RED LODGE, MONTANA  – In 2021, Montana firefighter Dan Steffensen faced a wall of fire moving at sixty miles per hour. The flames engulfed him, burning over 60% of his body. Many believed his story would end tragically, but against all odds, Dan not only survived but triumphed, showcasing the indomitable resilience of the human spirit.

Burned Over! is the captivating tale of Dan’s harrowing ordeal and his inspiring journey back to the frontlines of firefighting. Penned by acclaimed author A.J. Otjen, this compelling narrative takes readers through the heart-stopping moments of Dan's brush with death and the overwhelming support he received from the people around him.

Back on the firefighting roster and dedicating his time to supporting fellow burn survivors, Dan’s story is one of unwavering perseverance and the pursuit of one’s true calling. His story serves as a reminder that even in the face of unimaginable adversity, there is always strength to be found within ourselves and the communities that surround us.

A.J. Otjen is a seasoned marketing professor at Montana State University in Billings. With over two decades of experience as a marketing executive, she has also authored numerous articles and children's books, recognized by Indian Education for All, and chosen for award recognition in 2023 by the Library of Congress.

Burned Over! The Survival of Montana Firefighter Dan Steffensen (ISBN: 978-1-59152-345-1, Sweetgrass Books, 2024) is available in softcover at various local retailers, as well as online and Farcountry Press at (800) 821-3874, farcountrypress.com.

The Arts Council of Big Sky is pleased to announce another incredible summer of Music in the Mountains at Center Stage in Len Hill Park in Big Sky. Starting on June 20 and ending on September 12, there will be 13 concerts, all of which are free and open to the public. This year marks the 15th anniversary of hosting Music in the Mountains in Len Hill Park.            

“We’re grateful to be able to bring another season of Music in the Mountains to the Big Sky Community,” says Brian Hurlbut, the Arts Council’s Executive Director. “We think our audience is going to be thrilled with this year’s lineup, which features a mix of returning favorites and exciting new artists.”             

The popular series will again present a variety of genres to appeal to all tastes. From blues to bluegrass, Americana to funk and soul, this summer will surely be another memorable one in Big Sky.

The full schedule includes the Jeff Crosby Band on June 20; Cool Cool Cool on June 27; the Tiny Band on July 4; El Laberinto del Coco on July 11; The Wood Brothers on July 18; Mikaela Davis on July 25; Carolyn Wonderland on August 1; Doom Flamingo on August 8; Erica Falls and Vintage Soul on August 15; Fruition on August 22; The Lil Smokies on August 29; Pinky and the Floyd on September 5. Once again the season will conclude with the second annual Metal in the Mountains festival on September 12, featuring Metallica tribute band Blistered Earth and local rockers Scavenger. A free performance of Montana Shakespeare in the Parks will also take place in the Town Center Plaza on July 27.           

The Arts Council is again partnering with the Spanish Peaks Community Foundation to present the Emerging Artist Series, which features local and regional opening artists for each concert. This year’s performers include Mike Murray on June 20; Gilda House on June 27; DJ Chedda on July 4; Cruz Contreras on July 11; Buffalo Burrows on July 18; Jacob Rountree and the Somethings on July 25; Emma and the Ledge on August 1; Moth on August 8; Jazz Cabbage on August 15; Tuesday Night Rodeo Club on August 22; and North Fork Crossing on August 29.            

The family friendly events take place at Center Stage in Len Hill Park, one of the best outdoor venues in the state, right in the heart of Big Sky. The park opens at 6 p.m. each week, and there will be food and beverage vendors and a free arts activity tent for kids. Music typically starts at 6:30 p.m. with the headliner following at 8 p.m. Please remember that no dogs or glass containers are allowed in the park, and although attendees are allowed to bring their own food and alcohol into the park, please remember to be kind and respectful to others around you.             

For more information on the summer lineup and to check out what other events the Arts Council has going on, please visit bigskyarts.org.

BOZEMAN, Montana (May 30, 2024)—The Bozeman Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Nathan Moore, a 33-year-old male reported missing on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. The Bozeman Police Department received the initial report and has been partnering with the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office and its Search and Rescue team.

