Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
Super Mario Brothers Rocks
My sister-in-law, Trisha and I pretty much hogged the Wii (sorry nieces and nephew) all weekend. We managed to unlock 4 worlds.
The game's got the best of Super Mario Brothers. Mario, Luigi and friends get to use all of their classic powers--the mushroom to make you big, firepower and the star to help you zoom through the koopa troopas and other bad guys. Plus the more modern powers like the penguin suit, ice power, and the propeller suit to help you fly. Fun-loving Yoshi is even there to offer a ride and eat some bad guys along the way. And of course, the music and sounds are traditional to all of the older games.
The game is 2D just like the old Super Mario Brothers on the older Nintendo systems but with better graphics. And it is 4 player. We only tried 2 player. I imagine 3 or 4 player gaming would offer an all new level of fun...and frustration as many of our mistakes would happen by running into or jumping on top of one another.
The controls are the same as the old-school Mario as well. You turn your Wii remote sideways and the 1 and 2 buttons are the same as A and B used to be. There's a little bit of use with the Wii's motion sensing technology. For example, when you fly in the propeller suite, you shake the remote up and down.
If you love classic Mario and have a Wii, then you should definitely spend some of your "gift" money on this game. (As an aside, I got Mario Galaxy last year which is 3D play and is also really fun but much different than the Super Mario Games.)
Just writing about this makes me want to play it right now.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Clintons Cheesy Christmas Party
The new album titled "Decade" is a collection of 14 "must-have" Clintons songs.
Hurry up and get your tickets in advance at Bones to get them for just $10 or pay $12 at the door.
Although not required, to get in the spirit of the season, be sure to wear

Missoula band, Fiancee will open!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Shopping for the Holidays
Once again, Christmas crept right up really fast after Thanksgiving and now I am in a panic as I have very little shopping done! I just can't get in the mood to do my holiday shopping until after Thanksgiving. Those who begin their shopping in August absolutely baffle me. Then, there's those really prepared people who start their shopping the day after Christmas for the next Christmas and they get in on the dirt cheep deals. I'm partially envious of their preparedness but think they are nuts at the same time.
My plan is to try to do Rimrock Mall, Best Buy and other West End stores in the next few evenings after work when they aren't quite so busy. Then, I'd like to make it Downtown over the weekend to check out the specialty stores and boutiques. I always find something fun at Marcasa and I haven't had a chance to check out the new Bottega Men's and Women's Clothing Gallery yet. Several of my friends have had great things to say about the boutique. They've said that they have some really unique clothes and that they range in price from very affordable to...well, luxurious. I can't wait to take a peek. Hopefully, I can keep my focus on shopping for gifts for others!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Poetry Slam: HS or College Students could open for Mayhem Poets at ABT
The Poetry Slam will take place at Venture Theatre on January 10th at 2pm. The winners of the Poetry Slam will go on to open for the Mayhem Poets at the Alberta Bair on January 12th.
High School and College students may apply for participation in the slam as individuals or as part of a group.
Click Here for the full details regarding submission and judging. The deadline for submissions is Dec. 16th.
The Mayhem Poets combine hip-hop, theatre, and improv to perform their unique style of poetry show.
Learn more Here.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Let the Holidays Begin
Of course, today is Black Friday so you can spend some time catching some great deals at Rimrock Mall, at the fine shops in Downtown Billings and throughout the city. With Billings being the retail capital for the area, the town is sure to be buzzing with busy shoppers.
Tonight is the Holiday Parade in Downtown Billings. Should be a fun event to take your out of town visitors to.
At the Alberta Bair Theater tonight and tomorrow night is The Nutcracker Ballet with the Billings Symphony.
Peter Pan is playing at Billings Studio Theatre and Willy Wonka is at Venture Theatre. While these two productions aren't necessarily Holiday themed, they've got that element of nostalgia that is just perfect for this time of year.
The Billings Bulls Hockey team is taking on Missoula this Sunday at the Centennial Ice Arena.
There's live music around town, comedy and more. Often, I think visitors come to Billings and don't even realize all of the entertainment available to them. Why not show your guests that our city has more to offer.
Whatever you decide to do, have a great Holiday weekend!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Comedian, Auggie Smith in Billings this week
Auggie grew up in Billings prior to moving to Portland to launch his comedy career. He is a frequent guest on the Bob & Tom Morning show on radio.
Auggie is known for his energetic, hysterical rants.
