Destination Big Sky 2014-2015 by Rey Advertising

Destination

BIG SKY Issue 3 2015

Live the Adventure

In This Issue Real Estate Perspectives Big Sky Builders Area Amenities Local Retail Services Yellowstone National Park Dennis Harrington: Honoring Apollo 8 Destination Big Sky 2015 1

LIFE WIDE OPEN

Southwest Montana Real Estate Big Sky • Bozeman • Ennis • Livingston

(406)586.9418 • PureWestProperties.com 2 Destination Big Sky 2015

a letter from the editor Destination Big Sky 2014-15 It’s not just a stop along the way. It’s the destination. Big Sky, Montana is an adventurer’s playground, vacationer’s respite, entrepreneur’s dream and family’s home. With “purple mountains majesty” rising up to meet azure skies, Big Sky is the stuff of songs, the poetry of nature incarnate. And it’s ours – remarkably, unbelievably, blessedly ours.

sports and exploration. Scott Bechtle describes recent residential growth and commercial expansion in Big Sky, including Roxy’s Market, mixed-use spaces in the Town Center and custom homes catering to a range of budgets and seamlessly merging with the varied landscapes on which they’re built.

In this issue, we showcase the people and businesses that are the ever-evolving backbone of the thriving Big Sky community. A welcome manual, Destination Big Sky provides information regarding local infrastructure, resources and opportunities, while profiling some of the people and places integral to the community and inspiring to the world. The iconic Warren Miller shares his thoughts and reflections on a life well lived and a future still teeming with adventure of an entirely new species. Montana Whitewater highlights the breathtakingly rugged Montana terrain while feeding an insatiable addiction to adventure

It may have been the massive peaks glistening in crystalline snow blankets, the vast meadows carpeted in fragrant wildflowers, the impossibly clear lakes and rivers or the day upon day of bright sunshine and powder blue skies, but, at some point in your recent history, Big Sky took hold. As any native will tell you, it’s a hold that never lets up. Whether you’re here for a visit or the inevitably eventual relocation, welcome home, neighbor, and enjoy! — Jessica Bayramian Byerly

Destination

BIG SKY Destination Big Sky 2015 3

FEATURES

Destination

BIG SKY P ublisher

Photo couretesy of Yellowstone Club

Mike Rey

6 13 15 19 22 26 30 32 40 44 48 51 55 62 66 74 78 80 88 117 130

Montana Living Big Sky Real Estate Big Sky Build Warren Miller - Yellowstone Club Lone Mountain Land Company Lohss Construction Montana Expressions Pure West Real Estate Dennis Harrington: Honoring Apollo 8 Prudential Montana Real Estate Blue Moon Bakery Bechtle Architects Montana State University Sandholm Architects Greene Construction ERA Landmark Real Estate Prime Mortgage Rocky Mountain Design Interiors Teton Heritage Builders Ryan Turner Photography Stephanie Quayle Biggerstaff Construction

E ditor

Jessica Bayramian Byerly

M arketing D irector Chris Rey

C ontributors

Jessica Bayramian Byerly Corinne Richardson Eric Ossorio Corinne Garcia Laura Bell Tiffany Sandholm Dave Reuss Samantha Persico Pat Straub Michael Fox William R. Mealer, MD Shannon McGee Katie Ransom Kritika Parwani West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce Susan Curtis

A d S ales

Mike Rey Tiffany Sandholm

IN THIS ISSUE

60 68

Skyline Bus Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport 85 Big Sky Medical Center 92 Fly Fishing 103 Yellowstone National Park 108 West Yellowstone

D esign

Swenson Design

P ublished B y

Rey Advertising 3220 Hillcrest Drive Bozeman, MT 59715 406-539-1010 reyadvertising@q.com reyadvertising.com

O n T he C over

Ryan Turner Photography 4 Destination Big Sky 2015

Moonlight & Big Sky S k i i n / S k i O u t Prop e rt i e s O p p ort u n i t i e s

Snow Crest 8512 & 8513 From $1 ,399,000

Saddle Ridge R1 5 B ed ski i n/out lo g cabi n. $849,000

L o n e Pe a k Center # 315 Slop eside condo w/ ski lo cker. $249,000

4 0 6. 9 9 5 . 6 3 3 3 | BigSkyR ealE stat e . com L o cated in the Big Sky Town C e n t e r adjacent to Grizzly O u tf i t t e r s This information is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change, withdrawal and approval of purchase by owner. All information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed by Montana Living - Big Sky Real Estate, independent investigation is recommended. For properties being purchased at Spanish Peaks Mountain Club approval for membership is required prior to closing. If you are currently working with another real estate agent, this is not intended as a solicitation. Montana Living is a registered trademark of Newwest LLC.

Destination Big Sky 2015 5

Montana Living When Martha Johnson steps into a room, the energy rises a notch. At 5’2” in heels, she’s a bundle of joyful energy. A 26 year resident, Johnson has a proclivity for taking on challenges when she sees opportunity. “My entrepreneurial spirit needs a big anchor holding me down,” she says with a big smile. However, holding her down is next to impossible, unless you are former client, wrestler and actor Andre Rene Roussimoff, more famously known as Andre the Giant. Picture this: Andre playfully lifting Martha in one hand, holding her hostage, a story Johnson recounts humorously from her early marketing years associated with the World Wrestling Federation. Martha moved to Big Sky in 1988 and in her early years in Montana created, operated and sold two successful food and beverage outlets in the Big Sky community (Serendipity’s and the Huckleberry Café). In 1994, Martha became a real estate professional and as a Broker for Prudential Realty enjoyed tremendous success. The entrepreneurial itch came again in 2000 and she went on to open her own company, Martha Johnson Real Estate - Rivers To Peaks and again in 2012 opened Montana Living ~ Big Sky Real Estate with that famous brand of hers appropriately called “Rockin’ M,” a refreshed and reinvented real estate sales & marketing company focusing on state of the art technology aligned with 2 decades of experience which in turn created a top luxury real estate firm. Married since 1996 to Scott Johnson, her husband also has 25 years in resort marketing and management, a career distinguished by his being general manager of the world renowned Big EZ Lodge. With her husband and two sons thriving in Big Sky, she is passionate to create the best resort community for her family to grow, live and learn. Her enthusiasm for Montana is contagious. Johnson, has been a dynamic and successful broker living in Big Sky. Her company, Montana Living ~ Big Sky Real Estate (BigSkyRealEstate. com) newly formed the summer of 2012, has exemplified a steadfast commitment to a high level of customer service, fostering relationships, quality and hard work. The company was founded in 2000 as Rivers To Peaks – Martha Johnson Real Estate, specializing in residential, developer and commercial real estate in Big Sky and southwest Montana. In 2006 the company expanded, adding a division that handled sales & marketing for The Club at Spanish Peaks, a private luxury ski and golf community. Johnson’s extensive experience, industry knowledge and enthusiasm have allowed her company to represent Big Sky’s signature properties including The Big EZ, Gallatin Preserve, Grey Drake Subdivision, Big Sky Town Center,Yellowstone Ranch Preserve/Hebgen Lake, Big Sky Resort, Moonlight Basin, The Club at Spanish Peaks and the Yellowstone Club. Johnson grew up outside Philadelphia, but fell in love with the West during family vacations to Colorado and Utah. After attending college in Boston, she moved to Big Sky, where she did what everyone else does in a mountain town – become a instructor – and worked for Nine Quarter 6 Destination Big Sky 2015 glenniss indreland photo

Circle and Lone Mountain ranch as a wrangler. She also started and sold two restaurants before founding her real estate business. Johnson runs the company with husband, Scott, whom she refers to as a quiet pillar of strength. In addition to his extensive knowledge of Big Sky & Yellowstone National Park, Scott has a background in economics and finance and specializes in marketing and club operations. He was the sales and marketing manager at Big Sky Resort and general manager of Big EZ, then director of marketing at the Club at Spanish Peaks. A strategic planner, he keeps the company vision clear and on course while marketing the Montana Living brand locally and nationally. Montana Living’s highly dedicated sales team are residents of Big Sky and Bozeman, who are dedicated to their work and the communities they serve. They all volunteer in organizations that help the area flourish, grow. Johnson has served a 3-year term on the school board and currently teaches an entrepreneurial class at Lone Peak High School for the Warren Miller Freedom Foundation, a mentoring program for high school students. “To meet and interact with these amazing young citizens is an incredible gift to me,” she says. She has served on many boards in the community and is highly committed to assisting in whatever way she can, molding a healthy and sustainable Big Sky community. Tracking sales for over 20 years has provided Montana Living with an unparalleled database allowing her team to stay current on properties that have sold, new properties coming on the market, and market trends. But the key to being a good broker, Johnson realizes, is years of experience,

being well trained, smart, proactive, and knowing intuitively how to interact with clients. Interpreting marketing statistics can be overwhelming even the savviest client, Johnson and her team offer a customized approach to buying and selling property. What wins client loyalty and makes Montana Living ~ Big Sky Real Estate successful, is their sales team’s ability to streamline the decision making process by offering fact based information tailored to the client’s individual needs. Organizing the buying and selling process for the client helps them efficiently weigh options and make decisions with confidence. “Listening and asking questions is key to facilitating a successful transaction,” Johnson adds. “I like to know what makes their heart sing.” It’s a great reward for her company when buyers acquire property they cherish. In discussing the Big Sky market, both Martha and Scott agree that the resort market has been a complex area to navigate in the last five years. However, there are many signs of stabilization, recovery, and a very positive future. The market has begun to really take off again with new sales at the Club at Spanish Peaks and in the community as whole. Montana Living ~ Big Sky Real Estate has seen very positive movement in properties priced in the $2M range, and land sales, which were dormant three years ago, are now gaining traction as land is perceived as a strong value. Being the most experienced broker of The Club at Spanish Peaks real estate, Johnson offers a unique perspective on buying opportunities at the Club. With its new ownership, Johnson reports a tremendous increase in real estate interest in The Club at Spanish Peaks. There have been multiple

offers on homes and land. She believes several factors explain this interest in these properties. First, the natural geography of the community creates one of the finest ski and golf experiences in the Rocky Mountains. You have the “Biggest Skiing in America” out your front door and one of finest mountain golf courses out your back door. “No where else in the country do you have such a combination of quality amenities as The Club at Spanish Peaks” states Martha. Second, delivering a top quality community resort experience is a priority of the new Cross Harbor and Boyne USA ownership. Their experience speaks for itself. Located on the South side of Big Sky Ski Resort, the gorgeous topography of rolling wildflower meadows and old growth forest gets lots of sunshine, and the lots are close to Town Center amenities such as concerts, shopping, dining, fishing, hiking, and medical services, making it a very popular area. When asked what is exciting about Big Sky right now, Johnson cites the consolidation of major land/resort assets like the recent purchase of The Club at Spanish Peaks and Moonlight Basin Resort, by Boyne USA and Cross Harbor Capital (owner of Yellowstone Club), as well as a proposed new hospital and elementary school, and the best airline service this area has ever experienced. “It’s an opportunity of a life time to be able to participate in the vision and planned growth of this community,” she says. “Big Sky is a place where people are choosing to make a home, raise a family, and run a business. It’s not a defunct mining town, or a developed town that’s trying to breath life back into itself. It’s a small, quaint place that is building slowly and methodically, an exclusive destination that’s not commercialized, and is still a bit of a secret,” she says. n Destination Big Sky 2015 7

Wo r l d C l a s s F l y F i s h i n g & Hunting Properties Anceney Sp orting Ranch 3 cabi n s and a barn al l situ ated on 8 3 ac re s w ith ove r a m i le of Gal l ati n Rive r f ront a ge, n atu ral spri ng c reek s , and a p ond . $6,900,000

G a l l at i n P r e s e rv e Sp ec t ac u l ar 1 6 0 ac re ranche s i n the heart of Big Sky, Mont an a . From : $ 3 , 5 0 0 , 0 0 0

Ye l l o w s t o n e R a n c h Pr e s e rv e 753 ac re s on Heb ge n L ake w ith the Mad i s on and Grayl i ng Arm , B oat m ari n a , snow mobi l i ng, hu nti ng & ďŹ sh i ng. 9 Home site s f rom $ 2 , 2 5 0 , 0 0 0

Big EZ 20 ac re s i n a private, g ated com mu n it y w ith v ie ws i nto Yel lowstone Park & golf me mb e rsh ip at Span i sh Peak s . From : $ 5 9 9 , 0 0 0

Featured Pro p ert y : Anceney Sp ort i ng Ranch

Show n b y a pp o i n t m e n t w i t h :

M artha Joh n s on, Brok e r 406 . 5 8 0 . 5 8 9 1 | M a rt ha @ B i g Sk y R ea l E stat e . com

being purchased Big at Spanish Mountain Club approval for membership is required prior to closing. If you are currently working with another real estate agent, this is not intended as a solicitation. Montana Living is a registered trademark of Newwest LLC. 8properties Destination SkyPeaks 2015

M a rt ha Joh n s on O w ner | Mana g i ng Broke r

Opportunities

Martha@BigSkyRealE st ate. com 406.580.5891

arth a i s Fou nde r, Broke r and O w ne r of Mont ana L iv i ng – Big Sky Real E st ate – the top luxu r y b outiq ue real e st ate f i rm i n Big Sky, Mont an a . Her exp erience i nclude s broke ri ng the s ale s , m arke ti ng and l au nch of res ort , re side nti al , com me rc i al and ranch sp orti ng prop erties (col lec tively broke ri ng hu nd red s of m i l l ion s of dol lars i n real e st ate du ri ng he r caree r to - d ate… and g row i ng ). Includ i ng : Big E Z E st ate s & Pre s e r ve, Gal l ati n Pre s er ve, Span i sh Peak s Mou nt ai n C lub, E le vation 6 0 0 0 Condom i n iu m s , L one Peak Tow n home s , Greathorn R anch , Yel lowstone R anch Pre s e r ve / Heb ge n L ake, Gre y Drake Com mu n ity, Antler Ridge Com mu n it y, Span i sh Peak s C lub Condom i n iu m s , and De sig n Ce nte r of Big Sky ( Hu ng r y Mo os e and adj acent bu i ld i ng ) . He r ex p e rie nce i nclude s t ak i ng real est ate proj ec t s f rom the b e g i n n i ng st a ge s to tu rn - ke y pro duc t . She al s o de velop ed and bu i lt the R J S Com me rc i al Bu i ld i ng i n the Big Sky Tow n Ce nte r. Marth a h a s con si ste ntly b ee n Big Sky ’s top sales pro ducer. In 2 0 1 3 and 2 0 1 2 , she wa s honored a s one of the top 50 lu x u r y broke rs i n the cou ntr y. Marth a i s the exclu sive l i sti ng broke r for Span i sh Peak s Mou nt ai n C lub (formerly The C lub at Span i sh Peak s ) and ac tively supp ort s and s el l s real est ate w ith i n Yel lowstone C lub, Big Sky Re s ort / Mo on l ight Ba si n, Big Sky and the su rrou nd i ng area . She re pre s ents i nd iv idual prop e rt y buye rs , i nve stors and s el le rs . An ac tive memb er of the Big Sky com mu n it y, Marth a sit s on the b oard of d i rec tors for Big Sky Youth Emp owe rme nt ( BYE P ) , Adv i s or y B oard of Fi rst Inte rst ate Ban k and h a s t aught an entre prene u r cl a ss at L one Peak High S cho ol , wh ich i s sp on s ored by the Warre n Mi l le r Freedom Fou nd ation . Marth a wa s the Vice Pre side nt of De velopme nt for the Big Sky Arts Cou nci l ( B S AC ) du ri ng wh ich ti me she wa s the v i sionar y and team lead for the B S AC to h ave a p e rm ane nt home and p erform i ng art s pav i l ion i n the Big Sky Tow n Ce nte r.

4 1 B RO OK T ROU T

3 BR/3.5 BA with attached 2 car garage and 2494 Square feet. Located in the South Fork Sub, within walking distance to Big Sky Town Center and it’s amenities. Offered at $ 689,000

SPA N I SH P E A K S M O U N TA I N C LU B SK I T I P G L A DE 1 4

Ski-in and out of this gently sloping and private homesite. Great views of of the Signature Weiskopf designed golf course and only minutes to the clubhouse. Membership is required at Spanish Peaks Mountain Club. Offered at $ 735 ,000

O N TA N A L I V I N G B I G S K Y R E A L E S TAT E

406.995. 6 3 3 3 | B i g Sk y R e a l E stat e . com This information is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change, withdrawal and approval of purchase by owner. All information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed by Montana Living - Big Sky Real Estate, independent investigation is recommended. For properties being purchased at Spanish Peaks Mountain Club approval for membership is required prior to closing. If you are currently working with another real estate agent, this is not intended as a solicitation. Montana LivingDestination is a registered trademark of Newwest LLC. Big Sky 2015

Our Team P

atie nce – it’s a rare q ual ity i n to day ’s hu rr y-up world . Su z an ne’s f i rst priority when mee ti ng w ith a ne w cl ie nt i s to f i nd out how she can b est a ssi st them. She ac tively l i sten s and pays clos e attention to her cl ie nt s d ream s and goal s wh i le an sweri ng q uestion s and ex plori ng option s w ithout pressu re. She prides hers elf i n g iv i ng each c u stomer the i n formation the y need to move th rough the pro cess of buyi ng or s el l i ng a home or home site w ith the lea st p ossible stress or u ncert ai nty. Su za n n e S c h r e i n e r Su z an ne strongly b el ie ves that knowledge of to day ’s Broke r m arke t lead s to g reat deci sion s . When cl ients know wh at to ex p ec t along each ste p of the way, it makes the Suz an ne@ Big Sky Real E st ate. com e nti re tran s ac tion more enj oyable for e ver yone. She 406.57 0.4935 strive s to c reate cl ient relation sh ips bu i lt on tru st and con f ide nce.

av i ng worked a s an a ssi st ant i n a Colorado real e st ate off ice, Mia needed no encou ra gement to j oi n the world of real est ate when she, her hu sband , De rek , and f am i ly do g, River made the move to Big Sky. Mi a h a s l ived and worked i n mou nt ai n ranges al l over the glob e, i nclud i ng Ne w Z ealand , Au stral ia , France, C an ad a and the US . She wa s educated i n the UK , g radu ati ng f rom The Un iversity of L eed s w ith a de g ree i n mu sic, du ri ng wh ich ti me she wa s the lead si nger of a Mia L ennon UK- ba s ed Fu n k band cal led Maji. Mia i s com m itted to Ass o c i ate prov id i ng a wel l rou nded and world ly p ersp ec tive to al l he r cl ie nt s . He r natu ral g race and abi l ity to work w ith Mi a @ BigSkyRealE st ate. com al l p eople h a s e nabled her to th rive i n a comp e titive 406.641.0051 bu si ne ss e nv i ron ment w ith honesty, i nte g rity and atte ntion to de t ai l.

Will Bru nner Ass o c i ate Wi l l @ BigSkyRealE st ate. com

406.290.1225

rig i n al ly f rom Ham i lton, Oh io, Wi l l moved to Mont an a v ia Vai l, Colorado and Hi lo, Hawai i af te r g radu ati ng f rom Albion Col le ge i n Mich ig an. He succe ssf u l ly prac ticed real est ate for a fe w years b efore he wa s s elec ted to j oi n the Memb ersh ip De velopment team at Span i sh Peaks Mou nt ai n C lub. Wi l l had s e ve ral years of exp erience re pres enti ng the de velop er, i nd iv idu al s el le rs , a s wel l a s buyers on prop erties rang i ng f rom l arge - ac re land parcel s to exq u i site ski-i n/skiout re side nce s on the private Tom Wei skopf Sig natu re golf cou rs e. He f i nd s tremendou s j oy and sati sfac tion i n de velopi ng tru sted relation sh ips w ith ne w cl ients , l i ste n i ng to the i r goal s , and ge tti ng them i nto the prop e rt y th at exceed s thei r d ream s and exp ec t ation s .

O N TA N A L I V I N G B I G S K Y R E A L E S T AT E

A s pe n Grov e s Hom e 1 1 2 3 Andesite R oad

4 B ed | 4 Bath 3678 S q . Ft . $1,225,000

Sw e etg ras s H i l l s

2 3 5 C h ief Joseph Trail 5 B ed | 5 Bath 5469 S q . Ft . $1,475,000

R a m s h or n Hom e 3 0 Anaconda D rive

3 B ed | 2.5 Bath 2094 S q . Ft . $439,000

S OL D

2 1 0 0 L it tle Coyote 4 B ed | 4 Bath 2650 S q . Ft . $659,900

S u m m i t Vi ew h omesite #18

3.18 Acres $330,000

Un de r C on t rac t H i l l Cond o 1197

Stud io | 1 Bath 440 S q . Ft . $98,500

406.995.6333 | BigSkyR ealE state . com

properties being purchased atBig Spanish Peaks Mountain Club approval for membership is required prior to closing. If you are currently working with another real estate agent, this is not intended as a solicitation. Montana Living is a registered trademark of Newwest LLC. 10 Destination Sky 2015

M i c ha e l S c h r e i n e r

ich ael i s the pre v iou s ow ner of Archer Con struc tion and partner on Mont ana Mou nt ai n Dream s Con struc tion Co. Hi s partnersh ip s old thei r l a st home i n the Yel lowstone C lub for $11,500,000. Real e st ate wa s a natu ral tran sition for h i s g re g ariou s , sh arp, c reative and de t ai led m i nd and he i s a s successf u l i n real e st ate a s he wa s i n the con struc tion i ndu str y. Mich ael k nows real est ate f rom the con struc tion pha s e, th rough l au nch to resale, and i s a knowledgeable and e nthu si a stic g u ide to buyers and s el lers al i ke.