On May 26, a U.S. Forest Service Officer recovered property belonging to Moore from a bear-proof storage container at the Blackmore Campground, located next to Hyalite Reservoir. Gallatin County Sherriff’s Search and Rescue team conducted an extensive search of the area, using search dogs, drones, and boats, but ultimately could not locate Moore.

Both agencies request that anyone with information that could lead to his safe return contact the Bozeman Police Department. Moore is 6’1” tall, weighs 185 pounds, and has blonde hair and hazel-colored eyes. He is not believed to be driving a vehicle.

“If anyone sees Moore or finds personal property, like a bicycle or backpack, which may be related to his disappearance, please let us know,” says Detective Spencer Jenkins with the Bozeman Police Department. “Every piece of information, no matter how small, could be a key detail leading to his whereabouts.”

To report information, contact Detective Jenkins at sjenkins@bozeman.net or 406-582-2224.

BOZEMAN – The Western Transportation Institute at Montana State University is once again hosting its GoGallatin Challenge to encourage individuals and teams throughout the Gallatin Valley to change how they view their commutes by carpooling, biking, walking or using public transportation.

This year’s fifth annual contest has been extended from three to four weeks and will take place from June 3–28. Matthew Madsen, technical research associate at the Western Transportation Institute, said the event is designed to discourage people from making single vehicle trips, thereby saving time and money while reducing emissions.

“We have options for biking, walking, carpooling, taking Streamline (bus), we have pogo sticking and scootering. Any way you want to switch up your commute is the goal,” Madsen said. “It’s not just to and from work. We’re trying to get people to rethink how they commute, especially during the summer.”

GoGallatin is a project created by the Western Transportation Institute, which is housed in MSU’s Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering.

Anyone who lives or works in Gallatin County can enter the competition for free. Teams or individuals can win by logging the most trips. Individuals can also log their miles and win prizes from businesses in the county.

The end of the GoGallatin challenge coincides with the Festival of Bikes and Bike to Work Day on June 28. The Festival of Bikes, featuring food trucks, a beer garden, live music, raffles and representation by local bike shops, will be held in Bozeman’s Bogert Park from 5 to 9 p.m. On Bike to Work Day, from 7-10 a.m., participants will receive free coffee and a light snack at stations throughout Bozeman; details will come in the following weeks.

Key partners for this year's GoGallatin Challenge are the city of Bozeman, Streamline, Big Sky SNO, MSU’s Office of Sustainability, the Downtown Bozeman Partnership and many Gallatin Valley businesses.

More information and online registration are available at GoGallatin.org.

In the past few years, more and more homes have talked about putting in solar panels. This is not a surprise since they let you use energy from a green source and keep the network running almost all the time.
 
These features really make you want to buy. You can use data from the SEIA study to back up this claim. In 2022, enough solar panels will be put up to power 22 million homes in the United States.
 
But getting solar panels for your home is not just a good idea for green energy. There are also a number of other benefits to the buildings.

Less money spent on bills
When thinking about the financial benefits of solar energy, one good place to start is with the fact that it can save you a lot of money on your regular utility bills.
 
You should be able to save a good amount of money not just a few dollars. This is because solar panels can produce so much energy that it will meet all of the home's needs.
 
The owner only needs to get in touch with the provider and order structures that meet their needs. This is not hard to do. To find a solar company near you, use a search tool, pick one, and then order solar panels. If things go wrong, you can always ask for help from people with more experience.
 
One thing that might make some homes think twice is that solar panels are pretty pricey. You should not be afraid of these costs, though. After all, the systems pay for themselves over time and save a lot of money every month.
 
Lessening of the bad effects on the environment
Traditionally, systems that power homes with electricity are very different from systems that use solar panels. The second one needs natural gas, oil, or coal to run.
 
Pollutants in the air and water come from these places, along with greenhouse gases and other harmful gases. In other words, they hurt the world in some way.
 
The fact that these sources do not get replenished is important to note. In other words, they might run out of stock. One of the benefits of solar power is that it can be used over and over again and is good for the earth.
 
That is why putting up panels that turn this kind of radiation into electricity is good for the earth.

Fewer maintenance costs
While talking about the benefits of solar panels, it is also worth mentioning how cheap they are to maintain. Individuals who are not familiar with how the buildings work might think that they cost a lot to keep up.
 
However, this belief is not related to what is happening. Unlike other devices, solar panels do not require regular user or master action. All of the fasteners are made so that bad things from the outside can not damage them, and the materials used are solid.
 
