If you want to create a successful makerspace, but you don’t know where to start, then looking into the equipment you need is a good jumping-off point.

The right tools and machinery are essential for any maker project, so here are some of the key pieces of equipment you should invest in to give users of the space the means to fulfill their most ambitious designs.

Press Brakes

Press brakes can be used to bend sheet metal into various shapes and sizes with accuracy. They offer more control than hand-bending, resulting in less waste material during the fabrication process. This makes them an invaluable tool for creating complex parts quickly and efficiently.

Furthermore, press brakes require minimal setup time, which allows users to move from one job to another quickly.

It’s easy to find a wide selection of press brakes for sale online, and the budget-friendly option is to choose second-hand models, which is a good call for makerspaces that are just getting started and don’t have a huge amount of capital to throw around.

3D Printers

3D printing is becoming increasingly popular due to its ability to produce complex shapes with high precision at low cost – even on small production runs or prototypes.

With a 3D printer, users can rapidly prototype designs before committing resources towards producing final products; this saves time by eliminating mistakes that would otherwise occur when making parts manually, or ordering custom items from manufacturing facilities overseas.

Additionally, many 3D printers come equipped with software that automatically prepares models for printing, so all you need is a computer connected via USB cable. This is useful whether you’ve got small, personal projects to complete, or you want to start a small business using what you produce.

Computers With Design Software

Designing projects requires powerful computers that run specialized software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks; these programs allow designers, engineers and artists to create accurate detailed plans while still maintaining creative freedom over their projects’ design elements (such as shape & size).

Having these types of programs on tap gives makerspaces an edge over competitors who may lack access due to budget constraints – plus it ensures users have everything they need at their fingertips without having to leave their workspace.

Woodworking Tools

Woodworking tools such as saws and routers provide precision cuts necessary when fabricating wooden objects like furniture or toys; investing in quality tools will ensure your space has what it needs when working on large-scale projects like building houses out of recycled materials.

Another point to make is that woodworking machines help reduce the amount of time spent cutting and sanding by hand, making jobs that involve them faster and more efficient to complete.

Sewing & Crafting Tools

Sewing is an important skill for makerspaces, and having the right tools can make all the difference when it comes to creating beautiful projects. Invest in a high-quality sewing machine, as well as other accessories such as fabric scissors and measuring tape that will help users craft with precision.

Additionally, snap up crafting tools such as glue guns and hot air guns – these are great for making jewelry or customizing t-shirts! Plus they don’t require any experience or special skills, so anyone can use them safely to create amazing gifts, works of art and more.

Finally, consider investing in digital cutting machines like Cricuts or Silhouettes – these devices are capable of cutting intricate designs out of paper, vinyls or fabrics quickly and accurately. They come with software that allows users to customize their designs before committing them to materials.

With access to these types of machines, your makerspace will thrive, and it can grow as interest in it blossoms locally.

On Sunday, January 15, 2023, at 4:52 p.m. the West Yellowstone Police Department dispatch center received a 911 call from a snowmobile group requesting assistance. Two snowmobiles had become hopelessly stuck and the riders were attempting to walk out the Big Sky Trail, 12 miles north of West Yellowstone.

Volunteers from Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue in West Yellowstone and Custer Gallatin National Forest Service responded to assist with the search.

Volunteers located the snowmobilers who were cold and tired but in otherwise good health. After freeing one of the stuck snowmobiles, volunteers escorted the pair safely back to West Yellowstone.

Sheriff Dan Springer would like to commend the snowmobilers for carrying a reliable means of communication and for recognizing their need for assistance early, allowing volunteers to get to them quickly and safely.

Photo courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.

Bozeman is a naturally relaxing space to live and visit. The Rocky Mountains provide an awe-inspiring backdrop to a city that loves to practice wellness and unwind after an honest day’s work.

Likewise, the nearby prairie land provides ample space if you love to mountain bike, hike, or backpack.

Even if you don’t have time to explore Bozeman’s great outdoors, you’ll still find plenty of relaxing activities near the city to suit your itinerary and budget.


Acupuncture/Massage/Spas

Massage and spa treatments are a great way to unwind during your stay in Bozeman. Get away from the bustle of life and book yourself into a massage session with therapists at spa destinations like:

Getting a massage or spa treatment can be a welcome break from a busy itinerary and may be just what you need if you’re “vacationing” at home in Bozeman. Planning your staycation around a spa day can make you feel like you’re stepping into another world, even if you’re staying local. If you’re traveling to Bozeman, spa visits can help you get through long drives and nights spent sleeping on uncomfortable sleeping pads, too.