Tickets can be purchased at Bones and are $12 in advance or $15 at the door (if there are any left by then).
Jokes.com | ||||
Auggie Smith - Poor Get Poorer | ||||
comedians.comedycentral.com | ||||
|
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Emmylou Harris plans Montana stop
Harris is touring on her latest album, 2008’s All I Intended To Be.
“Most of my career I’ve been a finder of songs, a gatherer of songs, so this showcases, in part, that side of what I do,” she said in a press release regarding the album, her first solo recording since 2003’s Stumble Into Grace. Read Full Story...
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Halloween is Here!
Some friends and I were discussing costume ideas-what to be this year, what we've been in the past. We got to talking about what we were when we were kids. I remember often times wanting to be a pop star, cheerleader, princess.
I think my favorite costume though had to be Punky Brewster. I don't remember the age that I was when I dressed up as Punky, maybe 5. Pigtails, drawn on freckles, vest, torn jeans (one side rolled up), tennis shoes, and handkerchiefs tied on my legs. I don't remember the show all that well--I remember that I liked it when I was a kid and also watched the cartoon series--but as a child of the 80's, it's impossible to forget the iconic character of Punky Brewster. I'm actually thinking that it might be a good costume for this year if I dress up. At least it would be comfortable.
Live music is all around town. The Clinton's are playing at Bones, 7th Avenue Band at Bugz's, Firehouse Band at Yellowstone Valley Brewing. Rap at the FOE during Halloween Havoc. More parties on the weekend include the Michael Jackson pre-Halloween party on Friday night (a chance to get out your MJ swag and dance to his hits) at The Carlin, Sinister Circus Halloween at the Loft, and more.
There is a Wicked Wine Walk at the Zoo, Dracula performed by High School talent at the Alberta Bair Theater, Billings Ghost Tours, Haunted Houses, Zombie Walk downtown; there's honestly too much to list it all here...you'll have to visit the event calendar on the site to find it all!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
For the Love of Soup!
We both got the special of the day--a potato, sausage, spinach soup. It was so good. A starchy soup like potato is usually very filling but I just can't go to The Soup Place and not have one of their delicious grilled cheeses. So I went for the small bowl (plenty filling) and half a grilled cheese. I opted to build my own instead of going with one of the suggestions on the menu. I went with sour dough bread, cheddar, green peppers, and tomato. Yum! My only suggestion to The Soup Place would be to add green chillis to their grilled cheese veggie choices. I had a grilled cheese in Albuquerque, NM once that had 3 cheeses, green chillis and tomatos. That was years ago but I still remember it.
We asked about your favorite local soup spots in Billings on our Facebook Page. Suggestions we received included--The Back Porch Deli, Soups and Such, The Soup Place, Staggering Ox (I always think sandwiches there and never even consider soup! Might have to try it), Caramel Waffle Cookie, Grains of Montana, Great Harvest, Pickle Barrel, Old Chicago's Cheddar Broccoli, Olive Garden, and French Onion from Bin 119. We've got a lot of great places to try. Are we missing any?
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
The Hold Steady returns
A sweaty, rollicking bunch of Brooklyn boys, lead singer Craig Finn and his roving band have been described as “America’s bar band,” and onstage Finn tells the tale of a man that’s had one too many sour girlfriends and surly encounters in the bar.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
The Full Monty at Venture Theatre
The show starts off with a provocative male dancer and this Catholic girl was already blushing. I started wondering what I had gotten myself into and wondered if all of the guys in the audience were thinking the same thing!
However, it quickly became clear it wasn't going to be some thunder down under show. It's really about regular guys who've found themselves unemployed and down on their luck. You know the saying "desperate times call for desperate measures," so they decide to take a que from the Chippendale's dancers who had been at the local bar and create their own male review. Along the way they learn a lot about their friendships, relationships and themselves.
I had such a fun time at this show. It's been so successful that Venture has extended it another week. You've got two more chances to see them "bare it all" this Friday and Saturday, both shows at 8pm.
Coincidentally, The Men of Playgirl are slated to be at the Wild West on October 24th. Tickets are $10 and $15 for VIP and available at The Wild West and Surfer Joe's.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Secondhand swindle, Pestle escapes unscathed
Friday was a difficult night for Hana Pestle, who was in a car wreck that nearly took her life hours before her performance at the Babcock Theater. Pestle was visibly distracted onstage, and told her audience, “We’re lucky to be alive.”
