2 Valleys Stage - 10 Rollicking YearsThough in its early history Alpine Artisans primarily focused on the visual arts, live musical entertainment often accompanied events such as Wine & Chocolate. Rolly Meinholtz, retired faculty member of the UM Drama Department, along with wife Peggy, dreamed of making the performing arts a more permanent and integral part of Alpine Artisans. At about the same time, Bob Green, music instructor at Swan Valley Elementary and Seeley Swan High School, continually sought ways to bring

musicians into the schools to inspire his students. When Rolly, Peggy, and Bob got together, dreams turned into plans and

in 2001 the trio, accompanied by an enthusiastic Seeley Lake Elementary School Superintendent, presented

their proposal to the AAI Board. After due deliberation, the Board voted to initiate a non-profit performing arts series which would function within the Alpine Artisans

parent organization.

A committee was formed and began a year of intense discussions to work out details and methodology and to solicit grants. It was decided that the Series would consist of four or five events per season, each to include one community performance plus additional performances at Seeley Lake Elementary, Swan Valley School, and Seeley Swan High School, along with age-appropriate workshops, lessons, discussions, and/or play activities related to the particular performance art. To allow for further interactions between performers and community members, local folks would be encouraged to welcome the artists into their homes for meals or overnight stays during their residency. The name “2 Valleys Stage” was chosen and seemed particularly appropriate in memory of the vehicle, fondly referred to as the Seeley Stage, that in earlier years brought people, supplies, mail service, and entertainment to the outpost communities of Seeley and Condon.

The inaugural season began with a gala kick-off event featuring The Montana Piano Trio and a vocal quartet (composed primarily of UM Music faculty eager to help out the new venture). The concert was a sell-out success, verifying that the AAI membership was solidly behind this new program.

For five years Rolly, with Bob seated beside him, tirelessly guided the 2 Valleys Stage through curvy roads and straight. The task of keeping the stage running efficiently was made easier by a group of core volunteers—a Coordinating Council—who assumed responsibility for educational outreach, ticket sales/front-of-house, school programming, publicity/graphic design, physical plant, and hospitality. Even backed by this Council and their corpse of additional volunteers, when Rolly and Peggy began making plans to move to Missoula, no one questioned that 2VS needed to replace Rolly with a licensed driver. Cognizant of this need, an anonymous donor bestowed a gift of $100,000 to be used for a Director’s salary over a five-year period. Tom Cook, retired head of the UM Music Department became the first paid 2VS Director. His tenure was followed by that of Polly Huppert, and now Scott Milner directs the Stage's course.

Things to marvel at...‑ B o b Gre e n has se r ve d as

Assistant Director of 2 Valleys Stage during the entire 10 years of its history

‑ Bob also serves as 2VS Liason to the AAI Board

‑ Artist fees 2003-2004 = $7,840 Artist fees 2010-2011 = $11,100

‑ The cost of season tickets and individual concert tickets has not increased in the last 10 year

‑ Season tickets have always included a Buddy Ticket, giving ticket holders a chance to invite a friend to the fun

(continued on p. 9)

2

Positive 2011 L&F“Positive Futures in our Valleys” was the theme of Alpine Artisans’ 2011 Loon & Fish Festival held over Memorial Day weekend. If the fantastic variety of artwork and the enthusiastic crowds—circulating among the booths, grouped around the demonstrating artists, filing in and out to listen to speakers, hiking to view wildflowers or nesting loons—is any indication, things look pretty positive in our valley.

Building on the success of the film showings at last year’s L&F, Jenny Rohrer arranged for a number of speakers to supplement this year’s All-Purpose room presentations. Chief among them was Dr. Steve Running who gave an enlightening assessment of Climate Change based on his research findings. Thanks to Seeley Lake Community Council, Clearwater Resource Council, Swan Ecosystem Center, and the Blackfoot Challenge for helping to bring him to our valleys. His talk was well attended and left everyone with a clearer understanding of this crucial issue.

As a new feature at Loon & Fish this year, the AAI made formal presentations to the Youth Grant Award winners (see article p. 6). Miriam Hertz, head of the AAI Scholarship and Youth Grant Committee, introduced each recipient, explaining why they were receiving the award and what they intended to do with it.

Jennifer Dyer reports that the demonstrations taking place in the main booth area drew good crowds and the presenting artists expressed pleasure at the responsiveness of their audiences.

The walls were festooned with varioius art projects created by Seeley Lake students from pre-school to 8th grade—loons and fish, osprey eggs and flying osprey, mountain goats and grizzly bears, animals found in Glacier National Park, painted glacier scenes inside silhouettes of bear, buffalo, elk, and moose. Donna Love, who led the art activities, says "many came to L&F to show their parents their artwork." And Donna delighted them with another fun project: 3-D wildflowers made from cardboard cake platters and paper plates.

