It's not often you get the opportunity to chat with Capt. William Clark, of the famous Corps of Discovery, or share a bottle of wine with a former Montana Supreme Court Justice to discuss fairy tales, or contemplate the history of American horror films.

But that's exactly what several of some 310 supporters of the Helena Education Foundation did Wednesday evening at the first ever Great Conversations event.

With a list of 37 subjects, each with an expert facilitator, guests could choose from topics as varied as the reintroduction of the wolf in Montana, the Bible and a look back at the Lewis and Clark expedition from Captain William Clark's perspective.

Hal Stearns, chair of Montana's Lewis and Clark commission, donned a replica 1806 military uniform to portray Clark and led his table in a discussion on the famous explorers' visit to the Big Sky state.

Bud Lilly, fly-fishing outfitter and author, swapped fishing stories with fellow anglers at his table while discussing the future of fishing in Montana's streams.

"Bud was an absolute leader in the industry and in the whole conservation issue," said John Kowalski, a local fishing outfitter, who shared a table with Lilly and delved deep into water quality issues and fish habitat.

"It's a great event, and a wonderful cause," he added.

Most facilitators at the tables said they enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and the informal structure of the event. Every table in the banquet room of the Great Northern Hotel was filled and many of the guests stayed on after dinner was served and the dessert plates were collected.

Nancy McCaffree found herself at Steve Maly's table discussing the opportunities for local public television.

"It was very interesting because I didn't know much about it," she said. "I found it a really stimulating, fun table — but it was hard to pick, there was so many choices."

Founded just 18 months ago, the Helena Education Foundation has given $50,000 in grants to classroom teachers for innovative ideas they plan to introduce in their classrooms. In all, the grants have touched more than 5,000 students. Supporting educators, the foundation also hosted three Issues Institutes, bringing in experts for workshops specifically for classroom teachers.

The foundation has hosted two Carnival Classics — an annual event that offers schools and student organizations the collective opportunity to raise money for student activities.

At the beginning of the school year, the foundation gave away more than 500 books to every first-grade student in the Helena School District. The foundation held its first benefit golf tournament, and first Celebration of Excellence, honoring students for outstanding academics and civic service.

The Great Conversations event was the first of what organizers said will become an annual event. It was the kickoff of the foundation's annual fund drive and several donors were recognized for their support.

Reporter Laura Tode can be reached at 447-4081 or by e-mail at laura.tode@helenair.com.