Pestle’s car, driven by her record producer and boyfriend Ben Moody, hit ice on the highway between Butte and Billings as the couple returned from a performance in Missoula the previous night. Moody lost control of the car, which slid into a semitrailer, bounced back into their lane and spun into a roadside ditch. The vehicle was totaled, but Moody and Pestle were remarkably unhurt.
Read Full Story...
Friday, October 9, 2009
Cirque, Sesame and more coming to MetraPark
Theatre Council Productions is bringing a three show series to Rimrock Auto Arena. Slated for November 5th, Cirque Dreams: Illumination--a cirque style show full of acrobatics and theatrics. Jesus Christ Superstar comes to the arena on January 29th and Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles is on May 5th. Tickets for all three shows are: $35.50, $42.50, and $47.50.
Sesame Street Live: When Elmo Grows Up will have three shows at MetraPark running December 15th and 16th. Tickets range from $14-$27.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Sera Cahoone lite
Though Cahoone typically performs with a full band, she and Kardong reduced their lineup to the essentials to open for Son Volt on a cross-country three-week tour, which exposed the duo to larger crowds and plenty of potential new fans.
Read Full post and see more pictures...
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Christian Rock coming to Billings
Bands on the tour include Jars of Clay, Thousand Foot Krutch, Audio Unplugged, B. Reith, This Beautiful Republic and FM Static.
Tickets are just $20 for General Admission and for $50, you can get a Meet and Greet Ticket. Tickets are available at Harvest Church, Berean Christian Store, Rimrock Mall, Off the Leaf and on iTickets.com.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
2009 Tuney winners announced
Best Local CD: 1090 Club, Natural Selection
Best Blues Act: Soul Brat
Best Bluegrass Act: Anonymous String Association
Best Country/Western Act: The Bucky Beaver Ground Grippers
Best Folk/Americana: Dan Page and the Barn Cats
Best Soul/R&B/Jam: Funk in the Trunk
Best Jazz Act: 4 or More
Best Metal Act: ENDever
Best Punk Act: The Montana Law
Best Rap Act: Impurity
Best Rock Act: ZeN
Best Alternative Rock Act: Past Mars
Best Banjo Player: Wade Steinmetz
Best Bass Player: Parker Brown
Best Drummer: Marco Castro
Best Female Vocalist: Linda Villareal
Best Guitar Player: Art Eichele
Best Horn Player: Jeff Long
Best Keyboard Player: Dave Green
Best Male Vocalist: Nate North
Best Mandolin Player: Dennis Nettiksimmons
Best Percussionist: Matt Devitt
Best String Player: Megan Dibble
Best Harmonica Player: Dan Page
Best Live Venue (21 & Over): F.O.E.
Best Live Venue (All Ages): Yellowstone Valley Brewing Co.
Best Musical Instrument Store: Hansen Music
Best CD Store: Ernie November
Best Radio DJ: Big J (Hot 101.9)
Freeman Lacy Award: Tim and Pam Goodridge
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Tuney Awards this Saturday
Friday, September 11, 2009
Sera Cahoone returns to Billings
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
The Mighty Modest Mouse
At Modest Mouse’s appearance in Billings Thursday night, Brock mumbled a few statements between songs, but it was his musicianship that impressed the most.
(Source: Pen and Paige)
Friday, September 4, 2009
Modest Mouse rocks the Alberta Bair Theater
(photos are taken by cell phone so no, they aren't the greatest)
The Alberta Bair Theater proved to be a great venue for the show and I think brought a whole new audience in its doors. It was a much more fitting venue than the dirt floor barn I saw them in at the Gallatin Valley Fairgrounds in Bozeman a few years ago. But it doesn't really matter what conditions they play in, if Modest Mouse is in the area, I'm there.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
$12,000 Diamond Ring Treasure Hunt in Billings
Teams will meet on the courthouse lawn on Saturday at 11am. Clues and challenges will be delivered to couples’ mobile phones via text message taking the teams all around the city. One lucky couple will find the South African $12K Diamond Ring.
There will be an after party, post-hunt, at Hooligan's with drink specials, food and prizes for all.
Kudos to Montague's for being inventive with this promotion. It involves competition, physical activity, technology, a party, and one heck of a great prize! I like it.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Vote on your favorite local bands and musicians
The award celebration will be held September 19th at the Yellowstone Valley Brewing Company at 4pm. Past Tuney Award winners such as ENDever, Dan Page and the Barncats, The Peach Pickers, Matt Rogers, and Earthshine will perform. There will be a $2 cover with the proceeds benefiting Gy Moody a local musician who recently suffered a heart attack.
