Human trafficking survivor has Her Refuge to thank for her life Tucked inside a booth at midtown coffee shop, 54-year-old Marie* tugs nervously at her sleeves and shifts a bit in her seat. Her eyes scan the room as she starts to recall a painful snippet of time that she’s tried for more than 40…
Terrance Edwards, sentenced to 30 years for sex trafficking What started as an apparently innocent connection on Facebook led one woman into almost two years’ bondage in a statewide sex trafficking ring. Ultimately, her bravery led to the arrest and conviction of Terrance Edwards, 36, a pimp with connections to Missoula and Billings. In their…
Couple sells everything to shelter victims of human trafficking Above the rustic fireplace in the home of Sammy and Britney Higgs, the words on a hand-painted wooden sign pretty much sum up their work these days. It reads, “Perfect love drives out fear.” They have had to drive out their share of fear over the…
YWCA’s Major Fund and Friend-raiser sparks community spirit At 85 years old, Maria Beltran-Jensen still spends time in the courtroom, legally representing those who may not otherwise be able to afford a lawyer. Most of her work as an attorney is pro-bono through Montana Legal Services. Each case reminds her a little bit of her…
This countertop sensation is changing the kitchen Takeout and UberEats are now doing battle with a small cooking sensation. This countertop appliance, an all-in-one pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer and warmer, can deliver a homecooked meal faster than the time between a phone call and when the delivery person rings your front doorbell….
Max the Prison Paws pup is now larger than life After spending 20 years in front of an elementary school classroom, Donna Cochran always loved reading stories to children. As a teacher, her favorite activity was helping students write and illustrate their own books. But, over the course of all of those years, she never…
Many years ago, back when I was becoming me and leaving the scared girl behind, I learned that if I asked three questions before making a statement, I had time to actually think about my statement, and my words were more on target. Way back then, when my hair was brown, my eyes bagless, and…
Respect guides Jennie Hansen’s role as the Montana Women’s Prison warden Life in the Montana Women’s Prison on Billings’ South 27th Street doesn’t mimic the scenes depicted in the popular Netflix series, “Orange Is the New Black.” It’s not steeped in fear and retribution. Daily life isn’t ruled by violence. Instead, Jennie Hansen, appointed warden…
Jen Perry empowers women & cinches up success Just 20 yards away from the concrete walls that house more than 220 female inmates at the Montana Women’s Prison, the quiet hum of a sewing machine can be heard as one of the inmates sews up another project. Beth Anthony, a 50-something inmate with three years…
Faces on the front lines in the battle There’s a poster on the wall in Georgia Cady’s office that says, “Human Trafficking isn’t a big city problem, it’s our city problem.” It’s a truth she knows well. As the human trafficking program case manager at Tumbleweed Program, Cady is on the front lines in the…
A teen with a smile that can light up a room Editor’s Note: The Heart Gallery is an ongoing feature and partnership with Rimrock Mall to give a voice to those children waiting for a loving adoptive family of their own. Visit Rimrock Mall to see the Heart Gallery, with continually changing photos of adoptable…
2019 design is all about style & comfort This coming year is all about making a big impact in design without sacrificing comfort. That’s the statement 2019 is making when it comes to the latest home decorating trends. Think organization made simple, fresh colors, high-tech fabrics, along with a splash of vintage flair. “It’s all…
12 weeks in, the Motivated to Move women reflect on their newfound lifestyle Editor’s Note: In our October/November issue, we introduced you to four women motivated to move toward a healthier life. All four women faced different challenges — hormonal shifts, stress, overworked schedules and a lifetime of unhealthy habits. You can read our first…
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