Gallatin Valley Newcomers

May 2008 Newsletter

President’s Message . . . by Connie Trandem

          I spent the last ten days in the company of my grandchildren.  They are 4 & 6 years old.  During that time, when I managed to have time to think an independent thought not associated with them, I attempted to compose my last President’s message.  Ideas escaped me and I returned to Bozeman without a clue about what to write that was not the usual thank you and about how much I enjoyed the last year as president, which I did.

          As I was trying to catch up with the litter on my desk, I came across a small message I had gathered from somewhere and thought I would like to remember.  So now that I have a moment to look at it again it seems to be the perfect message for my farewell.

People will not remember what I say

People will not remember what I do

But they will remember how I made them feel

          I hope this year has been as good for all of you as it has been for me. And I hope I made you feel glad to be part of Newcomers.

Have a wonderful summer!

Connie

Coffee on May 20 . . .  at the home of Linda James

            Exit the interstate at Belgrade, and turn right. Drive north to the second traffic signal (at First Security Bank). Make a left turn at that light and drive out the frontage road  west for 3 1/2 miles. Turn right into Four Dot Meadows on 4 Dot Lane. Stay on 4 Dot Lane for three blocks. My house is #268 ( the small gray house on the right with cranberry shutters).  ◊

Summer Coffee . . .  a change!

       Pat Wiersma is remodeling her house and just in case it is not finished . . .  we are switching the July 15th coffee to Terry Thompson’s house.  Terry lives at 301 Sypes Canyon Spur Road.  Take Springhill Road to Sypes Canyon Road, go west (only possible!) for 3 miles.  Sypes Canyon Spur Road is a left-hand turn just after a bank of mailboxes.  Go about 2 city blocks and on the left is a berm faced with rock.  Turn left into the driveway—you are there!  Call Terry at 522-0962 if you have questions.  ◊

Bowling . . .  by Edda Birk

          Elly Maxey and Edda Birk are looking for ladies who love to bowl. New season starts beginning of September. Please call them at 522-1508 or

586-6476 for details.  ◊

Movie Lovers Group . . .by Marilyn Burr

          If you are not part of the MOVIE LOVERS GROUP and want to be, please e-mail me at whburr@imt.net or call 587-0802 so I can put you on our membership list. Lets see A PLUMM SUMMER! Gallatin Mall Theater meet at 5:05 on time for the 5:15 showing Tuesday, May 6th.◊

Newcomers’ Quilters . . . by Ethel Scott … Scottie
          The Newcomers’ Quilters group has taken on a new project called “Quilts of Valor”. Our American wounded Soldiers, Marines,  Sailors and Airmen ask, does anybody care? The answer can only be given individually by the average American.  One way to show support is by making a quilt through “Quilts of Valor” for one of our own.  As of Sept. 17, 2007 over 12,000 Quilts of Valor have been made and passed on to our wounded soldiers. There have been over 61,000 wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan. At Walter Reed Hospital, wounded troops find comfort in donated Quilts and the feeling that someone does care. Newcomers’ Quilters all agree it is one way to say Thank You to our Military Troops.  ◊

New Members . . . by Kit Taylor

          Please welcome our new members from the March luncheon:

          Minxie Minton        585-8037    and              Cathy Anderson   586-5604.

and from the April luncheon:      Jessica Watson      581-5525 

          We end this year with 226 members!  ◊

Bridge News. . . . by Arlyss Nelson
          Our Bridge players have sure had a good year. The beginning bridge players are meeting and using their new skills - they're having a good time as well as playing bridge very well.
          Thanks to Susan Law, we now have a second marathon bridge group that's full of people having a fun time.
          We have three ladies afternoon bridge groups that meet once a month, two marathon bridge groups that are just finishing up for the year, and a good start on a new bridge players group!
          We hope to have another ladies group starting in the fall. Please contact Arlyss Nelson (586-4633) if you would like to be in a bridge group that would meet once a month. Or if you have any suggestions or comments.
          The Gallatin Valley is a great place to live if you're a bridge player - or if you would like to be a bridge player.  ◊

Fly Fishing . . . by Val Monroe

          The fly fishing club had a good group this year and went fishing together last Saturday.   It has been fun, but all good things must end, and I will not be doing this class again next year.  Is anybody interested  in taking over the fly fishing group?   ◊

Excursions . . . by Mary Alice Chandler

          The May 13 Excursion will be to the Judith Gap Wind Farm which is very impressive, according to people who have been there. We will have a guided tour followed by lunch. For the rest of the day we can explore Judith Gap and Harlowton. I know Harlowton has a museum but I don't know yet what is in Judith Gap. I need to do more investigating. For more information, call me at 582-5418 or e-mail me at mysongma@gmail.com. All are welcome!  ◊

Don’t Forget! . . . by Sue Lambert

          Only 288 days until the 2008 Holiday Luncheon and Charity Auction!!  Keep us in mind over the summer when you see that special bargain.  It is never too early to start collecting for the Auction!  A great big thank-you to everyone for your continuing support.  ◊

Special Interests Groups . . .  by Carol Goddard

           There have been inquiries regarding on-going activities for the summer. Most of the contacts for the various groups will be available to answer questions, but if not, please contact either April Buonamici (522-3767) or me (522-5385).

There has been interest in "Tennis for Fun" .......no advanced skill required......and now that summer is approaching (we hope), get out on the court and take your winter frustrations out on that little green ball. For more details call Rachael Baseley (582-8154).

Also, there has been renewed interest in bowling and Edda Birk (586-6476) will be able to answer questions about bowling leagues and available facilities.