Find the Tuney Awards Facebook Group Here.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Have you been to Cafe DeCamp?
So, what's so great about the place? Well, Cafe DeCamp focuses on serving local Montana grown foods and you can definitely taste the freshness. I went for the quiche of the day served with potato hash and a small salad with a vinaigrette dressing. My co-worker went for the empanadas which were served with Mamacita's salsa. There was a meat loaf sandwich on the menu that was also calling my name but I didn't want to go back to work so full. You won't find the usual soft drink and beverage selections. They serve peppermint iced tea, Italian sodas and espresso drinks.
Cafe DeCamp is small and quaint. I only stepped inside briefly so I can't explain the decor. We decided to sit outside on the patio wich seems more like a "courtyard" as it is fully fenced with a brick wall on one side and all sides are nearly fully covered with leaves. It's a nice shady spot to have lunch on a warm day.
The only bad thing is that it, like Mamacita's is just in a weird location. Most of the businesses around it are industrial and it just seems a bit out of place. But, it was busy so the location doesn't seem to affect them much. And the new First Interstate Building is just a block or two away so I'm sure they'll catch some patrons from there.
I thought it was a great place to take a break from the daily grind and have lunch that was fresh, healthy and local.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Billings Band will open for SlipKnot
Last week, 20 local bands submitted their demos to The Zone 96.3 and listeners voted on their favorites to determine the finalists. The three lucky bands include EndEver, Grudge, and Zen In Zion. Each band gets a 30 minute set at the Railyard on Monday to determine the winner.
Good Luck to all three. I'm sure they've all had several sleepless nights practicing up for the opportunity.
Anthrax cancelled their tour dates slated with Slipknot back in July due to the departure of vocalist, Dan Nelson. This left room for the Battle of the Bands competition...a fun way to promo the show, get the locals involved, and make one local bands dreams come true.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Inglourious Basterds
The film follows a couple of story lines. The Inglourious Basterds are a troup of Jewish American Soldiers lead by Lieutenant Aldo Raine (Brad Pitt) who are set out to kill every Nazi they encounter and are eventually tasked with taking out members of the Third Reich. The other story line follows a young Jewish girl who saw her family executed by the Nazis and she narrowly escaped. She flees to Paris and takes on a new identity as the owner of a cinema. She finds herself in a position to get revenge on the Nazis and her plans coincidentally overlap with those of the Inglorious Basterds. We watch to see if either one of their plans will succeed in the end.
I don't pretend to be a film critic of any sort. I just know if I liked a movie or I didn't and I thought this was an excellent movie. 1) It had a great bad guy to love to hate (double oximorons there, I know). 2) Brad Pitt had a stellar performance (you will love his character). 3) And you know how certain movies kind of suck you in and when it's over you kind of feel like you were there right along with the characters kicking ass?...Obviously, I can't explain it clearly, but it was like that.
There are graphic parts (i.e., scalping) that will make you want to look away and your stomach turn but that's to be expected with a Tarantino film.
Elephant Revival tiptoes into town
(Source: Pen and Paige)
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Railroad Earth lights up the Babcock Theater
Amongst the flying glowsticks and wafting pot smoke, the New Jersey jam band Railroad Earth took the stage at the Babcock Theater last night.
It’s been a while since the Babcock, located on Second Avenue North in downtown Billings, has seen such action. Sure, it’s been sweated upon by boxers for years, but only recently has the theater been available for live musical performances.
Read Full Story and see more Pics...
(Source Pen and Paige)
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Hana Pestle sells out Venture Theatre
Her original songs—themed around dark, imaginative worlds where lake swimmers entangle their fingers in the hair of the deceased or guests at the “Red Death Ball” perish—are disturbing on paper, but enchanting in song. Read Full Story...
Source (Pen and Paige)
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Have you seen the Extreme Canines at MontanaFair?
Have you seen the Extreme Canines? This is a fun family friendly show with some of the cutest and most talented dogs. What's really special about this show is that all of the dogs performing have been rescued from pounds and shelters across the country. Chris Perondi, the show's creator posted an entry on his blog about the show-Check it out Here The Video below is footage from the show at MontanaFair.