Bl ac k B u l l L ot 2 7 Tillyfour R oad

Broke r Michael @ Big Sky Real E st ate. com

0.5 Acres $268,900

406.5 80.5624

s a tran splant to Big Sky, S cott Altman bri ng s a u n iq ue p ersp ec tive to real est ate. He u nderst and s ex ac tly wh at it mean s to not on ly f i nd the p erfec t home, but al s o f i nd an i ncred ible com mu n ity. S cott , who ha s sk ied al l ove r the U. S . and i nternational ly, f i rst v i sited Big Sky on a f am i ly ski trip 1998. Unparal leled ski i ng and b eautif u l mou nt ai n v i st a s were not the on ly th i ng th at m ade h i m love th i s smal l Mont ana tow n. It wa s the p eople, the com mu n ity, and the ma g n if icent l ifestyle that S cot t A ltman Big Sky h a s to offer. As a real est ate a ss o ciate, S cott’s Ass o ci ate fo c u s i s to help p eople ach ie ve the same exp erience that he h a s h ad – real izi ng that there i s a lot more to l ife S cott @BigSkyRealE st ate. com th an l iv i ng i n the place you work . He lo oks for ward to 406.763.6196 helpi ng you f i nd you r p eice of Big Sky.

John Bau chman Ass o c i ate Joh n @BigSkyRealE st ate. com

406.5 70.1920

oh n Bauch man ha s over 25 years exp erience i n com me rc i al and residential real est ate helpi ng buye rs and s el lers ach ie ve thei r resp ec tive real est ate goal s . He wa s rai s ed i n Idaho and h i s fam i ly ha s had a re side nce i n Big Sky si nce the 1970’s . He received h i s u nde rg radu ate de g ree f rom Un iversity of Notre Dame and M BA i n f i nance f rom Mich ig an St ate Un iversity. He i s a year rou nd Big Sky resident l icen s ed to s el l real e st ate i n Mont ana and North C arol i na . Joh n ha s p e rs on al ly de velop ed and i nvested i n real est ate i n Id aho, Mont ana , North C arol i na , Ne vada and Ariz ona . Joh n h a s b ee n i n real est ate th rough the up and dow n c ycle s of the marke t s o he ha s go o d i n sight i nto the opp ortu n itie s and ri sks a ss o ciated w ith i nvesti ng i n real e st ate.

O N TA N A L I V I N G B I G S K Y R E A L E S TAT E

G a l l at i n R i v e r Hom e 2 28 A ltman L ane

4 B ed | 5 Bath 16.85 Acres $4,625,000

8 Indian Summer

Mo olight Mountain Home

3 B ed | 4.5 Bath 2560 S q . Ft . $1,549,000

Gr eat h or n R a n c h Tract 4, Homesite #5 40.43 Acres $899,000

Cabin 18

Spanish Peaks Mtn. Club

5 B ed | 6.5 Bath 3825 S q . Ft . $2,195,000

406.995.6333 | BigSkyR ealE stat e . com

This information is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change, withdrawal and approval of purchase by owner. All information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed by Montana Living - Big Sky Real Estate, independent investigation is recommended. For properties being purchased at Spanish Peaks Mountain Club approval for membership is required prior to closing. If you are currently working with another real estate agent, this is not intended as a solicitation. Montana Living is a registered trademark of Newwest LLC.

Destination Big Sky 2015 11

Spanish Peaks M ou n ta i n C lu b E l e g a n t M ou n ta i n Homes & Cabins Ski in/out Homesites Ranch Lots 2 - 5 Acres

Big EZ #7 Homesite 2 0 ac re s of rol l i ng meadows ove rlo ok i ng Yel lowstone Park .

Shown by app o i n t m e n t w i t h :

M artha Johnson, Broker 406.580.5891 | M a rt ha @ B i g Sk y R ealE state .com

properties being purchased at Spanish Peaks Mountain Club approval for membership is required prior to closing. If you are currently working with another real estate agent, this is not intended as a solicitation. Montana Living is a registered trademark of Newwest LLC. 12 Destination Big Sky 2015

BIG SKY BUILD

Originally from Connecticut, John Seelye, President of Big Sky Build,

Recently, John and his team were challenged with a construction project Recently, John and his team were challenged with a construction project that combined that combined history, history,skilled skilledcraftsmanship craftsmanshipand andcareful carefulconsideration considerationforfor unique unique materials. materials.A A client clientcame cametotoJohn Johnwith withthe theidea ideaofofusing usingreclaimed reclaimed wood wood from from aa stance stanceofofhistoric historiccabins cabinsthat thatonce oncesatsatalong alongthe thestoried storied Oregon Trail. The clients purchased purchased the thewood woodfrom fromMontana Montana Reclaimed Reclaimed Lumber in 2012. 2012.Based Based on on aareport reportfrom froma adendrochronologist dendrochronologistfrom fromLone Lone in Bozeman, Bozeman,the thewood woodthat thatwas wasused usedininbuilding buildingthe theclient’ client’s Pine Research in s EST. 1997 home was once oncepart partofofaathresher thresherfloor floorbuilt builtduring duringthethe second half of the second half of the 18th century. The timbers were reshaped and then incorporated intoa Big a Big The Big Sky Build mantra is “Experience. Quality. Craftsmanship.” While The Big Sky Build mantra is “Experience. Quality. Craftsmanship.” While 18th century. The timbers were reshaped and then incorporated into 8 7 committing L otonindustry e toPindustry eresearch, a k research, Dholding r holding B his i gvendors S k y , M t 5 9 7 1 6 | 4 0 6 . 9 9 5 . 3 6 7 0 | b i g s k y b u i l d . c o m Sky Build private home project. committing and subcontractors his vendors and subcontractors Sky Build private home project. to extremely high standards, and demonstrating a work ethicethic that’sthat’ hard to extremely high standards, and demonstrating a work s hard The timbers used in this distinctive home are from the white oak group to find these days, John and the Big Sky Build team provide each of their to find these days, John and the Big Sky Build team provide each of their The timbers used in this distinctive home are from the white oak group and have a warm, honey-brown tone – unlike the traditional beige or clients with the highest level of construction service possible. As builders, clients with the highest level of construction service possible. As builders, and have a warm, honey-brown tone – unlike the traditional beige or light tan color – which is likely a result of hundreds of years of chemical John and his team bring a whole new meaning to the word meticulous: John and his team bring a whole new meaning to the word meticulous: light tan color – which is likely a result of hundreds of years of chemical processes used to treat the wood. Based on the report, the trees that were they pay attention to every detail – every nook, every cranny – and insist they pay attention to every detail – every nook, every cranny – and insist processes used to treat the wood. Based on the report, the trees that were used for the original cabin’s thresher floor were felled in or around the that everything on each of their projects is tended to with a 100% eye for that everything on each of their projects is tended to with a 100% eye for used for theSo, original thresher werethat felled in or around the for year 1763. at thecabin’ times of death,floor the tree provided the wood perfection. perfection. year 1763.was So,atatleast the time death, tree in that provided thewood woodwas for 544 the floor 294 of years old.the Thus, 2013, the oak the floor was at least 294 years old. Thus, in 2013, the oak wood was 544 years old, the oldest existing white oak in research records. Most importantly, Big Sky Build is driven by quality and dedicated to Most Sky Build is driven by quality andteamwork dedicated to years old, the oldest existing white oak in research records. providing theimportantly, best serviceBig and craftsmanship possible. Their providingcommitment the best service and craftsmanship possible. teamwork Taking on this task was no small feat for Big Sky Build. The contractors and consistent to quality workmanship is whatTheir sets Big Sky and woodworkers in thefeat project quite literally, making Build apart from its competitors. “I’m so fortunate to work with the clients and consistent commitment to quality workmanship is what sets Big Sky Taking on this taskinvolved was no small for Bigwere, Sky Build. The contractors history. And, the result is ainchronicle of vision, hardliterally, work and unparalleled and theBuild people thatfrom I do,” John. the best compliment apart its explains competitors. “I’“For m so me, fortunate to work with theisclients and woodworkers involved the project were, quite making artistry that only Big Sky Build can provide. when aand pasttheclient refers us to someone else. That says a lot.” n people that I do,” explains John.“For me, the best compliment is history. And, the result is a chronicle of vision, hard work and unparalleled when a past client refers us to someone else. That says a lot.” artistry that only Big Sky Build can provide.

Originally from Connecticut, John Seelye, President of Big Sky Build, first gained experience in building luxurious mountain homes living first gained experience in building luxurious mountain homes whilewhile living and working Vail, Colorado. with the mountain lifestyle and working in Vail,inColorado. TakenTaken with the mountain lifestyle and and eager hisbusiness, own business, John moved BiginSky in 1996. eager to runtohisrun own John moved to BigtoSky 1996. One One year year later, through determination andwork, hard work, he accomplished his goal later, through determination and hard he accomplished his goal of of a building company and, since BigBuild Sky Build has become startingstarting a building company and, since then,then, Big Sky has become southwest Montana’s quality builder. southwest Montana’ s quality builder.

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EST. 1997

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Experience Quality Craftsmanship Our Mission Since 1997

Our Mission

Ski Film Hero, Warren Miller, Celebrates 90 by Corinne Richardson

Cultural icon, Warren Miller, known world-wide as the father of adventure sports films, turned 90 this year and continues to spin good tales and inspire people. While Miller’s name and distinctive voice are associated with hundreds of films that encompass extreme surfing, sailing, and auto racing, he is arguably most famous for his ski films that depict thrilling cliff jumps, helicopters, corkscrews and fabulous wipeouts in exotic locations all over the world. Over the years, much has been written about Miller and his distinguished career, yet when speaking with him, he’s noticeably humbled by the fanfare, preferring that people not make a fuss about his accomplishments. “I’m embarrassed to see so much written about me,” he says. “I used to make ski movies. Warren Miller skiing out of control with a camera sums up who I am.” But to millions of skiers, snowboarders, and outdoor enthusiasts around the world, and to the Big Sky community where Warren Miller makes his home, he is much more than that: he is larger than life and holds a special place in our hearts. Besides his undeniable charm and wit, what endears Warren Miller to the world as well as those close to him is that he’s a grand storyteller. He narrates a story with just the right details, humor, and humanity to make it memorable. A natural, Miller began narrating stories when he was twelve. Armed with a 35-cent camera, he took black and white stills on his Boy Scout outings, which he later shared with kids hanging out at local basketball and football games. Many years later, after being discharged from the Navy, Miller bought an 8mm camera and spent summers and winters filming his surfing and skiing escapades. In the winter of 1946, he headed to Sun Valley to learn how to ski. There, he parked his trailer in a parking lot, skinned up the mountain every day to ski, and for meals, hunted rabbits or mixed hot water with ketchup for tomato soup. He put his camera and good friend, Ward Baker, to work and they filmed each other learning to ski. To put things in perspective, Miller reminds us modern day skiers that back in the day, there were only 15 chair lifts in the U.S. and anyone who could make several turns down a ski hill on edgeless wooden skis without falling was considered an extreme skier. When Miller began showing his sports films to his pals, they clamored for more, thus a career was born. For years, he went from house to house showing and personally narrating his films. In 1949, Miller bought a 16mm camera with money loaned from a friend and followed his true love. From

that moment on, Miller says, “I slept with a camera the rest of my life.” In his film–travel-lecture business, Miller did it all: photography, editing, music, booking events, and narrating the films live, though he is quick to credit the numerous people who helped him along the way. It isn’t just Miller’s gift for story telling that makes him so successful and well-loved, but the way he dares to invent a life, the way he sees the world. A camera as a ticket to anywhere. Adventure: subsistence living in a small, frigid ski town. Fun being one turn on a ski hill. And extreme skiing? Exceeding what you think you can do on a pair of sticks strapped to your feet and pointed down a steep hill. It is also the universal theme of freedom that Miller weaves into his stories and films that resonates so deeply with us. When we are kids, we want the freedom of the house without the fence, yet by the time we are adults, we have the house with the fence. Even so, we never lose that yearning to take big risks, feel free of responsibility and fear, to experience life as full and fun. Whether you are sitting at the dinner table with Warren Miller or watching one of his classic films like Steep and Deep, or Endless Winter, his stories makes us feel like we are free to do

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anything we want whenever and wherever we want, and he shows us that we can. That’s the beauty of his stories, a beauty genuinely reflected in the life he’s chosen to live and share with the world– a perfect balance of risk and courage and loads of fun. At age 90, one can’t help but wonder if Miller’s idea of freedom has changed over the years. When asked, he is quick to reject this notion. Despite not having a driver’s license, and as he puts it, “the wheels falling off his health,” he still believes that freedom is a fundamental instinct, only dictated by courage or lack of it. There is still a lot to celebrate and new challenges to set, he says. Shooting his age on the golf course, for instance, and spending time with his wife, Laurie, his children and grandkids. When asked what he is most proud of, he chokes up a bit and says, “the Performing Arts Center named after me in Big Sky donated by Jill and Loren Bough together with other generous Big Sky benefactors. I’ve seen all kinds of theaters in my days – good, bad, old – and this one is state of the art, the finest in America.” A great tribute to a man who had a revolutionary impact on the art of sports film, inspired millions of skiers and snowboarders, and has done his share of giving back to the world. It is also a clear statement of how much Warren Miller is loved by this ski town. Despite all his acclaim and fame, Miller insists, “It’s not what you did, but what you’re doing that matters.” Today, Miller is still doing. He spends his winters in Big Sky working, telling stories, and sharing his unabashed opinions of the world. He loves Big Sky winters and can’t imagine why anyone would ski elsewhere. “The snow is extraordinary and nobody lives here,” he says. At the Yellowstone Club where he has a mountainside home, he still enthralls kids and adults with his stories at the Warren Miller Lodge and in his private home. He continues to give back through his philanthropic foundation, the Warren Miller

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Freedom Foundation, which he runs with his wife, Laurie, teaching young people to become entrepreneurs. He writes (his autobiography is due out next year), plays golf and enjoys the simple pleasures of life – meaningful time with family and friends. To celebrate his 90th birthday, he had a quiet dinner with family and friends at his summer home on Orcas Island. Birthday presents? Nothing extreme: golf balls and wine bottled the year he was born . . . 1924 . . . a good year. Happy Birthday Warren Miller! n

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At Yellowstone Club, we don’t have powder days, we have powder weeks.

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Yellowstone Club • Big Sky, Montana {406} 995 -4900 • ycsales@yellowstoneclub.com www.yellowstoneclub.com Membership in the Yellowstone Club requires real estate ownership. Yellowstone Club is a secure gate guarded private community and appointments for access to view the real estate or amenities need to be arranged in advance. This does not constitute an offer or a solicitation to residents in any state or jurisdiction in which registration requirements have not been fulfilled. Please call or email for complete information.

www.discoverylandco.com Destination Big Sky 2015 17

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A New Vision for Big Sky by Corinne Richardson

Big Sky, Montana, is a marvel of breathtaking Rocky Mountain views and wilderness. Several mountain ranges frame the view, with Lone Mountain’s towering peak rising 11,000 feet directly through the center. On a drive down Highway 191 along the scenic Gallatin River, or even a quick trip to the grocery store in town, it is not uncommon to see big horn sheep in the road, a herd of elk grazing in a mountain meadow, a moose and calf wading in the river. Scenes like these are daily occurrences in Big Sky thanks in large part, to its geography. Just 19 miles from Yellowstone National Park, the town is surrounded by open space and undeveloped land that includes Yellowstone National Park’s 2 million acres, Gallatin National Forest and a number of private conservation easements and designated wilderness areas. Ask anyone that lives or vacations here and they will tell you the abundant wildlife, unspoiled beauty and endless recreational opportunities are what draws them here, often, to stay. The riches of Big Sky’s geography are seemingly at the heart of its revitalization. Like many resort towns, Big Sky had its troubles in the real estate downturn, but today, it’s humming with activity: new ideas, new businesses and residential communities. The town seems to be on fire, and without apology. A large part of Big Sky’s turn around may also be attributed to the recapitalization of Moonlight Basin and the Spanish Peaks Mountain Club brought about by the partnership between CrossHarbor Capital Partners (CrossHarbor) and Boyne Resorts (Boyne) which purchased the two resort properties in 2013. The purchase combined Big

Sky and Moonlight Basin’s ski operations to create a resort with 5,800 skiable acres and 4,350 vertical feet. The partnership brought both resort communities out of bankruptcy and tendered a long-term commitment from its managing partners, Sam Byrne and Stephen Kircher, respectively, to bring the resort to its greatest potential. Byrne and Kircher contend that bringing stability and new investments to Big Sky will emanate from a coordinated approach to the area’s development with a focus on stewardship and environmental sensitivity. To direct their long-term vision, the partnership established Lone Mountain Land Company, headed up by CEO, Mark Thorne, to oversee development. The company will design and build a variety of products including condominiums, town homes, private residences, and hospitality lodges at Moonlight Basin and Spanish Peaks Mountain Club, offering public and private real estate and membership opportunities in both communities. Private offerings include a Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course at Spanish Peaks and a Jack Nicholas Signature course at Moonlight Basin. Long-term plans include the possibility of creating hotels and hospitality facilities around the communities. While Thorne admits that, to some, the words development and stewardship in close association may seem like a contradiction, he sees great potential in a unified, environmentally sensitive plan for development in the Big Sky area, one that adds value to the whole Big Sky experience. “This is a unique and exciting opportunity for Big Destination Big Sky 2015 19

Sky,” Thorne says. “Before the partnership with CrossHarbor and Boyne, Big Sky had challenges being a cohesive ski resort. Now, with a coordinated development, we have the opportunity to create a multi-season, multi-generation community with a vibrant year-round presence.” Thorne notes that a unified plan will give residents and visitors more diversity of experience and continuity of development which will encourage year round jobs, activities and events, and draw further investments.

A native of Kansas, and having grown up in a rural community with wide open spaces, Thorne admits to feeling most at home in natural settings. It was his love for nature and wilderness and the possibility for sensitive development that brought him to Big Sky and Lone Mountain Land Company. “Big Sky’s beauty coupled with CrossHarbor’s long-term, structured vision and commitment to the Big Sky community made my decision to move here easy,” he says. Although Lone Mountain Land Company is newly formed, Thorne notes that the core team has been involved with Spanish Peaks and Moonlight Basin for decades, offering valuable experience that will continue to shape the thoughtful development of Big Sky.

“We are very focused on developing these places Mark Thorne, CEO, Lone Mountain Land Company in a thoughtful manner,” says Thorne, who believes that preserving Big Sky’s natural endowment is key to the area’s success and delivering an authentic Montana experience, whether that’s skiing, fishing, playing golf, horseback riding, or simply vacationing and taking in a local gallery, An important aspect of the long-term success of Big Sky is the continued concert, or rodeo. successful development of the Big Sky Town Center. “The Simkins family has been incredible stewards of their vision for the Big Sky Town Center, To promote environmentally sensitive development, Thorne notes that a critical component of the future success of Big Sky,” says Thorne. Lone development plans take into consideration clustering density into limited Mountain Land Company hopes to work closely with Simkins to help building sites, designated open space between developments, increased foster continued success. set backs, timeless architecture and energy efficient design of buildings and landscaping, and the use of indigenous materials. In addition, planning The plan is clearly working as evidenced by the spate of activity in Big is done in consultation with geologists and wildlife experts to preserve Sky, both in and outside the resorts: new housing developments, summer environmentally sensitive areas, and develop environmentally sound ski concerts, a medical center offering 24/7 emergency and in-patient runs and golf courses. Thorne also adds, “part of being a good steward is services, a 17,000 square foot grocery store, performing arts center, yet being sensitive to the local work force and housing requirements. We are another ongoing Ophir school expansion, and the proliferation of non-stop working hard to resolve housing issues in this community.” flights to Bozeman. While Big Sky is best known for its trademark, the Biggest Skiing in America™, (big storms, big powder, big terrain), the Thorne is no stranger to ski and golf resort development, having an town, it seems, is poised to be on the map as the next finest all-season extensive background in the planning and development of ski and golf outdoor hotspot. communities in Deer Valley (Empire Pass), Park City (Tuhaye), Vail Resorts (Bachelor Gulch Village and Red Sky Ranch), as well as residential Lone Mountain Land Company’s offices are located in the meadow in Big Sky. n communities in Oklahoma, California, Florida, and Alabama.

