“Bleeding Spirits” Listed as Standout Military History Book in Montana The Magazine of Western History’s 2020 Montana Book Roundup

Wow!!  We just received word that Bleeding Spirits: A Combat Soldier’s Memoir of the Vietnam War (1968-1969) was listed by Aaron Parrett as the standout military history book of 2020 in Montana The Magazine of Western History’s Montana Book Roundup! 

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“Thinking About A Place”: An Invitation to Explore Helena Afoot

This project invites people to explore Helena afoot & consider questions about “place.”  A space is abstract; a place is a space with meaning. From its historic storefronts and iconic architecture to its meandering natural walls and pathways, Helena is packed with “place.” But why? What is it about Helena that continues to call out — not as a dot on map but as a unique lived experience that beckons and makes one feel at home? 

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‘What Say You?” — Philosophical Musings with Dr. Barry Ferst (An Internet Dialogue)

“What Say You?” is a fun and casual internet-based philosophy in the community activity inspired by our belief that physical distancing need not equate to social distancing.  Each week philosopher Dr. Barry Ferst will share some of his philosophical musings on our Merlin Facebook page and invite readers to comment and discuss. Think SNL’s “Deep Thoughts by Jack Handy”….only with somewhat more gravity (maybe).

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Young Philosophers Take On COVID-19 in the Twilight Zone

In the past several weeks, COVID-19 has taken our communities by storm, forcing the closure of schools, businesses, restaurants, libraries, transport, and more.   In other words….a real time, real world Twilight Zone.  In response to this, our young philosophers have opted to take on COVID-19 in a manner that would make Rod Serling proud. Their adaptability, creativity, and resilience is inspiring!

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2019 Reeder’s Alley Block Party Community Fundraiser Event

We had a great time hosting the 5th Annual Reeder’s Alley Block Party this year and are thankful that so many people came out to enjoy the festivities despite the persnickety weather!  A celebration of community & ideas (and, of course, one of Helena’s most beloved historic sites — Reeder’s Alley), our fun and festive block party fundraiser was dog-friendly, kid-friendly, fun for all ages. Check out photos, videos, and more here!

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Merlin Philosophy Programs Selected by Humanities Montana for 2019-2020

We are pumped to have been asked & selected by Humanities Montana to create two programs about philosophy — both of which speak to the relevance and import of philosophical thinking in our everyday lives.

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Merlin Philosophy Program Selected by Humanities Montana for 2019 “Montana Conversations”

We are thrilled to announce that our program, “Philosophy:  What Is It Good For?”, has been selected as a Montana Conversations program by Humanities Montana for 2019. 

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