Where’s the Deer??
Indeed, the 2014 deer and elk season is off to a slow start not only in the immediate area, but across much of northwestern Montana.
With the seemingly odd weather, late rut, and other factors, the signs and tales of deer and elk hunting have been little more than talk of cars hitting deer on the road, and wonderings about whether deer or elk may be more of a delicacy this year, instead of a mid-winter staple in the freezer.
But typically, slow beginnings give way to good endings – at least, with hope. Remarks from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks suggest that this white-tailed deer season may be just one of those seasons off to a late start.
Let’s hope those sightings of a brow-tined bull elk aren’t followed by stories of “and I made it back to Somers in less than four hours,” adding disappointment that the elk were taken elsewhere. And let’s hope that “tales” of “I spooked a nice buck the other morning” turn into proud mounts and tasty meals.
And speaking of meals…
A Grateful Harvest Dinner
The Somers Volunteer Fire Department celebrated its 50th Annual Harvest Dinner with much success. The department prepared and cooked 26 turkeys this year, with plenty to serve the 360 people who attended the event.
At times, there was a bit of a wait for food, but any complaints were hushed with the first bite of the deliciously moist, slow-roasted turkey. The turkeys were prepared and seasoned starting around 5:45 a.m. The grills were fired around 7:30 a.m. and the turkeys were slow-roasted under careful watch until just before 4 p.m.
Fortunately, major culinary catastrophes were averted – thanks very much in part to the help and expertise of the folks at the Vista Linda Restaurant, who helped prepare some of the sides and fixings for the event.
The Vista Linda staff responded like an emergency crew themselves, handling nearly impossible feats of cooking up pounds of mashed potatoes with moment’s notice when portions were running out fast. They also responded to the need of more salad, as the first two heaping bowls seemed to have disappeared quicker than anyone planned.
The Somers Fire Department wishes to thank the Vista Linda staff for its culinary heroics and everyone who attended the dinner for their patronage and generosity.
Knitting Therapy
If you’re looking for some calm, the Lakeside Knitting Therapy group meets every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon at the community room, across from Grateful Bread, at the Lakeside Town Square (just up the road from Blacktail Market at 306 Stoner Loop).
Bring yourself and your friends as all are welcome. Please send an email to Sue at [email protected], if you have any questions. Otherwise, just drop in.
Silk Scarf Painting Class with Julie Wulf
If you find comfort indulging your creative side, consider taking part in the silk scarf painting class with artist Julie Wulf at ARTrageous in Lakeside. Wulf is no stranger to the medium and her colorful and masterful works include batik, oil, silk and watercolor paintings.
The class will be held Saturday, Nov. 23, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. The cost for the class – with all materials included – is only $55. Leave the class with a terrific, handmade gift for friends, family, or yourself. At the least, you’ll find some painting tips and plenty of inspiration.
To register for the class, please drop by ARTrageous at 7220 Highway 93 S., in the middle of Lakeside, or call (406) 844-2804.