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“We’re big enough to handle the larger projects, but not too big that we lose the personal connection with our clients, the land or the raw materials used to gain the end result,” remarks Lohss Construction owner Chris Lohss. Much like Chris, each of his 16 crewmembers – most of whom have been with him for over a decade – is an artisan in his own right, as passionate about the extraordinary structures for which Lohss Construction has become synonymous as Chris himself. Other than the four years he spent earning a BS in Biology at Montana State University, Chris has lived and breathed the building industry since he was young. His degree helped him further realize his love of the natural materials used in the building process, particularly wood. He is unapologetic about his obsession with Honduran mahogany, white oak, African purpleheart, chestnut, walnut and reclaimed hardwoods from the Midwest. Chris travels around the U.S. to hand select materials from small sustainable logging operations or vintage barns and structures that are then dismantled by his enthusiastic crew and recycled for repurpose in Montana. “We source and

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process all of our materials in house, including the flooring we kiln dry and process in our warehouse in Gallatin Gateway,” remarks Chris. Upon graduation from Montana State, Chris established Lohss Construction and accepted his first job in Big Sky in 1997. Initially focused on log and timber trades, Chris has since expanded into start–to-finish custom homes. Chris stresses, “We don’t outsource our framing or wood finish work, and the crew has built amazing furniture pieces through the years.” Chris and the team of Lohss Construction is committed to seamlessly reconciling every client’s home with the terrain and natural character of their respective sites, whether it be a mountainside chalet in Big Sky, a seaside home in California or a working ranch in Wyoming. “It’s about a lot more than a bottom line,” Chris states. “We have a shared love of the materials, Montana and this craft, the product we create and the people for whom we create it.” Visit www.lohssconstruction.com for more information

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‘Relationships for Life’: PureWest Christie’s International Real Estate by Jessica Bayramian Byerly

“I’m in love with Montana. For other states I have admiration, respect, recognition, even some affection. But with Montana it is love.” – John Steinbeck Whether it’s the majestic snow-kissed peaks or the verdant summer meadows, Montana inspires indescribably strong emotions. And those emotions inevitably lead to the desire to remain forever ensconced in the breathtaking beauty, charming community, incomparable adventure and encompassing quietude that is Big Sky country. Since its inception in 2009, PureWest Christie’s International Real Estate (PureWest) has been helping clients realize that desire.

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Over the years, PureWest has grown from a small fiveagent office in Big Sky to 33 agents spread throughout four locations – Bozeman, Ennis, Livingston and Missoula – serving markets throughout Montana and clients worldwide. A leader in Big Sky real estate sales for the past several years, PureWest is now deftly navigating the Bozeman market as well, a David amongst an army of Goliaths. As Managing Broker Wallis Bryan remarks, “Our mission statement ’Relationships for Life’ is truly our ethos. We’re not the biggest real estate company, but we strive to be the best for each and every one of our clients.” PureWest is an exclusive affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate, a revolutionary real estate concept initiated in 1995 that couples centuries of experience with a network of elite brokers. Synonymous with excellence since it opened in 1766, Christie’s is one of the world’s oldest and most respected art auction houses. Employing the regional savvy and informed expertise of Christie’s elect seasoned brokers, PureWest brings refinement and customized care to each distinct market, property and client, from the mogul seeking her next investment to the newly married couple purchasing their first home. Dedicated to the distinct and varied people of Montana, PureWest invests in the communities herein through direct giving and community engagement: PureWest has a charitable foundation that grants to various non-profits on a quarterly basis and all agents are committed to giving back. This philosophy is of integral import to the PureWest business model and each agent’s personal relationship with their clients and the breathtaking landscape they call home.

“The ‘why’ is of such greater import than the ‘how’ and the ‘what’ – people in our industry all do that,” Bryan remarks. “We do what we do because we’re passionate about it. The sum of all of our agents is greater than each alone, in that we thrive when we work together toward the common goal of providing exceptional service.” It is indeed in that passion and personal commitment that PureWest, a boutique real estate venture in the heart of the West, sets itself apart – in the real estate marketplace, the Big Sky community and the ever resplendent Montana landscape. For more information about PureWest Christie’s International Real Estate, visit www. bigskyluxuryrealestate.com. n

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"Earthrise" - One of history's most infuluential images taken by Bill Anders Dec 24th, 1968 Apollo 8

Apollo 8 Launch

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Borman, Anders, Lovell

Von Braun - Designer of the Saturn V Rocket

Honoring

Apollo 8 in bronze By Dave Reuss

Badge designed by Jim Lovell

magine the tension of crawling into the command module of Apollo 8 on launch day. You’re over 35 stories off the ground, ready to blast off into space to do something no one has ever done before. The Saturn V rocket you’re attached to is the most powerful vehicle ever created by man, capable of generating 7.5 million pounds of thrust on lift off that will blast you to a world-record speed of 24,200 miles per hour. Your pulse hammers in your ears as engines start burning millions of pounds of fuel, and the entire rocket shakes as the countdown approaches zero. Since it’s only the late 1960s, the overall processing power of your entire command module is far less advanced than a basic cell phone—and you need to trust that technology to send you deep into space, around the moon ten times, and back home safely. It seems unbelievable, but that’s exactly what three brave men did in the winter of 1968. With the entire world watching, Jim Lovell, Frank Borman, and William Anders successfully made the first manned flight to orbit the moon. During their six-day journey, they made history. They became the first humans to see the far side of the moon. When the astronauts took turns reading the first passages of Genesis during Christmas Eve live, one in three people on the planet—over one billion total—listened in on the radio and televisions around the globe. And Anders shot of the Earth off the Moon’s horizon has become one of the most iconic photos ever captured: the famous “Earthrise.” Apollo 8 is widely regarded as the most historically significant of all the Apollo missions, largely because orbiting the moon ten times was more than just a challenge—it was a patriotic honor. Deeply entrenched in both the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement, America was deeply divided and needed heroes to rally behind. The success of the mission created a lasting sense of pride and hope for the future. Destination Big Sky 2015 33

Lovell in Harrington's Studio And now, on the 45th anniversary of their legendary journey, local artist Dennis Harrington is creating a life-size bronze sculpture titled Brave Men and Brilliant Minds. The piece is designed to not only honor the three heroic men that traveled to the moon and back, but also to honor the thousands of talented NASA employees that helped get them there. In total, over 400,000 individuals were responsible for the success of Apollo 8. Harrington—well known for his grizzly bear bronze Guardian Spirit that has greeted passengers at the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport for the last two decades—is honored to be involved with something of this magnitude. To start the project, the first step was contacting Captain Jim Lovell. Portrayed by Tom Hanks in the classic film Apollo 13, Captain Lovell is perhaps most well-known as the commander of that historic flight. It was during that mission that he uttered the iconic phrase, “Houston, we have a problem.” Lovell’s accomplishments are staggering: he’s a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Congressional space medal of honor, a member of the first crew rendezvous, first to orbit (14 day record), and he’s the first person to fly into space four separate times. Furthermore, he’s one of only 24 people to fly to the moon, the first of three to fly to the moon twice, and only person to fly to the moon twice without making walking on the surface.

"We're happy Dennis wanted to do this project." - Captain Jim Lovell

“I managed to get a hold of Captain Lovell and presented the idea,” Harrington says. “He loved it. He contacted Anders and Borman—because if they weren’t all onboard, it wasn’t going forward.” Once Harrington had a conceptual drawing to show the three astronauts, everyone was excited about the project. 34 Destination Big Sky 2015

Apollo 8 Reentry - Dec 27th, 1968 - shot by US Air Force ALOTS

Sea of Tranquility - Taken by Apollo 8 for the historic landing of Apollo 11

Jim Lovell navigating using star alignment

Apollo 8 Mission Chart Destination Big Sky 2015 35

HISTORIC FIRSTS

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One visit and yOu will agree, this is the last best place tO be!

prumt.cOm

An independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates, Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and Rock symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no other affiliation of Prudential. Equal Housing Opportunity. All information contained herein is derived from sources deemed reliable; however, is not guaranteed by Prudential Montana Real Estate, Managing Broker, Agents or Sellers. Offering is subject to error, omissions, prior sales, price change or withdrawal without notice and approval of purchase by Seller. We urge independent verification of each and every item submitted, to the satisfaction of any prospective purchaser. Destination Big Sky 2015 39

Big Sky, Montana by ERIC OSSORIO

It’s becoming more and more clear that Big Sky, Montana – the uniquely magical and spectacularly beautiful Northern Rocky Mountain valley in which residents choose to live, second homeowners unwind and recharge and countless vacationers enjoy peace and quiet – is the antidote to big cities. Yes, Big Sky is one of the most beautiful places you have ever seen. It offers some of the best alpine and Nordic skiing in North America, along with blue ribbon trout fishing, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, hiking, golf and mountain biking. And the undeniably fabulous Montana weather that – with average summer temps in the mid-70s, average winter temps in the mid-20s and a relative humidity at about 30% – always seems to be just right. An ever-expanding community, Big Sky also has some of the best restaurants and accommodations in the Rocky Mountain West. Located in the southern portion of the Gallatin Canyon (45 N, 111 W), Big Sky is a lovely 45-minute drive south of Gallatin Gateway along US Route 191, in large part following the free flowing Gallatin River. Montana Department of Transportation (DOT) made a few significant improvements to the thoroughfare this summer; travelers will undoubtedly appreciate the long-term benefits of the improved roadway this winter and in perpetuity.

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Big Sky is located midway between Yellowstone National Park and the modern, reliable and convenient Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), which served close to 900,000 passengers in 2013 and will accommodate an expected million in 2014. A new I-90 airport exit currently under construction will allow for even more efficient access to the airport. BZN offers direct commercial flights from Minneapolis/St. Paul, Chicago, Atlanta, New York, Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland and Seattle/Tacoma. This summer, new direct service to Houston (IAH) and LaGuardia in New York (LGA) will make travel even more convenient. That’s quite a line-up of direct flights for this community to offer. By comparison, Vail Eagle offers direct flights to Denver or Dallas/ Ft. Worth, TX, and is a two-hour drive from Denver, with the added treat of driving though the Eisenhower Tunnel. Airline service providers include: United Airlines, Delta Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, Frontier Airlines and US Airways, as well as many private users at the Yellowstone Jet Center. Ground transportation from the airport to Big Sky can be arranged through Karst Stage (800.287.4759) or Shuttle to Big Sky & Taxi (888.454.5667). Most major car rental agencies are also represented at the airport. Many “in the know” locals choose to leave their automobiles in their own private and enclosed parking spaces at the airport when they can’t be here.

US Interstate 90 traverses southern Montana and offers convenient exits in Belgrade, MT for access to Highway 191. For the more adventurous, Salt Lake City is a six-hour drive to the south. A popular summer driving route passes through Cody and Jackson, WY and Yellowstone National Park before ending up in Big Sky for a convenient departure from Bozeman to home destinations. The primary driving access to the area is through Gallatin County along MT 191. Big Sky’s Mountain Village, Ski Moonlight and Yellowstone Club located in adjacent Madison County, Montana are accessed via MT 64 though the Meadow Village. Founded in 1973 by retired NBC broadcaster Chet Huntley, Big Sky is an unincorporated community in Gallatin County. Anchored by the majestic 11,166-foot Lone Mountain at the valley’s west end, Big Sky is home to approximately 3,000 full-time residents. A world-class ski area blanketed by Lone Mountain’s 400 inches of annual snowfall, Big Sky offers 5,750 acres of skiable terrain serviced by 29 lifts accessing 295 ski runs across four mountains. How about 4,350 feet of vertical drop? Nearby, the Yellowstone Club offers “Private Powder” skiing to its membership on Pioneers Mountain, which provides 2,200 skiable acres and 2,700 vertical drop from its peak at 9,860 feet. Boyne USA has overseen the expansion and management of the Big Sky Ski and Summer Resort over the past 40 years. The Ski Moonlight and Spanish Peaks Mountain Club’s Spirit Mountain areas were brought into the fold in 2013, opening up this adjacent skier terrain to all Big Sky skiers. The Big Sky Resort Golf Course, a Jack Nicholas 18-hole golf course, is open to all and located in the Meadow Village. The Moonlight Golf course, also a Jack Nicklaus course, is under Big Sky Holdings’ umbrella and will be open for play this summer. Yellowstone National Park is just 18 miles south of Big Sky and West Yellowstone’s entrance is a mere 48 miles away.Yellowstone offers access to a natural world few can imagine until they see it for themselves: colorful boiling hot pots, explosive thermal geysers, herds of bison and elk and, of course, Old Faithful. The Old Faithful Inn, one of the architectural masterpieces of western national park design, is also located in Yellowstone. Any pictures you may have seen will pale in comparison. Services in the area are governed and provided for by Gallatin County and/ or Madison County commissioners; various homeowner associations; and service districts, such as the Ophir School District, the Big Sky Sewer and Water District, and the Big Sky Fire Department. The largest homeowners

group is the Big Sky Homeowners Association (BSOA), with 2,351 membership interests representing all 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as several foreign countries. Big Sky can be broken out into four general areas: the canyon area, Meadow Village, the Big Sky Ski and Summer Resort Mountain Village and Moonlight neighborhood, and the Yellowstone Club. The canyon area, which follows the Gallatin River south along Highway 191, is the location of choice for many residents, the Warren Miller Performing Arts Center and Ophir School. The fastest growing K-12 school in Montana, Ophir offers a full curriculum for close to 300 students (Friday afternoon skiing or snowboarding at Big Sky are popular activities during the ski season!). Three miles to the west, along MT 64 (Lone Mountain Trail), lies Meadow Village, one of the main population centers and home to Big Sky golf course, Lone Mountain Guest Ranch, Town Center, the DeeLuxe Movie Theatre (where you can enjoy a glass of chardonnay or draught IPA beer and popcorn while watching a first run movie), the ever popular Ousel Fall Trail, community parks, shopping and the post office. Six miles farther west along MT 64, are Big Sky Ski and Summer Resort Mountain Village, Moonlight lodge/restaurant and neighborhood subdivisions replete with beautiful lots offering ski-in/ski-out access options. To the south, at the foot of Pioneer Mountain, sets Yellowstone Club, a 13,500-acre private ski, golf and residential resort community. Big Sky is made up of a fun and diverse mix of people sharing common preferences – for the outdoors, open spaces, huge vistas, starry nights, natural beauty, and the opportunity to contribute to the betterment of a growing community. Accommodations run the full gamut, from hotels and condo hotels to private residences, ski-in/ski-out condominiums and townhomes. Big Sky Ski and Summer Resort can host large conferences in their 50,000-square-foot hotel/conference facility. Couples have found Big Sky to be an ideal location for their weddings, offering friends and family a beautiful place to experience and enjoy before and after the ceremony. On the real estate front, the dramatic run up in pricing during 2006 and 2007 led to a dramatic expansion of the market and development of many wonderful properties, as well as an increase and improvement in basic infrastructure for the area, including enhanced water treatment facilities, expanded road networks, a larger school and fiber optic phone and internet connectivity. In addition, the Moonlight area underwent significant ski terrain expansion and luxury accommodations diversification. The “Six Shooter” Lift, among Destination Big Sky 2015 41

others, was installed to whisk skiers and boarders up the North Side to previously inaccessible winter ski terrain. Construction also began on a signature Jack Nicklaus Golf course: the first nine holes have been completed and offer challenging and unusually impressive vistas over the Jack Creek drainage. For the adventurous, the 777-yard 17th hole was a special delight. At the same time, to the west of the Meadow area, the Club at Spanish Peaks area expanded, offering direct ski access to Big Sky’s Southern Comfort area, a fabulous Tom Weiskopf golf course (consistently ranked as one of the top courses in the Country), a selection of luxury accommodations, a spectacular 32,000-square-foot lodge/clubhouse and ski-in/ski-out and golf course home sites. The Yellowstone Club, farther west along the Southfork, saw expansion on perhaps too many fronts, opening up and increasing skier terrain, member services and residential and land opportunities. As the financial markets were forced into a dramatic correction in the fall of 2008, the overall Big Sky market was not spared, and Big Sky became no stranger to financial turmoil, with the Yellowstone Club, the Club at Spanish Peaks and Ski Moonlight all succumbing to bankruptcy. Yet, the area and community persevered and continued to prosper, emerging stronger, tempered and ready for the next chapters. Courageous plans to expand Gallatin Field Airport and improvements to Highway 191 went ahead to the benefit of travelers and residents alike. The Ophir School now educates just over 300 students and became the first new High School in the state. Expansion of the power grid and installation of fiber optic communication lines continue to increase the already top-notch infrastructure of the area. Accompanying the over-excitement of the market, the inventory of available properties grew at many market levels. Developers rushed to offer land, condos, townhomes and spec homes. A flurry of commercial opportunities became available.Yet, in a market with an average of 250 transactions annually, an increase or decrease of 25 to 30 transactions could overwhelm even the most popular price points; when the number of transactions dropped to 200 or fewer, as happened from 2008 to 2010, the impact of the correction became very noticeable. Presently, the market continues a dramatic improvement: 2013 saw an increase in sales to 350 transactions, a substantial jump from 220 sales in 2012. The Yellowstone Club has re-emerged as an area magnet, with 42 Destination Big Sky 2015

many new home starts, new developer product under construction near the Warren Miller Lodge and membership levels on a steady rise. Led by Cross Harbor Capital and Boyne, The Club at Spanish Peaks’ bankruptcy has been resolved – many would say in the best of all possible ways – and the first class club facilities have been returned to beneficial use. Cross Harbor and Boyne (owners of the Big Sky Ski and Summer Resort) teamed up to merge the operations of Ski Moonlight with the Big Sky Ski and Summer Resort ski terrain. Big Sky Holdings is completing the spectacular Moonlight Golf Course and making plans for next step development. The Yellowstone Club has become an important component of the community though the diversity of membership and their contribution to the area. Positive growth has translated into another 30% increase in land use permit applications in the Gallatin Canyon zoning side of Big Sky. The BSOA reports a similar trend through its Architectural Review Board. Madison County has not yet implemented a zoning ordinance; however, it’s clear that construction starts are continuing in the Mountain Village, Yellowstone Club and Moonlight, which are all located in Madison County. All in all, Big Sky offers a very diverse recreational environment, as well as a distinct real estate market. Though not as drastically as eight years ago, price points are on the rise and inventory absorption for well-priced and -located properties is supported by the increased closed sale reports on MLS. Meadow area golf course properties offer a range of condominiums and home styles. Land sales are on the increase as improved property prices have advanced. Still, Mountain condominiums ranging from $85,000 for a studio unit, to fully furnished and outfitted million dollar luxury log cabins, to custom-designed and -built homes on ski-in/ski-out lots remain comparative bargains for a world class, destination ski and summer resort boasting the amenities, snow conditions and spectacular summer weather that Big Sky offers. A local saying is that visitors may come for the winter skiing, but they return and stay for the summer. We welcome you to explore our Big Sky. Eric Ossorio is a broker at Prudential Montana Real Estate in Big Sky, Montana, where he has lived with his wife and partner, Stacy, for over 21 years and raised their three children. Both have been active brokers since the early 1980s.They know this market so you don’t have to. To contact Eric, call 406.539.9553, email eric.ossorio@ prumt.com or visit www.ossoriorealestategroup.com n

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Blue Moon Bakery:

Feeding Big Sky for over ten years

Big Sky is unique—but it’s not the alpine setting, or the countless acres of skiing, or the proximity to Yellowstone. It’s the town’s history—or more correctly, its lack of history. This town didn’t inherit a back-story like almost everywhere else in the world. In a place only established a short 40 years ago by NBC anchorman Chet Huntley, Big Sky has had to make its own history over the last four decades. There are no families that have been here for four or five generations; people aren’t here because their family homesteaded this land or rode in on a wagon for the gold rush. No one really inherits Big Sky—everyone that comes to this young town is here because they’ve chosen to, uprooting themselves and building their new life in shadow of Lone Peak. They arrive as transplants, tasked with building their own network of friends, family, and support. As a staple of the community, Blue Moon Bakery has gone a long way toward helping Big Sky evolve from a resort town into a real community, providing jobs, support, and tens of thousands of pizzas over the years. “It’s something we’re happy to do,” says owner Christian Johnsen. If you’ve ever been to Blue Moon, you’ve probably spotted him in the back, sporting a big mop of grey dreadlocks and a wide smile that comes easily. He and his wife Amy run the Bakery—but only when there’s not fresh powder: both are avid skiers and season-pass holders at Big Sky.

44 Destination Big Sky 2015

As ski bums living in Snowbird, Utah, the Johnsens moved up to Montana in 1997, originally intending to open a deli of some sort in the booming college town of Bozeman. Once the snow started to fall, they came up to Big Sky, and—just like everyone else—they were floored by the dramatic view of Lone Peak as they turned off the highway. The couple decided to stay. After a few years of holding down resort jobs and enjoying life on the slopes, they turned their focus back to their restaurant ambitions. In the heart of Big Sky, they purchased a local mom-and-pop bakery that was struggling to keep up. It focused on baked goods, but offered the occasional bagel and sandwich as well. Since Amy and Christian bought the location in March of 2001, they’ve expanded more than they ever thought they would, evolving the menu to include the ski-hill staple of pizza, hot sandwiches, sweet treats, and plenty more. As years went by, they later added delivery service, renovated the upstairs of their building for additional seating, and expanded their menu to offer dinner and delivery service. They still remain true to their bakery roots, and even sell their bread to different local restaurants and grocery stores around town. Feeding tourists and locals alike, they pride themselves on made-from-scratch food created in a family atmosphere. “We start with flour, water, yeast and salt, and come away with a finished product,” Christian says.