And yes, the L&F fundraiser event produced positive financial results also, netting roughly $4,000 to fill Alpine Artisans depleted coffers. Guided by Chris Gullikson and Judy Boman, the merchandise booth sold almost all of their t-shirts and a number of tote bags. The raffle committee, spearheaded by Carla Schade, Georgia Shane, and Georgina Staggs received so many donations that they were able to create five different themed baskets. It was also particularly gratifying to hear that, in general, the artists did well with sales.

The complementary non-profit groups that set up at L&F were likewise pleased with their results. Our local Food Bank is extremely grateful for the long hours Bob Korn spent at his pottery wheel (he donated 250 bowls!), for the tasty soups donated by our local restaurants, and to the volunteers who sold the bowls and distributed the soup. Including the matching support from Thrivent Financial, the Food Bank garnered $3,585.59.

Our adventuresome local school group, Destination for Education, also found their baked goods were a big hit, especially the cookies shaped and decorated like loons and fish. The group made over $500 towards their goal of providing high school students with broadening cultural experiences.

(continued on p. 3)

Connecting the Dot

alpineartisans.org

Alpine Artisans has so many exciting things going on all year long that we just can't fit all the details into our newsletter. But if you follow the dot—the internet dot, that is

you will find a wealth of information about all aspects of AAI.

Right now, the website is getting a facelift and undergoing some exciting changes!

Aside from presenting a cleaner, more modern look , the new format has room for larger color photos. You should see how stunning the artwork from our artist members looks now! (Artist Studios tab in the Tour of the Arts menu).

And there's now room for lots of video clips. Wish you could hear a little bit of Foothills Brass again? Wonder what kind of music the Paul TillotsonTrio will be playing when they come to our valleys? A video clip of them is available on our website (2011-2012 Performances in the 2 Valleys Stage menu).

There's also an Art Calls button to keep our artisans in touch with upcoming opportunities.

Check out the new look—and be sure to thank Stacey Boyd for designing the new header and Susan Novosel for the endless hours she spends maintaining our great websit.e

3

AAI Officers 2011PresidentCarla Schade ¡ 677-0642gcshade@hotmail.com

Vice President / Membership CoordinatorLee Boman ¡ 677-8027lboman@aol.com

SecretaryGeorgia Shane ¡ 754-0191jshane2221@msn.com

TreasurerCarol Brodie ¡ 677-6156cgbrodie@gmail.com

2 Valleys Stage LiaisonBob Green ¡ 677-3056bobbycorno@peoplepc.com

CAC LiaisonMerrily Dunham ¡ 754-3376merrilyrider@gmail.com

Program Coordinator and 2 Valleys Stage Director Scott Milner ¡ 677-0717scott.milner@alpineartisans.org

Newsletter EditorBetty VanderwielenBox 349, SL 59868 ¡ 677-7474vanderwielen @ blackfoot.net

Web Site CoordinatorSusan Novosel ¡ 754-0064susan.novosel@gmail.com

Message from President, Carla SchadeI have tried dozens of times in the past weeks to write this message. There are so many things I want to say... But how to say them?

Then I was looking at the agenda for our next Board meeting and saw the most important words at the top:

“The mission of Alpine Artisans is to promote and preserve the arts in western Montana.” What a huge, massive goal we have undertaken! What a vision every single member over the last 20 years has worked to bring to reality.

I was hoping when I started this role as your President to find another similar organization in Montana or even the surrounding states. The good news and the bad news is that I have been unable to find anything like Alpine Artisans. We are unique. Unique in the expanse of programs we offer. Unique in the vast area of the Seeley Swan and Blackfoot valleys we embrace. Unique in the small population that carries out our efforts. And, most of all, unique in the generosity of our supporters that enables us to uplift our lives with the magic that music and art and drama and writing can bring to our communities and especially our youth.

So, whether you have given a gift of your time, your talents or your dollars to Alpine Artisans, the accomplishments of the past 20 years are part of your legacy.

We take the first steps into the next 20 years with even bigger hopes and dreams of accomplishing our mission. And while we are doing it, we can pause on a winter’s eve to take in a 2 Valleys Stage concert, or talk with an author about the writing of his book at Open Book Club, or watch an entrancing documentary at a Crown Community Cinema evening, or learn about an artist’s skills at their studio on a Tour of the Arts, or take a wildflower walk after Loon & Fish Festival, or nibble a decadent truffle at Wine & Chocolate, or watch the sparkle in the eye of a student at our school during one of the 2VS informances or while on a tour of the Missoula Art Museum or when receiving a scholarship.