          Please remember your interests are our concerns and we are always willing to answer questions about the available groups and listen to new ideas and interests from the membership. Have a happy, healthy and ACTIVE summer. ◊

Cookbook News. . . by Terry Thompson

          The recipes are coming in, more than 130 so far  … and committees will be forming (typists, proof-readers, pre-sales and marketing, sales …) now that we have received the blessing of the Board!  Our goal is to pre-sell the cookbook and collect 50% of its price so we have a good idea of how many to order and have the money for our initial payment! 

          The surveys (with about half of our membership responding) indicate that you will submit more than 400 recipes!! Also, you tell us you will buy almost 200 cookbooks (half of us!)!  And wait until you see them!! We are planning a very nice book!!  Great for you, great for gifts!   ◊

Tripping to Yellowstone . . . by Terry Thompson

            A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to be invited to go to Yellowstone National Park and see the wildlife with three friends who are ”Yellowstone aficionados”, as well as Newcomers.  It occurred to me (always on the lookout for articles for this newsletter) that all the Newcomers would benefit from the vast storehouse of knowledge here, so I asked one of them, Barbara Moll, to share her knowledge of how to enjoy Yellowstone.   She agreed.  It soon became clear that this  is so much more than just an article for this newsletter, so Barb is writing a separate article on how to enjoy Yellowstone in the spring and summer.  Next year, she will tell us about Yellowstone in the fall and winter.  Please join me in thanking Barb for taking on this project!  ◊

Habitat for Humanity . . . by Ann Marshall

          Habitat for Humanity of Gallatin Valley is having a "WOMEN BUILD" activity the middle of May. No construction experience necessary . . .!

          I will  coordinate the participation of any "NEWCOMERS" members who would like to participate as a group. The afternoon of Friday, May 16 will be the time for our group to "roll-up our sleeves" and build.

          This is also a fund raiser for "HABITAT". Participants are asked to donate $20 per person on the team. There will be a sign-up sheet at the May luncheon or you may call me at 522-7336.

           Refreshments will be available afterwards at a location to be announced. Come along for "framing and fun".  ◊

“ Happy Birthday! ” to ...

Marion Edwards     5/01  Joanne Brosten      5/04  Margo Bennett                 5/05

Ethel Scott            5/05  Janet Hodgson                 5/09  Patsy Hookey                   5/10

Nancy Sadik          5/10  Anna Atkin            5/12  Judy Grace            5/12

Karen Ehlert          5/13  Cindi Cochran                  5/15  Heather Jernberg  5/23

Jeanie Westnedge  5/19  Susan Law              5/20  Josephine Schwartz         5/20

Nina Sims              5/22  Pam Coleman           5/23  Arlyss Nelson                  5/23

Marilyn Burr                   5/25  Pat Wiersma          5/26  Judy Ritter           5/27

Jane Hoskins                   5/28  Nancy Rote            5/29  Sally Maison          5/30

Kendall Ditmar                 5/31  Reva Parker           5/31  ◊

 News from the April Board Meeting

            The Board has voted in two changes for membership beginning in September, 2008:

1)      Membership dues are $20 per year.

2)      Lifetime Memberships will no longer be offered to members, but of course, the existing ones are “grandmothered” in!

          Kit Taylor, Membership Chair, will mail out membership renewal information prior to our September 4th Luncheon.  Your caller will tell you where that Luncheon will be.

          The Cookbook has received the go-ahead from the Board.  Please see article on page 3.        

        The Board has authorized the Web Site Committee to work with a professional web site designer to come up with a new, esthetically pleasing, user-friendly web site.  To debut in September . . . !

          The Board voted “end of the year” charitable donations as follows:  Fragile X  $500

The Parkinson’s Support Group      $500      Bozeman High School Choral Group     $250  ◊

Newcomer’s Board for 2008—2009

President                 Sue Lambert

Vice President        Barb Pastine

Secretary               Rachael Baseley

Treasurer              Barb Moll

    Assistant           Serene Klumpar

Charity Auction      Nancy Rote

Head Caller                     Connie Trandem

   Assistant            Rosemary Lee

Charity Research             Diane Yankelevits

   Assistant            Mary DeBarnardis

Coffee Coordinator          Bonnie Taylor

    Assistant                   Susan Law

Helping Hands                  Edda Birk and Val Monroe

Historian                       Ethel Scott

Hospitality                     Linda James

Luncheon Coordinator       Ann Marshall

Membership                   Kit Taylor

Programs                        Pat Templin

Publicity                        Pat Wiersma

Newsletter and              Terry Thompson

     Web Administrator 

Special Interests   April Buonamici and Carol Goddard    ◊

Gallatin Valley Foodbank . . .  by Ann Marshall

            Our Club has contributed well over 600 pounds of food to the Gallatin Valley Foodbank this 2007—2008 year!!  The value in dollars that the Foodbank assigns is $1.50 per pound—so, do the math—oh, I can do this one! - over $900!  My thanks to all of you who have donated and to all of you who have helped me lift and carry and deliver all this to them.

          Please continue to give over the summer by dropping your donations by the Foodbank at 602 Bond Street, just off of Rouse.  ◊

April 2008 Newsletter

President’s Message . . . by Connie Trandem

             I want to clear up some of the misconceptions about the change from Riverside Country Club to Holiday Inn for our monthly luncheons. In August 2007 a committee made up of the Luncheon Coordinator, President, and Treasurer met with Stanford the Chef and Chuck Donch at Riverside to discuss the luncheons and clarify dates and menus for the upcoming Newcomers Year.  At that time we were informed of a price increase from $13 to $14 for the luncheon.  It was decided to accept the increase and reserve dates for our luncheons.

