for attracting, preparing, developing and retaining teachers for rural schools and communities in Montana.

The work builds off a previous $1.5 million grant from Margaret A. Cargill Philanthropies awarded to MSU in 2021 for the first phase of the work, known as ASPIRE 1.0.

“In keeping with Montana State University’s land-grant mission, MSU’s Center for Research on Rural Education designed the ASPIRE project to address the alarming rural teacher shortage and ensure that students in small, rural and remote schools and communities are taught by well-prepared and supported teachers,” the researchers wrote in a description of their current project, which they are calling ASPIRE 2.0. Jayne Downey, director of the Center for Research on Rural Education and professor in the Department of Education, is the project’s lead researcher.

The researchers noted that Montana’s rural communities are experiencing severe difficulty recruiting and retaining well-prepared teachers. They pointed to state-level data published last year showing that 661 out of 825 Montana schools have been impacted by a critical shortage of quality educators.

“Building on our previous grant, we will work to reduce the current teacher shortage through increasing the number of well-prepared rural teachers and strengthening mentoring processes for new rural teachers,” they wrote.

ASPIRE 2.0 is divided into three parts: The Rural Teacher Pathways program, the MentorMT program and the Rural Teacher Resource Hub.

Rural Teacher Pathways

The Rural Teacher Pathways program is a sequence of immersive rural school and community clinical experiences for undergraduate students and high school students who are considering careers as teachers. Over the life of the grant, nearly 700 undergraduate and high school students will participate.

First-year MSU prospective teachers can engage in observing and assisting with instruction in one- and two-room K-8 schoolhouses. Second-year students have opportunities to spend several days visiting a rural school and community. Third-year students may participate in a weeklong experience, spending 8 to 10 hours per day in a rural school completing duties typical of full-time teachers. Finally, fourth-year students have the option of completing their 15 weeks of student teaching in a rural community, where they build relationships inside and outside the classroom and learn to embrace the nuances of rural living.

To support students while they are on campus, MSU will offer community-building experiences, rural programming and opportunities for special projects.

“We’re looking to build community within community,” said Joe Hicks, one of the researchers and assistant dean in the College of Education, Health and Human Development.

“We’re looking to introduce students to major support (systems) from day one,” added Marcie Reuer, another researcher and an assistant teaching professor in the Department of Education.

Rural Teacher Pathways will also offer a program for rural high school students who are exploring teaching and other future college and career options that includes an online learning community and an MSU summer camp opportunity.

MentorMT

The second part of ASPIRE 2.0, known as MentorMT, will provide expert, one-on-one mentoring for new and underprepared teachers who are filling positions in rural classrooms. The program is designed especially for teachers who are in their first or second year; on a provisional license; under emergency authorization with limited preparation; teaching outside their licensed grade level or subject area; or teaching on an international visa.

“What we’re seeing in this program is a way to address isolation that really changes the teaching experience for a rural teacher,” said Jennifer Luebeck, one of the researchers and a research professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences in the College of Letters and Science.

Rural Teacher Resource Hub

ASPIRE 2.0 will develop a resource hub for Montana’s rural teachers, containing things like instructional materials and professional development support.

“We’ve noticed that a lot of available materials for teachers are not written with rural in mind; a lot of those materials are very urban-centric,” Downey said. “We have an opportunity here to bring together resources that are meaningful and a good fit for rural teachers and their communities.”

The researchers said they hope that the Rural Teacher Pathways program, Mentor MT program and Rural Teacher Resource Hub lead to significant, lasting changes in rural education in Montana.

Downey added that she hopes the work leads to more people choosing a rural educator path.

“We want them to see this as not just a job, but as something more,” she said. “Rural educators also become community members and contributors to these important rural places that people call home.”

Introduction to the CompTIA SY0-701 Exam and Its Role in IT Security
In an era where cyber threats constantly evolve, IT professionals must keep pace with the latest security skills and knowledge. The CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 exam is a vital step for those looking to future-proof their career in IT security. This article explores the significance of the SY0-701 exam in building a robust and future-ready career in cybersecurity.