We are unique.

2011 Loon & Fish (continued)Credit for the success of the 2011 Loon & Fish Festival goes to those many volunteers who helped bring it about, but especially to Chris Jewett and Georgia Shane who oversaw the whole operation. The publicity crew composed of Georgia Shane, Colleen Nicholson, and Susan Novosel did a great job of getting the word out (they report that marketing to Helena and Great Falls is the key). Also a big draw was Patricia Bouta’s loon mascot, accompanied by a rainbow trout companion this year. Advance appearances of the mascots at the Missoula Market the week prior to L&F helped get the word out and, though official waterproof and reusable signs (thanks to Gene and Carla Schade and Kris Gulikson) lead visitors to the event, the very animated loon and fish also stationed themselves at the street corner to entice folks to come join in all the fun happenings.

4

Cultural Arts Corridor ReportUPSCALE GARAGE SALE Faced with a need to raise $3,000 to support the continuing Tour of the Arts, COTC Film Series, and Open Book Club —and confronted with little time and only a handful of people to implement a plan—a CAC working committee came up with the idea of having a garage sale, one offering "upscale" items. The Condon Community Club joined in, providing Cajun food and other edibles with a view toward using the revenue for continuing maintenance on the Community Hall. In addition, several artists took advantage of the opportunity to have booths at the event and seemed pleased with their sales.

The results were gratifying in terms of monetary profit, but the greater joy lies deeper. Those who so generously donated items seemed pleased to be supporting our cause, and equally pleased for the gentle nudge to clean out some of their unused stuff to make room for new. Watching people shop at the sale, however, was the real fun. So many evidenced joy and wonderment at discovering treasures (to them) at such affordable prices.

To all of those who interrupted their busy summer to say, “YES” when asked to help at the event, a HUGE THANK YOU. We couldn’t have done it without you.

2011 Tour of the ArtsThe CAC arranged for two Tour of the Arts open houses this year, one in summer and the other in the fall. The first took place on the weekend of August 13 and 14. The results were mixed. Saturday saw a healthy number of very new faces for the most part and a number of art sales were conducted. Sunday was disappointingly quiet for most of the studios. The second opportunity to welcome the public into our studios and galleries came on October 8 and 9 in connection with the Annual Tamarack Festival. A preliminary assessment seems to indicate that the Clearwater Valley artists had a number of folks touring through on Saturday, while Sunday seemed to have more traffic for the Swan Valley studios. To provide an additional incentive, a beautiful fall basket full of art objects and harvest specialties was on display at the AAI booth at the Festival. Any person visiting with ten different artists on the Tour qualified for the drawing for the basket. Beth Hutchinson of Seeley Lake was the lucky winner.

Watershed Partners TourOn June 18th, the Watershed Partners Tour took place in Seeley Lake area. The Partners are Blackfoot Challenge, Clearwater Resource Council and Big Blackfoot Chapter of Trout Unlimited. and the tour has been an annual happening for several years, the venue moving from Lincoln to Ovando to Potomac and now to Seeley Lake. Guests are taken on a bus tour of the area, highlighting projects that this group has been working on for the past few years.

After the tour, approximately 100 guests returned to the Homestead Cabin at the Double Arrow Ranch to be treated to a BBQ dinner. Alpine Artisans participated in the event this year by having artists set up in the Homestead Cabin, showing and selling their art work. Each artist donated a piece of their art for the fundraising auction for the Watershed Partners, which generated

AAI Calendar of Events

October 29 ‑Open Book Club - West of 98

Russell Rowland, Annick Smith, Bill Kittredge

Grizzly Claw Trading Co. - 7:00pm

November 10 ‑Special MAM tour - AAI members

light lunch MAM Classroom - 12:15Ansel Adams Exhibit - 1:00pm

November 13 ‑2 Valleys Stage - Dolce Canto

Swan Valley School - 3:00pm

November 19 ‑Open Book Club - Donna Love

The Wild Life of Elk Grizzly Claw Trading Co. - 7:00pm

December 6 ‑MAM Tour

for Seeley Lake 5th grade

December 17 ‑AAI Holiday Social - potluckMacQuarrie home - 3:30pm

January 15 ‑Annual Meeting (1:00pm)

potluck (noon)Condon Community Hall

January 22 ‑2 Valleys Stage - Jack Gladstone

Seeley Swan High School - 3:00pm

April 22 ‑2 Valleys Stage - Paul Tillotson TrioSeeley Swan High School - 3:00pm

5

$800. The Partners expressed sincere appreciation for AAI's participation, and generous donations of art work.