You may wish to get some acupuncture treatment while visiting Bozeman. Compass Point Acupuncture is a highly rated, women-led business that accepts insurance.

Wellness Centers

Wellness centers provide the perfect retreat if you live a busy lifestyle and just need some time away from it all. While staying at a wellness center, you can expect to be pampered and taken care of during your entire stay. There are plenty of wellness centers in and around Bozeman, meaning you can choose an option that suits your itinerary and budget.

The Bozeman Wellness Center offers guests comprehensive health and wellness services. They have trained chiropractors and nutrition consultants on-site. They also offer applied kinesiology sessions, which make them an ideal fit if you’re recovering from an injury or are looking to improve your overall health and well-being.

Blue Lotus is located in the north end of Bozeman and is a sanctuary for all who love to unwind and find new ways to further their wellness. Blue Lotus offers private sessions, where you can practice Reiki or experience positive shifts in energy during flower essence consultations.

Investing in health and wellness during your vacation can help you practice self-care and leave a lasting impression. You’ll learn plenty from your time at a wellness center in Bozeman and can reap the rewards of a better diet and a calmer mind for years to come.

Spiritual Centers

For many, spirituality and relaxation go hand in hand. In Bozeman, you can practice and explore your spirituality in any way that feels right for you and will find plenty of expert support along the way.

The Bozeman Dharma Center is a hotspot for folks who are interested in the teachings of the Buddha. They regularly host workshops and retreats, too. You can join events that improve your mental well-being and are designed to help you become a better version of yourself.

The Mountain Top Retreat offers Christians a similar retreat in the mountains of Montana. The retreat describes itself as “Christ-centered” and is focused on the idea of grace and exchanged life. You can also take part in activities during your stay, like snowmobiling, fishing, and horseback riding.

Quiet, Natural Getaways

Sometimes you just want to get away from the world and all its noise. If retreating into the wilderness for a few days alone sounds like your perfect staycation or vacation, then Bozeman is the place for you.

You can take advantage of Bozeman's location to find campgrounds near the town. Mallard’s Rest has 13 campsites and is only a short drive from downtown Bozeman. Similarly, Red Cliff Campground is an hour south of Bozeman with meadows and rivers nearby.

If you want something a little less wild, you should pay a visit to the Bozeman Hot Springs. The Bozeman Hot Springs offer a gym and live events as well as a large pool space that is fed by natural hot springs in the area.

Whole Food/Farm-to-table Restaurants and Experiences

Bozeman is renowned for its locally grown food and agriculture. The surrounding prairie land is a fertile food basket that feeds the state and provides whole foods for your kitchen and farm-to-table restaurants.

Red Tractor Pizza uses fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that are sustainably grown. They offer pizzas for any diet, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan!.

Bodhi Farms offers a similar farm-to-table experience. As a guest, you can stay in a glamping tent and eat in an authentic, nordic tent. Their menus change with the seasons, too, so you can be certain that you’re eating food that is sustainably sourced from small-scale farmers.

Conclusion

Bozeman has all the resources you need for a restful vacation. You can unwind in the hot spring during the day and eat locally sourced, farm-to-table produce in the evening. If you need some extra support, consider checking into one of Bozeman’s highly-rated wellness retreats where you’ll be pampered and tended to during your stay.

On January 14, 2023, at 2:57 P.M., Gallatin County Dispatch received a call for a backcountry skier that had fallen at Lick Creek in Hyalite Canyon resulting in a shoulder and leg injury. The skier was with a group of friends when the incident took place. One of the friends skied to a high point to get service and call dispatch while other friends assisted the patient.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue (GCSSAR) and Hyalite Fire responded to Lick Creek Trail to initiate a rescue. GCSSAR deployed teams of rescuers on skis and snowmobiles. The snowmobile teams made contact with the patient on the forest service road. They conducted an evaluation on the patient before transporting them out on a snowmobile. The patient met with Hyalite Fire units waiting at the trailhead for further evaluation.

Sheriff Dan Springer would like to commend the skier and friends for recreating as a group, utilizing available resources, and acting as a team to enable efficient and safe rescue for the patient.

