Gal-livanting: Women's Groups & Activities

Weaver's, Archery, and Single's Groups

September 17, 2013

Weavers' Groups Waiting for You, by Valerie Harms

If you work with fiberand would like to learn more about techniques or just meet others who share your interest, opportunities abound. The mother of all local guilds is the Montana Association of Weavers and Spinners (MAWS). On its Web site, www.mawsonline.org, you will find an abundance of information: newsletters, links to weaving specialties, guilds around the state, photos, workshops/events, and a classified section.

Member guilds can be found in Kalispell, Billings, Bozeman, Lewiston, Great Falls, Helena, and Missoula. These guilds typically meet once a month for instruction and show ‘n’ tell. Dues are $20 of which a portion goes to MAWS to put on exciting workshops or shows.

The Bozeman Weavers Guild is an outgrowth of the Gallatin Valley Weavers. Formed in 1968, its purpose is to further knowledge and appreciation on techniques of handweaving for creative work. They maintain a library of books and periodicals for members. The contact for the Bozeman Weavers Guild is Barbara French, [email protected], 406-586-1881.

The oldest Guild in the state is the Missoula Weavers Guild, now 65 years, with 34 members. The women meet monthly and maintain a library. Their focus is on the range of fiber arts, from spinning, knitting, textile painting, needle felting, basket weaving, to wool dyeing. For more information, contact Coby Johnson, [email protected], 406-543-3303.

Sample a newsletter for an enticing view of activities, finished works, and works in progress.

Single in Montana: Roundup of Singles’ Groups, by Jaimi Boyd

While hiking last summer, the 30-second blips of conversation by passersby seemed to all involve relationships... how this one didn’t work out and how “hopeless” someone felt about ever meeting someone special. I too have found it very hard to date in Bozeman...to truly connect with a partner...and I thought, “Well, at least I’m not the only one.” That is when I realized how much of a need there is to create a scene in Bozeman, specifically for singles. Along came the idea of Mix & Mingle.

Mix & Mingle connects single adults of all ages who are serious about dating and finding a relationship. We organize mixers/meet-ups that vary in theme, activity, location, and cost. Events such as dance lessons, game nights, bbq’s, wine-tastings, outdoor activities, and theme parties to give individuals the opportunity to try something new while meeting other singles with similar interests. Each event includes icebreaker activities to ensure that even the shyest of people mingle easily. Even if you don’t meet your soul mate, you are bound to meet some groovy singles and have a fun time doing so…I guarantee it’s a lot classier than the bar scene!

To stay in the loop of upcoming events at Mix & Mingle, visit -www.facebook.com/Singles.Mix.Mingle or contact Jaimi at 406-581-6022.

Similar singles’ groups are available in Missoula, Kalispell, and Helena. These membership-based groups are offered to those 40+ years of age, and although they consider themselves activity groups as opposed to dating groups, many relationships have evolved due to the connections made during their events. To find out more, contact: Missoula — www.singlesofmissoula.org or 406-251-2616; Kalispell — www.boomerssinglesgroup.com or 406-756-0720; Helena — www.helenaoasis.com or 406-459-3320.

Whether you are new to town, have found yourself newly single, haven’t found “the one” yet, or just looking to expand your social circle, a singles group is a fun way to meet new people and fill up your social calendar. All groups have one common goal — living your single life to the fullest.

Archery Adventures, by Miki Lowe

Do you enjoy working with a bow and arrow to hit a target? Are you fascinated with Artemis, the goddess of the hunt? Montana has many opportunities for everyone to practice their archery skills and put them to the test while doing so with others who share their passion. With archery ranges and clubs across the state, archery is an exciting sport for the young, the old, the beginner, and the pro.

If you’re new to archery and want to learn, head to Superior Archery in Billings. They offer group lessons for children 12 and under for $5; all other lessons are done one-on-one for $40/half- hour. Visit their Web site at www.superiorarcherymt.com. Also, try Big Sky Archery in Bozeman/Belgrade where you spend time with pros learning all you need to know about archery. Lessons are $20/half-hour and $40/hour. Find more information at www.bigskyarchery.com.

Lewis & Clark Archers is a nonprofit archery club in Helena. Members enjoy two ranges, an indoor and an outdoor, open 24/7, 365 days a year. There are three leagues in the winter, a spot league, animal league, and kids league. Membership fees are $25 for youth, $50 for single, and $65 for family. For more information and a list of their events, visit www.lewisandclarkarchers.com.

The Five Valleys Archery Club in Missoula is another nonprofit organization that promotes archery in a family fun setting. The organization provides an outdoor range to all members, sponsors three outdoor archery tournaments during the spring and summer, and promotes archery for children by providing a free competition shoot. Visit their Web site, www.fivevalleyarchery.com, to find out how you can join in the fun.

With so many opportunities to practice, get your bow, get to the range, and enjoy the sport.