In these situations, maintenance is just cleaning the panels a few times a year to get rid of dirt and dust. It is simple to complete. Use a soft cloth and a jar to hold water. Simply wash and dry the surface.
 
Stability of the Power Supply
Putting in solar panels on your house will also get rid of the problems that come up when standard power sources go down. Of course, city power plants' equipment does not always work right, no matter how stable it is.
 
A lot of things could cause this. Whatever they are, homeowners have a lot of problems when they do not have power. Putting up solar panels can help lessen these effects. There is no end to the sites' usefulness.
 
This means that every day they turn energy from the sun into power. Batteries can keep making power even if other sources fail.

Saving money and getting extra incentives
In the United States, there are good deals on installing solar cells. Because they are different in different areas, you should find out the specifics ahead of time.
 
These kinds of deals can cut prices by as much as 50%. At the state level, too, people are encouraged to use solar power. Homeowners who put in these kinds of systems and help lower their carbon footprint get help from the federal government.
 
For these kinds of people, the government offers a range of cash aid and incentives. These could be savings, tax credits, or something else.

Financial Benefits
As you think about the pros and cons of solar energy, you might also want to think about another aspect: the initial investment loses its value quickly. In other words, adding the system makes financial sense. Spending money on it does not hurt the budget and might even help it grow.
 
Solar energy does not depend on changes in the market because it can be used over and over again. As a result, you do not have to worry about tariffs going up without warning. The supply of this kind of energy is also good for business. It keeps happening automatically, without the need to put money in or do regular upkeep.

 
One more important thing is that methods used in solar energy are getting better. There are a lot of experts trying to not only make the systems better but also to lower the prices of some parts of solar panels. The cost of buildings will go down because of this.

Solar panels come with a special warranty
Modern solar panel systems are made from strong, long-lasting materials, and the framework is planned with all the ways they can be used in mind.
 
This makes them very strong and dependable. Companies are now not afraid to offer long guarantees on home solar panels because of this. There are even deals on the market where the maker claims a warranty for 25 years.
 
This kind of advantage can be used as long as the company lives, though. When these things happen, you should pay extra attention to which solar panel maker you choose.
 
Ability To Increase the Budget
This is a benefit that can make all the difference for people who are hesitant to make big purchases at first. Its main idea is that people can share the extra power that their home solar systems produce. In other words, they give it to the general network and receive payment from the local government for it.

In conclusion
After putting together all the information we have, we can say that using solar panels in homes is a very good idea. The systems help people save money, keep the voltage stable, are safe for the environment, and can also help them get cash benefits and incentives. Solar panels for the house are also simple to use and do not need to be fixed or maintained regularly.

Korean short ribs, or Kalbi, are a delicious and popular dish that showcases the rich flavors of Korean cuisine. Known for their sweet and savory marinade and tender meat, these ribs are perfect for a backyard barbecue or a special dinner with family and friends.

Preparing the best ribs involves a few essential steps, from selecting the right cut of meat to mastering the marinade and grilling techniques. This step-by-step manual will guide you through the process, ensuring that your ribs are perfectly cooked and full of flavor.

Selecting and Preparing the Meat

The first step in making the ribs is selecting the right cut of meat. For Kalbi, you need flanken-style short ribs, which are cut across the bone into thin strips. These ribs are ideal for grilling because they cook quickly and evenly, allowing the marinade to penetrate the meat fully. When shopping for short ribs, look for well-marbled meat with a good ratio of fat to lean. This marbling ensures that the ribs will be tender and juicy once grilled.

For this recipe, we suggest getting 2 lbs. of ribs that are sliced ¼ inch across the bone.
Once you have your short ribs, it's time to prepare them for marinating. Start by rinsing the ribs under cold water to remove any bone fragments. Pat them dry with paper towels, and then use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in the meat. These cuts help the marinade penetrate more deeply and ensure even cooking. Be careful not to cut too deeply, as you don't want to sever the meat completely.

Making the Marinade
The key to delicious Korean Grilled Short Ribs lies in the marinade. The traditional marinade for Kalbi combines soy sauce, honey, garlic, and rice wine, creating a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors. To make the marinade, you'll need the following ingredients:

Begin by finely mincing the garlic and scallion. Next, grate the pear using a fine grater. The pear not only adds a subtle sweetness but also contains enzymes that help tenderize the meat.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, scallion, and grated pear. Add the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, honey, and rice wine.