On any day of the week at nearly any time, you can walk in and observe the bustle of Blue Moon: employees laughing, customers chatting, dance music playing—and Christian happily taking orders at the register. When ski season is in full swing, the line can sometimes stretch out the door—a fact that few patrons really seem bothered by. But while atmosphere is important when it comes to restaurants, what it really all comes down to is the food. Blue Moon’s flagship product is their pizza, which is delicious, cheesy, flavorful, and served up in thick slices that cover the entire plate—or delivered in boxes heavy enough to strain your biceps. Their breakfast selection is just what you need to fuel a hard day of skiing, and they have a beer and wine selection for when you get back from the hill. To help build the community, they’re constantly agreeing to just about any non-profit or charity that comes to their door. “We usually say yes to everything,” Christian says, and lists the groups they’ve helped over the years with donations of money, pizza, or time: the Rotary Club, Eagle Mount, the Big Sky School District, and sponsoring a softball team and two holes on the disk golf course, among others. “It’s part of our responsibility as business owners to give something back.” Blue Moon is proud to offer Big Sky residents a job with a family atmosphere, creating a network of support for those who have left the safety of their old homes for the adventure of a new one. There are over 25 people on the schedule nowadays—most of them in their early to late twenties—joking and having fun while working, and more than happy to hang out with each other after their shifts end. “We try to create a support system for our young staff, many of whom are living away from family for the first time,” Christian says. The recession hit Blue Moon just like everyone else, but now the sounds of construction are back in Big Sky—hammers swinging, saws buzzing, dozers pushing dirt—and both the town and the Bakery are stronger than they’ve ever been. The future sees Blue Moon adding another line for pick-up and grab-and-go orders, expanding things to alleviate the familiar wait to get coffee and pastries in the morning. Another big addition will be their new pizza oven, able to crank out up to 70 pies an hour, upping their production by a healthy 33%. “This will really boost capacity and shorten waiting time during our peak hours,” Christian says. 2014 looks to be their biggest season yet, and both Christian and Amy are happy to be making pizza, raising their family, and building the community of Big Sky for years to come. “We feel very fortunate to have found a way to make a living in such a beautiful place,” Christian says. n

Destination Big Sky 2015 45

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the form of function Every great architect is, necessarily, a great poet. He must be a great original interpreter of his time, his day, his age. Frank Lloyd Wright It is in the interpretation, the literal translation of concept into construction, that Scott Bechtle and his team at Bechtle Architects make manifest a vision that, as it grows, begins to reflect the times and people of a place. “When I walk through one of my buildings or developments, I see the personalities of the individuals that took part in its creation,” remarks Bechtle with a smile. “Architecture is about working with people to eventually create a cohesive space that not only merges the qualities and values of those involved, bringing them to life through the building, but also seamlessly melds with the environment that surrounds it,” says Bechtle. “Bringing my clients’ visions to life is what I truly love about my work.” Bechtle knew he wanted to be an architect when he was a mere 12 years old and unswervingly pursued that goal, obtaining a Masters in Architecture at Montana State University in 1991 and eventually opening the doors to Bechtle Architects in 2005. Now, with over 20 years experience, Bechtle reflects on his passion for architecture and what sets his company apart. Bechtle Architects is in the business of creating space and while most other architects might view their buildings as art, Bechtle sees the spaces his structures create as the art. “A structure has the capacity to create a mood, convey a personality, affect human behavior and connect people to their environment,” remarks Bechtle. No example is quite so telling as Big Sky Town Center, a modern town modeled, in process and aesthetics, after the quaint old western communities of our not so distant past. Integrating organic elements 48 Destination Big Sky 2015

Bechtle Architects Design History by Jessica Bayramian Byerly

and design features that foster community within nature, Town Center architecturally connects the people of Big Sky with their environment and one another. “Scott has been an integral part of the success of the Big Sky Town Center,” remarks Town Center Project Manager Ryan Hamilton. “Beginning with his guidance over 10 years ago, we were able to put our vision for Town Center to paper with the drafting of the master site plan, design standards and guidelines, which we continue to use today.” Consistent structural style and materials create a cohesive feel, while new mixed-use buildings include retail space with residential above, supporting the live/work scenarios reminiscent of pioneer Montana towns. What appear to be several small storefronts and businesses are, in fact, larger structures separated by outdoor “rooms” framed in by sidewalks, buildings and recessed entries all deftly appointed with nature’s furnishings: trees, grass, flowers, shrubs and canopies. An abundance of glass keeps the cold out and the warmth in without imposing separation and compartmentalizing space. All of these elements are beguilingly intentional, detailed from the project’s inception. Great design, it would seem, is not of a singular facet or function, however. “We think we should customize to each individual and location,” claims Bechtle. “The key is to listen: to our clients, our partners, the environment, the landscape and, most importantly, the space.” By incorporating the new with the old, merging childhood inspiration with educated invention, Bechtle and his team constantly redefine their style, challenging old standards in efforts toward exceeding their clients’ expectations while navigating setbacks and remaining within budget. As John Romney, Managing Partner at TNG Development, remarks, “ Even when they’re not actively working on a part of the project, Bechtle Architects are constantly thinking about creative ways to address the inevitable design challenges in a

cost efficient manner.” Testaments to their unerring adaptability, Bechtle Architects’ structures are an exquisite balance of economical functionality and aesthetics. Just as clients’ wish lists and budget define the design concepts employed, the land and site inform the situation and structure of the buildings. With Bechtle Architects’ newest Big Sky project, the Fairways condominiums, Bechtle employs glass, once again, to create the most minimal environmental separation so that residents can enjoy the vast green expanse of the Fairways golf course as if it were an extension of their home. Bechtle’s newly completed Roxy’s Market, a 17,000-square-foot grocery store in the Big Sky

Town Center, cohesively melds concept and situation as well. The site for Roxy’s was originally a large ranch, and owners Mike and Roxy Lawler worked with Bechtle to develop and recapture that agrarian look. “I’ve worked with architects on a regular basis for over 30 years and Scott is one of the good ones,” remarks Michael. “Roxy and I are very proud of the unique look and feel of the store.” “In truth,” Bechtle admits, “I love planning as much as architecture because I’m creating opportunities for people to come in contact with one another, to develop community, and to remember why we live where we live.” That refined sensitivity to people and place and the critical connection between the two has indeed become a hallmark of Bechtle Architects’ work, defining them as poets among storytellers, the designers of what will surely become the blueprint for a bright Montana future.n

Destination Big Sky 2015 49

M O N TA NA S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

BOZEMAN

BIG IDEAS BOLD ADVENTURES

SNOW SCIENCE MSU students learn from internationally recognized snow science experts in a field class held at Big Sky Resort.

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The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching classifies MSU as one of only 108 colleges and universities in the nation (out of more than 4,600) that maintain “very high research activity.” Of those 108 institutions, only 51 are also classified as having “significant commitment to community engagement.” And of those 51, MSU is the only college or university with a Carnegie “very high undergraduate” emphasis.

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Montana State University:

Innovative Education under the Big Sky Established in 1893, Montana State University (MSU) was Montana’s first land-grant university. The largest campus in the state, MSU had a 2014 fall enrollment of 15,421 students. It is the eighth time in the last nine years that MSU has set an enrollment record due, in large part, to student access to outstanding faculty, pioneering research, hands-on learning and unrivaled recreation. MSU’s diverse student population is spread throughout its undergraduate and graduate programs and Gallatin College, which provides dual enrollment, two-year and workforce education. “Montana State University continues to grow, which is an indication of the value of higher education as well as the incredible education our students receive from our world-class faculty,” says MSU President Waded Cruzado. “The statistics also show that we are doing very well in supporting our students and helping them succeed.” MSU is committed to not only fostering student success, but also establishing itself as an integral and unparalleled asset to the community. With 61 students having received the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship

– the nation’s premier scholarship for undergraduates studying math, natural sciences and engineering – as of 2014, MSU ranks in the top 15 colleges and universities in the nation for recipients. In addition, the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching has classified MSU as one of 108 U.S. universities (out of 4,600 institutions) with very high research. In addition, MSU has also been recognized with the prestigious community engagement classification, a designation recognizing MSU’s commitment to teaching that encourages volunteer service and community outreach to enhance learning and improve lives around the world. Indeed, in realizing its vision: “The university energizes individuals to discover and pursue their aspirations. It inspires people to engage with the university to improve the human prospect through excellence in education, research, creativity and civic responsibility.” Satisfying a mission to “educate students, create knowledge and art, and serve communities by integrating learning, discovery and engagement,” MSU provides unique academic opportunities, cutting edge technology and research programs, and engaging innovations throughout Montana and around the world. Destination Big Sky 2015 51

Academic Opportunity The opportunities afforded by a given institution are arguably of greatest import in the pursuit of an educational and intellectual home. MSU prides itself on providing programs that enrich students’ lives while informing unique interests and professional pursuits. The snow science program in the Department of Earth Sciences, for instance, is one of the best pre-professional programs in the world for snow science, providing strong technical undergraduate study for environmental scientists, lawyers or those interested in snow as a professional career choice. “We are very unique,” states Dr. Jordy Hendrikx, Assistant Professor of Geography and Director of the Snow and Avalanche Laboratory at MSU. “We are the only university offering snow science as a major and far and away the only university looking at snow avalanche issues.” Known as the University of the Yellowstone, MSU’s proximity to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem provides fodder for numerous research and creative connections in fields ranging from the sciences to the arts. With rocks from the Precambrian – approximately a billion years old – to the present, Montana provides an exemplary outdoor laboratory for geology and paleontology as well, a laboratory in which budding paleontologists participate in active research programs and fieldwork every summer. In support of these efforts, the Department of Earth Sciences and the Museum of the Rockies provide hands-on training in fossil preparation through volunteer and student employment positions. The Jake Jabs Center for Entrepreneurship assists Montana businesses and organizations by connecting them to MSU students and resources, allowing for mutually beneficial partnerships based on practical experiential education. Through Center coursework, students have provided more than 17,500 hours of pro-bono consulting for regional businesses and non-profit organizations. Some students are even working on commercialization projects for MSU researchers and scientists. A unique “Entreprentice” project allows student teams the chance to raise money through entrepreneurial endeavors. Proceeds are then donated back to community organizations of their choosing. In addition, a newly established internship program partners “Student Entrepreneurs in Action” with local businesses and organizations for little or no cost. Finally, the Entrepreneur-in-Residence program invites experienced entrepreneurs each semester to spend an intensive week with students and faculty, in addition to giving an open-to-the-public presentation. Lastly, MSU Extension – which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year – provides education and information that integrates learning, discovery

52 Destination Big Sky 2015

and engagement to strengthen the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of individuals and communities. MSU Extension agriculture and natural resources programs employ University research and resources for the betterment of Montana agricultural producers and landowners to increase profits, reduce loss, protect the food supply and sustain future resources. Technology and Research The largest research and development entity of any kind in the state, MSU fosters opportunities for students to conduct meaningful, applied research and engage in creative projects while concurrently securing economic prosperity for Montana. With more than 250 active technology licenses, 83 patents and 31 plant variety certificates, MSU provides particular expertise in the fields of agriculture/natural resources, energy, materials/ manufacturing, optics/photonics, health and biomedical and big data/ cyber infrastructure. In addition, programs such as TechLink – which provides direct support for Montana companies to access new technology, expertise, and research and development funding from the Department of Defense and other federal agencies – and the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center – which connects experienced engineers with manufacturers to apply best practices to streamline processes and increase profitability – symbiotically connect students with local businesses, creating economic solvency and growth on a local and national level. Community MSU’s commitment to community goes far beyond mutually advantageous professional prospects, extending into local infrastructure and programming. Programs and organizations such as the Towne’s Harvest Garden, Community Design Center and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program directly engage students through volunteer opportunities that benefit the Bozeman community. For the past eight years, student-run Towne’s Harvest Garden has collaborated with Gallatin Valley Food Bank to provide locally and sustainably grown produce to residents of the greater Bozeman community who might not otherwise have access to fresh produce. Through the VITA program, accounting students provide free tax preparation services for more than 400 people who make less than $58,000 per year. Often collaborating with business, government and tribal partners, the Community Design Center – based in the School of Arts & Architecture – works with regional non-profits to address community development and architectural needs. The school also offers students integrated design experiences in areas including the built environment of Yellowstone Park, a Sherpa climbing school in Nepal and sustainable housing in the slums in Nairobi. In further efforts to expand

beyond Bozeman, Engineers without Borders, a student-driven and -led organization, engages students from all disciplines in providing clean water and sanitation to Khwisero, Kenya, benefitting over 5,000 primary schoolchildren. New Programs and Innovation With ever-evolving curricula and expansion responsive to progressive national and global advances, MSU is at the forefront of innovative programming and opportunity. Current expansion efforts include Jabs Hall, the Norm Asbjornson Innovation Center, Blackstone LaunchPad (BLP) and the Design Sandbox for Engaged Learning (DSEL). • A $25 million gift from MSU alumnus Jake Jabs will finance the building of Jabs Hall, slated to be completed in spring 2015, as well as student scholarships and new academic programs focused on entrepreneurship, professional skills development and interdisciplinary projects with other departments and colleges at MSU. • Norm Asbjornson, a 1960 mechanical engineering graduate, committed $50 million for MSU’s College of Engineering, which will fund the construction of the Norm Asbjornson Innovation

Center, a groundbreaking laboratory and classroom facility that will enable collaborative, hands-on learning and leadership. • The Blackstone Charitable Foundation’s three-year, two-milliondollar grant established a partnership between MSU, the University of Montana (U of M) and Headwaters Resource Conservation & Development to introduce entrepreneurship as a viable career option and provide students with support to transform new ideas into sustainable companies. “Students and entrepreneurship keep the country going,” states Rob Irizarry, Director of BLP. “MSU provides the education bedrock and BLP is where the rubber meets the road. Our job is to amplify what the school is doing.”Creative thinking and design thinking principles are increasingly desired as problem solving strategies in professional fields. Business, engineering and technologically innovative fields have embraced these iterative, adductive, intuitive (not based solely on logical inference), experimental approaches whose origins lie in the creative disciplines. DSEL, a cross-disciplinary teaching and learning space, provides the opportunity for these conversations to take place. Nestled in the Gallatin Valley, MSU offers a unique balance of academic excellence and outdoor adventure, making it the educational investment of choice for reasons as vast as Montana’s wild terrain. Nationally recognized as one of the top towns for outdoor recreation and quality of life, Bozeman’s accolades are readily sung in publications ranging from Outside Magazine and National Geographic Adventurer to Powder Magazine and Fly Rod and Reel. In addition, downtown Bozeman’s thriving social scene – boasting Montana’s best shopping, restaurants and cultural amenities – attracts visitors and natives alike. Routinely listed by U.S. News and World Report as one of America’s best buys, “MSU is one of the best bangs for your buck (tuition-wise),” remarks Ronda Russell, MSU Director of Admissions. “Combined with a very generous scholarship program based on financial need and merit,” MSU puts priceless educational, social and recreational excellence – and the imminent and incomparable opportunities it affords – within reach. n Photos courtesy of MSU. Kelly Gorham Destination Big Sky 2015 53

Phone: (406) 600-8796 - Email: bille@seengineersmt.com - www.SEengineersMT.com Phone: (406) 600-8796 - Email: bille@seengineersmt.com - www.SEengineersMT.com

Geothermal Geothermal Heat Heat Pump: Pump: 101 101 Here to decide decide if if aa geothermal geothermal heat heat Hereare arefive five things things to to keep keep in in mind mind when when trying trying to pump is right for your home: pump is right for your home: 1.) much like like your your refrigerator refrigerator in in which which heat heat 1.) How How itit works: works: Heat Heat pump pump systems systems operate operate much isis removed transferred to to your your kitchen. kitchen. Similarly, Similarly, removed from from inside inside of of the the refrigerator refrigerator and and transferred geothermal to your your home home during during heating heating geothermal heat heat pumps pumps transfer transfer heat from the ground to and Ground piping piping loops loops are are and from from your your home home to to the the ground during cooling. Ground connected to to the the geothermal geothermal heat pump located within your connected your home. home. This This heat heat pump pump can act act like like aa traditional traditional furnace furnace (water to air heat pump) can pump) or or can can send send both both hot hot and and chilled water water to to radiant radiant floor floor systems systems similar similar to chilled to typical typical boiler boiler systems. systems. 2.) Higher Higher Initial Initial Costs: Costs: Installing Installing geothermal geothermal systems 2.) systems are are substantially substantially more more expensive than than conventional conventional heating heating and and cooling cooling systems. expensive systems. However, However, Federal Federal and and state incentives incentives can can help help offset offset the the initial initial costs state costs and and ultimately ultimately improve improve financial financial paybacks. paybacks. 3.) Geothermal Benefits:

3.) Geothermal Benefits: a. Much lower operating costs than conventional systems. a. Much operatingrequirements costs than conventional systems. systems b. Lowerlower maintenance lower than conventional b. Lower maintenance requirements lower than conventional systems c. Uses clean, renewable energy. c. Uses clean, renewable energy. d. Can be installed in new or retrofit construction. d. installed in new or retrofit construction. e. Can Quietbeoperation. e. Quiet operation. 4.) Geothermal Downside:

4.) Geothermal Downside: a. Systems require professional design and installation in order to ensure optimal efficiency. a. Systems require professional design and installation in order to ensure b. optimal Niche system with higher installation costs. efficiency. c. Niche Installation of with the geothermal well field can be disruptive to surrounding b. system higher installation costs. landscape. of the geothermal well field can be disruptive to surrounding c. Installation landscape.

5.) Type of Geothermal Loop Affects First Cost: The three most common closed loop geothermal systems vary in Affects cost, area required 5.) Type of Geothermal Loop First Cost:and Theefficiency. three most common closed loop a. Horizontal System: Layered, coiled runs of piping placed in trenches. geothermal systems vary in cost, area required and efficiency. Horizontal loops are the least expensive underground option, but require a. Horizontal System: Layered, coiled runs of piping placed in trenches. the most (ground/ site) area to obtain the optimum amount of transfer Horizontal loops are the least expensive underground option, but require area. the most (ground/ site) area system to obtain the optimum amount transfer b. Vertical System: A vertical is used when site space of is limited. area. These are typically dug to approximately 200-foot deep. b. System: A vertical systemutilizes is used site space is limited. c. Vertical Pond/ Lake System: This system thewhen heat within the lake/ pond These are typically dug to approximately 200-foot deep. in lieu of the soil. Often times, if there is a body of water on the site that c. Pond/ Lake System: utilizes heat within the lake/ is equal to or greaterThis thansystem 10 feet deep,the this is the lowest first pond cost in lieu of the soil. Often times, if there is a body of water on the site that option.

is equal to or greater than 10 feet deep, this is the lowest first cost

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54 Destination Big Sky 2015

Sandholm Architects – Three Houses by Jessica Bayramian Byerly

“Inspired clients create inspired architecture,” reflects Jeff Sandholm as he sits with his wife Tiffany and discusses his passion for thoughtful, efficient design and the grounded, laidback lifestyle Montana affords his family. “Each client and site are unique; if you can spend the time to understand the land and the vision of each client, you can create really interesting architecture.” Established in 1999, Sandholm Architects (Sandholm) is comprised of Jeff, Tiffany and Eryn Mikelson, a licensed architect with over ten years of experience. With a portfolio ranging from commercial government buildings to offices and restaurants, multi-family and affordable housing to refined single-family residences, Sandholm provides comprehensive architectural services focused on efficient design, integrated collaboration and long-term sustainability. “Our design process begins by truly listening,” Jeff remarks, “and ends with enduring relationships with satisfied clients.” Decidedly lacking a trademark design, Sandholm’s style is reflective of Jeff’s ideology: each structure is unique to the client’s vision, collaborative process and distinctive qualities of the land.

Sandholm also attends to the resources and environment in each and every project it assumes. “We focus on cost-effective design, efficient constructability and using ordinary materials in creative ways to make architecture attainable for everyone,” Jeff states. “It’s an exciting and rewarding challenge.” Staunchly committed to common sense sustainability, all architectural staff members are Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) accredited and educated in sustainable building technologies to achieve the full potential of every project while mitigating environmental impacts. Designing in Montana while respecting the integrity of the land and desires of the client is a balancing act, one requiring careful consideration, detailed planning and, above all else, attentive listening. It’s a feat Sandholm willingly undertakes, and achieves with apparent effortlessness. “We love what we do, it’s as simple as that,” Jeff says with a smile. Located at 1010 East Main Street, Ste. E in Bozeman, Sandholm Architects can be reached by calling 406.556.0113 or visiting www.sandholmarchitects.com. n

1010 East Main Street, Ste. E Bozeman, MT 406.556.0113 www.sandholmarchitects.com

Destination Big Sky 2015 55

Spanish Peaks Residence

A passion for timber frame construction and the rustic tradition of early Montana homes was the driving force behind this unique home.

56 Destination Big Sky 2015

Bridger Canyon Residence

Photos by JK Lawrence

Combining contemporary influences with traditional western materials give this home its clean lines and distinctive appearance.

Destination Big Sky 2015 57

The Dry Gulch Residence

Helena’s rich history and an abandoned mineshaft on the site played a large part in the inspiration for this house. A client with a lifelong love of Craftsman architecture – and a desire to blend that love with the mining vernacular of the area – helped to create this one-of-a-kind project.