Also performing at MontanaFair are Comedy Hypnotist-Alan Sands, Gwen Sebastian (a little bit rock and a little bit country), Hotel California (Eagles tunes), The Bad Larrys (so fun over at the Exchange Club Beer Garden), John Dunnigan (James Taylorish), The Blond Curly Haired Magician, and Hedrick's Exotic Petting Zoo.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Senses Fail, Bayside to perform Billings in off day from Warped Tour
(Source: Pen and Paige)
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Concert for a Cause raises money to benefit local charities
(Source: Pen and Paige)
Stimulate this Tour, Good but...
Because Lo Pro played before the official showtime, they had a small crowd but they definitely played as if they were playing to thousands. Halestorm and Chevelle were high energy and interacted with the crowd. And Shinedown stole the show. They had the entire room on their feet rocking out to every song. They said, "Are you ready for Staind?" and the crowd responded in cheers of "YEAH!"
So then Staind comes out, begins with a pretty good hard rock song and next they go into one of their ballads. Lead Singer, Aaron Lewis sounded great but he either stood at his mic playing guitar and singing or slowly paced the stage. My younger brother put it best when he said "this has turned into a cuddling concert" and sure enough the couples around us were snuggling during the ballads and the rest of the crowd was just somber.
So the crowd that came to rock quickly began leaving. You could see 100s of people at a time filtering out of the arena. So then, Staind starts leaving really big spaces between songs. Eventually, Aaron Lewis asks how we're all doing and then he says "I apologize" and walks off. After a few seconds he comes back and says "Alright, Billings, I'm going to give you all I've got for one more song". Plays and is gone. The show was over at 10:30 or so and I would guess they were supposed to play until 11pm.
To the crowd, I think it felt like Staind just really didn't care to play for us. Billings has great rock fans and whatever the band gives, the crowd gives back. So a somber lead singer, gets a somber crowd. I think something must have been wrong. Maybe Aaron wasn't feeling his best... I don't really know for sure. But I'm certain that last night's show was not the norm for a Staind concert.
Regardless, the other acts definitely made up for it. I think I could see Shinedown over and over and not get bored with them.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Bane sticks underground
(Source: Pen and Paige)
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
So much Entertainment headed our Way
Headliners Staind with Shinedown, Chevelle and Halestorm come to MetraPark next Wednesday, July 29th in the Stimulate this Tour.

.jpg)
MontanaFair is August 7th-15th. The concert lineup includes The Gaither Vocal Band, August 7th; Nat & Alex Wolff from Nickelodeon's Naked Brothers Band on the afternoon of August 8th, Trace Adkins the evening of August 8th, Peter Frampton on August 9th, and Kelly Clarkson on August 10th.
Senses Fail and Bayside will be playing Shrine Auditorium on August 10th as well.
Then at the end of August, the 26th, MetraPark will host SlipKnot and Anthrax.
On September 1st, you can see another Idol, David Cook at the Shrine Auditorium.
September 3rd, Modest Mouse plays the Alberta Bair Theater.
Whew! We are going to have a jam packed month or so of entertainment. Which shows are you going to?
Friday, July 17, 2009
Concert for a Cause Lineup Announced
(Source: Pen and Paige)
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Bones Brewing Hosts Chamber After Hours
Tomorrow Night (7/8), it's at Bones Brewery. It starts at 5pm and ends at 7pm. Drop your business card and you might even win a prize.
Business After Hours is just $5 and anyone can attend. I'd have to say, it truly is a good networking opportunity. I've made professional contacts at this event as well as some good friends!
Maybe, I'll see some of you there tomorrow night.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Billings Best Spots Photo Contest
Right now, Big J (from Hot 101.9's Big J Show) is winning with a Graffiti pic (apparently some jokesters spray painted this not so nice saying across town). Now, I'm not against Big J winning (and the person he is giving the second card to is certainly deserving) but the title of the contest is "Billings Best Spots". Can we really let graffiti on a fence win? Enter your photo and give Big J some competition.
Monday, June 22, 2009
SlipKnot coming to MetraPark August 26th
Jade Presents is bringing another great rock show to MetraPark (in addition to Staind in July)--SlipKnot is coming to the Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark on August 26th. Anthrax and The Black Dahlia Murder will support. Tickets are $39.50 for Festival Floor and $34.50 for Reserved Seats.