AAI artists who participated in this event were Susan Baker, Merrily Dunham, Jon & Charlotte West, Bev Erickson and Jennifer Dyer, plus new members Lynette Rozone, Andrea LaMothe, and Lora Treat. Bob Green was also in attendance, selling tickets for 2 Valleys Stage.

Vicki’s Sunday MarketThe AAI booth at the Sunday Market garnered mixed reviews this year. It still seems a good venue for promoting Alpine Artisans, 2 Valleys Stage, and Tour of the Arts, as well as the works of the artist manning the booth. But, in general, there was low artist participation. The decision to commit to a booth next year may need to be revisited.

Crown of the Continent Community CinemaThe first year of the Crown of the Continent Community Cinema featured a dozen separate screenings in Seeley Lake and Condon, drawing from 30 to 110 people. This fall's program of films will start in November, and will be publicized through the AAI website, emails, and in the Pathfinder.

Open Book ClubThe Grizzly Claw Trading Co. once again brought a varied group of authors whose works expanded our sensibilities beyond the confines of our little valleys. Ruth McLaughlin, in Bound Like Grass, shared her memories of family ties formed and hardened by the struggle to wrest a living from the Western High Plains. David Emmons, in Beyond the American Pale, explored the role of Irish pioneers in shaping and reshaping the West. Bill Moore shared, Times in the Lochsa, a tribute to his dad, Bud Moore. Reverently referred to as "The Quintessential Mountain Man," Bud grew up learning to live off the land during the days of the Depression and ended by becoming a leading influence in policies relating to wilderness fire and ecosystem management. Elizabeth Rosner's novels, The Speed of Light and Blue Nude, delve into the lives of young people struggling to navigate their future while burdened by the tragedies of their parents' pasts. And finally, Diane Smith brought us back to our own valley and our own futures in, TheNewRural.com, which enthusiastically proclaims that we can have it all—technology allows us to market to a worldwide audience without ever leaving this valley we love.

Open Book Club has more author visits on the horizon, starting Saturday, October 29, when Russell Rowland, Annick Smith, and Bill Kittredge will give

us a taste of the new anthology, West of 98—sixty-six prominent authors ruminating on "Living and Writing the New American

West." Colleen Nicholson is arranging a pre-reading (5pm) potluck welcome at Littlebird's Cafe. On November 19, Donna Love will present her new children's book The Wild Life of Elk. Adults will be enriched too with Donna's Power Point demonstration elucidating a number of

unusual facts about these animals that range in our valleys.

Three AAI Board terms will expire this January. Volunteers are needed to fill the following positions

AAI Secretary Attend monthly AAI Board Meetings. Take notes at meetings, write up minutes, disseminate minutes to appropriate members. Commit to 2-year term.Condon resident preferred, but not required. 677-3056 bobbycorno@peoplepc.com

AAI Board Treasurer (Note: Judy Boman has vol-unteered to be acting treasurer for 2012 and will handle the financials) Attend monthly AAI Board Meetings. Liason between Judy and Board. Act in Judy's place when she is not available. Commit to 2-year term. Condon resident preferred, but not required. 677-3056bobbycorno@peoplepc.com

CAC Liaison Attend all Cultural Arts Corridor meetings. Attend monthly AAI Board Meetings with the intent of relaying CAC information, needs, decisions. Commit to 2-year term. Active artist preferred. Condon resident prefer red, but not required. 677-3056bobbycorno@peoplepc.com

Note: the expressed preference for Condon residents is based on an ef fort to equalize the composition of the Board. Seeley Lake residents currently hold all continuing term positions.

Help Wanted

6

Presenting the...

Wonderful Folks who have contributed generously to bring the 2 Valleys Stage Performing Arts Series to you

Ruth Korn Memorial ScholarshipFrom the early days of AAI history, Ruth and Bob Korn guided Alpine Artisans to assume a role in encouraging the arts in our local schools. The couple receives a large share of the credit for initiating the Wine and Chocolate Social as a means of funding a yearly scholarship for a graduating senior desiring to pursue art studies. It is entirely fitting then, that this year’s award be designated the Ruth Korn Memorial Scholarship. And indeed, Ruth would be happy with the committee’s selection of Chelsea Lynn Cahoon as the award recipient.

Chelsea will by applying her $800 scholarship toward tuition at the University of Montana. Photography and Music are high on the list of studies she plans to pursue. One of her goals is “to take outdoor photos and share them with those who are unable to go and see beautiful scenery and wildlife for themselves.” She also notes that “singing and music have been, and are, a huge part of my life” and she is determined to work hard to achieve her dream of becoming a singer. Chelsea has also evidenced qualities of leadership and proven herself a good mentor in such diverse roles as math tutor, tennis instructor, and piano teacher.