 
Understanding the CompTIA SY0-701 Security+ Certification

The CompTIA SY0-701 Security+ certification assesses and validates the fundamental skills necessary to secure a network and manage risk. It covers critical security concepts, best practices, and the latest trends in cybersecurity, making it an essential credential for IT professionals.
 
The Evolving Landscape of Cybersecurity and the SY0-701's Relevance

Cybersecurity is rapidly evolving, with new threats and technologies emerging regularly. The SY0-701 exam ensures that IT professionals are equipped with current knowledge, including an understanding of new threats, technologies, and regulations in the cybersecurity domain.
 

Career Advancements with the CompTIA SY0-701 Certification

Obtaining the SY0-701 certification can significantly advance an IT professional's career. It opens up opportunities in various cybersecurity roles, such as Security Analyst, Security Specialist, and Network Administrator, and enhances one's professional credibility in the IT security industry.
 
Key Topics Covered in the CompTIA SY0-701 Exam

The SY0-701 exam covers various topics, including the latest security technologies and tools, risk management, and incident response. It focuses on practical skills and problem-solving abilities, ensuring candidates can handle real-world security challenges.
 
Preparing for the CompTIA SY0-701 Exam

Preparing for the SY0-701 exam involves theoretical study and practical experience. Utilizing official CompTIA study materials, engaging in experimental labs, and taking practice exams are effective strategies for comprehensively understanding the exam content.
 
The Practical Application of SY0-701 Skills in the Workplace

The skills and knowledge gained from the SY0-701 exam are directly applicable in the workplace. Certified professionals can effectively manage and mitigate security risks and implement robust security measures, making them valuable assets in any IT department.
 
Continuous Learning and Advancement with the SY0-701 Certification

The SY0-701 certification is not just an end goal but a stepping stone for continuous learning in IT security. It provides a solid foundation for further specialization and advancement in cybersecurity, encouraging professionals to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies.
 

 
Global Recognition and Opportunities with the SY0-701 Certification

The global recognition of the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 certification opens up international career opportunities. It is acknowledged as a benchmark for IT security expertise, enhancing the professional credibility of IT practitioners worldwide.
 
Embracing the Future with the CompTIA SY0-701 Security+
In conclusion, the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 certification is a crucial step for IT professionals aspiring to excel in cybersecurity. Covering the latest security technologies and practices prepares candidates for the future challenges of IT security, ensuring they remain at the forefront of this critical and dynamic industry. As cybersecurity continues to be a vital aspect of IT, the SY0-701 certification is a crucial qualification for those seeking to navigate and succeed in this evolving field.

How old is your business sign? Have you looked at it recently? Not just a passing glance driving into the parking lot but really giving your business sign a good inspection.

Even though businesses like the Denver Sign Company always deliver long-lasting and quality signage, nothing lasts forever, which includes your business sign. So, how do you know when it’s time to get rid of an old sign? Sometimes it’s obvious.

However, there are times when you may be waffling about spending the money, but this can be a costly mistake if your signage isn’t effective. Here are a few reasons why it’s time to invest in new signage.

No One Can See Your Sign
Whether it’s overgrowth from nearby trees and bushes or recent development is in the way, if your business sign isn’t visible, it’s not doing its job. Basically, you have a sign that only the local wildlife is paying attention to. Since your customer base probably isn’t comprised of squirrels and other wildlife, your sign is now a waste of money.

Cutting back the overgrowth isn’t always an option. There are regulations, typically set down by the city or county, that dictate who can cut what and when. The last thing you need is a ticket for cutting back growth designated for wildlife. Yep, it’s a thing, usually part of a city-supported green project.

So, what’s the solution? Chances are, it’s time to start budgeting for a larger sign or at least moving your current signage. However, not all types of signs are movable. For example, a heavy concrete monument sign. You’ll probably save some dough replacing the sign instead of trying to move it to another, more visible location.

