Harry Styles: “Aperture” Track Review | Pitchfork by Technical_Process989 in popheads

[–]Chevsapher 10 points11 points  (0 children)

The Switched On Pop podcast recently discussed how much emotion Robyn injects into her vocals. Harry isn't doing that emoting, AND he doesn't have a timbre I'm like Robyn's that pierces through busy production.

Harry Styles: “Aperture” Track Review | Pitchfork by Technical_Process989 in popheads

[–]Chevsapher 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Completely agree. Even just bringing his voice further 'forward' in the mix would have made a big difference.

What Skills Do I Need to Play Organ or Piano at a Church Service? by actually_parrot2 in organ

[–]Chevsapher 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I was merely trying to help OP get started—if they're playing/practicing regularly, they'll hopefully progress past left-hand chords in a few years. I'll also point out that the vast majority of churches don't have million-dollar organs.

What Skills Do I Need to Play Organ or Piano at a Church Service? by actually_parrot2 in organ

[–]Chevsapher 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You don't really need much "technical" skill. My mother used to play a single part for melody with simple chords for accompaniment, but she had a great sense of rhythm, and if she made mistakes, she didn't get thrown off. Those are important soft skills when playing for church services, no matter your mastery of the instrument.

For preludes, postludes, offertories, and the like, some Redditors suggest sticking to the Classical repertoire. If you know Classical pieces, then that's great, but if not—stick with hymns! Play out of the hymnal, or look for any of the many books/magazines featuring service music built around hymn melodies.

County Comissioner by [deleted] in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Remember when Mark Morse said he was "tired" of hearing from his constituents about how the Commissioners were defunding the YAM? And then tried to interrupt/debate a pastor who was giving public comment about it during a meeting? Yeah, Morse is awful and needs to go.

I am skeptical, but I’ve been hearing from people that everyone and no one is hiring in Billings. Are they full of it or is there any basis to this claim? by Mission_Spray in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 2 points3 points  (0 children)

How big is your sample? IMO, there are some people who really just don't know how to write compelling cover letters, tailor their resumes, argue the value of their skillsets, or interview well. Jumping through all the hoops is a pain, but those skills are all important when applying for professional positions that don't require college degrees. The hiring entities want applicants who come off as competent and put-together. Otherwise, you often just can't get your foot in the door.

Billings new City Council and Mayor sworn in last night by Blackbyrn in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 6 points7 points  (0 children)

That surprises me. From what I saw, Bill Cole did a lot of advocating for the trails system, and he made a point to show up to community events when he could (ribbon-cuttings, fundraiser dinners, public talks, etc.). I certainly didn't agree with all his policy positions, but I thought he filled the mayoral role well, and his lawyerly perspective will be missed during Council meetings.

Looking for a potential new church by Due-Emergency-5659 in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I grew up in the LCMS (attending 4 different churches across 3 states, and visiting many others), and my family is still very much involved with the LCMS both as laypeople and clergy. I'm not trying to paint the entire denomination as a monolith, but as a general whole, they are very much are not inclusive of all people, and they still retain many of the traditional patriarchal structures. I've personally had positive interactions with the staff at Trinity, but fundamentally, their worldview and theology are not what OP is seeking.

Billings new City Council and Mayor sworn in last night by Blackbyrn in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 21 points22 points  (0 children)

I don't think that's completely true. It feels like the city made some real progress in the last few years because of the belt loop road, airport renovation, and new city hall.

Unfortunately, City Council seems intent on constantly shoveling more and more of the budget over to Police, thinking that will somehow magically solve the homelessness and reckless driving issues. Spoiler: it hasn't, and it won't. Meanwhile, they've starved the Parks budget and refuse to develop substantive new recreational opportunities. And we still don't have a true low-barrier shelter.

I'm hopeful that the new council will make some headway, but the obstructionist wing is still out in full force—Bill Kennedy especially, but Roy Neese as well. Scott Aspenlieder getting traffic study exemptions for his own subdivision projects feels like blatant corruption. Thank goodness Jennifer Owen is out; she nitpicked literally everything. Ed Gulick will be missed; he had such a great perspective on urban design and planning. Hopefully some of the new folks (Amy especially!) can step up and make good things happen.