AAI also encourages younger students in their investigation of the arts and this year awarded four Youth Grants. Isabelle DeLeo, this year a vivacious Kindergartener at Seeley Lake Elementary, received an award that enabled her to attend Mismo Gymnastics Summer Camp, a program which provides fun ways for young children to improve movement, balance, and coordination.

Amber Elaine Leetch, a 5th grader at Sunset Elementary School in Greenough, received an award allowing her to attend the Arts Unlimited Summer Camp sponsored by the YMCA. The goal of Arts Unlimited is to “expose campers to a variety of different types of art” and to give them the opportunity to visit local galleries and studios. Such a broadening experience was particularly important to Amber who wrote in her application letter, “I am the only student in the whole school.”

Gavin Mercado, a 6th grader at Seeley Lake Elementary, wrote of his interest in all the arts, mentioning drawing, painting, playing the trombone and tuba, and performing in plays hosted by MCT. It was the mural newly adorning his school hallway that sparked his interest in graffiti art and prompted Gavin to apply for the AAI Grant. His Youth Award will allow him to take private lessons with Tjay Warneke, the artist who created the mural.

Morgan Barker, a 7th grader at Lincoln Junior High School also used her Grant to take private art lessons. Morgan wrote that she has “always been very interested in all types of arts and crafts” and adds that she takes advantage of all art opportunities available at her school. Her Gifted and Talented Program teacher verifies that Morgan evidences both “a passion and a gift for art.” To share with us the fruits of her summer lessons, Morgan sent this charcoal drawing of a wolf. She wrote, “Thanks so much for offering such a great program.”

Jeff & Pat ArestyJune Ash

Russ & Larrine Abolt Katherine & William Beers

Bob & Sue Cushman Anne Dahl

Bonnie DonohueSteve & Betsey Ellis

Tom & Mary Fitzsimon Claudia Kux

Joan McGuire Thomas John & Colleen Harrington Mercer

Janice R. MielkeDona Miller

Dennis & Nina Monson Jerye Motschman

Susan & Jack Novosel Sandra & David Pogge James & Terry Quinn

C. & S.L. RidgewayJenny Rohrer

(continued on p. 7)

7

All Decked Out

Advantage Design & Advertising

Blackfoot Bakery

Blackfoot Telecommunications

Clearwater Montana Properties

Deer Creek Excavating

Deer Country Quilts

Double Arrow Resort

Farmer's Insurance

The Filling Station

First Valley Bank

Gateway Printing - Missoula

Glenda's Hair Designs & Tanning

Glen's Automotive

Grace's Greenhouse

Great Bear Properties

Grizzly Claw Trading Co.

Heritage Plumbing & Heating

Heritage Office Stop

(continued on p. 8)

Upcoming...Holiday SocialThe Annual AAI Holiday Social is one of those rare events—wonderful ambiance, great food, warm fellowship—and no business agenda. Sharon & Dan MacQuarrie have graciously agreed to host again this year. It's always delightful to visit their lovely home, especially during the holiday season. The partying will take place Saturday, December 17th, at 3:30pm. AAI will provide the ham, so bring your favorite holiday appetizer, salad, dessert, or whatever culinary treat you want to share with your fellow AAI members. Visiting friends and family are always welcome, as are local friends who might want an introduction to Alpine Artisans. The MacQuarries live on Cygnet Lake. Driving directions: Turn onto Lindberg Lake Road at MM35.5. Follow for 3 miles. When you reach the fork turn left (right fork goes to campgrounds). Continue 4/10 mile to Cygnet Lane (county sign) and look for a tree sign that says 324 MacQuarries.

Annual Membership MeetingLike the holiday get-together, the Membership Meeting (tentatively set for Sunday January 15th at the Condon Community Hall), will include a potluck (starting at noon). But at 1:00pm the agenda turns to business. This Annual Meeting is the occasion when we take an analytical look at our organization to assess what we have done during the past year, what should be changed, what should remain the same. In other words, it's a time to take pride in all that Alpine Artisans does and to reaffirm our comittment to "promote and preserve the arts."

The election of new officers always marks the culmination of the meeting. Three Board terms expire this January. Check the Help Wanted sidebar of this newsletter for job descriptions. If you would like to be on the board, or would like to suggest someone for the Nomination Committee to approach, contact Bob Green (677-3056 - bobbycorno@peoplepc.com)

Wine & ChocolateIt's not too early to start thinking about Wine & Chocolate 2012. Georgia Shane and Carla Schade have agreed to co-chair the event. If you would like to be part of the 2012 W&C team, please contact Carla at AAICarla@hotmail.com.