          When the Luncheon Coordinator met with the staff at Riverside in January to discuss the menu for February she was informed that there would be another increase in price to $16.46. This amounted to a 37% increase in price in 6 months. 

          In addition a room fee would now be assessed at $250 per room.  The room charge would be offset by the amount spent by our members for the total lunches served.  For example in the month of February we had approximately 58 reservations for lunch and needed two rooms as each room can accommodate approximately 40 people.  With only 58 reservations we would have had to pay the $250 room fee.  Unfortunately we do not have a total number for reservations until shortly before the luncheon and would not be able to pass the cost of the room fees on to members.  Gallatin Valley Newcomers can not afford to pay a room fee of $250 per month to hold our luncheon at Riverside Country Club. 

          I have written to Riverside proposing the facility waive the $250 room and charge $16 for the luncheon for the remainder of this year and all of 2009.  In exchange Gallatin Valley Newcomers would be willing to contract with them for a minimum of 8 luncheons.  I have information that the letter to the Board of Directors was received by Riverside, but have not had the courtesy of a response.

          I hope this information is helpful to understand that it has not been an arbitrary decision by the board to change to Holiday Inn for the monthly luncheon.  The board of Gallatin Valley Newcomers takes the responsibility to be fiscally responsible very seriously.  In addition, I do not believe this organization is about where or what we have for lunch, but raising funds for our

community and helping new people to this area meet others.◊

**    T h e    M a y    L u n c h e o n     **

**    w i l l    b e    a t   **

**   t h e   H o l i d a y   I n n **

Coffee, April 15

            Sue Lambert is our hostess for the April Coffee.  Sue lives at 659 Triple Tree Road. From Kagy take Sourdough south to the Triple Tree entrance sign and turn left into the subdivision.  Sue lives just down this road on the left in a red and white house.  Street parking is advised.  ◊

Cook Book for Gallatin Valley Newcomer’s Club . . . by Terry Thompson

          So far we have over 80 recipes from 22  members:    Thanks so much and keep them coming!!

We also have a recipe for Chicken Puffs with no cook attached!!  Please let me know if that is yours! 

          Please get your recipes to us at the next coffee or luncheon or send them to me (address in Membership Book) in the mail.  If you have questions, please call me at 522-0962 or e-mail me at tathompson@montana.net .             ◊

The Dinner Group . . . by April Buonamici

            The next gathering of the "Dinner Group" will be a brunch on Sunday, April 6th at Louie's Down Under on Main St. We will assemble at 11:30 AM; the price is $10.95 per person (their brunches are fabulous) which does NOT include beverages. All who are interested please contact either April Buonamici at 522-3767, Bonnie Taylor at 556-1809 or Carol Goddard at 522-5385.  Reservations should be called in no later than Friday, April 4.   ◊

READ.READ.READ . . . by Oma Walls

          Members of our book groups  have read an amazing assortment of books since September. Perhaps you would like to choose from some of the recommended titles to read over the spring and summer months.

           Five titles mentioned which have historical and/or artistic themes include: Leonardo’s Swans (Karen Essex); Birth of Venus (Sarah Dunant); Pillars of the Earth (Ken Follett); and Broken Colors (Michele Zackheim). The Other Boleyn Girl (Philippa Gregory) also belongs in the historical genre and has attracted attention because of the movie. Most readers prefer the book to the film.

           Readers who enjoy Montana stories liked Whistling Season (Ivan Doig) and Winter Wheat (Mildred Walker). Another rather unique and powerful novel is Love in the Time of Cholera (Gabriel Garcia Marquez).

           Several book groups are in the process of reading Eat, Pray, Love (Elizabeth Gilbert) and Year of Wonders (Geraldine Brooks).  Saturday (Ian McEwan) is a deeply moving novel which tells the story of one day in the life of a London surgeon.

          Three older books being read and enjoyed are Angle of Repose (Wallace Stegner); Too Close to the Falls (Catherine Gildiner); and Amos (Stanley Gordon West). West’s book was made into a TV movie some years ago and is a sad but uplifting story based on an incident which occurred in Livingston, MT.  Most of these books are available at our library or in paperback at book stores. Let’s all find time to read. ◊

Let’s Play Bridge . . . by Arlyss Nelson

          Things are happening!  We have some enthusiastic new bridge players who have taken lessons and are now meeting to play “the game.”   Please contact Joanne Brosten if you are interested in being part of a new beginner bridge group – and call Arlyss Nelson if you’re available to be a “coach” for these great new players!

          Susan Law has the new Marathon group going and it’s lookin’ to be great fun.  They will be finishing up these first rounds in June – and we’ll be ready to start the group again in the Fall.  We’ll have a few spaces left for a few more pairs.  It’s not too early to get a friend or a spouse and get on the list for next fall’s Marathon group.

          More bridge lessons!!  Another 6-weeks of Beginning Bridge classes will start on April 8^th at Riverside Country Club.  Classes are free but the instructors (Jack Stone, Sue Kirwan and Sue Copeland) are requiring that we buy the $20 textbook they use.  Call 587-5105 to sign up.  The classes will be on Tuesdays at 12:30 until about 3 – a good plan is to meet for lunch and then have our lesson.