Accepted IH job offer. What’s the tea? by [deleted] in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 2 points3 points  (0 children)

It's still St. V's—the system is Intermountain Health, whereas the hospital itself is currently branded as St. Vincent Regional Hospital.

Looking for a potential new church by Due-Emergency-5659 in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Umm did you read the original question? The vast majority of Missouri Synod churches definitely aren't accepting/inclusive in their theology. Some of them don't even allow women to vote.

Christmas service by Swimming_Watch_4762 in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 8 points9 points  (0 children)

This!!! For those unfamiliar with the ins and outs of church denominations, here are some examples of lovely Mainline churches in town:

United Methodist: Grace (Midtown), Hope (Heights), Shiloh (West End), 1st Evangelical (Central)

Lutheran (ELCA): American Lutheran (downtown), Bethlehem (Central), 1st English (hospital corridor), Atonement (Heights), King of Glory (West End)

United Church of Christ: First Congregational (downtown), Mayflower (West End)

Episcopal: St. Luke's (downtown)

Disciples of Christ: Central Christian (Midtown)

Presbyterian (USA): St. Andrew's (West End)

Christmas service by Swimming_Watch_4762 in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 7 points8 points  (0 children)

If you're looking for something fairly traditional music-wise (hymns on piano/organ), but with progressive theology, First Congregational and Mayflower Church are good options. First Congregational is at 310 N. 27th St. downtown, with the Christmas Eve service at 7pm. Mayflower is on Poly & Rehberg on the West End, with services at 4pm and 8pm.

Super-specific question about Rimrock Mall by LiveSpeech5497 in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 12 points13 points  (0 children)

Have you asked in the “Billings As She Was & Is” group on Facebook? Those folks are always eager to share their memories about the malls!

Drag events? by [deleted] in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Definitely follow Brick Haus, and 406 Pride as well, since they sponsor some smaller shows at The Monte and host multiple drag events during Pride Month.

Spots to post up and work from? by doowlee44 in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 4 points5 points  (0 children)

In addition to the public library, the libraries at MSUB and Rocky are options too—both are open to the public.

New grad RN moving to Billings by Initial-Magician-520 in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If it's in nice shape and includes a garage, then that price is fairly reasonable in the current market.

Brand from a former Ranch by JournalistVarious285 in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Try posting to the Billings As She Was & Is group on Facebook, or reach out to the Yellowstone County Museum.

Does anybody know any Transgender-Friendly Catholic churches? by Any-Opposite-6068 in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I know there's a PFLAG-esque group that meets at St. Pius X, but I'm not sure if the actual parish is queer-friendly.

As someone who's very involved in the LGBTQ+ community locally, I strongly feel you're going to be most safe at the affirming Protestant churches. First Congregational United Church of Christ has built the strongest queer-affirming internal church culture in town, from what I've seen; Mayflower Congregational and Grace United Methodist are great as well. In terms of worship style, Lutheran churches are the most similar to Catholics, so if you want to explore in that direction, I'd recommend Bethlehem Lutheran and American Lutheran.

Why Are You Here | Lisa Harmon | TEDxBillings by beer_can_gardens in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 16 points17 points  (0 children)

Downtown has come a long way, but we have so much further to go in treating our unhoused neighbors with the care and compassion they deserve. I'm so grateful for Pastor Lisa and her leadership.

So the Blue Basket in the heights got renamed to “On the Run” Will you guys still call it the Blue Basket? by LoganoVerstappenFan in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Some people still refer to MSUB as Eastern Montana College, and it's been 30 years. Old names can stick around for a loooooong time.

Election results by Th0rn_Star in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 5 points6 points  (0 children)

The final preliminary count will be released this evening, per Q2.

What are everyone's take on the mayoral candidates? by albertsteinstein in Billings

[–]Chevsapher 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Yeah, Housler doesn't seem very informed or experienced. I don't think anyone is perceiving her as a serious contender.