Your signage may also be tough to see if it’s too small. Yes, smaller is often cheaper, but this doesn’t mean it’s better—you may actually be losing business if your sign is too small. Remember, your business sign needs to be large enough for drivers to easily see. A good rule to follow is to stand about 25 feet or so back from your sign.

If you can’t easily read the information, your sign is probably too small. Sometimes, it pays to spend more rather than less, especially when it comes to advertising your business.

Your Sign’s Out of Style
Yep, business signs can go out of style just like shoes and clothing. Why is this a big deal? Well, your business sign gives consumers their first impression of your company. If your sign’s style is outdated, consumers will also presume so is your business.

Even if you’re a resale or antique store, you want your sign to look fresh, new, and in style. Not sure what the latest sign fashion is? Take a short drive around and check out the styles other businesses are using for their signage.

A great way to let consumers know you’re business is staying on top of current trends is by using digital signage. Digital signs aren’t only for use inside. You can have a digital display on almost any type of outdoor signage.

The LED display is also energy-efficient and lets consumers know you’re taking steps to reduce your carbon footprint. Best of all, you can constantly update the sign’s message without replacing the entire structure.

The Sign’s Age is Showing
You can expect your sign to last for years, if not decades, depending on the material you choose to use. However, even brick and concrete eventually start showing their age. Weather can take a toll on your signage, along with local wildlife. Even cars zooming past kicking up dirt and gravel can pockmark and damage your sign.

Remember how your sign gives consumers their first impressions of your business? Do you really want them to think the inside of your business is in the same state of disrepair as your signage? This isn’t an effective way to drive traffic to your door—instead, you’re actually effectively driving potential consumers away.

When you can’t scrub or paint the damage away, it’s time to replace your signage; this is also a great opportunity to start thinking about adding a fresh, new message.

Your Sign is Illegal
Yep, you can get a ticket for an illegal sign. So, what makes a business sign illegal? This depends on local ordinances and can include anything from size to the brightness of the display. Before paying for a business sign, it’s always a good idea to make sure your sign isn’t illegal first.

When a private house has already been built, all that remains is to improve the territory itself. We will give you ideas on how to improve the yard of a private house and decorate your suburban area in an interesting, beautiful, and cost-effective way. Let's figure out what can make your site look beautiful and modern.

Choose high-quality and up-to-date furniture
Start by deciding where you plan to have lunch and place a table and chairs there. You should choose quality outdoor chairs that will last. Many people prefer to order furniture from hot countries, such as the UAE, because they make furniture that is famous for its resistance to high outdoor temperatures. With such furniture, you will not worry about the chairs being in the sun and something might happen to them.
 
Popular styles are Art Nouveau and Provence. In the first case, you can consider materials like metal and plastic, and in the second it is better to turn to wood or rattan, which has been incredibly popular lately.
 
When choosing an outdoor dining table, it is important to understand how often you invite guests to an outdoor barbecue. If your parties are usually indoors and you don't eat outside, then it's better to choose a smaller table. If you are a fan of outdoor dining, then it is better to choose a spacious table. The ideal option would be a transformable table, which can turn from a small family table into a large table for a cheerful company.

Create a beautiful yard using flower arrangements
Flowers are one of the easiest ways to add bright colors to your yard and at the same time coziness. Anyone can plant flowers and make a bright composition out of them, but to do something more original, you need to use your imagination.
 
A flower motorcycle or bicycle will look very unusual. You can easily make such a flowerbed:

 
It is a great idea to decorate your home with climbing flowers. To do this, you can use both the simplest, unpretentious plants, for example, grapes, and more noble flowers - climbing roses or clematis. These plants can create a real paradise in a suburban area.
 
Remember that even unnecessary old shoes can become an original decoration for the site. Take a pair of bright children's rubber boots, make holes in the sole, add drainage, then soil and plant flowers. These will make excellent garden pots for outdoor flowers. And it’s especially nice that we decorate the yard with our own hands at no extra cost.

Install a waterfall, fountain, or pool
Splashes of water from the fountain will protect plants from dryness, and the pool will become a real salvation from the sun's rays. Children who love to splash in the water will be especially happy with it.
 