58 Destination Big Sky 2015

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Skyline - Link to the Peak! Big Sky, Montana knows what it means to be a mountain town. Spread from the base of Lone Peak to the Gallatin River that winds below, the town’s vistas summon outdoor enthusiasts from near and far. They come in winter for sparkling peaks ensconced in snow or in summer for lush, green hills. Some come for a visit, forever hoping to return. Others stay, choosing to call this very special place home. Over the years, hundreds of thousands of people have found their way around Big Sky by bus, using what is now known as Skyline. Initially the SnowExpress more than 20 years ago, the fare-free service provides mountain access for those who come to play or stay in Big Sky. “For the longest time, getting to and around the community of Big Sky required a car,” says Skyline Coordinator David Kack. “The bus changed all that.” In 1991, the Big Sky Transportation District and its SnowExpress were created to serve the growing and thriving mountain community. The SnowExpress operated two to four routes within Big Sky during peak season – mid-December through mid-April. It was Big Sky’s first public service, according to Kack.

Since its inception in 2006, Skyline has provided over 1.1 million rides within Big Sky and between Bozeman and Big Sky. If you count the years the bus provided rides as the SnowExpress, the number is much higher. Today, the Big Sky Transportation District is governed by a board of directors chosen by the commissions of both Gallatin and Madison counties – the Big Sky area straddles the border of the two. The district operates on roughly $1.2 million each year, with just over half of the budget provided by Federal Transit Administration funds that are managed by the Montana Department of Transportation. Other contributing groups include the Big Sky Resort Tax Board, Big Sky Resort, Madison County, the Yellowstone Club and Big Sky Owners Association.

Each year, the SnowExpress’ ridership grew. In the winter of 2005-06, SnowExpress gave nearly 50,000 rides. That season would be the last for SnowExpress, but certainly not for the transportation district or the bus service.

Because of the high level of local, state and national support, Skyline continues to provide fare-free service in and around Big Sky. The Link Express service between Big Sky and Bozeman, while not free, is offered at minimal cost to the user – as little as three dollars for round-trip service.

In December 2006, the service expanded, with Skyline buses maintaining service within the town and a new Link Express route connecting Big Sky with nearby Bozeman, a Montana-sized city some 40 miles away. In that first winter, Skyline provided 93,337 rides in Big Sky, and 15,284 rides between Big Sky and Bozeman.

During peak winter service, Skyline operates seven days a week around Big Sky, connecting Big Sky Resort and Moonlight Basin with the Big Sky Town Center, Meadow Village and Gallatin Canyon. Further, seven to eight round-trips per day connect Big Sky and Bozeman.

Skyline provides a needed transportation link to the peak, allowing riders to relax and enjoy the view on their journey. There is no need for driving the challenging winter roads, adding to the congestion or finding parking. 60 Destination Big Sky 2015

More information on routes, schedules and fares can be found at www. skylinebus.com. n

SKYLINE IS PROVIDING MORE TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS The Big Sky Transportation District has been providing quality transportation within Big Sky and between Big Sky and Bozeman since 2006. In addition, Skyline now provides service to West Yellowstone!

FareF with ree Big S in ky

For more information on all of Skylineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s services, please visit:

WWW.SKYLINEBUS.COM Destination Big Sky 2015 61

Gone Greene by samantha Persico

Greene Construction founder Josh Greene stands proudly in what will be the living room of the home he and his crew just finished building. Like a photograph, the living room windows perfectly frame a view of Lone Peak. Soon, the owners of this house will move in and create their own memories. After 15 years of building custom homes in Big Sky, Josh still finds pleasure in all aspects of his career, from meeting with clients to talk about the vision of their home, to bidding jobs and scheduling subcontractors, to putting his construction bags on so he can help his crews build the home. As Josh remarks: Everyday I come to work and I think about the things we want to accomplish with our business.We strive to generate dedicated, engaged crews who have a passion for building like I do.We build to the highest quality possible for our clients.We also streamline the building process, reducing stress and adding simplicity. Our other goal is to create a winning team mentality with our subcontractors and vendors by providing them with conditions where they can succeed and do their best work. In 1998, when the Greenes moved to Big Sky from Hawaii, they had a vision: to create a small construction company that would allow Josh to

62 Destination Big Sky 2015

work with his hands, be outside and put his creativity to use building quality, custom homes in beautiful Big Sky. They started out with one employee and a small Jeep Cherokee, and ran the business from their basement. Today, they have 10 employees and they work out of a 1,200-square-foot office they built from the ground up that overlooks the Meadow Village complex, where gorgeous views are visible from every angle. The Greenes feel they have accomplished many of the original goals they set for themselves and their company, and added new ones as well. They have a long list of satisfied clients singing their praises with phrases like, “they are a well-tuned ballet,” “calm, insightful and honest,” “meticulous attention to detail,” and “excellent communication.”

Greene Construction has kept things interesting by incorporating sustainability and green building practices into their business, as well. Their passion lies in bettering the homes they build by reducing the strain placed on the environment, while also trying to give back. “I care about the environment and the sustainability of being green was just something I naturally gravitated towards,” says Josh. Josh, a true green pioneer, helped to found the first Montana Chapter of the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). He also built the offices he works from today, which earned him a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Award. The Big Sky Health and Fitness Building in the Meadow Village Center was constructed in 2009 before the “going green” craze began and, at the time, was one of only two LEED Certified Gold buildings in all of Montana. The building earned its points for this prestigious recognition through energy efficiency. Greene Construction incorporated practices such as geothermal lake plates that heat the building in the winter; LED light fixtures that turn off automatically, allowing natural light into the building; and windows that open (surprisingly, not a standard feature in most office buildings); low flow toilets; and a heat recovery ventilation system that brings fresh air into the building, replacing the stale air. All of which saves the building a combined 66% on their utility bill.

Greene Construction has also built LEED-certified and Energy Star Homes and the company is, to this day, installing ground source heat pumps in homes to offset energy use and provide the homeowner with a 30% federal tax credit. Many of the practices that Greene Construction started years ago are now common practice, such as using low volatile organic compounds in sealants, paints, adhesives and carpets; installing LED lights; and diverting waste from the landfill through recycling and reusing. After being in business in Big Sky for 15 years, the Greenes have perspective only time can provide. “After weathering the economic boom and then the bust, we’re smarter, calmer and more mature, and I think that definitely carries through in our business,” says Debby. They have beaten the declines of the economy and have made a niche for themselves in a town they’ve seen grow up. So, any wise words? “Be honest, authentic and adaptable. If you do the good work and stay true to your word,” says Josh, “you can do more than just survive the ups and downs.You can thrive.” And, with integrity and a driving dedication to the environment and its inhabitants at the forefront, you can do far more than endure a crumbling economic foundation, you can build right on top of it. n

Destination Big Sky 2015 63

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Robyn Erlenbush CRB Broker Owner Each office independently owned and operated. Destination Big Sky 2015

Raising the Bar: ERA Landmark Real Estate by jessica Bayramian Byerly

With a vast terrain and diverse people as unique as they are colorful, Montana has no rival. Visitors and natives alike enjoy breathless sunsets and jaw-dropping views on a daily basis. And that’s just in the first waking hours. It’s no wonder that people from far and wide want to call this Last Best Place home. For over 30 years, ERA Landmark Real Estate (ERA) has provided unparalleled real estate expertise and tireless commitment, helping clients realize their dreams in Montana one closing at a time. With 60 real estate professionals throughout the Bozeman, Big Sky, Livingston and Ennis offices, ERA has been an inarguable marketplace leader since its inception. As the premier real estate firm for Big Sky, Bozeman, Livingston and Ennis, ERA has a special affinity for southwest Montana. ERA specializes in residential, commercial, land, luxury, ranch and recreational properties, boasting regional marketing expertise, highly educated agents, global networking, market adaptability and unparalleled client satisfaction and retention.

66 Destination Big Sky 2015

ERA Landmark Big Sky associates are full-time real estate professionals who all live in Big Sky year round. Mitch Furr, Broker, has been a Big Sky homeowner since 2001 and has served on the board of the Big Sky Owners Association (BSOA) for 11 years. Maggie Biggerstaff, Broker, is a Montana native who moved to Big Sky in 1981. Maggie actively supports the Cancer Foundation, Big Sky Community Food Bank, Rotary and Library, as well as many local fundraisers and charities for those in need. She finds Big Sky to be the perfect environment to raise her two children, Jerad and Ashley. Kirk Dige, Broker, has lived and worked in Big Sky for 28 years. Kirk is active in Rotary – a big supporter of the Big Sky Community Corp (parks and trails) – and was Charter President

of the Rotary Club of Big Sky in 2004. He is also the current President of Silver Bow HOA and President of Gallatin Building HOA. Tina Barton, Broker, moved to Big Sky in 1990 for six months to be a ski bum – which has lasted 24 years – and has been a realtor and broker for the last 13 years. Dan Delzer, Broker, brings 26 years of real estate experience and a passion for Big Sky to every client. Dan is actively involved in his community and in the National Association of Realtors®. Katie Haley Grimm, Broker, has worked in Big Sky real estate since 1977. She holds an International Collection Certification and a Top Gun Designation through ERA and has also been recognized as part of the ERA National Leadership Team. Her community service extends over the years from business organizations and the Chamber of Commerce to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Gallatin County and Church Boards. Ron Seher, Sales Associate, moved to Big Sky in 1975 and began working in real estate in 2000. Ron offers each of his clients a wealth of knowledge gleaned from his many years as an active member in the real estate marketplace and Big Sky community. Ron Tabazka, Sales Associate, employs his extensive sales and marketing experience to help his clients find their own piece of the Big Sky. Dedicated to giving back to the community he calls home, Ron is a current board officer of the Stillwater Condominium Owner’s Association; a member of the Gallatin, Montana and National Association of Realtors®; and a volunteer Mountain Host at Big Sky Resort. Katie Wood, Big Sky Office Manager, joined ERA in 2012 after moving from Steamboat Springs, Colorado. She loves being a part of the ERA team and tightknit Big Sky community.

Robyn Erlenbush, Broker Owner, is a Montana native and became the owner of ERA Landmark Big Sky in 2000. While she lives in Bozeman, she loves having Big Sky in her “backyard” and enjoys participating in the seasonal events that happen in Meadow Village Center. Highly respected and dynamically engaged, Erlenbush is an integral part of the local and statewide real estate community and an undeniable force at ERA’s helm. Engaged in the community that they serve and love, ERA associates are committed to giving back, enriching the lives and livelihoods of their neighbors. ERA proudly supports 25 non-profits throughout Gallatin County, including Eagle Mount Bozeman, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Gallatin Valley, HRDC, Haven, Family Promise of Gallatin Valley, Special Olympics, Thrive and Wounded Warriors. In addition, ERA hosts the annual Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Agents of Hope Carnival which raises funds to support the Montana MDA Chapter and helps to send Montana kids to MDA Summer Camp. ERA also dedicates a portion of each closing to their Christmas Fund. Raising over $90,000 in the last 27 years, the Fund has supported more than a dozen local charities. Currently, the Fund benefits Thrive, a community-based organization that provides families with the resources necessary to raise healthy, thriving children; several “adopted” families in need who are given donations and support to make their Christmas a bit merrier; and a handful of other worthy organizations whose efforts ERA bolsters during the holiday season. Though it provides consummate expertise and customized care, ERA Landmark Real Estate is more than a company delivering comprehensive real estate services; it is an integral part of this community and a paragon of conscientious civic engagement. ERA proudly serves Bozeman, Gallatin Valley, Big Sky, Livingston, Clyde Park, Park County, Paradise Valley, Ennis, Madison Valley and Madison County. For more information on ERA services, visit www. eralandmark.com. n

Destination Big Sky 2015 67

THE LAST BEST SECRET: Bozeman-Yellowstone International Airport by Corinne Richardson

There is a renaissance taking place in southwest Montana. It’s a well-kept secret amongst those who live and vacation here, and Gallatin Field Airport is at the heart of it. Gallatin Field, recently renamed Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), has undergone a huge transformation—one that has doubled its size, introduced a customs office, and posited it to become the busiest airport in Montana. There is much to admire about the airport: its light and spacious design abounding in historical and regional references. A combination of local materials, wood, metal and fieldstone, paired with expansive mountain views, gives a sense of Big Sky Country’s spaciousness. Canada geese and sandhill cranes suspended in the high vaulted ceiling, an impressive bronze grizzly greeting visitors as they deplane, and a live video of Old Faithful streaming into a deep blue sky all exemplify what Montana is famous for: distinctive natural beauty. Behind the expansion is a man who is passionate about airports. “I love the airline industry, but I have a passion for this airport,” says Brian Sprenger, Airport Director. “I’m a huge supporter of our community, which I define as West Yellowstone to Bozeman.” Sprenger’s love for airports is in his blood. His mother was a flight attendant and his father worked for Frontier Airlines in Denver before taking a position at Gallatin Field as station manager. When he was five, Sprenger saw the first Boeing 747 fly into Denver and he was enthralled for life. Sprenger has almost thirty years of airport experience, twenty-eight at Gallatin Field. In 1983, he got his start at Gallatin Field cleaning airliners and began working for Northwest Airlines in 1985 as a Customer Service Agent. He moved to Kalispell, then Minneapolis where he gained station management experience and managed education programs.

68 Destination Big Sky 2015

In 1999, Sprenger was offered the job of Assistant Airport Director at Gallatin Field. “I feel it’s a privilege to live here in Bozeman. I get both to do the work I love and be where I want to live,” he says. In the thirteen years since his return, Sprenger has lived through a lot of change. He remembers when it was unusual to have more than one airliner on the ground at Gallatin Field, when boarding was via movable steps to the aircraft, and baggage claim were nonexistent. “It was a very intimate, exciting process,” Sprenger says. Now, especially around busy holidays such as President’s day, there are as many as 70 commercial and corporate jets flying in and out of BZN per day. To put that in perspective, when including general aviation, that’s seven to eight planes an hour, or one plane every three minutes. As he speaks, an Airbus A320 fills his office window, pulls up to the gate, and I can’t help but feel the same sense of excitement heard in Sprenger’s voice. We watch the jet’s arrival and the sudden action around it—the field crew directing the plane, carts darting to and from the aircraft, the appearance and disappearance of luggage, the slow whir of the engine shutting down. I stare out, mystified by all the moving parts and turn back to Sprenger, and ask, “How do you operate an airport?” Sprenger laughs in his shy, quiet manner. “We provide the facility, the terminal from which everyone can operate— concessions, garbage handling, inside and outside security, the personnel employees of individual entities.” Over the years, the airport has grown from 30,000 to 430,000 passengers annually and now employs five hundred people.

Sprenger attributes a large part of the airport’s growth to Big Sky. “What Big Sky means to Bozeman is not always evident,” he says. BZN’s current nonstop flights from Atlanta and New York became possible because of Big Sky’s marketing. The initial investment of Chrystler and Northwest Airlines in the Chet Huntley days really launched the airport, and Boyne continued marketing that investment, Sprenger notes. “Big Sky Resort, the Yellowstone Club, Moonlight Basin, and the Club at Spanish Peaks took Gallatin Field from a oneseason business to two,” Sprenger says. However, Sprenger is quick to point out that Bozeman is also crucial to Big Sky. The four pillars that give BZN strength and sustainability are the Bozeman community population base,Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky, and Montana State University. The airport expansion came at a challenging economic time. “In 2008-09 we were deciding whether to do the terminal expansion project. When the bottom fell out we were down some in numbers, but we stayed the course and committed to the design process until we had to make a final decision,” Sprenger says. “It was risky to move forward, but we were seeing indications that traffic wasn’t going to drop and we thought the project would boost the local economy,” he adds. The expansion is already paying off. A video shot at 5 a.m. one recent morning shows every gate occupied by a plane. Sprenger has accomplished a lot during his tenure as Airport Director, an appointment conferred upon him in 2009. In addition to the terminal expansion and new customs office, BZN, in conjunction with the FAA , has over the past fifteen years adopted new procedures that have reduced delays by 90%, added a $1.5 million dollar radar display, a control tower, and additional private air traffic control employees. BZN has also applied to privatize the airport screening process. One significant change was a modification to the airplane approach pattern. Sprenger points at a photo pinned to his bulletin board in which six planes are backed up on the runway, a delay caused by inclement weather but exacerbated by the airport’s approach control design. It practically took an act of congress to implement the change, but Sprenger worked tirelessly with the FAA and Montana Senators to expedite the airport’s departure process and thereby reduce delays.

Because Gallatin Field has grown more quickly than the FAA predicted, the airport has had to become proactive in making improvements and has used their own resources to make upgrades. Sprenger credits his predecessor, Ted Mathis, for having left Gallatin Field in a good financial position that allowed the airport to afford these improvements. As for the new customs service at BZN, introduced in conjunction with the Yellowstone Club and Signature Flight Support in July, Sprenger says, “we’ve not even begun touching on what customs can do for us beyond servicing private jets.” For example, having a customs office at BZN allows hunters to take their weapons overseas, benefits any airline coming in to service Mexico, and offers international airlines the ability to bring in a charter flight to Yellowstone National Park. International cargo can now be cleared at BZN. “It will be interesting to see how customs service develops,” Sprenger says. “The market will determine the growth direction.” One of the highlights in Sprenger’s career in airport management happened on September 11, 2001. While airports across the country were shut down, Gallatin Field remained open. FEMA directors, convening in Big Sky for a conference, were shuttled back to work by military flights from BZN. But Sprenger admits that Airforce One landing at Gallatin Field was among his top memorable experiences, and the photograph in his office is impressive. Sprenger watched Airforce One’s descent from the control tower in a severe thunderstorm. “For me, it satisfied a lifelong dream of seeing a Boeing 747 flying into Bozeman.” As for future airport plans, Sprenger admits that it’s an ever-evolving industry, but on his wish list is expanded service, especially to Texas, and he hopes the airport can keep its competitive edge by remaining the lowest cost airport in Montana on a per-mile basis. “We’ve accomplished a lot in a few years,” Sprenger says, “and now it’s time to make sure the changes are leveraged to the fullest. We need to focus on improving the consistency of good service from the time a passenger parks to the time they board.” In the meantime, you can expect that Sprenger will be posting the next problem to tackle on his bulletin board—and then churning out solutions. n

Destination Big Sky 2015 69

Geyser Whitewater: The Choice of the First Family by laura Bell

Looking for a way to escape the dog days of summer? Take a heartstopping or casual float down the Gallatin River with Geyser Whitewater. A family-owned business for over two decades, Geyser not only offers rafting, but also ziplining in conjunction with Big Sky Resort, mountain bike rentals, an indoor climbing wall and a combination rafting and horseback ride adventure. Families, be sure to buy the Family Adventure Pass, Big Sky's best deal, which allows a family of four unlimited climbing wall, boat and stand up paddle board rentals on Lake Levinsky for a week.

I have a family with young children.Which trips can I take? Geyser’s minimum age for all trips is six years old; however, water levels may further limit participants. Geyser often has a section of river to float even if another section requires a problematic age limit. As a rule, if visiting in June with kids younger than 14, choose the Upper Whitewater or Scenic Float. Visitors in July with children ages six to 10 should probably select the Upper Float, but the Lower may be available. In August, kids six and older can generally participate in all of the trips.

At Geyser’s helm is Eric Becker, a veteran of over a hundred rivers in nearly a dozen different countries. Before moving to Montana, Becker guided on more than 25 western rivers from Colorado to California, Washington and Oregon. It’s obvious he and the crew have a great time with guests, while adhering to the motto, “Safety First.” Geyser is Big Sky's only locally-owned river outfitter. All of the guides are trained in CPR, First Aid and river rescue and adventure seekers are provided with the finest equipment available.

What happens on a typical trip? How are the boats set up? Rafters meet at the Geyser shop 30 minutes before departure. After check-in, staff will distribute gear and rafters can use provided changing facilities to prepare. Rafters will also have time to buy any last minute supplies or a snack before the trip. Participants receive free entertainment by the awesome group of Geyser guides while shuttling to the river. Each rafter is given a paddle and then the trip leader will provide a thorough safety talk, a vital 10 minutes or so of information. Rafters should then be ready to begin the river trip. A typical raft seats six to seven people and a guide, and has hold-on handles for every rafter. Upon approaching some of the rapids, the guide will provide rafters with further instruction on how to navigate.

With glowing endorsements by both the First Family (Michele Obama and daughters took an unforgettable trip with Geyser three summers ago) and the Vice President, an almost unheard of 100% rating on TripAdvisor and thousands of return clientele, it would be understandable if the hard-working crew at Geyser might want to rest on their laurels. But not so, says Becker, “We strive to provide our guests with the most memorable experience and are always seeking new ways to improve.” Most first-time rafters have many questions. The following information from the Geyser website is helpful in planning a trip. What should I wear on the river? Always bring a long-sleeved fleece jacket or wool sweater to wear under a wetsuit while on the river. For every trip, Geyser recommends rafters wear a bathing suit or pair of shorts under wetsuits and booties, which can be rented. A wetsuit and booties typically add significant comfort during the trip. Geyser also provides a nylon rafting jacket to ward off some spray. A post-trip sweatshirt or fleece jacket for comfort after a day on the water is also recommended. Sandals don't offer much protection and tend to fall off easily in a swim, so Geyser recommends booties or tennis shoes. Sunglasses, especially prescription glasses, should have a strap, available at our store, or other retainer that cinches tight. Use sunscreen, but don't apply on your forehead or the backs of your legs as it may run into your eyes or cause you to be slipping all over the boat. I've never been rafting before.Which trips are best for me? All Geyser trips can be enjoyed regardless of experience. During high water, Geyser does impose age limitations on some sections of river and will recommend a trip suitable for your particular party. Rafters must be a minimum of six years old. Geyser is unable to accommodate pregnant women due to safety restrictions. No alcohol or drugs are allowed before or after trips. Geyser lifejackets fit people with a maximum torso of 52".