I'm sure Dustin will be attending this one. If I go, I'm definitely going with reserved seats.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Dueling Pianos at Rimrock Mall
The night starts off with a women only pre-party at 7pm. Great food, drinks and cabanas for rent. Then at 9pm the guys are welcome to join for the entertainment. There will be a full bar and a chance for prizes. Tickets are $35 for the entire evening and just $10 for the 9pm portion.
You can find the full details HERE.
I would totally go to this event. It sounds like such a fun time. Funny enough, Dustin and I will be in Las Vegas the very same weekend and the New York New York Dueling Pianos are on our entertainment list! Would have loved to see them in Billings too!
What's Your Favorite Summer Event Series?
Vote on our poll and tell us. Is your favorite not listed? Post a comment below and submit your favorite.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
The Hangover
There are chick flicks and there are guy movies; and this is definitely a guy movie. This is the type of show where you start the night with a few drinks with your boys and then go see. It's got a ton of laughs; mostly male humor, so you might want to leave your wife or girlfriend at home. And believe me this is an R rated movie, so you definitely don't want to take the kiddies. It all starts when some friends decide to throw a bachelor party for their buddy in Las Vegas; they wake up with the worst hangover and don’t remember their whatever-happens-in-Vegas-stays-in-Vegas night. They spend the entire show back tracking and attempting to find their lost friend the bachelor to be.
There really isn’t a star studded cast, but that doesn’t stop anything from being absolutely HILARIOUS;Ed Helms (Andy Bernard on "The Office"); Bradley Cooper; and the man that steals the show – Zach Galifianakis.
I have nothing bad to say about this movie.
I will probably go see it again. GO SEE IT NOW!!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
The Weekend's Events
The Fix@6 Series began last Friday and continues this week at SantaFe Red's with music by the Jared Stewart Band. A Great way to begin the weekend.
Bones Brewery is starting Friday Barbeques: Live music and $4 plates with your choice of a burger, hot dog or brat, and 2 sides. $2 drink specials too. Over in Alley Kats there will be comedy by Lukas Seely (who I'm told grew up in Billings) and Edi Zanidache.
Did you know you can catch national touring live comedy every Friday night at the R-Club in the Billings Hotel? This week's comedians are Nick Hoff and Law Smith.
Punk Rock Fans can take in the Queers with the Hot Toddies and more at the Yellowstone Valley Brewing Company on Sunday.
Family Fun:
It's Bruno the Bear's Birthday at Zoo Montana on Friday! Wish Bruno a Happy Birthday, watch him eat cake and check out all of the beary special exhibits!
Rain or shine, the Moss Mansion will be hosting it's annual Springfest! There will be craft vendors, live entertainment, a kid's corner and more.
Sports & Rec:
The Billings Outlaws take on their rival Sioux Falls Storm again this Saturday at the Rimrock Auto Arena.
You can catch some racing action this weekend at the Billings Motorcycle Club, Yellowstone Dragstrip and BMP Speedway.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Getting Ready for the Summer's Events
With summer come the summer parties! The weekly Friday event--Fix @ 6 begins this Friday at Hudson's. Meet up there with your friends to kick off your weekend and the summer with music by Zen.
In just a couple of week's Thursdays get even better in Billings when Alive After 5 begins June 4th under Skypoint with music by Primal Nation Reunion.
The Micro Brew Festival is this weekend at the Shrine Auditorium from 1pm to 11pm on Saturday. Music, entertainment, and over 60 micro brews, ciders and root beers.
There's lots of great events happening all weekend long. Just Check Out the Billings365.com Calendar. You'll have a hard time deciding which event you'd like to go to.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Aahhh, the long weekend.
Of course, Memorial Day is a great time to spend with friends and family or just relaxing but it's also important to remember those who gave their lives fighting for us to give us our freedoms. A Big Thanks to all who served and serve today in the military.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Carmike Cinemas Shiloh 14 Opens this Weekend
They rolled out the red carpet and we were greeted by gentlemen in suits as we entered the building. First impressions are quite impressive. The lobby is big, open, bright and colorful. Digital screens replace movie poster holders as they change through upcoming movies and of course include the movie trailers on the screen. The concessions area also includes digital menus. Shiloh 14 includes a gourmet popcorn menu with flavors like Cheddar, caramel, raspberry, and chocolate.
We checked out a few of the different theaters, one features a screen that is 75ft wide and nearly 3 stories high. The new seats are oh, so comfortable with lots of leg room.