It’s very easy to make this beauty your own. Surely after construction, many will find pieces of tiles, tiles, and stones. Riverstones will look more realistic.
 
A fountain installed in the depths of the garden will look very harmonious. You can also put benches and swings for children there. This way the garden will turn into a real park where the whole family can relax and the arrangement of the yard will be complete.
 
Install a gazebo near your house
Gazebos can be different - open, closed, attached to the house. These can be awnings marquees, or tents. The most practical gazebos are made of polycarbonate. If you want to add a little romance, then it is better to choose tents with fluttering fabrics and a lot of beautiful country furniture. And lovers of the classics can choose a wooden gazebo where you can install wooden furniture, for example, an outdoor dining table.
 
These are general principles for decorating an area near your home, but you can also show your imagination and create something incredibly original and beautiful.
 

BOZEMAN — Montana State University will celebrate its first-ever World Quantum Day in the weeks surrounding April 14 by supplying Montana middle and high school teachers with free kits and downloadable resources to help students at their schools learn about quantum science.

World Quantum Day is an annual event to promote public awareness and understanding of quantum science and technology, which have become a focus of MSU’s growing research.

Recently funded projects include the Applied Quantum CORE supported by the Air Force Research Lab, which will house equipment to test prototype quantum components in the extremely cold environments in which they operate, and a planning grant from the National Science Foundation’s Engines program for Montana to collaborate with Idaho and Wyoming to study key gaps in the national quantum supply chain.

Related projects at MSU include the MonArk Quantum Foundry, a collaboration between MSU and the University of Arkansas; Spectrum Lab, which bridges MSU’s research with Montana businesses; the Optical and Quantum System Program in the Department of Physics; and the Montana Nanotechnology Facility, or MONT.

Quantum mechanics is the science of atoms and particles – the tiny building blocks of the universe, according to the U.S. National Quantum Initiative. “Using quantum mechanics, scientist and engineers have created revolutionary technologies that impact our everyday lives,” the website states, listing as examples lasers, LED monitors, the inner workings of smartphones, MRI scanners in hospitals and the GPS system.

MSU’s Science Math Resource Center, which leads education and workforce development for Applied Quantum CORE, is curating World Quantum Day resources for teachers and will give away 25 kits for middle and high school teachers who wish to celebrate World Quantum Day with their students. No previous quantum experience or knowledge is required, as QCORE will provide an online professional development workshop that includes a short overview of quantum science, MSU’s research in the emerging field and how to use the kit’s resources. All activities will also be posted freely online. Teachers are encouraged to think about how they can share the resources with students who have been historically excluded from science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, fields.

Similar to Pi Day, which is celebrated on March 14, aka 3/14, in reference to the first digits of that number, World Quantum Day is celebrated on April 14 in reference to Planck’s constant, a number relevant to quantum physics.

To learn more about World Quantum Day at MSU or to apply for an educators’ kit, visit montana.edu/smrc/quantum. The deadline to apply for an educators’ kit is March 16. For more on World Quantum Day, visit worldquantumday.org.

HELENA – The new license year opens March 1, which means that is the day you can buy your 2024 hunting, fishing and conservation licenses and begin applying for permits and special licenses. The deadline to apply for deer and elk permits is April 1.  

Applications for most species – deer, elk, antelope, deer B licenses, elk B licenses, antelope B licenses, moose, sheep, goat, bison, bear, turkey – can be made beginning March 1. 

A new online feature this year is the option for applicants to reapply for the same offerings as last year with just a simple click, eliminating the need to search through previous applications.

Hunters and anglers can buy licenses and apply for permits on the FWP website beginning at 5 a.m. on March 1; click on “Buy and Apply.” Most FWP offices will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.  

Click here to watch a video tutorial for Montana residents on how to buy and apply for licenses and permits online. Click here to watch a video tutorial for nonresidents on how to buy and apply for licenses and permits online.   