          One more thing – we’ve made copies of Barb Moll’s bridge score pads that work so well.  To cover the printing cost, we’re selling them for $1.50 per pad of 50 scoresheets.  ◊

Request for Volunteers . . . by Cynthia Holliman

          My name is Cynthia Hollimon and I'm writing you as the volunteer coordinator at the Children's Museum of Bozeman. We're currently (and always!) recruiting volunteers for various positions and I found your email address as the contact for the Gallatin Valley Newcomers club thinking some of your members might be interested in volunteering at the Museum. It's really a great way to get involved in the community and meet great people (as parents are required to accompany their kids). But before I get ahead of myself, let me tell you a little bit about our organization.

          The Children's Museum of Bozeman (CMB) is a non-profit that works to enrich the lives of children and families by providing fun, interactive learning experiences that enhance their knowledge of themselves and the world. We are dedicated exclusively to providing hands-on, sensory exhibits and programs that foster imagination, curiosity and promote self-confidence. In continuing to pursue these objectives and working to expand our programming we need the support of volunteers. We need assistance in a wide array of capacities, and would more than welcome any assistance you can direct to us.

          We have TONS of different volunteer opportunities available for people with different kinds of experience. We need people to cheerfully work behind our desk to give our directors the time to do their jobs. We need support for those instructing our current programs (and perhaps people interested in developing their own). We need people who find fulfillment in working odd jobs to keep our museum safe and fully functional. We need capable, excited, creative people to help us realize our vision through building new exhibits. We need I.T. and website help. We need someone with a background in graphic design and publishing. In short, we have a place for people with any number of strengths.

          If you or someone you know can help, please e-mail me at volunteer@cmbozeman.org or call me at 582-7526. Or just drop by the museum at 234 E Babcock. I hope all is well with you and your club.  ◊

Coffees for 2008

4/15  Sue Lambert        5/ 20  Linda James            No June coffee       7/15  Pat Wiersma ◊

Here is just a sample of the great things coming in our

 Gallatin Valley Newcomers Cookbook -

with your help!!

BAKED PEARS                                                                                   Barbara Rosenthal          

4 lg. pears, any kind, peeled and cut in halves
3 c. orange juice
1 1/2 c. golden raisins

1 c. almonds, whole
1/2 c. honey
3 T. cinnamon
                   Spray baking dish with oil, put pear halves in, pour in orange juice, add raisins and almonds then top with honey and cinnamon. Bake 45 minutes at 350°. Serve with ice cream - or not!               

Note: I have it for breakfast with yogurt!             

How Smart Is Your Right Foot?
       Just try this. It is from an orthopedic surgeon. This will boggle your mind and you will keep trying over and over again to see if you can outsmart your right foot, but, you can't. It's preprogrammed in your brain!

          1. WITHOUT anyone watching you (they will think you are GOOFY), lift your right foot off the floor and make clockwise circles.

          2. While doing this, draw the number '6' in the air with your right hand. Your foot will change direction.
I told you so!!! And there's nothing you can do about it! You and I both know how dumb it is, but before the day is done, you are going to try it again, if you've not already done so. ◊

March 2008 Newsletter

President’s message …  by Connie Trandem

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE      by Maya Angelou

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE enough money within her control to move out and rent a place of her own even if she never wants to or needs to
A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE some thing perfect to wear if the employer or date of her dreams wants to see her in an hour
A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE a youth she is content to leave behind
A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE a past juicy enough that she's looking forward to retelling it in her old age
A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE a set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, and a black lace bra
A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE one friend who always makes her laugh … and one who lets her cry
A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE a good piece of furniture not previously owned by anyone else in her family
A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE eight matching plates, wine glasses with stems, and a recipe for a meal that will make her guests feel honored
A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE a feeling of control over her destiny
EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW how to fall in love without losing herself
EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW how to quit a job, break up with a lover, and confront a friend  without ruining a friendship
EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW when to try harder and when to walk away
EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW that she can't change the length of her calves, the width of her hips, or the nature of her parents
EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW that her childhood may not have been perfect… but it's over
EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW what she would and wouldn't do for love
EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW how to live alone, even if she doesn't like it
EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW whom she can trust, whom she can't, and why she shouldn't take it personally
EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW where to go ... be it to her best friend's kitchen table... or a charming inn in the woods... when her soul needs soothing
EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW what she can and can't accomplish in a day, a month, and a year.   ◊

 Today’s Program

          Pat Cole joined the Yellowstone Association in 1987 as Business Manager and has served as the Association’s Executive Director since 1989.  The Yellowstone Association is a non-profit educational support organization for Yellowstone National Park.  Prior to joining the Yellowstone Association, she was a senior financial audit manager for Arthur Andersen & Co.  She is a CPA with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of South Florida.  When Pat joined the Association in 1987, it had 375 members; it now has over 26,000.  She has managed a great deal of growth, both in educational book sales and in participation in the school programs, but always with the Association’s mission to inspire visitors to preserve Yellowstone as the focus of that growth. ◊   

Coffee, March 18

            Rachael Baseley is hosting this month’s coffee. Her address is 505 Evening Star Lane. Take 19^th Street North to Springhill Road and turn right. After 2 miles (at the Foothills Fellowship Church) turn right onto Sentinel Drive. Go up the hill, past the 25 mph speed limit sign to the first cross street (the signpost is currently missing). This is Evening Star Lane. Turn right here, and follow this through Spirit Hills into Summer Ridge subdivision. At the four-way stop, go straight. The house is the 2^nd on the left. A map can be viewed online at: www.jrsky.com/map.pdf   ◊

Adult Spelling Bee at Riverside, March 1 . . . by Rachael Baseley

                Rachael Baseley and Barbara Pastine eagerly formed a team for the Bee held last Saturday. Despite their best efforts, they were unable to find a third team member within Newcomers who wasn’t off to the symphony that night…clearly you all have very active social lives!