Photos courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.

Sage Basin Rescue

On Friday, January 13, 2023 at 6:42 pm, West Yellowstone Police Dispatch Center received a 911 call for two lost snowmobilers recreating in the Sage Basin area, south of Big Sky. The snowmobilers recognized they were lost and requested assistance in getting safely out of the backcountry. The lost parties were confirmed to be uninjured, warm, and with operational snowmobiles. They were asked to stay put while volunteers from Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue were deployed to assist them.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue volunteers from the West Yellowstone and Big Sky sections deployed into the backcountry from two different trailheads. The lost snowmobilers were located at 9:30 pm and safely led out of the backcountry to Sage Creek Trailhead.

Sheriff Dan Springer would like to recognize the snowmobilers for asking for assistance when they determined they were lost and would like to thank the Search and Rescue volunteers for their dedication to this successful mission. The lost snowmobilers in this incident were prepared for an emergency in winter conditions and followed direction until help could arrive.

Photo courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.

PRAY, Montana  – Sage Lodge, an outdoors-focused Montana resort located 30 miles north of Yellowstone National Park and managed by Columbia Hospitality, is excited to announce the selection of William Conroy as its new executive chef. The lodge, which opened in 2018 and has a long-standing partnership with Sage Fly Fishing, continues to solidify its reputation as one of the state’s premier lodging properties, ranking in the top one percent in the world in Tripadvisor’s “2022 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best” awards.

In his new role, Conroy will oversee culinary operations of banquets, events and the property’s onsite restaurants, including The Grill at Sage Lodge and The Fireside Room, to implement the vision for the property.

“I am thrilled to join an amazing team and work at such a prestigious property,” said Conroy. “I look forward to bringing my culinary expertise to Montana, expanding our cuisine offerings and providing guests with a one-of-a-kind dining experience that speaks to the Lodge’s luxurious nature.”

Conroy began his career working as a sous chef at Homestead Inn in Canadensis, Pennsylvania. He honed his culinary skills working in restaurants across the country and became executive chef at both Sorrel River Ranch in Utah and Naples Bay Resort in Florida. Conroy gained extensive experience with culinary operations, overseeing a culinary team and cultivating menus with locally sourced ingredients to create an unforgettable dining experience.

In his new role as executive chef, Conroy looks forward to highlighting fresh and local ingredients, mentoring his team, and developing culinary event programming at the property. Conroy is from Hopatcong, New Jersey, and received his degree from the esteemed Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. In his free time, he enjoys snowboarding, riding his motorcycle and spending time with his two dogs, Blue and Temerity.

On Wednesday, January 11, 2023, at 2:08 p.m. the West Yellowstone Police Department Dispatch Center received a 911 call from a snowmobiler requesting assistance. The snowmobiler reported that one of their party had sustained a shoulder injury after their snowmobile left the trail and struck a tree. The accident was in the area of Junction 17, outside of West Yellowstone.

Volunteers from the Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue West Yellowstone Section, Yellowstone National Park and Hebgen Basin Rural Fire Department responded to assist with the rescue.

Volunteers located the patient and determined that their injuries were considerably more severe than initially suspected. They loaded the patient into a specialized snow ambulance and transported them to a waiting HBFD ambulance crew in West Yellowstone.

Sheriff Dan Springer would like to recognize, and thank, the numerous snowmobilers that stopped to assist volunteers in preparing the patient for transport.

Photo courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.

We live in a day and age where unique places to eat are popping up left and right. With the explosion of amazing independent restaurants, it is always thrilling when something new opens in our city - especially if it has a unique flair that we cannot find anywhere else! 2023 promises exciting restaurant openings, with many chefs putting their best foot forward for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

From street-style food to classy fine dining establishments, there's surely something to please everyone. Keep reading this blog post to find out the trending new restaurant openings around the world that you can look forward to this year!

Dominique Crenn at La Fantaisie, Paris – Spring 2023

Renowned chef Dominique Crenn's new restaurant is set to open its doors in the heart of Paris next spring. La Fantaisie will feature a unique blend of French and Californian-style cuisine that aims to showcase Crenn's cooking prowess and creativity. Expect a playful menu full of delicate flavors, unexpected dishes, and masterful plating.

The restaurant will also feature its wine list, with a selection of both French and Californian wines to complement the menu. La Fantaisie is sure to be a culinary and cultural treat that you won't want to miss!