The licensing call center will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from March 1 through April 1; after April 1, the hours will return to 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The call center can be reached at 406-444-2950. 

This year FWP produced clearer information for hunters on bonus points and how they are used. Remember: 

• A bonus point is an extra chance for a hunter to draw a license or permit in a Montana drawing.  

• Preference points are used only for drawing Nonresident Combination Licenses. Preference points move you ahead in line for the drawing. If you are a Montana resident, preference points don’t apply to you.  

• For more information on bonus points, preference points and other important licensing topics, go to fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/hunting-licenses. 

Hunters and anglers can also take advantage of the MyFWP mobile app. The app holds and displays licenses, permits and E-Tags, which can be downloaded and used in the field without cell service. To create a My FWP account, visit the MyFWP login page.  

Tips and reminders 

• Don’t wait until the last day to apply. 

• If you’re applying for a special license or permit, you will need to have a valid email address.

• Make sure to doublecheck the regulations before applying. Some permit/licenses have changed. 

• The Online Licensing System is available from 5 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. 

• Everyone 12 and older needs a Conservation License to access most state lands, including fishing access sites, wildlife management areas and wildlife habitat protection areas (WHPA). Montana State Parks do not require a Conservation License.  

• A separate and rotating moose, bighorn sheep or mountain goat SuperTag lottery for resident hunters will be conducted annually. Montana residents will receive one free chance in the lottery for every General Elk or General Deer License purchased. 

Application deadlines  

• Smith River Super Permit – March 22 

• Paddlefish (white tag) – March 22  

• Deer and Elk

  • Special Permits – April 1

  • Special Licenses – June 1  

• Bighorn Sheep – May 1  

• Bison – May 1  

• Moose – May 1  

• Mountain Goat –May 1  

• Antelope – June 1  

• SuperTags

  • Antelope, Bighorn Sheep, Bison, Deer, Elk, Moose, Mountain Goat, and Mountain Lion –July 1  

• Mountain Lion Special Licenses – July 22  

For more information on Montana hunting licenses and permits, go to fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/hunting-licenses. 

UPDATE - On Monday, Feb. 12, Bozeman City Commission adopted the following motions: a motion to ask the City Manager to resign by Wednesday, Feb. 14; and a motion to direct the City Attorney’s office to draft an ethics complaint. We tabled a motion to initiate an external investigation into the City Manager’s conduct. The Commission may take this tabled motion up at a future public meeting.

Since then, City Manager Jeff Mihelich has offered to resign on the condition he be provided full severance as stated in the Employment Agreement. At this time, the City Commission is not inclined to accept resignation with full severance.

We currently anticipate an ethics complaint being presented for consideration at the March 5, 2024 City Commission meeting. Commission may decide to authorize the filing of the complaint at this meeting. More information on the ethics process can be found in the Bozeman Municipal Code at Chapter 2, Article, 3, Division 4 (2.03.460, Bozeman Municipal Code).

BOZEMAN, Montana (Feb. 2, 2024) — Bozeman City Commission has scheduled a Special Meeting to discuss a video that surfaced on social media on Tuesday evening of a meeting between the City Manager and an employee. The Special Meeting will be held on Feb. 12 at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 121 N Rouse Ave, and online at https://www.bozeman.net/departments/city-commission/meeting-videos. During the meeting, Bozeman’s elected body will address next steps for the City Manager.

Additionally, as of Thursday, Feb. 1, City Manager Jeff Mihelich is on paid administrative leave. Assistant City Manager Kira Peters has been appointed to act as City Manager until Assistant City Manager Chuck Winn can assume the Acting City Manager role on Tuesday, Feb. 6.

“We hope residents know that we are taking this event seriously and are committed to communicating through it,” Mayor Terry Cunningham stated. “This is not reflective of the organization that we are trying to build and of the many employees who dutifully and respectfully serve the public every day.”

City functions continue as normal, including the Feb. 6 Commission meeting. This meeting will include the ratification of Mihelich’s administrative leave and no other discussion on the video or items related to the Special Meeting will occur.