Anyway, we joined up with Brook Merrow, a Belgrade teacher, and dressed up as characters from books: Rachael was Galadriel from Lord Of The Rings, Barbara was Sissy Hankshaw from Even Cowgirls Get The Blues, and Brook was Pippi Longstocking.

We entered the first round and after all kinds of words—from easy to downright tricky—we made it through to the final knockout round, a.k.a. the Championship Swarm.

  We were hoping to win the first prize of $500 and donate it to the Bozeman Schools Foundation in addition to the $400 that we had already contributed as a team. However, it was not to Bee. Jeff Krauss, the former Mayor of Bozeman (and one of the Honorary Judges) was so impressed with our first-round performance that his wife placed a bet on our team to win! Unfortunately, it was not to Bee, either.

            We are proud to say that we came 4^th out of 32 teams, and we fully intend to enjoy ourselves as much next year at the 2^nd Adult Spelling Bee. It’s a great opportunity to demonstrate what Gallatin Valley Newcomers is all about to a local audience. Maybe you’ll consider joining our swarm next time…

Buzzzzzzzzzzzzzzeeing you!  ◊

Cook Book for Gallatin Valley Newcomer’s Club . . .

by Terry Thompson

          Please get your recipes to us at the next coffee or luncheon so we may get the book started.  If you have questions, please call me at 522-0962 or e-mail me at

tathompson@montana.net . This will be a great fundraiser for us!         ◊

The Dinner Group . . . By April Buonamici

            The dinner group is planning a brunch Sunday, April 6 at 11:15 am at Looie's Down Under. The cost is $10.95 for food, and beverages are extra.  Send your reservation to April Buonamici at abuonamici@aol.com or call her at 522-3767 by April 1, although sooner is better. All Newcomers, singles , couples , significant others, and friends are welcome. See you there!  ◊
Fly Fishing . . .  by Val Monroe

        First of all, thanks to all who came to the first class last Saturday. It was great to have so many happy, interested, enthusiastic folks in the class. I enjoyed meeting all of you very much. We learned about the fly fishing equipment and the knots we need to be an independent fisher. We learned about the ethics of the sport and about catch and releasing and why it is so important to our fisheries. We also saw a video that takes rivers apart and analyzes their parts to help us to know where and how to fish the different components of the river.

            Next, we will discuss fishing riffles, runs, pools and flats. We will learn the four most important things that trout have to do to survive and that tells us where they will most likely be located in the river. We will also answer questions about equipment problems that you may have encountered this week. I hope that you are practicing your knots and working with the monofilament.

            We will plan a time in late March or early April for the short entomology class and then we will get outside to have the casting class.   ◊

Lunch Bunch . . . by Connie Trandem

  Lunch Bunch will be at Over The Tapas, 19 South Willson, on Friday, March 21 at 11:30 am.  Call or e-mail me (585-1437, connietrandem@hotmail.com) if you are able to attend.   ◊

Food Bank

          Please keep those foodstuffs coming!  They are so welcomed by the Food Bank and their clients!  Remember: canned, bottled or packaged items that are fresh. Sorry, nothing homemade.   ◊

Good Things to Know . . . by Sue Lambert

            This is the season for deer and other large animals to get killed crossing our roads.  If you need to call for animal removal, these are the numbers:

Bozeman   582-3200        Gallatin County   582-3250           State of MT       556-4700

If you find an injured animal or one in distress:

Fish, Wildlife and Parks   994-4042 (business hours)

Gallatin County Sheriff   582-2100       Belgrade Police       388-4262

Bozeman Police                582-2000       Gallatin Gateway Police       582-2100

Manhattan Police             284-6630  ◊

A problem you can help solve! . . . by Barbara Moll

          MSU’s Joe Shaw gave a great presentation on light pollution at the February Luncheon. Unlike many of the issues facing our world today, this one is fixable. And, unlike a lot of environmental problems that take years to resolve, light pollution goes away as soon as you fix it.

            Wouldn’t millions of barrels of oil and millions of tons of coal be better used than to scatter light into the skies? To literally see the problem, NASA published a photo montage of the earth at night. You can view this truly amazing sight at

http://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap001127.html or do a web search for “earth at night”.

            Even wildlife is affected. A few years ago, the National Geographic magazine featured research into the negative impacts of light pollution on the biological rhythms of wildlife. Over 450 species of birds migrate over North America at night. They can become disoriented by light pollution and crash into buildings and towers or simply circle them until they drop from exhaustion. Light pollution also affects mammals, reptiles, insects, etc. Lab studies show that the amount of light exposure affects DNA synthesis and the production of hormones in some species.

            What can you do? Take a look at your outdoor lights and turn off those that aren’t needed. Do the necessary ones direct the light downwards where you need it -- on your driveway, sidewalks, patio, etc.? Or do they scatter light in all directions? Consider replacing them with fixtures approved by the International Dark-Sky Association. Look for fixtures with the “IDA-Approved” logo. For a list of manufacturers and fixtures, go to the IDA website (www.darksky.org).

            Whether you live in Bozeman, Belgrade or elsewhere, let your city and county officials know that this is something they can and should fix. Do we really need that neon glow at Four Corners or the one in front of the High School? What were they thinking? Speak up.