What was most impressive about the evening was how polite and helpful all of the staff were. Hopefully, that level of service will continue beyond the grand opening because it really made you feel like you were at something special.
Check Out Showtimes at Shiloh 14 Here and enjoy the upgraded movie viewing experience!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
ANGELS & DEMONS
I feel it was slightly above average, but very entertaining. This movie has been done plenty. It is a cross between National Treasure and Armageddon. Both good movies in their own right, but it just seems it has been done. It was very entertaining and had some nice twists that kept you thinking, but there were a lot of parts where you were like "really, come on".
Angels and Demons is a very enjoyable mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat and I have to recommend it.
Monday, May 11, 2009
A Full Weekend: Cafe Italia, Cabaret, Women's Run, ZPizza
After dinner we went to Cabaret at Venture Theatre and it was a full house. Set in Berlin on the brink of the Nazi era, Cabaret was edgy, thought provoking and entertaining--we all had a great time.
Then, up bright and early for the Women's Run. Holly, Katie and I wanted to be a part of the walk but decided to take it easy on Saturday morning by just walking the 2mile. I placed at number 1,876...I beat Katie and Holly:). The Women's Run was very well attended with nearly 7,000 runners and walkers.
Saturday Night, I hung out with Dustin and we tried out ZPizza a new place out on Shiloh near the Red Door. It's a cute little place. You can dine in, take out, or get it delivered and you can order by the slice or get a whole pizza, salads and sandwiches available too. What's unique about ZPizza is that all the ingredients are natural or organic. They use low-fat mozzarella cheese and even have gluten-free crust available (excellent for those with food allergies). It was delicious. They're pizzas have a very California style to them. Dustin went with straight up Pepperoni and I tried the Napoli-garlic sauce, tomatos, basil--good stuff!
Sunday of course was Mother's Day. Hope everyone got to spend time with and appreciate their Moms!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Leadership Billings
Leadership Billings is a program put on by the Billings Chamber. Basically, you enroll and are in a class of about 40 fellow business people and they come from all different backgrounds. We meet for one full day once a month and each day focuses on a different topic. We have speakers that address those topics and often get to tour different organizations and facilities related to the topic. We've had a Social Services Day, Education Day, Health Care Day, Government/Judicial Day, Business/Economy Day, Tourism Day, etc. So for example for the Social Services day we got to tour and learn about organizations like Friendship House, the Women's and Family Shelter, and other organizations that make such a big difference in the well-being of our community. Linda Gleason at the Chamber programs each day and does an outstanding job!
Our last day, today, was a work day...We were split into about 8 different groups and went to do some volunteer work with different organizations. Some of us did yard work at Big Brothers Big Sisters, some painted benches at one of the local schools, washed windows, painted, and the lucky group got to pick up garbage on top of the Rims (you can imagine what they found up there!).
Anyhow, the program has been so eye opening--I have a much better understanding of my community and what makes it tick and the areas that still need some work. And I feel inspired to stay involved and help shape the future of Billings. And, I've made some great friends along the way who I hope I will stay connected with.
Leadership Billings has a program for adults and also does a program for high school students. You can find out more about the programs on the Billings Chamber website.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Happy Cinco de Mayo
From Wikipedia: "Cinco de Mayo (Spanish for "fifth of May") is a regional holiday in Mexico, primarily celebrated in the state of Puebla, with some limited recognition in other parts of Mexico.[1][2] The holiday commemorates the Mexican army's unlikely defeat of French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, under the leadership of Mexican General Ignacio
Zaragoza Seguín.[3][4]
While Cinco de Mayo has limited significance nationwide in Mexico, the date is observed in the United States and other locations around the world as a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride.[8]"
Want to celebrate? Here's a few parties happening this evening:
Cinco de Mayo Party at Hooligan's
Cinco de Mayo Party at The Wild West
Cinco de Mayo Party at The Railyard
Thursday, April 30, 2009
This Weekend in Billings
First of all, MSUB Graduation is at the Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark this Saturday. A Big Congrats out to all of the grads!
MetraPark's also got the Sustainable Living Expo in the Montana Pavilion on Saturday and Sunday. If you want to learn more about incorporating sustainable living into your life, then this is the place to be--learn about recycling, sustainable foods, home products and more. There'll be learning and activities for everyone. Zoo Montana will even have live animals at this event.