70 Destination Big Sky 2015

It looks like rain.Will the trip still go? Most rafting trips go, rain or shine. Occasionally, due to circumstances beyond our control, such as high or low water, lightning, etc., Geyser must cancel or postpone a trip. Is rafting dangerous? Rafting is thrilling, exciting, wet, wild and unbelievably fun. However, as with all adventure sports, there is an inherent risk involved. That risk contributes to the excitement and is one of the reasons that people enjoy it so much. Geyser Whitewater is the closest rafting to West Yellowstone and Big Sky, conveniently located on Highway 191, less than one mile south of the Big Sky turnoff. For more information, please call 800-914-9031 or visit www. raftmontana.com. n

Big Sky Summer Adventure

Headquarters

• Daily Whitewater Rafting • Horseback Rides • Zipline Adventures • Climbing Wall • Kayaking • Group Rates

Call Now!

(406) 995-4989 Located in Big Sky. www.raftmontana.com

Destination Big Sky 2015 71

p BUCK RIDGE RANCH, LOT 26A - This 39.875+/- acre estate-sized property is simply exquisite. There are open meadows covered in wild flowers fringed by spruce and pine trees perfect for your homesite and an enchanting year round stream! Horses are permitted. $749,000 MLS 193029

G N I D EN

658 ELK MEADOw TRAIL - Savor the comfortable, classic western-style luxury of this beautiful home located in The Club at Spanish Peaks. Wander through this expansive 11,000+/- sf vacation ski lodge/summer retreat & discover plenty of cozy spaces to host a corporate retreat or large gathering of family & friends. There are 6 bedrooms (2 master suites) and 7.5 baths with all the high-end amenities as expected in a home of this caliber. Spacious elevated decks & outdoor patios help bring the feeling of being outdoors in and allow you to experience the exceptional views. $6,500,000 MLS TBD

G N I ND

153 pATTEE TRL, BOzEMAN - This alluring home in Middle Creek Parklands is a must-see with 5BR/2.5B, open living room/kitchen/dining area, custom rock fireplace, large fenced yard with a gorgeous pergola & firepit. Within walking distance to Monforton School. $414,900 MLS 200283

L O S TBD MILKy wAy, BOzEMAN - This .56+/- acre stunning lot in Galactic Park is a hidden gem! It’s tucked away in mature trees with a babbling stream along the back of the property and a small pond near the entrance with plenty of room to build your dream home & total privacy. $175,000 MLS 200907

TBD FRANK ROAD, BELGRADE59+/- acres with great development potential bordering a “high end” subdivision. Convenient access to Jackrabbit Lane and I-90. There are 50” of seasoned water rights with this unique property. $1,675,000 MLS 201531

MEADOw VILLAGE BLK 5, LOTS 23 & 24 - These 2 unique side-by-side Little Coyote lots have million dollar views because they’re located above the road at the top of the hill. Buy one lot or both and you’ll have over 1/2 an acre with room for a terrific home. $168,900 (each) MLS 188524 & 188525

CASCADE LOT - Enjoy fantastic views of Lone Mountain from this .75 acre lot on White Otter Road. Ski to the White Otter lift to start your ski day & return home via the White Otter Trail. This gently sloping lot faces southwest & overlooks a stream side green belt. $229,000 MLS 181908

L O S

274 MARINA LOOp - Handsome 4 bedroom, 3 bath home with open floor plan on an attractively landscaped lot along the shore of Hebgen Lake. There’s a family room, hot tub, large deck, and extra large garage for all your toys. $925,000 MLS 200262

BIG HORN 25- Fabulous location just 3 doors down from the Poma ski lift. Lovely views of Lone Mountain from the master bedroom enhance this unit which has 3 bedrooms & 3 full baths, plus an indoor heated, attached garage. Priced right to sell, you’ll want to see this unit! $439,500 MLS 176327

BLACK EAGLE #25 - This 3,234+/sq. ft. 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath Black Eagle Lodge with 2 car garage is the largest hillside Black Eagle and can sleep 14 people, has countless features & lavish furnishings negotiable. Next to the Poma lift. $1,295,000 MLS 193740

L O S

1005 LONE MOUNTAIN TRL Wilderness/USFS access, convenience to Big Sky, & views! Two-level, 2BR/2B home nestled in the woods on 8.4 acres near the entry corridor to Big Sky. Great horse property with meticulously kept barn & corrals. $799,000 MLS 199196

Becky & Jer r y Pape - Broker/Ow ners 406-995-4848 (Office next to the Exxon) | 888-830-4883 (Toll free) 406-995-4883 (Anytime) | www.triplecreek.com 72 Destination Big Sky 2015

Destination Big Sky 2015 73

Realizing the American Dream

Prime Mortgage Lending, Inc. Helps Montana Families Find a Home by jessica Bayramian Byerly

Prime Mortgage Lending, Inc. (PMLI) Branch Manager Caroline Roy got her start in the lending industry after purchasing her first home in Livingston, MT in 2006. Roy found herself fascinated by the individualized problem solving process of home ownership, from realizing financial goals to unlocking the front door. Interestingly, in purchasing her first house, Roy discovered her professional home. Initially a Mortgage Broker, Roy worked with many different lenders to seek out avenues for each unique scenario. When the mortgage industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial meltdown crept into the Montana economy, Roy was able to evolve with the market and her customers. Actualizing that evolution, Roy started her branch of PMLI in June of 2011, seizing the opportunity to team up with a small, innovative company that put its customers first. Roy approaches every new loan as a puzzle waiting to be solved, building strong relationships with lenders and customers alike while investing in the Bozeman community. As a Mortgage Banker, Roy is able to provide in-house underwriting and processing, ensuring faster turn times and transparency in the lending process. She also has the ability to work with a variety of investors and shop for the best option for her customers, providing an unparalleled experience in the lending market. Unlike a bank that only has one standardized set of products,

74 Destination Big Sky 2015

PMLI can work with over a dozen different banks and financial institutions while keeping the underwriting in house. The result: better programs, better pricing and a better experience for the customer. Now, home loans for second homes, vacation rentals and investment properties are also well within reach again. Locally, this recovery is best evidenced in places like Big Sky, where the market is stabilizing, visitors are returning and sales are on the rise. Newly licensed in Idaho and a vacation rental owner in Island Park herself, Roy is excited about this recovery, knowledgeable about these markets and incisively capable of coordinating primary or secondary loans in Big Sky, West Yellowstone and Island Park. The mortgage business is filled with misinformation. The lending world has been turned upside down since 2008 and, honestly, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good thing in many ways. Constantly changing guidelines and programs were, and continue to be, a challenge, but they always seem to open doors for customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs. Many of the risky programs that encourage borrowers to get in over their heads no longer exist. The market has eliminated prepayment penalties and loans that prevent a homeowner from selling when they may need to. On the downside, confusion abounds among customers and accurate information, presented in a clear and concise manner, can be difficult to find. Below, Roy answers some

common questions about the mortgage business and lending industry at large. Q: I’d like to buy a house, but I don’t have 20% down. Are there any loan options for someone like me? CR: Absolutely, most borrowers don’t have 20% down these days. We can do FHA loans with 3.5% down. We also have USDA loans that offer 100% financing. With this program, we can lend anywhere that is on the eligible maps with the USDA.You may be thinking that it has to be very rural, but in fact this program includes Belgrade, Big Sky, Livingston, Manhattan, Three Forks and anywhere in Bozeman that is considered out of city limits. Most of Montana qualifies for this great program. In addition to those programs, we also do a lot of VA loans that offer 100% financing. Conventional loans require 5% down on the purchase of a primary residence. Q:When should I talk to a lender? CR: If you’re renting and are curious about what options you may have, anytime is a great time to get prequalified. We don’t charge anything for this service and look at it as an opportunity to help you to start planning ahead to get you into a home. For some people, that is right away. For others, it may take some planning to pay off debts, fix credit errors or save more money. The sooner we can identify your strengths and weaknesses, the sooner we can develop a strategy to help you prepare. Q: How do I find the right lender for me? CR: The market place offers a number of lending options. There are banks, brokers and mortgage bankers. As a mortgage banker, we offer many different programs and are able to shop for the best rates. Ultimately, the right fit is really about finding the right person with whom to work.You want to find a loan officer that cares about your situation and can help you to find the program that best suits your needs. At PMLI, it’s important for us to give each customer our full attention and focus. We also offer flexible hours, unlike many banks, because we know that your job and family come first. Relationships are what drive our business and we strive to build a great foundation with each customer. We want to be here for you now and down the road. Q: I’m interested in helping my son/daughter purchase a home; how can I help? CR: We have several programs to help with this situation. Many times, a recent graduate has a great source of income, but hasn’t had the time to save for a down payment. In this case, we can utilize gift funds to help with the purchase. At other times, a recent change in employment doesn’t show sufficient income and the parents are willing to co-sign to help their child(ren) buy a house. We have a few programs for this situation, as well. Q: Can I buy a vacation or second home without 20% down? CR:Yes, second homes are very common in our area. In most cases, we require 10% down for this type of purchase. If it’s an investment home you are interested in, then we can help with that as well. Most investment programs require as little as 15% for a down payment. Q: I may be underwater on my house. I’ve been told that I will have to wait for the market to recover to consider refinancing. Is this true? CR: Not necessarily. We offer the Home Affordability Refinance Program for Fannie Mae- and Freddie Mac-owned homes. Check to see if you qualify at www.makinghomeaffordable.gov. We also have streamlined FHA, USDA and VA programs that often don’t require an appraisal, income or asset verifications. These programs can help you to get into a better rate regardless of the value of your house. Q: My credit scores are not very good, how long will it take to get them higher? CR: It all depends on why they’re low right now. We can look at your situation and develop a plan to boost your scores. Sometimes by paying down balances, we can see a significant increase in a short amount of time. I’m always happy to take the time to put you on the right track. Q:What kind of documentation will I need to provide to get pre-approved? CR: If you are self-employed, then we will need to see your tax returns from the last two years. If you are a wage earner, then we need your W2s for the last two years and your two most recent paystubs. We look at your credit report and your income to determine your loan eligibility. PMLI is a mortgage lending institution that prides itself in providing superior financial services to Montanans. With a mission to provide high quality mortgage programs at the most competitive mortgage rates in Montana, PMLI’s home loan programs include purchase, refinance, debt consolidation, construction take-out loans and home improvement loans tailored to each unique situation. For more information, contact Caroline at 406.624.6330. Prime Mortgage Lending, Inc. is located at 1351 Stoneridge Dr. Suite C in Bozeman. Caroline Roy NMLS # 271203, Prime Mortgage Lending, Inc. NMLS # 69551, Equal Housing Opportunity Lender. Born and raised in rural Maine, Caroline Roy moved to Bozeman in 2003 after graduating from Middlebury College. She met and married her husband, Jasper, a Bozeman native, soon thereafter. In addition to keeping up with their son Sylvain and Labrador Moxie, Caroline and Jasper recently welcomed a little more delightful insanity into their lives with the birth of their twin sons, Peter and Oscar. An avid gardener with a passion for achieving a great harvest in Bozeman’s challenging growing environment, Caroline has nurtured that same love in Sylvain, a budding horticulturist that uttered “pea, bean and chinni (zuchinni)” nearly before he said “mama.”Which, by Roy’s own admission, was a proud moment. Hunting, skiing and simply enjoying the endless outdoor opportunities Bozeman has to offer, Caroline and her family are proud to be a part of the community and blessed to call Bozeman home. It is that intrinsic joy and real love of this area that inform Roy’s commitment to helping others build their futures here as well. n Destination Big Sky 2015 75

Bozeman’s finest petpet Bozeman’s finest care with care facility facility with a a great caringstaff staff great and and caring

“Pets are members of your family and we treat them like they are members of ours.” 44

MontanaBig Historian 76 Destination Sky 2015

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(CUE)revolutionary treatment for (CUE)aarevolutionary treatment for Unicompartmental Elbow Procedure elbow dysplasia. Gallatin Hospital elbow dysplasia. (CUE)aVeterinary revolutionary treatment for Gallatin Veterinary Hospitalgeneral GHV provides GHV provides complete and elbow dysplasia. Gallatin Veterinary Hospital completeVeterinary general andHospital advanced pet care, advanced pet care, including extended Gallatin GHV provides complete general and including extended and Saturday hours. and Saturday hours. 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• Every pet that undergoes anesthesia has a dedicated anesthetist whose sole job • Every pet that undergoes anesthesia Every pet that undergoes anesthesia ishastoEvery pet that undergoes anesthesia make sure anesthesia runs smoothly • • dedicated anesthetist whose sole job job has aayour dedicated anesthetist whose sole and pet is safe. has a dedicated anesthetist whose sole job • Every pet that undergoes anesthesia is to to make make sure anesthesia runs smoothly is sure anesthesia runs smoothly ishas to make sure anesthesia runs smoothly a dedicated anesthetist whose sole job and your your pet isissafe. and petis safe. • toyour Uniquely designed anesthesia and pet is make suresafe. anesthesia runs smoothly recovery warming • Uniquely designed anesthesiakennels help and your area pet isand safe. 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Kari • Dental care from prophylactic Swenson, DVM has completed further training inDVM advanced extractions and restoratives with Dr. Tony Swenson, has completed further cleanings to advanced care.Woodward Dr. Kari of training advanced extractions and restoratives with Dr. Woodward of Montana Dental, a Board Certified training ininPet advanced extractions and Swenson, DVM hasTony completed further restoratives with Dr. Tony Woodward Montana in Petwith Dental, Board Certified Veterinary Dentist. Dr. Woodward also restoratives Dr. aTony Woodward ofof training advanced extractions and Montana Pet Dental, a Board Certified provides service to Montana at Gallatin Veterinary Dentist. Dr. Woodward also of Montana Pet Dental, aTony Board Certified restoratives with Dr. Woodward Veterinary Dentist. Dr. Woodward also Veterinary Hospital every month. Veterinary Dentist. 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Jen Hill, CCRP and Kali Randall, CVT including Veterinary Hospital every Rehabilitation services with Jen Hill, CCRP and Kalitherapeutic Randall, CVTultrasound, including laser therapy, • • Rehabilitation services with Jen Hill, CCRP and Kali Randall, CVT including laserRehabilitation services with Jen Hill, therapy, therapeutic at-home ultrasound,exercises. e-stim and customized CCRP and Kali Randall, CVT including • laser therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, • e-stim Laparoscopic surgery including and customized at-home exercises. laser therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, CCRP and Kali Randall, CVT including e-stim and customized at-home exercises. minimally invasive spays -ultrasound, the least e-stim and customized at-home exercises. laser therapy, therapeutic • Laparoscopic surgery including • Laparoscopic surgery including painful waycustomized to spay yourat-home pet. exercises. • e-stim Laparoscopic surgery including and minimally invasive spays the least minimally invasive invasive spays - the least minimally spays - -the least • Laparoscopic surgery including painful way to spay your pet. painful way to spay your pet. • Digital Radiography (X-rays) along painful way invasive to spay your minimally spayspet. - the least with digital dental painful way to spayradiography. your pet.alongThis • Digital Radiography (X-rays) Digital Radiography (X-rays) along technology and our level of expertise • • Digital Radiography (X-rays) along with digital dental ThisThis with digital dentalradiography. radiography. allow us to dental better with digital radiography. This • Digital Radiography (X-rays) along technology and our level of expertise technology and ourtreat levelofofexpertise expertise diagnose and then technology and our level with digital dental radiography. This allowloved to better allow betterDigital your ones. allow usustotobetter technology and our level of expertise diagnose andthen then treat diagnosefacilitate and treat images fast, diagnose then treat allow us and to better your loved ones. Digital your loved ones. Digital easyloved consults by Board your ones. Digital diagnose and then treat images facilitate fast, images facilitate Certified specialists. images facilitate fast, your loved ones.fast, Digital easy consults Board easyconsults consults bybyBoard easy by Board images facilitate fast, Certified specialists. • Certified Diagnostic specialists. Certified specialists. easy consults by Board ultrasound, with monthly Certified specialists. • Diagnostic ultrasound, with Diagnostic visits from Dr. Brit Culver • • Diagnostic ultrasound, with monthly monthly visits from Dr. Brit - oneDiagnostic of only twomonthly Board ultrasound, with • visits from Dr. Brit Culver Culver - one ofBrit only two Certified Small Animal visits from Dr. Culver ultrasound, with monthly one of only two Board Board Certified Small Animal Internists practicing in - visits one offrom only twoBrit Board Dr. Culver Certified SmallAnimal Animal Internists practicing in Certified Small -Montana. one of only two Board Internists practicinginin Montana.practicing Internists Certified Small Animal Montana. Montana. Internists practicing in Montana.

• On-site laboratory services for fast results forlaboratory critical care patients and • On-site services for fast On-site laboratory services for fast special pricing from Antech for outside • • On-site laboratory services for fast results for for critical care patients andand results criticalcare careadvanced patients services allowing for testing results for critical patients and • On-site laboratory services for fast special pricing from Antech for for outside special pricing from Antech outside with great pricing. special pricing from Antech for outside results for critical care patients and services allowing for advanced testing services allowing for advanced testing services allowing for advanced testing special pricing from Antech for outside with great great pricing. with pricing. Community Involvement with greatallowing pricing. services for advanced testing In thegreat last year, we have made monetary with pricing. Community Involvement Community Involvement donations (inInvolvement conjunction with our Community the last year, wehave have made monetary Inthe thelast lastyear, year, we made monetary wonderful clients) through projects InIn we have made monetary Community Involvement donations (in conjunction with our donations (in conjunction our such our Holiday Pet with Pictures and donations (in conjunction with our In theaslast year, we have made monetary wonderful clients) through projects the Bozeman Canine Classic K9-9K. wonderful clients) through projects wonderful clients) through projects donations (in conjunction with our In such as our Holiday Petdonated Picturesservices and to addition, have also such Holiday Pet Pictures suchasasour ourwe Holiday Pet Pictures andand wonderful clients) through projects the Bozeman Canine Classic K9-9K. In the following shelters: the Canine Classic K9-9K. such as our Holiday Pet Pictures and theBozeman Bozeman Canine Classic K9-9K. In In to addition, we have also donated services addition, we alsodonated donated services the Bozeman Canine Classic K9-9K. addition, wehave have also services toInto the following shelters: Heart of the Valley (Bozeman) the following shelters: addition, we have also donated services to the following shelters: Stafford Animal Shelter (Livingston) the following shelters: Heart theValley Valley (Bozeman) Lewisofof &the Clark Humane Society (Helena) Heart (Bozeman) Heart of the Valley (Bozeman) Stafford Animal Shelter (Livingston) Chelsea Bailey Butte Stafford Shelter (Livingston) Heart ofAnimal the Valley (Bozeman) Lewis & Clark Humane Society (Helena) Stafford Animal Shelter (Livingston) Siverbow Animal (Butte) Lewis & Clark Humane Society (Helena) Stafford Animal ShelterShelter (Livingston) Chelsea Bailey Butte Lewis & Clark Humane Society (Helena) Albert’s Angel Fund (Butte) Chelsea Lewis &Bailey ClarkButte Humane Society (Helena) Siverbow Animal Shelter (Butte) Chelsea Bailey Butte Bitterroot Humane (Hamilton) Siverbow Animal Shelter (Butte) Chelsea Bailey ButteSociety Albert’s Angel Fund (Butte) Siverbow Animal Shelter (Butte) (Butte) Bassett Rescue of Montana (Missoula) Albert’s Angel Fund (Butte) Siverbow Animal Shelter Bitterroot Humane Society(Hamilton) (Hamilton) Albert’s Angel Angel Fund (Butte) Bitterroot Humane Society Albert’s Fund (Butte) Bassett Rescue of Montana (Missoula) For more information on (Hamilton) our Bassett Rescue of Montana (Missoula) Bitterroot Humane Bitterroot HumaneSociety Society (Hamilton) humanitarian projects, please give Bassett Rescue of Montana (Missoula) Bassett Rescue of Montana (Missoula) For more information onour our us us amore call at 587-4458. on Or visit For information humanitarian projects,please pleasegive give at 1635 Reeves Rd. E., or online at humanitarian projects, For information on our Fora more more information on our humanitarian us call at 587-4458. Or visit us gallatinvethospital.com. ushumanitarian a call atplease 587-4458. visitat us projects, please give projects, give usOr a call 587-4458. Or at 1635 Reeves Rd. E., or online at at 1635 Reeves Rd. E., or online at us a call at 587-4458. Or visit us visit us at 1635 Reeves Rd. E., or online at gallatinvethospital.com. gallatinvethospital.com. at 1635 Reeves Rd. E., or online at gallatinvethospital.com. n gallatinvethospital.com.