Sendero, Los Angeles – February 2023

Los Angeles has long been known for its diverse cultural influences and Sendero, set to open in February 2023, is no exception. This hip new eatery will bring together flavors from across the Americas with an eclectic menu full of exciting Latin American-style dishes and cocktails.

Sendero will be a modern take on traditional Latin American cuisine, taking the place of Wolfgang Puck's WP24, which had to close down during the pandemic. With its vibrant flavors and stylish interiors, it will become one of LA's must-visit spots.

Somni, Los Angeles – Summer 2023

If you're looking for a more upscale dining experience, look at Somni. This high-end restaurant is set to open in the summer of 2023 and promises an unforgettable culinary journey. Guests will be treated to an ever-changing menu of molecular gastronomy dishes created from the freshest ingredients available.

The restaurant will also feature a list of rare and unique wines to pair with its dishes. With Michelin-Starred chef José Andrés at the helm, Somni is sure to be one of the most talked about restaurants in Los Angeles. You can find more grand openings information at openings24.com. The website helps people find the best new restaurants, bars, and cafes in their city.

Akira Back at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, London – Spring 2023

For an ultra-luxurious dining experience, you can look forward to the opening of Akira Back at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair in London. This Japanese restaurant will be helmed by Michelin-starred chef Akira Back and will offer guests a unique and elevated dining experience with its traditional yet modern dishes.

The menu will feature classic Japanese dishes with an international flair and signature creations from the chef himself. Dishes will be complemented by a selection of sake, wines, and spirits to make your meal an unforgettable experience.

Patrick Powell at Midland Grand Dining Room, London – Spring 2023

If you're in the mood for something a bit more sophisticated, then be sure to check out Patrick Powell's new restaurant at Midland Grand Dining Room. This art-deco-inspired eatery will bring elegance and intrigue back to London with dishes rooted in traditional British cuisine but with a modern twist.

The menu will feature classic British dishes such as fish and chips, steak and ale pie, and bangers and mash, but with a creative spin. The restaurant will also feature an extensive selection of wines from different regions worldwide to pair with your meal.

No matter what type of cuisine you're in the mood for, these new restaurant openings have something for everyone. They're sure to provide an unforgettable culinary experience that will leave a lasting impression. Be sure to visit these soon-to-open restaurants and enjoy the unique flavors they have to offer!

Winter is the time when you want to escape to places where the sun and warmth are constant companions. But sometimes it is hard to find the right place for a dream vacation.

We want to tell you about the places you can go on vacation this winter and recharge your inner battery without facing lots of tourists.


Maui Islands
Created by two volcanoes, Maui presents picture-perfect plains. These craters made the island look like a giant figure of eight. Haleakala (locals call it "House of the Sun") crater is part of the same-name national park and has a moon-like surface. Going there on a bicycle tour or hiking could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Why should you visit it during the winter? Except for vacations under the sun, you can have a unique experience watching humpback whales by the coast. They were there from December to March. By the way, underwater enthusiasts should visit the Ocean Center of Maui: more than a thousand species of fish in a giant aquarium, that mimics the expanse of the ocean.

UAE
Even the eternal summer countries of Asia have rainy seasons, and they often happen during the winter months, while the winter in Europe has different characteristics: heavy snowfalls and sunless weeks occur quite often. But the sun-blessed sands of the UAE are a source of good cheer for everyone. This is a country that really has it all: from historical sites to major shopping centers, and from beautiful beaches to luxurious hotels. Because the UAE, and particularly Dubai, is not the cheapest destination, it is advisable to plan your vacation in advance. Because when you make a reservation in advance, you can save a lot on the hotel, and by choosing the right rental service with a wide range of car models for hire, so you could even get a Lamborghini car for rent for a cheap price. Depending on your demands, you can rent a car for a few hours or a whole trip long. When it comes to Dubai - proper preparation for your trip will allow you to save up to 30% of the travel price.
 
Dubai has much to offer you: Eastern customs and shining masterpieces of modern architecture, wide white-sand beaches, a gentle and warm ocean, first-class shopping—this is what awaits tourists in the country. And winter is the perfect time for a beach holiday in the UAE. The water temperature in winter varies depending on the month and resort, but rarely falls below 72 °F.