Any ladies who own or want to own a Harley out there? If so, then you'll want to get out to Beartooth Harley Davidson Buell for the Women's Only Garage Party on Friday at 6:30pm. Learn how you can find more time to ride with an interactive seminar by Genevieve Schmitt.
Cabaret opens on Friday at Venture Theatre. You can catch showings on Friday thru Sunday this weekend. I've got plans to check this out next week with some friends. And Footloose is playing at the Alberta Bair Theater. This sounds like fun too.
The Billings Motorcycle Club's season is off to a start with Spring Classic Motocross on Sunday out at the BMC grounds.
There's lots of fun stuff going on with Nightlife this weekend too! Cinco de Mayo parties begin: You can catch the Clinton's at Santa Fe Red's on Saturday and Hooligan's will also be hosting a Cinco de Mayo Party on Saturday. The 7th Avenue Band plays Bugz's Casino on Friday and Saturday Night. On Friday Night at Bugz's, I hear there's a chance to win Jimmy Buffet Tix from My92.5. The Railyard's got live music on Friday Night: Murder by Death (not a metal band like you might expect) and 1090 Club.
You'll have to check the website for more because there's just too much to list it all here. No one should be bored this weekend, there's plenty to do!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Get Together & Give at Rimrock Mall
From the listing on the mall website: "While doing good, participants will have a good time, with a wide range of fun events planned including great food, drinks, a guest speaker and shopping discounts!"
What a great way to get together with friends while doing something good for our community. I've signed up myself and 3 of my friends already: attention: Holly, Katie, and Cathy, you'll be doing this with me!
The event begins at 6:30 PM. Register to Volunteer on the Rimrock Mall Website: www.rimrockmall.com.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Taproot Impress at FOE!
Sonic Crown opened things up. They are a local band from Bilings, MT. They were quite impressive. They lacked polish that the other bands possessed but had great energy and I enjoyed them. I am sure they enjoy my expertise (or lack thereof) in the music industry saying that they need to polish their sound. Come on right? I did “friend them” on MySpace, so it’s not all bad. Go check them out.
AdaKaiN was next. This was more my style a combination of scream rock and melody. For some reason these guys impressed me. They opened up with a lot of energy and I enjoyed their sound. The song that stuck out for me was “The Only One”.
Dear Enemy was also very impressive. A few my friends were really impressed with this band. Their live show was the best of the three non headliner bands. Their interaction was great. Additionally, after their show they came out in the crowd to talk (or sell their albums); but still they were very approachable. Check them out on MySpace. “Falling Down” was the song that stuck with me.
Taproot was far and away the most impressive (but then again they were the headliner). They were exactly what I expected. I even got a little out of control made my way into the pit for a while. I got stuck up in the front for the last 30 minutes. I really like Taproots sound; they have something for everybody (very hard, radio hits, they have it all). “I” was my favorite song of the night, but they finished off with “Poem” appropriately.
The night was great, I probably had TOO much to drink and let loose; but definitely had a BLAST at the FOE. I hung out with great friends which probably made the night better.
Sonic Crown will be at The Railyard – Cinco De Mayo Bash as well May 5th; go support the local acts.



Sunday, April 26, 2009
Fudd Fries, Shopping, and a Movie. A pretty good Saturday.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Taproot -- FOE (4/25/09)
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
We've Launched!
So why did I start the site? Well, I grew up in Baker, MT--a small town way in the southeast corner of the state. Growing up, Billings really was the "Big" city. When we visited Billings it was a treat. We would go to the mall, go out to eat, and maybe catch a movie. When my husband and I moved here after college in Bozeman, I still loved all of those things about Billings but also wanted to find out what was authentic and inherently local about Billings. I felt like it was not always so easy to find out what was going on in town, where you could catch live music on the weekend, or just find something to do in general.
What I have discovered after living here for almost 5 years now (hard to believe it has been that long already) is that Billings is a community with a great quality of life. From the public parks and other nearby outdoor recreational opportunities, the many cultural organizations (theaters, museums, etc.), and the various businesses that make up our community, we really do have a lot to offer. I hate when I hear people say, "There's nothing to do in Billings". I really think that if you feel that way, you probably aren't trying hard enough to find something to do. We've got live music in various venues several nights a week, live theater and other cultural events nearly every week, Big events at MetraPark and Alberta Bair on a regular basis and so much more. I hope that this site will help bring together all of the assets of Billings and will help people seek out and support our local businesses and local events. I believe that support will help us to continue to build a thriving community.