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Rustic Design-Interiors Rustic Elegance EleganceRocky RockyMountain Mountain Design-Interiors

simpleHardin Hardinwood woodslab slabdining diningroom room A Asimple table sun, tablesets setsgleaming gleaming in in the morning sun,

its its polished theinherently inherentlyunique unique grain is nicely juxtaposed polishedsurface surfaceaccenting accenting the grain is nicely juxtaposed against thethegrooved, roughlytextured textured natural live-edge the walnut against grooved, roughly natural barkbark live-edge of the of walnut trunk trunk was harvested. It isofthe sort ofelegant rustically fromfrom whichwhich it wasitharvested. It is the sort rustically piece elegant around piece around whichanone designs entire room, maybe even a in house. which one designs entire room,an maybe even a house. Specializing beautiful Specializing in beautiful furnishings from around the world – leatherfurnishings from around the world – leather-wrapped console tables from Peru, wrapped console tables from Peru, solid oak tables from France and solid oak tables from France and antique rugs from Ukraine – Rocky Mountain antique rugs from Ukraine – Rocky Mountain Design-Interiors (RMDI) (RMDI) has the perfect piececharacter to impart personality, character hasDesign-Interiors the perfect piece to impart personality, and understated and understated refinement to any space. refinement to any space. Beautifulwood, wood,butter-soft butter-soft leather, warm textiles and organic accentsaccents adorn Beautiful leather, warm textiles and organic the Bozeman showroom. Just pastJust the past six-foot-tall elk antler chandelier that adorn the Bozeman showroom. the six-foot-tall elk antler chandelier the entrance, showcase over 20and dominatesthat the dominates entrance, vignettes showcasevignettes over 20 different commercial different commercial and residential concepts.modern From rustic to John residential design concepts. From rusticdesign to contemporary, to classic, contemporary, modern to classic, John and Carina Russell and their and Carina Russell and their talented design staff can furnish to suit every palate talented design staff can furnish to suit every palate and preference. and preference. Montana natives working in the field of interior design for over Montana natives working in the field of interior design over 35 years, 35 years, the Russells have the knowledge and experience notfor only to realize a the Russells have the knowledge and experience not only to realize a client’s vision, but improve upon it. client’s vision, but improve upon it. couplestarted started their in in Livingston in 1978 and expanded into into TheThe couple theirbusiness business Livingston in 1978 and expanded Bozeman 1998,adding adding another square feet.feet. Between their two stores, Bozeman inin1998, another9,000 9,000 square Between their two they have of showroom display their stores, theyover have15,000 over square 15,000feet square feet of to showroom toinventory. display their Particularly accomplished in projects throughout Montana, Idaho Montana, and Wyoming, inventory. Particularly accomplished in projects throughout Idaho andisWyoming, resource for furniture, fabrics, RMDI a complete RMDI resourceisfora complete furniture, fabrics, area rugs, fine leathers, area rugs, fine leathers, artwork, coverings, lighting and than just artwork, window coverings, lightingwindow and accessories. But RMDI is more accessories. is more specializing than just ainfurniture store; it’sdesign a showroom a furniture But store;RMDI it's a showroom customized interior as well. specializing in customized interior design as well. As a professional As a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), member American of Interior Designers (ASID), Carina Carina of canthe cater to any andSociety every design preference while providing specialized can cater to any and every design preference while providing specialized expertise with window coverings, custom draperies and fabrics. expertise with window coverings, custom draperies and fabrics.

MontanaBig Historian 78 Destination Sky 2015

When they’ re not not in Montana, John John and Carina travel the country visiting visiting When they’re in Montana, and Carina travel the country different furniture markets, distinctive and with working different furniture markets, findingfinding distinctive artisans artisans and working over with over 500 vendors in the interior design industry. “We’re always 500 vendors in the interior design industry. “We’re always looking for new,looking for new, exciting designs,” remarks Withnetwork such a of massive of exciting designs, ” remarks John. With suchJohn. a massive vendorsnetwork at vendors at their disposal, RMDI is a wellspring of possibility. Alongside their disposal, RMDI is a wellspring of possibility. Alongside their more exotic their more exotictheofferings, they stock the finest American-made offerings, they stock finest American-made furniture and fabrics from furniture and fabrics from Hardin, Henredon, Classic Leather, Bausman and Old Hardin, Henredon, Classic Leather, Bausman and Old Hickory Tannery. Hickory Tannery. With clients throughout Montana and across the country, RMDI RMDI can work With clients throughout Montana and across the country, can work with anyany budget andand need,need, from from a singlea single inexpensive accent piece to a piece house to fulla with budget inexpensive accent of house customfull furnishings, providing unparalleled commitment and personalized of custom furnishings, providing unparalleled commitment care every step of the way. more information about and services,about call and personalized careFor every step of the way. Forproducts more information productsforand 582-9300 for theforBozeman showroom, 582-9300 theservices, Bozemancall showroom, 222-6262 the Livingston location222or 6262 for the Livingston location Located or visit at www.rockymountaindesign.com. visit www.rockymountaindesign.com. 4020 Valley Commons Drive, Located at 4020 Commons Drive, RMDI-Bozeman is open RMDI-Bozeman is Valley open Monday through Friday, from 10AM until 5PM,Monday and through Friday, from 10AM until 5PM, and Saturday, from 12PM to 4PM. Saturday, from 12PM to 4PM. RMDI-Livingston is located at 601 West Park RMDI-Livingston is located 601 West Park Street and open Monday Street and open Monday throughatFriday, from 9AM to 5PM. through Friday, from 9AM to 5PM. n

Rocky Mountain Design-Interiors Carina Russell, ASID Bozeman, MT ~ (406) 582-9300 | Livingston, MT ~ (406) 222-6262

www.rockymountaindesign.com Destination Big Sky 2015 79

Teton Heritage Builders

Handcrafted Homes, Lifelong Relationships 80 Destination Big Sky 2015

The Foxtail project (left) and the Lower Foxtail project (above) are great examples of the multiple styles of homes the Teton Heritage Builders is capable of building. These homes are within 2 lots of each in other in the Yellowstone Club.

Montana’s natural wonders evoke special feelings. Iconic places and lifestyles come to mind, such as Yellowstone National Park, blueribbon fly-fishing streams and cattle ranches, just to name a few. These unforgettable memories play into why people want to build here and what home they see themselves living in. Teton Heritage Builders (THB) strives to invoke these qualities in every home they build in Big Sky. THB was founded in Jackson Hole, Wyoming in 1996 by brothers Peter and Matt Lee. While experiencing major success in that highend resort market and growing rapidly into the 2000s, Peter decided to join the exciting market in Big Sky, MT. In 2004, THB crafted their first custom home in the newly established Club at Spanish Peaks. Shortly thereafter, THB was hired by Spanish Peaks to build the Settlement Cabin project, which first consisted of 13 custom cabins (designed by Hart Howerton Architects out of New York). Another 23 cabins were later added. This opportunity for THB to showcase their abilities and quality led right into more custom homes in the Club. “We hit the ground running when we opened our doors here in Big Sky and showed the community that we are a no-nonsense custom home builder dedicated to magazine quality homes,” says Robert Donaghey, head of Business Development and Client Relations for THB. “As a result of our dedication to quality and craftsmanship, our Montana homes have been published by many high-end custom home magazines.”

Destination Big Sky 2015 81

The Elk Ridge Lodge designed by Centre Sky Architecture (above) in the Club at Spanish Peaks, is a true blend of rustic timber frame with contemporary finish. This home was published in Ralph Kylloe’s most recent book, Rustic Living, and was listed in Timber Home Living’s 2012 “Best Homes of the Year.”

The next logical step for THB was to showcase their skills in the Yellowstone Club (YC). Their first project in the YC was a Locatidesigned custom home that was published in the national western lifestyle magazine Cowboys and Indians. By 2006, THB established themselves as a permanent player in the high-end home market in Big Sky. However, the subsequent bankruptcies of YC, Moonlight Basin and Spanish Peaks slowed the momentum in the Big Sky market. This slow-down was a blessing in disguise, as diversity of style became the name of the game. While THB primarily focused on log or timber structures with a western feel and impeccable finishes, they shifted toward different styles of homes, from pure rustic to the most modern home in Big Sky. This experience became invaluable as the team at THB proved their ability to build any structure that an

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architect could think of. “I like to say to people that we can build any style they want, from the Flintstone’s to the Jetson’s,” jokes Donaghey. With the resurgence of the Yellowstone Club, Spanish Peaks and Moonlight Basin, the sky is the limit. “We are working with five new architects this year, and when you expand your relationships it only adds to future potential,” says Donaghey. “THB weathered the storm and came through it stronger and better prepared for the future. We are looking at projects across Southwest Montana and are prepared to further elevate the standards of home building quality in Big Sky.” THB is poised to build their reputation as the best-of-the-best in the high-end custom home market of southwest Montana. So, if you are ready to build a true heirloom quality home, think of Teton Heritage Builders – a friendly, value- and quality-oriented company that builds what you only dreamed possible. n

Destination Big Sky 2015 83

Shining as Bright as the Big Sky.

NAMED ONE OF AMERICAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 100 BEST HOSPITALS FOR PULMONARY CARE.

5-Star rated in the treatment of heart attack, heart failure, COPD, pneumonia, bowel obstruction, GI bleed, sepsis and total knee replacement in 2015. bozemandeaconess.org/awards :: 406.414.5000 :: 915 Highland Blvd :: Bozeman, Montana 84 Destination Big Sky 2015

Big Sky Medical Center To paraphrase Shakespeare, “If music be the food of life, play on.” Big Sky residents and visitors alike appreciate the cultural offerings and opportunities to play outdoors here, and Bozeman Deaconess Health Services (BDHS) is proud to bring its nationally award-winning medical services to Big Sky to play an expanded role in keeping the community healthy. Big Sky Medical Center is scheduled to open in the fall of 2015, providing acute care access in a 35,000-square-foot facility with 24/7/365 emergency services, helipad for air ambulance service, surgical procedure suite, onsite diagnostic imaging center, laboratory services and integrated pharmacy. The facility is will feature a four-bed inpatient unit for admissions and observation with space to expand to eight beds without additional construction, will bring the high-quality care for which Bozeman Deaconess is known to Big Sky’s front yard. Big Sky Medical Center is a not-for-profit hospital with infrastructure that integrates and enhances healthcare access and services for the community. The 42,868 square foot facility will be licensed as an Acute Care Hospital. Big Sky Medical Center will feature integrated

electronic medical records system with Bozeman Deaconess along with telemedicine and teleradiology linkages to Bozeman Deaconess. Bozeman Deaconess Health Services is the recipient of a number of awards and certifications based the quality, safe care offered. In 2014, Bozeman Deaconess Hospital was named one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals® by Truven Health Analytics™, a leading provider of information to improve the cost and quality of healthcare. Becker’s Hospital Review also named Bozeman Deaconess Hospital one of the nation’s “100 Great Community Hospitals.” The Leapfrog Group, an independent industry watchdog, awarded BDHS an “A” Hospital Safety Score in fall 2014 for the third time. Bozeman Deaconess Hospital was recognized by Healthgrades as one of America’s Best Hospitals for Pulmonary Care. Healthgrades, the leading provider of physician and hospital information for consumers, also presented Bozeman Deaconess with a Healthgrades 2015 Pulmonary Care Excellence Award, and recognized the hospital as a Five-Star recipient in heart attack, heart failure, sepsis, bowel obstruction, GI bleed, COPD, pneumonia and total knee replacement.

Destination Big Sky 2015 85

For six years running, BDHS was re-verified as a Level III Trauma Center by the Committee on Trauma of the American College of Surgeons. This achievement recognizes the trauma centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dedication to providing optimal care for injured patients. Bozeman Deaconess Health Services has been active in the Big Sky community for a number of years. Since 2005, Bozeman Deaconess Pharmacy at Big Sky has offer traditional services such as prescription fulfillment, and added telepharmacy services for advanced patient care, and patient counseling via technology. Bozeman Deaconess Health Services is committed to providing healthcare as an essential community service to southwestern Montana. BDHS provides outreach services to a number of community hospitals, including those in Dillon and Ennis. BDHS offers preventive health services to the community via its mobile health screenings vehicle, HealthCare Connections. The vehicle travels to a number of locations throughout southcentral Montana and provides immunizations and preventative health screenings, along with health and nutrition education, particularly for the uninsured and under-insured.

86 Destination Big Sky 2015

Bozeman Deaconess Health Services is a not-for-profit organization responsible for the operations of Bozeman Deaconess Hospital, Bozeman Deaconess Health Group, Hillcrest Senior Living and Highland Park Medical Campus and is governed by a community board of trustees. As one of the largest employers in Gallatin County (and currently the largest private employer) Bozeman Deaconess Health Services has over 1700 employees. Bozeman Deaconess Health Services offers comprehensive services designed to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the communities in the greater Gallatin Valley. n

Destination Big Sky 2015 87

Ryan Turner Photography Montana adventure photographer Ryan Turner shoots stunning skiing, hiking, and fly-fishing action shots while capturing the landscape, lifestyle and the unexpected along the way. Ryan is an award winning photographer who has been photographing primarily in Montana for over 15 years. His adventures and photography have taken him to additional locations such as Alaska, Hawaii, Florida, Utah, Arizona, California, Washington, Wisconsin, Canada, France, Mexico and many other places in between. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When photographing, I am always trying to find ways that light will ignite the situation. In addition, there is nothing

88 Destination Big Sky 2015

better for me than capturing unique combinations of people and the environment they love. When those two things intertwine, it is the best! I love photographing in Montana because for me there are so many of those opportunities with its endless beauty in land and people.â&#x20AC;? The Ryan Turner Photography Gallery is located in Big Sky, Montana near the junction of Montana Highways 191 and 64 in the Bighorn Center. Come visit us to see amazing photography from the Southwest Montana area including photography from Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky Resort, Moonlight Basin and the Gallatin River. n

The gallery showcases many of Ryan’s brilliant images as Giclees on canvas. These museum-quality archival certified fine art photographic prints will last 100+ years before any noticeable color shift occurs. All of our Giclee prints are signed by the artist. The Gallery pieces also feature custom hand crafted frames made from reclaimed lumber found right here in Montana. Let Ryan’s artistic abilities and imagination create the perfect work of art for your home or office.

1 . Du st i n g Sn ow o n t h e Ga l l a t i n 2 . Lo n e Pe a k 3 . Froze n 1.B Under ison the Starry Night

2. Montana’s Big Sky - Madison Range 3. Frozen Bison

2012/2013 27 Destination Big Sky 2015 89

At Home With Montana Whitewater by shannon McGee and Katie Ransom

Let’s be honest, whitewater is not for everyone. Some people look for a more simple freedom, like that found in a soaring eagle. The guides of Yellowstone ZipLine Tours are a unique bunch, each one a seeker of the silence in a breeze and the wind’s caress. These guides come to us looking for a new perspective, one replete with nature and people from whom they can learn and give back. They might be strong and confident at first glance, but our zipline guides also have a softer side. They share so much and stay so unique and true to themselves. We are picky as employers and choose only those who share the same enthusiasm and wonder for the outdoors. It may be a story about the natives that occupied the land many years ago or just a simple joke, but these people will fill your adventure with the pureness of just being themselves and sharing with you this beautiful place they call the office. These people come from all different backgrounds to douse your fears and apprehensions while igniting your thrill-seeking spark!

Every summer, thousands of crewmembers from spaceship Earth choose to visit America’s first national park,Yellowstone. One could spend weeks in this 3,472-square-foot Eden and still be left unsatisfied, craving to explore more. Three states share this park and couldn’t be more proud. Idaho, Wyoming and Montana maintain a sparkle of America’s past. This sparkle takes us back to the wild frontier where anything was possible and everything was new. Imagine the feeling swept across those who first set eyes on this pristine wilderness. Imagine the dedication it took to withstand those harsh winters without Gore-Tex. They earned their way of life everyday. Having come so far from those early days, we find it easy to romanticize the laidback, yet hardworking, cowboy way of life when, really, there are still those living it. There is still time in today’s hyper-tech world to power-off and throw on a pair of boots, kick your heels and let the horse carry you. Here at Montana Whitewater, we aim to mix the wholesome feeling of the old West with the innovation of the present. The Gallatin and Yellowstone Rivers are as free flowing and pristine as when Lewis and Clark first explored the area, but now you can enjoy them with the modern excitement of top-of-the-line rafts, soaring ziplines, whipping fishing poles and knowledgeable, deep-rooted guides. Shut off those cell phones and join us on a distinctive journey, swirling this unique area’s past and present with thrills, family bonding and irreplaceable memories on the side. What makes rafting in the greater Yellowstone area with Montana Whitewater so unique? It might be our commitment to the highest quality equipment, or our strict adherence to safety precautions. More likely, it’s the guide in the back of every boat. These amazing individuals would rather have water in their shoes than a roof over their head—because why would you need a roof when you’ve got the stars. They’ve chosen a path of adventure and adrenaline. Most of them don’t just pursue whitewater in the summer; they seek it all year round. They’ve come from all corners of the world—Montana, California, Nepal, Costa Rica, New York, Hawaii and more – just to experience our special rivers for an endless summer. When the waters freeze up, they summit their home mountains and enjoy the water that feeds their rafting passion on skis and boards. We, at Montana Whitewater, recognize that it only takes a spark to ignite something huge. Their love of these greater Yellowstone waters is contagious and spreads to everyone around them. Bring your family rafting and it won’t be the last time you do so. 90 Destination Big Sky 2015

It seems that ziplines are popping up all over the U.S. Originating in South American counties that first used lines to whiz tourists from tree to tree in the canopies of the rainforest, ziplines have been around for while. This craze seems to have caught on and cables are being erected in a wide range of terrains.You can now zip through vineyards, islands, cities and even zoos. What makes Yellowstone ZipLine stand out from the crop? We believe the answer lies in our location, our outstanding commitment to training and certification and, of course, our above-average staff. Our two zipline locations are vastly different. While the high-quality equipment and building materials may be the same, the diverse views are both worth experiencing. In the Gallatin Canyon, you’ll see limestone cliffs lining the walls of the narrow, swift moving Gallatin River. Some days the water is so clear you can see each and every rock below as you fly right over them! You also get a unique side of the aerial world with multiple sky bridges and other adventure elements intertwined into the traditional zipline experience. In Gardiner, our Ranch ZipLine Tours are much more remote.You’ll be driven down a dirt road to a fifth-generation Paradise Valley mountain ranch. This course, nestled in the Cinnabar Basin, has our longest and highest lines as well as beautiful views of the Absaroka Mountains. Soar ridge to ridge, while looking carefully 200 feet below into the stream carved ravine lined with huckleberry bushes – you might even get a chance to see a bear! To continue the outline of who you will meet at our operation, we cannot overlook the fly fishing program and our Yellowstone Fish guides. These are people that live, eat and sleep fly fishing … in every way. They are always on-call, by choice, in a wall tent set up on the corner of the property they call home. If a fishing guide has a day off, you will still find him waist deep in the river, casting a line. If you have ever wanted to meet someone that has a passion for something so severe you think it borders on crazy, come meet our fishing guides! This operation, though small, is truly genuine in the goal of teaching people to fish and creating an awareness and appreciation for the art. We love catering to newbies and families, but can take on the experienced as well. The feeling of catching your first fish cannot be described. Come on down and reel in the big one! Reconnecting with nature and family has never been more important than it is today. People so easily lose themselves in their screens and miss out on the most important things in life. We challenge you to take time to experience the world, rather than just sharing it with your online followers. Join the Montana Whitewater family for rafting, ziplining, or other adventures and just let go, if even for a day. Remember the specialness of this historic place and how far we have come. Watch your kids smile at something real and share a moment with the guides that put their whole being into making your day special. Their beards may be big, but so are their hearts! Come enjoy a truly special Yellowstone experience! n

Montana

Whitewater

RAFTING & ZIPLINE TOURS

Just north of Big Sky on Hwy 191

Since 1992

Rafting and ZipLine Tours

• 2 locations convenient to Yellowstone Park’s North and West Entrances • Yellowstone, Gallatin, and Madison Rivers • Half-Day, Full-Day, and Overnight Rafting • Complimentary wetsuits and booties • ZipLine Adventure Tours • Madison River Tubing Rentals and Shuttle • Learn to and Guided Fly Fishing • Packages Available: Rafting, ZipLine, Fishing, and Horseback

Family Fun!

800.799.4465

yellowstonezip.com montanawhitewater.com Destination Big Sky 2015 91

Big-Time Fly Fishing Opportunities Await by Pat Straub

Montana. The word rolls off the tongue with ease, yet lingers like the memory of a great adventure. Fly fishing in Montana is a phrase burned into the psyche of anglers world-wide. In a state defined by open space and visual grandeur, mountain ranges that go-on for miles, and bend-afterbend of clear cold trout-water, the Montana of Big Sky Country is both a destination and a lifestyle—a penultimate experience for the traveling angler; an illustrious introduction for the first-time; and a continuous affirmation of correct decision for the resident.

means less crowds, yet consistent fishing during the warmest part of the day. Anglers in winter must pay careful attention to daytime temps and the wind forecast. If the mercury climbs above 32 and the wind is calm, hit the stream. Expect to find a few midges hatching during the warmest hours and consistent nymphing slightly before and after a hatch. Sleep-in, enjoy a cup of coffee, read the newspaper, then hit the Gallatin near Big Sky for a quick winter fly fishing fix. Weather this time of year can range from calm and mild to blizzard conditions.