            With the flick of a switch, you can help solve this problem. Instantly.  ◊

New Members . . .  by Kit Taylor

          Please join me in welcoming four members in February:

Paula Polk   600-9997  and Cheri Rightmyer  624-6200,

 and renewing members

Renon Wood  585-4590  and Doris Dunn     585-9017.

            Total number of members for the year is 224.  Wow!  What a group!   ◊

Do you have some news?!

          Please contribute to this newsletter if you have something fun/important to share with us!  Spread the word.  tathompson@montana.net

March Birthdays

Rachael Baseley  03/05    Shirley Neill      03/07

Barb Kent          03/12    Renon Wood        03/15

Kelly Gaisford    03/17    Janice Strand     03/17

Jan Young      03/19    Hazel Nemes      03/20

Marian Paulson    03/23    Carolyn Hopper   03/24

Barbara Moll      03/28    Michelle Cook     03/29

Wendy Bos         03/30  ◊

Coffees for 2008

3/18 Rachael Baseley                   4/15 Sue Lambert     5/20 Linda James     No June coffee

7/15 Pat Wiersma ◊

    **    The   April   Luncheon     **

**    will   be   at   **

**   The   Holiday   Inn   **

DECEMBER 2007 NEWSLETTER
 

November 2007 Newsletter

President’s Message . . .

Happiness is like a crystal,

Fair and exquisite and clear.

Broken in a million pieces,

Shattered, scattered, far and near.

Now and then life’s pathway,

Lo! Some shining fragments fall,

But there are so many pieces

No one ever finds them all.

You may find a bit of beauty,

Or an honest share of wealth,

While another, just beside you

Gathers honor, love or health.

Vain to choose or grasp unduly,

Broken is the perfect ball;

And there are so many pieces

No one ever finds them all.

Yet the wise, as on they journey,

Treasure every fragment clear,

Fit them as they may together,

Imagining the shattered sphere,

Learning ever to be thankful,

Though their share of it is small;

For it has so many pieces

No one ever finds them all.

          By Priscilla Leonard

Happy Thanksgiving, Connie        ◊

Events for 2007 and 2008

Coffees                       Luncheons

12/18 Diane Layman            12/6

1/15   Connie Trandem         1/03

2/19  Open                        2/07

3/18  Rachael Baseley         3/06

4/15  Sue Lambert             4/03

5/ 20 Linda James              5/0 1

No June coffee                   6/05

7/15  Pat Wiersma                              ◊

November  13th Coffee . . .

       This is a change of date because of Thanksgiving! Mary Alice Chandler will host this coffee. Her address is 3110 Augusta Drive. From Bridger Dr. turn north onto Story Mill Rd., then left onto McIlhattan, left onto Augusta.  ◊

Charities Selected! . . . by Jan Schoonmaker

        The Charities that have been voted the beneficiaries of our December Auction proceeds are:  The Boys and Girls Club,  The Network Against Sexual & Domestic Abuse, and Thrive. Our speakers will be Jeanne Bucher from the Boys and Girls Club, Emily Tofte from The Network and Denise Hayman from Thrive.  They will give us a short statement of the mission of each group.         ◊      

Luncheon Business

Announcements

          If your event is printed in the newsletter it will be announced only if there is a change.  We hope to minimize the announcements and increase our socializing time!

Socializing time

          It has been noted by many members that the decibel level at our luncheons has steadily increased.  Please make a concerted effort to lower the noise level and perhaps we will be able to more clearly hear each other! ◊

Food Items for the Gallatin County Food Bank . . .

          Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays are nearly here!!  Heather Grenier, Program Director of the Food Bank asks for these foods especially, but not only!  Please give generously!

  Canned Pumpkin Pie Filling, Canned Sweet Potatoes/Yams, Canned Corn, Canned Green Beans, Canned Fruit Cocktail, Canned Evaporated Milk, Fresh Potatoes, Flour,       Eggs, Boxed Stuffing Mix, Sugar, Frozen Turkey, Butter,  Dinner Rolls
          Please bring items to the next luncheon or take them directly to the Food Bank at 602 Bond Street.  

P.S.  I just found out that we donated 54 lbs. of food in September and 81 lbs. in October!!  Keep up the good work and remind your friends! ◊

November Birthdays

Sue Lambert          11/01                    Lesley Bredvik                 11/02

Heidi McLoughlin    11/02                    Lois Schwartz                  11/02

Karen Lemons          11/07                     Gloria Swanson                11/10 

Inge Mantila          11/11                       Diane Stone           11/15 

Roxa Crowe            11/17                     Sandy Strother      11/18 

Sue Henning           11/19                     Pat Johnson            11/23

Elean Hartzheim     11/23                   Pat Thomas             11/23

Pamela Moser          11/26                    Edda Birk              11/27

Bernice James         11/29                  Virginia Allen                  11/30 ◊

December 6, Holiday Luncheon/Charity Auction . . . by Sue Lambert

          There are a few changes for this year’s event:  first-- please have your check for $15.00 made out to Gallatin Valley Newcomers before arriving at the luncheon.  Second, if paying in cash, have your cash ready and if possible have the correct change ($15.00). Third,  we need to have a donation sheet for each item filled out and returned to Sue Lambert by November 30. This year we will not be accepting any donations on the day of the Luncheon unless the donation form has been filled out and turned in by November 30.  Really!!

The following is a list of ideas for donation items, but let your imagination be your guide!

Antique Jewelry                   Current Jewelry Pieces    Refinished/Antique Furniture

Handmade/Crafted Items such as: Scarves, Hats, Mittens, Afghans, Sweaters, Table Linens, Quilts, Kitchen Linens ...

