The Ekalaka Eagle - Your Community Builder

On April 30, Dancing with the Big Sky Stars took place in Billings. Local celebrities from the Billings area teamed with dance instructors for a one night dancing competition. Proceeds from the event went to Big Sky Senior Services. In addition to the competition, the night boasted a raffle, silent auction, exhibition dances, and other presentations.

Lorn Welch and Ploumi Saliaris won the dance competition. Saliaris was the local celebrity participating.

Welch, who has Carter County roots, was the dance instructor. He has been to dance competitions and performances as far away as Spain and Cuba. Welch has been teaching dance since 1963 and owned his own dance studio, Montana Dance Action, from 1990 to 2012.

Lorn Welch's grandparents were Chuck and Maude Welch, and Albert and Anna Frye. His parents were Gerald "Jerry" and Eleonora (Frye) Welch.