Whisk the ingredients together until well combined. This marinade not only flavors the meat but also helps to tenderize it, making the ribs incredibly juicy and delicious.

Marinating the Ribs
Once the marinade is ready, it's time to marinate the short ribs. Place the prepared ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Ensure that the ribs are evenly coated with the marinade, and then seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the ribs for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. The longer the ribs marinate, the more flavorful they will become.

While the ribs are marinating, it's a good idea to turn them occasionally to ensure that the marinade is evenly distributed. This step helps to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. If you're short on time, you can marinate the ribs for a minimum of 2 hours, but for the best results, an overnight marinade is highly recommended.

Grilling the Ribs
Grilling is the final step in creating the perfect Korean ribs. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the ribs from sticking. Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and discard the marinade.

Place the ribs on the grill in a single layer, ensuring that they are not overcrowded. Grill the ribs for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they are nicely charred and cooked through. The thin slices of flanken-style short ribs cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking. The ribs should have a beautiful caramelized crust on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside.

To achieve the best results, resist the urge to move the ribs around too much on the grill. Allow them to sear properly on one side before flipping them over. This technique helps to develop a rich, smoky flavor and creates those coveted grill marks. Once the ribs are cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving the Ribs
Ribs are best served hot off the grill. Arrange them on a large platter and garnish with additional toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor. These ribs are typically enjoyed with a variety of side dishes, known as banchan, which can include kimchi, pickled vegetables, and steamed rice.

For an authentic Korean dining experience, serve the ribs with lettuce leaves, which can be used to wrap the meat along with a spoonful of rice and a dab of ssamjang (a spicy Korean dipping sauce). This interactive way of eating adds to the enjoyment of the meal and allows your guests to customize their bites to their liking.

Short ribs also pair well with a refreshing cucumber salad or a simple green salad dressed with a sesame vinaigrette. The contrast of the cool, crisp vegetables with the rich, savory ribs creates a balanced and satisfying meal. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or a family dinner, these ribs are sure to be a hit.

Conclusion
Making Korean short ribs at home is a rewarding and delicious endeavor. By carefully selecting and preparing the meat, creating a flavorful marinade, and mastering the grilling technique, you can enjoy this iconic Korean dish with your family and friends. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, tender meat, and smoky char from the grill makes these ribs an unforgettable culinary experience.

With this step-by-step guide, you'll be well-equipped to create restaurant-quality Kalbi that will impress and delight everyone at your table. So, fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy some of the best ribs you've ever tasted!

Navigating the world of single malt Scotch whisky can be both an exhilarating and daunting task. For those drawn to the distinct flavors of Scotland, Loch Lomond Single Malt offers a splendid variety of expressions. This guide will help you select the perfect bottle from Loch Lomond's collection to delight any whisky aficionado.

Understanding Whisky Preferences

Before diving into the nuances of Loch Lomond’s offerings, it's essential to gauge the recipient's taste preferences. Does the enthusiast favor peaty undertones, or are they inclined towards something fruitier? Such preferences will greatly influence your choice. For a detailed exploration of Loch Lomond's range, visit https://www.lochlomondwhiskies.com/. Their site provides a thorough overview of each expression’s flavor profile.

Ideal Picks for the Peat Admirer

Those who cherish the smoky, earthy notes characteristic of peat will appreciate Loch Lomond 12 Year Old Peated Single Malt. Matured in oak casks, this whisky provides a robust flavor, marked by hints of vanilla and peat smoke—a stellar choice for palates attuned to hearty, smoky whiskies.

Selections for the Fruit Enthusiast

For whisky lovers with a penchant for fruitier, sweeter notes, the Loch Lomond 12 Year Old perfectly balances the complexity of fruit with the maturity of oak. Its bouquet of green apple, pear, and lemon zest, combined with a subtle peatiness, offers a refreshing twist to the traditional whisky narrative.

Top Choice for the Adventurous

Adventurous souls might enjoy the Loch Lomond Inchmoan 12 Year Old. This unique expression blends fruity and smoky elements, creating a complex palate with layers of spice and peat. It's an intriguing choice for those who seek a whisky that provides a conversation as rich as its taste.

