Publisher’s Note - NOV/DEC/JAN 2025-2026
“Passion” is the theme that emerged from our stories in this issue.
We met two very successful, family-owned and run businesses: a mountain shop in Red Lodge and a toy store in Billings - both started by folks passionate about the services and products they offer. We visited with multiple women-owned businesses in Big Timber that work feverishly with the community, to keep their town attractive, vital, and a place where the locals are entertained and visitors are drawn. We met a couple that has been “spinning records” and sharing stories, sports and news from their small-town radio station for over 30 years. And we sat with two of the original board members and the current director of the Chase Hawks Rough Stock Rodeo to hear the story of how hundreds of volunteers turned an idea into a successful non-profit to help hundreds of families in crisis for the past three decades.
How do these folks stay steady, courageous and determined in the face of the unknown? What drives them to keep going despite challenges they cannot control? PASSION - for their business, for their community, for their families and for each other. We think you’ll find their stories enlightening.
And garden enthusiasts: it’s time to plant garlic - a bulbous flowering plant that has multiple uses and benefits. Amy Grisak explains how to do that. And you don’t want to miss Jean’s Cuisines this time. She shared recipes and instructions for a complete meal for the holidays.
As Christmas and the New Year draw near, we’re determined to do what we can to remind shoppers of the importance of spending their shopping dollars with local businesses. Studies say that for every dollar spent locally, it is turned over seven times in the local economy. When you support a small, local business; that money continues to support families, jobs, schools and the local economy. In addition to our features on small businesses, we also have included our annual Christmas Gift Guide. Be sure to check it out! Hopefully you’ll be enticed to do some road trips to check out what other communities have to offer. Go enjoy some small-town hospitality.
And how about that cover? When I asked our incredibly artistic graphic designer if she thought our adorable grandson would be a good cover, she just smiled. Leave it to Melanie, not only did she make the cover look amazing; she hid elements in it that you’re going to want to find. Look closely and see if you can find the following Christmas items: Baby Jesus, a Christmas tree, a wreath, two gingerbread cookies, Santa, a Christmas sweater, two gifts, a stocking and three Christmas ornaments. No cheating, but if you’re struggling you can find the key somewhere in the magazine. Happy browsing!
With the Thanksgiving and Christmas season upon us, we pray that the excitement and wonder of the holidays fills you with hope, peace and joy!
Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas and Blessings to you in the New Year!
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13