In keeping with the decisions made at last year's wrap-up meeting, W&C will harken back to its origins—a social arts event targeted at raising funds for scholarships and youth grants. Presenting the Arts Benefactor Award will remain an important part of the event, as will wine tasting and of course, Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate. Beyond that, Georgia and Carla have some surprises up their sleeves. Details will be coming via AAI email "Blasts" as the date gets closer.

Call for ArtA committee will soon be formed, headed by Russ Abolt and tasked with choosing an Arts Benefactor from among the many AAI members who work so tirelessly to support the arts in our valleys. That person will be gifted with a piece of original artwork from one of our AAI members. So start looking for a piece that you would like to submit to the committee (AAI will pay up to $200 for the one selected).

Betsy SpettigueChris & Catrina StoutAlan & Susan Taylor

Gene & Patricia Tingle Roger & Jeri WatsonJill & Rich WisemanDorothea S. Wood

8

Hungry Bear Steak House

Kahnle Law

Lake Country Builders

Lindey’s Prime Steak House

Linford Built Construction

Lisa Holzworth, Nail Tech

Littlebird's Schoolhouse Restaurant

The Lodges on Seeley Lake

Mary Kay

Missoula Electric Cooperative

Montana Island Lodge

Montana Lakes Real Estate

Montana Public Radio

Moose River Bar & Grill

Pop's Place

Professional Bookkeeping

Prudential Montana Real Estates

Pyramid Mountain Lumber

ReMarkable Cleaning Pro

Rejuvenate

Rohrer Film & Video

Rovero's

Schwan’s Home Delivery

Seeley Chicken Coop and Lounge

Seeley Lake Auto Body

Seeley Lake Auto Parts

(continued on p. 9)

In the SpotlightMerrily Dunham was interviewed on Montana Public Radio's "Front Row Center" last May. She spoke about the Log Henge sculpture in Seeley Lake and then proceeded to give a great overview of the Alpine Arisans organization.

Also in May, Carla Schade and Scott Milner attended the Facebook for Business Class held at the Double Arrow. They report "it was a great impetus for starting an AAI Facebook page." Colleen Harrington has graciously volunteered to keep our page updated. Check it out at www.facebook.com/AlpineArtisans. If any AAI members have active Facebook pages, please "Like" the AAI page. The more "likes" we have the better our exposure and the more likely it is that browsers can latch on and see the activities we are involved in and the works of our AAI artisans.

Jennifer Dyer has been asked to teach at the MAWS (Montana Association of Weavers and Spinners) 2012 Carousel of Color Conference being held at the University of Montana next June. Jennifer will give one-day classes in Random Weaving and in Twined Basket Weaving.

Scott Milner, musician (as well as AAI Program Coordinator and 2 Valleys Stage Director) received a scholarship to attend the Crown of the Continent Guitar Workshop at Flathead Lake Lodge in Big Fork. The workshop ran from August 28th to September 4th. Scott was accepted into the Jazz division which involved private lessons and workshops with the artist-teachers, as well as workshops with a top professional rhythm section. Milner who classifies his guitar experience as "almost entirely self taught" went to the class "determined to make the most of..this opportunity to advance my playing and gain musical knowledge and experience."

First Fridays in MissoulaOn the first Friday of every month from 5-8 pm, galleries and museums in downtown Missoula host First Friday Gallery Night—an opportunity for all to enjoy new art exhibits, to socialize with artists and gallery owners, and "to experience the energy of a lively downtown Missoula evening." Some of our AAI artists have taken advantage of the opportunity to display their works, often for the whole rest of the month as well.

Merrily Dunham displayed her drawings and watercolors at NewWest where she also created wire sculptures during the evening.

Ken Dvorak displayed about 15 of his photography pieces at NewWest in March. He reports that "First Friday night was very busy with many lookers." In August, he did a show of his National Park images at Yellowstone Photo. He says, "that First Friday evening was also busy and I had some great conversations" and again his work stayed up for the entire month. At both venues he found the staff very helpful and pleased to be having the works on display for the the remaining weeks.

(continued on p. 9)

9

Seeley Lake One Stop

Seeley Sport Rentals

Seeley-Swan Medical Center

Seeley Swan Pathfinder

Seeley Swan Pharmacy

Seeley Swan Veterinary

The Stage Station

Stickney Piano Service

Swan Ecosystem Center

Tamaracks Resort

Timberline Building Materials

Valley Bookkeeping & Tax Service

Wold's Valley Market

Let’s give them all a big round of applause!

Let’s do more than that...Let ’s make it a point to thank them personally.

Without their support, 2VS performances

would not be possible.