Floral Arrangements: Dried or Silk           Art Work    Special baked goods

Christmas Decorating Items: Wreaths, Centerpieces, Ornaments

Baskets: Wine, Book, Puzzle/Game, Goodies, Dog/Cat Treat and Accessory, Coffee/Tea/Hot Chocolate ...

Teach a Cooking, Bridge …  Class               Prepare a Lunch or Dinner for 6-8 People

One-on-One Instruction on how to Knit, Crochet, Needlepoint

Donate Time at a Time Share or Vacation Home

Donate Tickets for the Symphony, Opera or Musical Theater ◊

New Members . . .  by Kit Taylor

       We would like to welcome three new members who joined us at the October luncheon: 

Holly Lifson  587-2112            

Betty Blatter  624-6439   

Sue Ann Fleet  585-1798

and two more at the October coffee:

Patricia A. Dague   624-6539   

Patti Renevier     282-0723.  

       Our membership is now 199 members, 90 lifetime, 109 regular members! Be sure to pick up your new membership directory today.         ◊

Special Interest Groups Reporting In . . .

The Big Picture  . . . by April Buonamici

       One of the treasures of this club is the special interest groups. These groups allow members to build closer social relationships with other members who have similar hobbies.  Mary Alice Chandler never fails to come up with new places for the excursion group to explore. Not only is there more safety when traveling with a group, there is also lively conversation and no time to be bored.

          Bridge has four groups, and thanks to Judy Ritter and Arlyss Nelson, several Newcomers are taking beginning and intermediate bridge lessons together.

          There are multiple book groups. Oma Walls helps guide newbies to the group that is reading the literary genre most appealing to an individual's literary taste.

          Fly fishing accommodates beginners and those with experience. Tennis is seeking to do the same. They would like more members, so they can match up people with similar skill levels.

          A display for the Garden Club was beautifully organized on the special interests table last luncheon. This is a club that already exists and appreciates Newcomers getting out the word to new Bozeman arrivals that everyone is welcome.

          Sweet Adelines feel the same way. They are ready and are welcoming any new resident of the Gallatin Valley.

          Please keep an eye on that special interests table at the luncheon so you don't miss any opportunities displayed there!                         ◊

Bridge News  . . . by Arlyss Nelson

          We have lots happening!! It appears that we will be able to start two new bridge groups for Newcomers. There’s interest in a Couples Marathon group! If you have a partner and would like to be part of a new Marathon group, please let Arlyss Nelson know. And if you would like to be part of a new ladies afternoon group of party bridge players, please let Arlyss know – ajnelson@bresnan.net or 586-4633. She also has a list of Newcomers that would welcome being called as a substitute for your bridge group. Just let her know if you want the “Sub” list.                                                 ◊

Movie Lovers . . . by Marilyn Burr

          We are movie lovers and enjoy only the ones that have strong appeal which means we sometimes do not adhere to critics choice. For instance, we saw ELIZABETH THE GOLDEN YEARS, which did not receive a good review but to us it had costuming and star appeal. The leader/group decides on movie and date. If possible, after the show, we like to discuss it over coffee or dinner.

          There are several films coming out in November that sound interesting so we may see more than one in that month but perhaps none in the next. It all depends on what is playing so we have to be very flexible.

          No need to RSVP, just meet in the lobby 5-10 minutes before the movie.  Remember to check your e-mail for next show!  Marilyn Burr 587-0802, whburr@imt.net    ◊

Lunch Bunch . . . By Connie Trandem

          Lunch Bunch meets the 3rd Friday of each month, at 11:30.  Last month we met at Hong Kong City in Belgrade and this month it will be The Lighthouse near MSU.  If you want to be on the list for notification, contact me at 585-1437.                               ◊

October, 2007

President’s Message… by Connie Trandem

            When I encounter a quote that clearly speaks to a contemporary issue only to learn that someone made the remark a century or so ago, I am amazed. For instance the observations of Mark Twain:  “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did.  So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream.”

            Since moving to Bozeman I have tried to follow this particular advice.  I admit I have a long list of activities that I would like to try but I have not yet been brave enough to. Two of the things I have done that are very far from normal for me are white water rafting and back country horseback camping.  I have been blessed to discover in Newcomers, a group of supportive friends who have made it possible to share these adventures without worry. 

          So the one thing I would wish for every member of our Newcomers Club is to connect with someone in our group who can help you discover the person in you that you have yearned to be, but weren’t sure you could become on your own.  We are never the best we could be until we are sharing ourselves with others.

October 16 Coffee . . . Carpooling is a good idea!

            Susan Law will host this coffee at her home at 7447 Round Mountain Road.  The views are spectacular! 

            From Main Street in Belgrade take N. Broadway, (becomes Dry Creek Rd, then West Dry Creek Rd.) about 9.3 miles.  You will pass the white Dry Creek Bible Church and then the white Dry Creek Schoolhouse. Almost immediately, turn right onto Spaulding Bridge Road .  Take this gravel road to Round Mountain Road.  Turn left and follow it to the end—then continue up the long driveway (balloons!) to the house. 

             If you need to call Susan, 388-7327.

Charity Research . . .  by Jan Schoonmaker           

            Today,  we will be voting on the 3 charities who will be the recipients of the December Auction proceeds. There will be a speaker at November’s meeting from each of the 3 charities that receives the most votes.

            The Charity Committee includes Jan Schoonmaker, Chairman, Pat Templeton, Ann Schrader, Ann Marshall, Deb Gill, Diane Yankelevitz and Sandy Strother.