Luxurious Gifts for Special Occasions

When the occasion calls for something truly spectacular, the Loch Lomond 18 Year Old Single Malt stands out. Aged to perfection, it reveals a sophisticated depth with whispers of smoke and spice. Its elegance makes it a luxurious gift for significant milestones and celebrations.

Budget-Friendly Yet Impressive

If you're seeking a gift that impresses without breaking the bank, consider the Loch Lomond Original. This single malt is an affordable entry point into the world of Loch Lomond whiskies, offering a smooth and versatile flavor profile that appeals to both novices and seasoned whisky drinkers alike.

Presentation Tips

The presentation of your whisky gift can be just as important as the whisky itself. Choose a high-quality, stylish gift bag or box, and include a personal note explaining why you chose this particular expression of Loch Lomond Single Malt. Such touches add a personal dimension to your gift, making it even more special.

Conclusion

Loch Lomond Single Malt Scotch Whisky presents a diverse palette of expressions, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From the peaty depths of their peated 12-year-old to the fruity vibrancy of their standard 12-year-old, there's a perfect bottle for every whisky lover in your life. With this guide, selecting the right expression becomes a thoughtful journey through the rich landscape of Scottish whisky.

Bozeman — HRDC announces a milestone event in the construction of Homeward Point, our new comprehensive shelter aimed at reducing homelessness in Gallatin County. The “Walls Up” celebration will take place at 12:00 pm on Thursday, May 30th.

HRDC’s Homeward Point is more than just a shelter. It is designed to be a comprehensive support center where individuals and families experiencing homelessness can access a range of services tailored to their needs. With dedicated spaces for families, private meeting rooms for confidential consultations, and adjacent access to HRDC’s Market Place—offering all HRDC programming, including on site access to food and meals, —Homeward Point is poised to transform the way we address homelessness in our community.

While HRDC’s current shelter has been a critical stopgap and enabled us to help hundreds of people, it was never meant to be a long-term solution. Homeward Point will provide a permanent solution, enabling us to help more people more effectively. As homelessness continues to rise—nationwide and locally—facilities like Homeward Point are essential. In Montana, the number of people experiencing homelessness increased by a staggering 45% between 2022 and 2023, highlighting the urgent need for expanded support services.

“Our community is at a critical juncture,” said Heather Grenier, HRDC President/CEO. “Homeward Point represents our commitment to making homelessness a rare, brief, and one-time occurrence for everyone who experiences it. This facility will provide the resources and environment needed to help our neighbors get back on their feet and into stable housing.”

As a private, not-for-profit Community Action Organization focused on building a better community through its nearly 50 initiatives, HRDC combats poverty in southwestern Montana and believes everyone deserves the opportunity to be financially stable. Donors, volunteers, and community members can find out what we have in common at https://thehrdc.org/

The Midtown Event Space is proud to announce its grand opening in the heart of Bozeman
bringing a new and versatile venue to the community. Formerly known as the Midtown Tavern,
this iconic location has been transformed into a premier versatile event space available for a wide range of occasions.

"We are thrilled to new life into this beloved location," said Nettie Caine, Managing Partner.

"Our goal is to create a space where the community can come together and celebrate."

Kyle Robinson, another Managing Partner, added, "Midtown Event Space is designed to be
incredibly versatile, catering to everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale events. We
can't wait to see the wide variety of events that will take place here."

Kalani Madrona emphasized the community aspect, saying, "This transformation is about more
than just a physical change. We aim to make Midtown Event Space a cornerstone for local
culture and community activities."

Jessie Clark noted, "We've put a lot of thought into making this space adaptable to different
needs, whether it's a corporate meeting or a lively concert. The possibilities are endless."

Devon Soldberg concluded, "We’re excited to honor the history of 7th while creating new
memories for our guests. This space is a blank canvas for creativity and celebration."

Midtown Event Space invites the public to join the open house celebration on June 6th 6-8pm where they can tour the venue, meet the team, and envision the potential for their own events.

The grand opening will feature live music, catering samples, and interactive demonstrations of
the space's capabilities.

For more information or to book an event, please email the managing partners at
Midtown7th@gmail.com or contact us at (406) 595-1375

Image on homepage from https://www.saulcreative.com/