Spotlight... (continued)Jennifer Dyer staged a one-person exhibition of her sculptural basketry at the Missoula Artists' Shop during the month of July. Jennifer's exhibit was entitled "A Twist of Fate." Joe Nickell of the Missoulian commented, "Inspired by spiral forms found in nature, the Mobius strip and personal events in her life, Dyer's sculptures employ traditional weaves and materials, yet defy traditional uses through their twisting forms."

For other AAI artists who might be interested in displaying for First Fridays, Ken Dvorak explains that participating businesses do not put out an "art call," rather an artist needs to initiate contact to determine whether your art fits their business. Lynn Ingram at NewWest.Com encourages AAI members to contact her if they wish to show.

Ken also passes on the word to AAI photographers that those who join the Rocky Mountain Photo Club will have show opportunities available. The Club has meetings on the first Wednesday of each month at the library in Missoula at 6:30. Members' works are currently on display at St. Pat's and there soon will be a showing at the Union Club in Missoula.

2VS - 10 Rollicking Years (continued)The desire to keep prices affordable for the largest number of folks meant that ticket income alone could never be expected to cover the cost of performance-related fees. Additional fundraising events ranged from elegant evening musicals to Beer-and-Brats summer socials. Grants from institutions such as Seeley Lake Community Foundation, Plum Creek, Western States Arts Federation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Montana Arts Council have been invaluable. And from the beginning, the Seeley, Swan, and outlying business communities have contributed generously season after season, as have individual donors. Because of the t h e amazing support of all these groups, the Stage has brought into our valleys guitarists, pianists, woodwinds, trombones, vocalists, drums, classical music, jazz, Celtic song and dance, Creole music, Dixieland bands, mime, juggling, solo dramatists, modern dance, aspiring young artists—a wealth of talent to enrich our lives.

phot

os c

ourt

esy

of

Seel

ey S

wan

Pat

hfind

er 2

011

Foothills Brass demonstrating the simple basics of a brass instrument: tubing, mouthpiece, bell. The lesson on rhythm as the building block of music

involved students playing various hand percussion instruments to accompany a jazzy Latin tune.

Opportunities for Artists

‑ submit your art piece to Arts Benefactor Committe

‑ get your art pieces ready for Wine & Chocolate 2012

‑ arrange to have your artwork displayed at a 2 Valleys Stage Concert (677-0717)

‑ arrange to have your a r t displayed at the Seeley Swan Medical Center (677-2783)

‑ notify Scott of recognition your artwork has received, so we can put you in the Spotlight (677-0717)

Having a Swell TimeOur ranks are swelling. Eighteen wise, clever, talented, discerning folks have either become new members or updated their membership since our last newsletter.

A number of artists have joined us: Andrea LaMothe; Lynette Ronzone (watercolor); Jeff Wisehart (woodworking); Dona Miller (jewelry). And a couple of photographers: Stacey Boyd and Connie Korbay.

Dave Korta wears many hats—artist, photographer, film maker, writer. Chelsea Calhoon, our Ruth Korn Scholarship winner, has interests in art, photography and music; and Meghan DeLeo labels herself a supporter of the arts, but she won her membership as a result of her winning snow sculpture in the “family” division.

Our other new supporters—and we know how valuable those folks are— include: Lora Treat; Jody Chritton ; Sabrina & Bob Triplett; Paul Surber; Peggy & Bruce Graving ; George Frasca ; Susanne Criswell. Even Blackfoot Telephone Cooperative proudly lists itself among our supporters.

Welcome!

2011 Membership FormMembership category: Individual ($30) Family ($40) Business ($45) Youth 18 or under ($10) New

Sustaining Member* $________/month or … $__________ one time annual donation

Type of membership: Supporter of the Arts Artist (for pleasure, for livelihood, or both)

Brief Description of Art Medium:

Name or Business:

Address/ City, State, Zip:

Phone: E-mail

Payment Method (circle) check Visa MC Credit Card Number

Signature card expiration date

If you would like delayed billing, please indicate: Bill me in the (month) , 2012

The ongoing success of Alpine Artisans is due to its artists and amazing volunteers. May we count on you to help out now and then? Yes, give me a call. No, I’d prefer not.

YES! I want to help AAI achieve its mission and outreach activities with the enclosed donation (you will receive a receipt acknowledging your tax deductible donation) $ Scholarship /Youth Grants $ 2 Valleys Stage Programs

$ Cultural Arts Corridor $ Adult "Starving Artist" Grant $ use my donation where needed

please make your check payable to Alpine Artisans Inc. and mail with this form to P.O. Box 841 ¡ Seeley Lake, MT 59868

The wheels on the 2 Valleys Stage bus felt a little wobbly as the generous Anonymous Donation that had sustained the program for the previous five years reached an end. The driver and the many folks along its route worried whether the Stage could even keep running. But speaking as the person who is now steering 2 Valleys Stage, let me assure you that the program is flourishing and the future looks promising.