The video occurred earlier in January after a leadership meeting that is routinely recorded for internal notetaking purposes wrapped up. The two employees stayed on after the meeting and the recording continued. Upon review, the City has determined that no outside breach to gain the video content has occurred.

Those interested in submitting public comment to the Bozeman City Commission regarding this issue or any other can do so by emailing agenda@bozeman.net.

Southwest Montana continues to experience a growing population and a significant increase in the cost of living. Park County is no exception. Housing prices have increased by more than 100% since 2019. Rental rates, fuel prices, and the cost of food continue to rise creating intense pressure for households while the community’s most vulnerable residents have been hit the hardest and are experiencing real crises.

To better understand and address escalating needs, HRDC is forming an advisory council for Park County which will provide direct input and advice to HRDC’s Board of Directors. This group will be composed solely of Park County residents and will meet regularly to discuss trends and changes in the county, especially those which impact residents who are struggling to make ends meet. 

“We’re seeking a wide range of perspectives for this council to ensure we’re hearing all Park County voices. Lifelong residents, new transplants, leaders from education, healthcare, and business, folks active in civic groups and local government, those who live in rural areas, and Livingston-proper residents are all invited to join. This includes all income levels, all ages, and those representing the full span of our racial, cultural, and gender spectrum. In other words, we seek the most comprehensive representation of this county we can assemble,” expressed Dean Williamson, HRDC’s Economic Development Director.

The newly formed council will work in tandem with HRDC to help tailor the agency’s Park County strategies, resources, and solutions. While separate from the Park County Housing Coalition whose purpose is solely focused on housing issues, the two councils will work in conjunction with one another. 

HRDC hopes everyone will consider joining this effort to serve the needs of Park County and to support a healthy, safe, and vibrant community. Council applications are available at thehrdc.org. 

As a private, not-for-profit Community Action Organization focused on building a better community through its nearly 50 initiatives, HRDC combats poverty in Southwest Montana and has actively served the residents of Park County since 1975, the year the agency was formed.

BOZEMAN -- The Bozeman Symphony’s fourth classical concert of the 2023/24 season, Brahms Symphony No. 1 in late March, will also include the world premiere of Inner Life, Composer-in-Residence Scott Lee’s final commission for the Bozeman Symphony.

Music fans are invited to watch Music Director Norman Huynh’s passionate interpretation of Johannes Brahms’ Symphony No. 1, a work of exceptional depth and complexity considered one of the masterpieces of the symphonic repertoire. With his musical vision and profound understanding of the work, Huynh manages to capture the very essence of this breathtaking composition, conveying intense emotion through every note.

Brahms Symphony No. 1 presents a well-crafted musical structure, highlighting the virtuosity of the orchestra, powerful melodies, and rich harmonies to create an unforgettable musical experience. Brahms skillfully combined classical traditions with a touch of modernity, creating a unique musical language of his own. Nearly 20 years in the making, the work that premiered in 1876 is noted for its amazing lyricism and thematic unity and remains one of the greatest examples of the Austro-German symphony to this day.

In his latest work Inner Life, Lee takes us on a journey of self-discovery. From the first kernel of an idea in Take Shape, the work’s first movement, through the exploration of that idea inAstray, the second movement, and finally, finding the meaning in it and coming to the journey’s end in the third movement, You Are Here, the listener is taken through the composer’s tumultuous inner journey. The piece’s three movements flow uninterrupted from one into the next, with the music and rhythms representing the inner thoughts and process of discovery as the composer makes the journey from chaos to synthesis and closure.

Performances are Saturday, March 23, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 24, at 2:30 p.m., atthe Willson Auditorium, 404 West Main Street in downtown Bozeman. These concerts would not be possible without the support of sponsors Cal and Tricia DeSouza and Prof. Rob Maher and Mrs. Lynn Peterson-Maher.

Individual tickets are available at https://www.bozemansymphony.org/normanconductsbeethoven.html or at 406-585-9774. Adult tickets start at $29 and discounted student tickets (K-12 and college) are available.