Indonesia
An alluring winter vacation destination is Indonesia. Flawless beaches, a warm sea, with temperatures generally 88° F - the most comfortable conditions for those who like it hot. As with everywhere else in Asia, this area receives seasonal rainfall during the winter. But unlike the rest of Asia, here it falls most often at night and will not affect the selection of entertainment available.

Holidays in Indonesia are famous for surfing. Local surf schools can teach you how to handle a board in a matter of days. And so if you wanted to spend your vacation on the crest of a wave, this would be the best option.

Santorini
Santorini is an ancient and incredibly beautiful place. The island is full of architectural and historical sites. For example, the town of Iya: white houses with blue roofs on the cliffs of the slopes against a backdrop of mind-boggling seascapes. This city has become a muse for many artists and writers. Lovers come there to write their names on the rocks - the legend says it's a guarantee of eternal love. It is also world-famous for its local sunsets.

The island of Santorini has unique beaches with black and red sand (all due to the volcanic nature of the island). Kamari, near the towns of Thira and Perissa, has black beaches, while Akrotiri Bay has a dark red beach. But this does not mean that the island is not suitable for the winter. Winters there are mild, the thermometer rarely falls below 50°F, and on sunny days it stays around 63°F.

India
Mysterious ancient India, the birthplace of yoga and ayurveda. Goa has been a favorite of travelers since the days of the hippies. This is a great place to spend the winter if you can't stand the cold and don't want to be sad. Goa resorts: an endless stretch of sandy beaches with palm trees and a gentle sea where the water temperature never falls below 77°F.

Goa is divided into two parts: - the northern part and the southern part. The northern part is focused on youth resorts, where there is a vibrant nightlife, loud parties, and gathering fans of trance music. Prices are more affordable, and the beaches are not as heavenly-white as in the south. Northern Goa's most popular resorts include Anjuna, Vagator, Calangute (the former hippie capital), Morjim, and the quieter and more private Arambol and Candolim.

BOZEMAN — It’s time to meet the Gnomes of Story Mill! In this self-guided art installation you can travel around the Grand Lawn of Story Mill Park to explore the gnome village, learning about their cozy way of life and the many jobs they do to keep the park healthy. Perhaps you’ll even be inspired to become a gnome yourself?!?!

“The Story Mill gnomes don’t get a lot of credit for the work they do to keep the park running smoothly. For example, there’s never been a problem with Trolls in this park - and we thank gnomes for that! We’re so glad they are finally getting their moment to shine!” said Jamie Saitta, Recreation Manager with Bozeman Parks and Recreation.

The brainchild of the Random Acts of Silliness team, the Gnome Roam has been brought to life by Thomas Dunning, a Bozeman based designer, fabricator, and the owner of Meristem Services. Thomas used a combination of classic low-tech techniques and materials such as working with logs, branches, and papier-mâché, along with more modern techniques of digital modeling and 3D printing to create the
gnome world.

From the Gnome’s Wood Shop to Story Bowl ski hill, you’ll get a taste of every aspect of gnome life. Each stop in the village also offers a short audio scene, portrayed by a talented team of local performers, that can be played on audio boxes in the park or streamed via the Random Acts of Silliness website.

“Trust for Public Land helped create Story Mill Park with the goal of bringing lasting joy, wonder, and good health to Bozeman residents. It’s such a pleasure to support the Gnome Roam, which is one of the best examples of how we can use this space to bring people closer to nature and each other,” said Dick Dolan Northern Rockies Director of Trust for Public Land.

Random Acts of Silliness’ last art installation (Bumblewood Thicket Fairy Village) was recently voted Best Annual Event in Bozeman as well as Best Public Art Installation for the 2nd year in a row.

The Gnome Roam is up January 14th - January 29th. This is a free, self- guided, outdoor art installation offered by Random Acts of Silliness (RAS) in partnership with the Bozeman Parks and Recreation Department and the Trust for Public Land (TPL), and with support from James Bond Dental Arts and Design 5 Landscape Architecture.

To visit the Gnome Roam, park at the Story Mill Community Center (600 Bridger Canyon Drive). Parking is limited so carpooling is suggested, as is visiting on weekdays if possible. The Gnome Roam traverses the paved/plowed path circling the Great Lawn of Story Mill Park. Visitors will be required to travel approximately half a mile.

For more information and some fun bells and whistles, visit www.randomactsofsilliness.com