We did have to make an early stop this season to let off one set of passengers (the Synergy Brass group unexpectedly disbanded!), but almost without a hitch, the Stage was able to pick up one of the finest veteran brass quintets around to replace them. I am so looking forward to the Foothills Brass residency! Their website boasts excellence in teaching, performing and just entertaining. By the time you read this, you will no doubt have the sweet resonance of brass instruments played with non-pareil finesse still sounding in your ears.

Hospitality committee persons Mary Miester and Larrine Abolt have quite a bit to chew on with the 34-voice choir, Dolce Canto coming to town November 11-14. Fortunately, Dolce Canto’s schedule does not require an overnight stay. But

they will need to be fed, so we are calling on volunteers, the culinary class at SSHS, and the grassroots hospitality skills of Seeley-Swan supporters. We will be rewarded with “sweet singing” indeed. Exciting, vital, expressive, and shimmering a cappella choral sound is one of life’s great aural experiences for an audience, and I am sure Dolce Canto will deliver. In fact, as a member of that group, I can personally guarantee it.

Winterfest 2012 will bring “Montana’s Blackfoot Troubadour” Jack Gladstone to SSHS January 22nd with multi-instrumentalist David Griffith accompanying the great guitar player-singer-songwriter. Our students will have the benefit of Jack’s superb presentation of Native culture and history as well.

Later in the spring Seeley Lake will rock to the funky blues and jazz of the Paul Tillotson Trio. A high school classmate of mine now living in Sun Valley, Idaho, whose mother was a well known jazz pianist, reports that Paul is very well

liked as an entertainer in his long standing gig at the Duchin Room at the famous Sun Valley ski resort. Tillotson’s jazz piano greatly impressed me and the rest of the 2VS selection

committee. His approach is highly musical, laid back, original, and ingratiating. He claims to play music from a sense of love and joy, and I believe him. We are going to be grooving.

One thing that really makes my job worthwhile is the gratifying response of the community to 2 Valleys Stage. Businesses tell me again and again what a great program we have. It is clear that many of them are very pleased to give a donation; pleased to be part of something that brings such benefit to the schools and the community. Diane Smith, our most recent Open Book Club author, emphasized the importance that access to the arts plays in the criterion for industry location. The Seeley-Swan is attracting visitors from the surrounding region partly because of its rich arts community, which more and more includes fine musical and dramatic performances. The 2VS is poised to offer distinctive region-wide attractions in the coming season. We are looking to cooperate with the high school to provide comfortable seating with improved viewing. Our summer Shakespeare event is reportedly one of the more successful and desirable destinations because it combines fine art with truly inspiring natural surroundings. When you, as an individual, support 2 Valleys Stage with a season ticket purchase and/or a donation, you are making an investment in your quality of life, and in the robust future of our community. Keep thinking Arts!

Backstageby Scott Milner

11

P.O. Box 841Seeley Lake, MT 59868www.alpineartisans.org

Special MAM Tour - Ansel Adams ExhibitEach year Alpine Artisans helps treat our local 5th grade students to a trip to MAM (Missoula Art Museum). The students get a special tour of the exhibits, as well as an art lesson. This year the core of the program features "the glorious prints of photographer Ansel Adams." On December 6th our students "will learn not only of Adam's extraordinary photographic eye and vision but his impact on our perception of nature and the environment and how that has formed our nation's commitment toward preserving wild land and parks."

Jealous?

You don't need to be. Pat Aresty has arranged for a special docent-led tour for Alpine Arisans members and guests on Thursday, November 10th at 1:00pm. Pat has even offered to host a light lunch for us in the MAM Classroom at 12:15. Please let Scott know if you will be coming for lunch so he can give Pat an accurate number count.

The exhibit, entitled "Ansel Adams: A Legacy" contains over 130 gelatin silver prints and includes not only landscape photographs but also candid portraits of such notables as Georgia O'Keefe, Dorothea Lange, Alfred Stieglitz. Though not as well know as his nature photography, Adams' protraiture has a way of capturing the essence of the character.

MAM's online introduction to this exhibit says, "Adams' passion for photography and the American wilderness had a tremendous impact on the public perception of America's wild lands, and the art that allowed him to share its beautiful and inspirational landscapes with the world. Lobbying with his own photographs as motivators for environmental protection, Adams dedicated himself to the untouched landscape as a spiritually redemptive power. He believed human beings best understood their world and themselves by seeing themselves in proportion with, rather than in opposition to, nature....

Be sure to join us. This Ansel Adams showing will be an educational opportunity for art appreciators of all ages.