November 1 luncheon  . . .

          This luncheon will be held at the Riverside Country Club at 11:30 a.m.  The cost is $15.  The program will be (see Charity Research) a fashion show by Coldwater Creek.  The models will be some our Club members!

             Reservations should be placed with your caller or on our website: www.gallatinvalleynewcomers.org .  If you have not been contacted, please call Bonnie Taylor at 556-1809.

 $$$ If you cannot keep your reservation,

 you must cancel it or you will be billed!  $$$

Charity Auction . . .  by Sue Lambert

            DON’T FORGET … The Holiday Luncheon and Charity Auction is fast approaching—December 6th! We are now accepting items/services for donation.  They can be brought to the luncheons, the coffees, our homes or we can pick them up.  We’d like to have everything gathered by November 30th. Please contact Sue Lambert (522-0740) or Desiree Smith (580-3252).

Membership . . .  by Kit Taylor

            We have 183 registered Newcomers.  Please join me in welcoming our newest members from the September luncheon: 

Special Interest Groups Reporting in …

☺ Excursions . . .  by Mary Alice Chandler

            The last Excursion was a tour of the Boulder Hot Springs Hotel, a tour of Tizer Botanic Gardens, and a walk through the Merry Widow Radon Health Mine. There were 20 of us. We had a wonderful time.

            The next Excursion will be Oct. 9th. We will visit the corn maze in Townsend and revisit the mouth-blown glass studio.  All are welcome. Call me at 582-5418.

♫ Dinner Group . . . By Carol Goddard

            The Dinner Group will be meeting at Stacey's Old Faithful Steak House in Gallatin Gateway on Sunday, Oct. 7 at 6.30 PM. Please call *with your reservation (seating for 30) before Friday, Oct. 5.   Dinner will be from the menu and you will pay your own check.  Stacey's Bar, which is next door and has been there since the early 1900's, is a kick and will be open also. Should be a fun evening. *Carol Goddard, 522-5385, Bonnie Taylor, 556-1809 or April Buonamici, 522-3767.

 ♣ Bridge  ♠   ♥   ♦ by Arlyss Nelson     

            LET’S PLAY BRIDGE!  Do we have any more bridge players??  We have three bridge clubs and one marathon group.  Riverside Country Club started beginning and intermediate bridge classes in September, and it sounds like they’re great classes.   The intermediate classes will continue weekly on Thursdays.  We’re hoping to start another bridge club within the next several months.  If you want information about bridge lessons or are interested in getting into a bridge club, contact Arlyss Nelson at 586-4633 or ajnelson@bresnan.net. 

♀ BWAGS . . .  by Terry Thompson

The Monday and Tuesday groups are now meeting at 9 a.m. at the Museum of the Rockies.  Recent Monday hikes include North Cottonwood,  Blackmore Lake, Hollowtop Lake (near Pony), Swan Creek. Most of Monday’s hikes are “short day”, meaning  we are back to our cars at the Museum by 12:30 or 1:00.  The first Monday of the month some of us bring a lunch  returning to the MOR about 2:30 or so.  Care to join us?

            Tuesday hikes (also a bike group) are longer days and we travel farther: Yellowstone Park, Spanish Peaks, Paradise Valley.  Bring plenty of water and a lunch. Be prepared for possible weather changes, first aid items... Questions? Ask me at tathompson@montana.net

♦ Fly Fishing . . .  by Val Monroe

HEADWATERS FLY FISHING CLUB

 INVITES YOU TO

THE FIRST ANNUAL FALL FLY FISHING FESTIVAL

 AND THE  LEGENDS OF THE HEADWATERS

 HONOREE BANQUET

TO BE HELD AT THE GRANTREE IN BOZEMAN

ON OCTOBER 27, 2007

            The fall festival is held from 10:00 AM TO 4:00 PM and is free to the public.  There will be three raffle drawings for super prizes during the day.

            There will be a silent auction during the day which will close before dinner at 6:30.

            The banquet begins with cocktails at 6:30 and a prime rib dinner at 7:30.  Dinner tickets are $45.00 each.

            The honorees, Darwin Atkin, Bud Lilly and Tom Morgan will be presented at the banquet after dinner.  Bob Jacklin will be the Master of Ceremonies.

HELP PRESERVE OUR FLY FISHING HERITAGE

            For tickets, call Val Monroe at 388-9510 or e-mail her at valmonroe2@littleappletech.com .

A Thank You! . . .  by Bonnie Taylor

            Many thanks to the "Silent Ladies" who do so much to help our Newcomer Luncheons. These ladies are our callers and I want you all to know who they are: Lynne Barnes, Marilyn Burr, Joanne Brosten, Cindi Cochran, Carol Goddard, Beccy Garrigan, Patsy Hookey, Linda James, Madeline Munoz, Phyllis Sangster, Rosemary Lee and Judy Grace. Please say “Hi” and “Thanks” when you see them or meet them. They do a great job. I could not begin to do my job without them.

Autumn Events, 2007  * Note important change!

Luncheons are the 1st Thursday of the month and are  held at the Riverside Country Club.  The price is $15.

November 1       Fashion Show and Charities introduction

December 6        Christmas Auction!!

Coffees are held in members homes and are the 3rd Tuesday of the month:

October 16                   Susan Law

November 13*             Mary Alice Chandler

December 18                 Diane Layman

*(Please note!! This is a change because of Thanksgiving!)

Food Items for the Gallatin County Food Bank . . .