The waters and woods of the Big Sky area read like a who’s-who of angling legend. The Gallatin. The Madison. The Yellowstone. The Firehole. The Paradise Valley Spring Creeks. And that is only the water that is within an hours’ drive. Tack-on another sixty miles and the Missouri, Big Hole, Beaverhead, and dozens of smaller streams are a possibility. Big Sky and the immediate area is arguably home to the greatest density of world-class trout water on the planet. Most of the waters are accessible year-round. All are serviced by some of the regions’ best fly shops and outfitters. And if you’re reading this, chances are pretty good you’re smack-dab in the middle of it all. Regardless of the season, armed with the either the right knowledge or guide, or both, a wild Montana trout on a fly is near-by.

Spring Season (April through mid-June) This is the preferred season of many of the area’s world-class fishing guides. As the days get longer in early April, our water temps slowly rise. Spring starts with hatches of Blue Winged Olives, March Browns, and early season stoneflies such as skwala, capnia, and pneumoras. In addition to the prospect of surface feeding-trout, anglers willing to ply the depths with sinking lines and large streamer patters may very well find some truly trophy trout. As April fades into March and daytime temps hit the 60s and 70s the first of the mountain snowpack muddies our local freestones like the Yellowstone and Gallatin. However, arm yourself with accurate reports and clean water is usually nearby. The well-known Mother’s Day Caddis hatch is a gamble as some years run-off has begun, other years the trout gorge themselves in murky yet pre-runoff waters. The Yellowstone is most known for its Mother’s Day caddis hatch, yet the Madison and Gallatin both can experience superb dry fly fishing. A section of the Upper Madison opens in

Winter Season (December through March) Shortly after Thanksgiving interest in fly fishing wanes in Montana. For some that’s ok, for anglers in-the-know, it is a blessing. Winter fly fishing 92 Destination Big Sky 2015

www.GallatinRiverGuides.com

Big Sky Country:

The Big Sky Tri-Fecta:

Gallatin, Madison, and Yellowstone Dave Edwards at Eagle Eye Edwards Photography

The Gallatin The river that literally “runs through it” here in Big Sky. Beginning as a trickle in Yellowstone Park, the Gallatin Runs for nearly a hundred miles…and its best fishing is right here in Big Sky. The water near Big Sky is home to over a combined thousand rainbow, brown, and Westslope cutthroat trout per mile. Toss in native Rocky Mountain whitefish and it is the ideal river for beginning anglers or for wetting a line for a few hours. Oh yeah, Robert Redford and Brad Pitt did film A River Runs Through It on the Gallatin near Big Sky. Opposite: Float-fishing a Montana river is the quintessential experience— big sky overhead, mountains in the background, a bent rod, and happy angler and guide. Above: This rainbow trout smashes a dry fly on the surface.

late May and a die-hard set enjoys stellar fishing for a few weeks before the summertime crowds arrive. As the long days of June come to Montana and locals and tourists alike enjoy the sunshine, the angling season kicks-into high gear. Caddis will continue to dominate a trout’s diet, but it is the salmon fly hatch occurring in mid to late June that unofficially kicks-off the busy summer angling season. Weather is a little more consistent, but in our high mountain environment it is not unlikely to have 60 and sunny one day only to have Winter Storm Warnings the next. Summer Season (mid-June through early September) For these few months, most fishing guides work seven days a week. Fly shops are buzzing with excitement and eager anglers asking “what’s hot?” The famous rivers are clear and see many anglers plying their waters. The smaller creeks and high mountain lakes are fishing well for those willing to engage in some extra effort. Dry fly, nymph, and streamer fishing all produce fish. As the excitement of the salmon fly hatch fades, anglers shift focus to smaller insects—golden stoneflies,Yellow Sally stoneflies, caddis, and later in summer small mayflies and terrestrials. Walk-and-wade fishing is possible on nearly all rivers and streams by early July. Do-It-Yourself anglers will find ample access via National Forest lands, in Yellowstone Park, and via state of Montana access sites. For those anglers desiring to hiring a fishing outfitter, advance reservations are highly suggested as during busy summer season the best Big Sky area fishing guides book-up early. Weather is consistently sunny and warm with temps in the 80s and 90s—plan for sunscreen and sun protection. Summers are beautiful, yet short in our area.You will certainly be enjoying your fishing on a shared resource as our magical mountain summer is no longer a secret. If you want consistent weather, sunny days adrift or astream, this

The Madison—Upper and Lower When the Firehole and Gibbon meet inside Yellowstone Park, the Madison is born. The “Upper” Madison is the water upstream of Ennis Lake. This is the nearest float-fishing river to Big Sky. Home to riffles, boulders, and runs a good guide on the Madison is money well-spent. Home to rainbow, brown, Westslope cutthroat trout, and Rocky Mountain whitefish, the Upper Madison should be on the radar of anyone resident or visitor to Big Sky. The “Lower” Madison, or river below Ennis Lake, is better fished in the spring or fall angling seasons, but is home to some very large brown trout. Walk-wade fishing on the Upper and Lower Madison is easily accessible. The Yellowstone A large, broad river a little over an hours’ drive from Big Sky, the Yellowstone River is lined with cottonwood trees and backed by the towering peaks of the Gallatin, Absaroka, Crazy, and Beartooth mountain ranges. Float-fishing with a guide is truly the best way to experience this river, as it is the longest free-flowing undammed river in the Lower 48. In addition to having rainbow and brown trout and Rocky Mountain whitefish, the river is also home to native Yellowstone cutthroat trout, a species traditionally found only in the Yellowstone River drainage.

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is your season. If you want solitude and don’t mind a little pre-planning with diverse weather in-mind, consider spring or fall. Fall Season (mid-September through November) Rivaling the spring season, many long-time anglers desire fall in Montana. Gone are the tourist crowds and sunny-day anglers. Water temperatures have dropped to more trout-friendly norms. Hatches of Blue Winged Olives return, along with a few remaining grasshoppers. October caddis appear on the Yellowstone, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers. Dry fly anglers will find ample sight-fishing and head-hunting opportunities. Nymph anglers will enjoy easy-pickings. But…the appeal of fall fishing in our area is the tug of a trophy brown trout attacking a well presented streamer or woolly bugger. Weather can range from crisp Autumn days to wintry mixes of freezing rain and blowing snow. Consistent weather during the fall season is an anglers friend—a few days of sunshine and warm or a few days of consistently overcast and cool will result in active trout. Like spring, fall is a time to discover adventurous fly fishing in Big Sky country. n Pat Straub grew-up fishing the Gallatin River. He is the author of five books, including Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Fly Fishing, The Frugal Fly Fisher, and others. He has been a guide and outfitter in Montana for nearly twenty years, and owns and operates Gallatin River Guides in Big Sky. www.GallatinRiverGuides.com

Winter means

powder days, snowflakes on the tongue,

Big Sky Fly Fishers Top Ten List 1. Best River For Beginners: Gallatin River near Big Sky 2. Best River for Experienced Anglers: One of the Paradise Valley Spring Creeks 3. Best Trout: Native Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout 4. Best River for Lifetime Best Brown Trout: Yellowstone River downstream of Livingston 5. Best Salmon Fly Hatch: Upper Madison River 6. Best All-Around Dry Fly: Parachute Adams size 12 7. Best All-Around Nymph: Pat’s Rubberlegs in coffee/black in size 12 8. Best All-Around Streamer: White Zonker size 4 9. Best Ten Days for Dry Fly Fishing: June 20 through June 30 10. Best Ten Days for Streamer Fishing: April 25 to April 30 and October 5 through October 10.

DISCOUNTED PRICES ON GUIDED TRIPS Learn to fly fish or rest your ski legs Two-hour, half-day, full-day walk-wade and float trips WE GOT THE GEAR YOU WANT: Simms G4 Pro Wader and Coldweather shirt Winston’s new BIIIsx and GVX Select Sage’s NEW Circa and popular ONE INSANE PRICE MARKDOWNS ON THE GEAR YOU NEED: Simms waders, boots and clothing; Patagonia goods; Sage and Winston rods; Sage reels and more

Discounted prices on guided trips Learn to fly fish or rest your ski legs with a day a-stream or a-float We got the gear you want: Simms new G4 Pro Waders and new Coldweather shirts and pants; Winston’s BIIIx; Sage’s new ONE

...and fly fishing for trout!?!?!

Discounted prices on the gear you need: discounted Simms, Winston, and more THOMAS LEE PHOTOGRAPHY

94 Destination Big Sky 2015

Fine Purveyors of WINTER Fly Fishing Awesome-ness.

GEAR. GUIDES. HONEST INFO. Serving Big Sky, Yellowstone Park, and Southwest Montana

montanaflyfishing.com • 406-995-2290 Pat Straub; Montana licensed outﬁtter #7878

Lone Mountain Sports Lone Mountain Sports, established in 1974. Original. Local. An institution. Simply put, a full-service ski shop like no other. After nearly forty years in business, Lone Mountain Sports (LMS) is the most established ski shop in Big Sky. For many skiers from Montana, around the country, and throughout the world, LMS is simply ‘the ski shop’! Having been with LMS throughout more than half its life, owners Scott and Carey Foster have helped to grow a family business with a family atmosphere that treat its clients and employees like just that - family. Year after year you’ll see the same faces at LMS on both sides of the counter; always with a welcoming attitude towards new faces. The LMS family consists of dedicated, long time skiers committed to a love of the sport who encourage others to love and enjoy it as much as they do. With the average tenure of an LMS employee being about 12 years (some have over 30!!), it’s nearly impossible to find a staff more loyal or with more collective experience. Because of this experience and familiarity, the LMS family has cultivated a fun, relaxed environment. While this environment is unique, nearly as important is the deep well of knowledge with regards to skiing and ski equipment. Through years of experience in the ski industry and a deep love of skiing in general, LMS is uniquely qualified to help equip skiers of all ability levels in their quest to progress and enjoy their time on the slopes. At LMS, it’s not about what’s right, it’s about what’s right for you. Our goal is your progression and enjoyment. From the top down, the family at LMS is continually striving to expand its knowledge to achieve these goals. LMS has been and will always be committed to developing boot fitting techniques, researching and stocking the latest in clothing styles and advancements, offering a slope side demo ski program, continually improving the rental fleet, and having state of the art tuning equipment. The LMS commitment to progression is strong, and we enjoying doing it. Lone Mountain Sports’ slope-side shop is perfectly located to conveniently provide for all skiers’ needs. This begins with ski boots. There is one certainty in all skiers’ lives - the need for a pair of boots fitted and suited to their requirements. The boot fitters at LMS are committed skiers who understand this to their core. They have spent the time to attend Master boot fitting schools, but, more importantly, have years of practice perfecting the art and science of making ski boots fit and work optimally. They are experts at helping skiers choose the right pair of new boots and making the necessary adjustments to ensure a custom fit. Being a true ski-in ski-out shop helps with the real

time feedback necessary to achieve this. It also helps tremendously in the selection of a new pair of skis! The demo ski program at LMS is designed to help skiers find just the right ski. With a little guidance from the retail team, skiers can test out skis, allowing for a more comfortable, personal decision about which ski fits their style so they can enjoy and progress. This is only possible because LMS is only a few turns away. Likewise, when it comes to style and enjoyment, LMS has always been committed to carrying great clothing styles and brands that offer the best technological advancements; keeping skiers looking good and feeling comfortable on the slopes. Having the right clothing is important to skiers’ enjoyment, as is having the right accessories. The retail team skis daily and knows that properly fitted clothing, gloves, goggles, and helmets can go a long way towards a pleasant day skiing. They are experts at what works and why, from long underwear to outerwear, top to bottom, and can help recommend the clothing and accessories to help you enjoy the mountains more. Lone Mountain Sports is not only a retail ski shop. The rental department at LMS has such a wide variety of top-of-the-line skis available that it’s hard to match. Adding in personal service and slope side convenience makes the rental shop at LMS unbeatable. Now carrying Burton snowboards and boots, LMS has once again stepped up their commitment to having the highest quality gear in their rental fleet. LMS has also recently raised the bar in their repair shop with the purchase of state-of-the art Wintersteiger tuning equipment. For those who appreciate a well-tuned pair of skis or snowboard, racers, skiers, and boarders from around the region know that LMS has the state of the art tuning machines and a tuning team with decades of experience. This combination creates an unparalleled ability to provide the highest quality tune available at a reasonable cost. So whether you need a simple hot wax, full ski make-over, a great set of rentals, new skis, new ski clothes, new custom fit boots or all of the above, there really is only one shop in Big Sky that has it all...Lone Mountain Sports! n

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Big Skyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Oldest and Most Experienced Full-Service Ski Shop Great Rental and Demo Programs Professional Overnight Tuning Expert Boot Fitters Knowledgeable & Friendly Sales Team Ski & Snowboard Equipment including: Burton

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Outdoor Research

Located in the Arrowhead Mall, Mountain Village Just steps from the Ski Lifts at Big Sky Resort

Open Daily 8:00 am to 6:00 pm | (406) 995-4471 | LOneMOuntAinSpORtS.cOM 96 Destination Big Sky 2015

Meadow Village Center The Meadow Village Center, located just east of the Big Sky Chapel and Big Sky golf course, has served as the commercial center of Big Sky since its inception in 1970. Even then, the Meadow Village Center was the center of community life. It had Big Sky’s first grocery store and gathering place, the post office, a liquor store, a hairdresser, restaurants, the community library, the Big Sky Owners Association and other businesses critical to life in the community.

Today, 40 years later, the Meadow Village Center has grown into 13 buildings housing over 50 unique and diverse businesses and shops offering something for everyone. The shopping is great, whether you need groceries, a piece of art, the perfect birthday present or that special piece of furniture for the new house. You can bank, find a builder, buy a home, furnish it, insure it, pay for it, get fit, get well, treat yourself to a massage or a microbrew, get your mail or send it, have your hair done, grab some dinner and rent ski equipment all at the Big Sky Meadow Village Center! n

OVER BUSINESSES C • E • N •T• E • R

COME VISIT US!! BIGSKYMEADOWVILLAGECENTER.COM

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Big Sky’S FuLL SerViCe grOCery StOre

Hand-cut meats • Fresh baked goods • gourmet items • Beer & wine

Buy L O C a L Eat F r e S H Delivery available – have your home stocked upon your arrival! 406-995-4636 Winter & Summer Hours: 7 days a week 6:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Off-Season Hours: 7 days a week 6:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Located in the Meadow Village Center next to Lone Peak Brewery

406-995-3372 www.blacktieskis.com

Same Price, No Lines and FREE DELIVERY. 98 Destination Big Sky 2015

Live With The Things You Love Big Sky Welcomes Horse of Different Color’s New Proprietor In 2003, Big Sky became home to Horse of a Different Color, a gift, home décor and accessories store with high hopes. During the last decade, the store has flourished through Big Sky’s unpredictable market to become a favorite around town. In spite of the economic decline not long after its start, the shop has thrived over the last ten years, truly becoming part of the community. Previous owner Peggy Ring is responsible for nurturing the store through good times and bad and making Horse of a Different Color a permanent home in Big Sky.

Jodee earned her degree in interior design at Philadelphia University (formerly Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science) in 1988 and she’s poised to take things forward as Big Sky continues to grow. She has a great eye for keeping the products current and relevant to the Big Sky customer. “Big Sky is growing—tastes and styles are changing here—and I see major growth on the horizon for our entire community,” Jodee says. As an interior designer, she offers home design consultations and services through the shop as well.

In the spring of 2013, Peggy was ready to hand over the reins of her creation, and she knew the type of businesswoman for whom she was looking. When Jodee March walked through the door to interview for a part-time position, Peggy immediately sensed she had what it took to run a successful home décor and accessories business. Peggy spent the year teaching Jodee all about the business and, this past April, Jodee took ownership of the store. The transition was flawless. “When the opportunity presented itself for me to purchase Horse of a Different Color, I was so excited,” Jodee says, “not only about the present success of the store, but also for the future.”

“I’m so thrilled Jodee came along to take over; she loves the store as much as I do,” says Peggy. “I wanted someone who could take it to the next level while carrying on with the things that people have come to love about the store. All of our customers tell us how much they enjoy shopping here. I cannot even count the number of times I have heard customers say, ‘This is my favorite store!’”

4.80”

So, next time you’re in Big Sky, stop in, see all the new merchandise and say “hi” to Jodee. Whether you’re a long-time local or just passing though, 7.75” she can’t wait to help you pick out the perfect gift or item for your home. n

Meadow Village, Big Sky Destination Big Sky 2015 99

Your Plastic Surgery Checklist by william R. Mealer, MD

The popularity of plastic surgery is soaring – and more and more doctors are trying to meet the demand. Any licensed physician can call himself or herself a “cosmetic” or even plastic surgeon, so the importance finding a properly trained and certified provider is paramount. We have prepared this checklist to help guide you through your plastic surgery procedure – from choosing a plastic surgeon to managing your recovery. CHECK OFF EACH ITEM TO PREPARE FOR YOUR PROCEDURE: 1. Researching YOUR PROCEDURE. From skin treatments to surgery, plastic surgeons provide a wide array of procedures. Research will help you narrow down the best options for meeting your goals.  Visit www.plasticsurgery.org for full descriptions of plastic surgery procedures and the results you can expect from each.  Consider other online resources such as BeautyforLife.com and the Partnership for Patient Safety at www.p4ps.org. If you are interested in breast implants, also consider breastimplantsafety.org. 2. Choosing your plastic surgeon. There are many ways to find a surgeon, including seeking recommendations from your primary care physician, friends and family. But when you’re ready to make a choice, be sure your plastic surgeon meets the highest standards of education, experience and ethics.  Ask friends, family and doctors for referrals.  Compile a list of plastic surgeons.  Make sure each candidate has at least six years of surgical training and experience, with a minimum of three years specifically in plastic surgery*.  Make sure each candidate is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.  If you are considering a surgical procedure, make sure your surgeon has operating privileges at an accredited medical facility*.  Ask your candidate about their most recent continuing medical education. * When you choose an AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PLASTIC SURGEONS member surgeon, you can rest assured that your doctor has all of these qualifications, which are the conditions of membership. 3. Consulting with your plastic surgeon. Well before your procedure, you’ll meet with your plastic surgeon for a consultation to discuss your goals and

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determine the best plan to achieve your desired results. The consultation is your opportunity to ask your surgeon tough questions. You should feel confident asking about your doctor’s credentials, experience, outcomes and safety record in the type of procedure that interests you.  Confirm that you are a good candidate for your chosen procedure.  Identify any alternative procedures for achieving your desired results and understand the pros and cons of each.  Review before and after photos that illustrate the procedure and results that you can reasonably expect.  Determine what will be expected of you to achieve the best results.  Discuss the risks associated with your procedure and how your doctor handles them.  Tell your plastic surgeon about medical conditions, allergies and previous medical treatments. On the day of the consultation, it’s helpful to bring a list of your medical conditions and any medications, vitamins or herbal supplements you are taking.  Find out who will perform your procedure and where.  Determine the length of the recovery period and the kind of recovery help you will need. Plan for the appropriate level of support you will needs from family and friends – such as a ride from the facility, help with changing dressings or assistance in bathing.  Share old pictures of yourself with your surgeon to show how your appearance has changed.  Discuss the cost of the procedure. 4. Planning for your surgery. Safe and successful plastic surgery depends not only on your doctor, it’s your responsibility, too. These steps will help make sure you’re ready for plastic surgery – both before and after your procedure. before  Be sure you are physically healthy, eating right and not smoking.  Establish realistic expectations for the results of your procedure.  Read, understand and sign informed consent documents for your procedure.  Understand the procedure’s after-effects and recovery time.  Have your plastic surgeon thoroughly address all of your questions about your recovery. AFTER  Each procedure requires a specific post-operative protocol. Follow your doctor’s orders for a safe recovery. n

Enhance your Natural Beauty William R.Mealer, M.D. Bozeman Deaconess Hospitals ONLY Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon.

406-585-2700 www.swmontanaplasticsurgery.com www.montanabreast.com Nose Surgery • Laser Therapies • Facelifts • Eye Lid Repair Tummy Tuck • Liposuction • Breast Augmentation • Breast Lift • Botox® Injections Juvederm® Injections • Laser Vein Therapy • Facial Peels Destination Big Sky 2015 101

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Welcome to Yellowstone! Welcome Yellowstone! Welcome to Yellowstone! Tourismto and America’s First National Park A New Exhibition opensAmerica’s atFirst the Museum the Rockies in September, 2013 Tourism and America’s NationalofFirst Park Tourism and National Park

by Michael Fox A New Exhibition opens at the Museum of the Rockies in September, 2013

By Michael Fox

by Michael Fox

On a beautiful spring day in 1903, President Theodore

and America’s First National Park explores the rich history of people fromthe theregion. earliestThe concepts of aisplayground for and the American livingexperience in and visiting exhibition chronological traces people envisioned by explorers, politicians, local entrepreneurs theand development of a tourist experience from the earliest concepts of aand railroad America’s First National Park explores the rich history of people executives. The natural wonders of the park serve as the backdrop to this playground for the American people envisioned by explorers, politicians, living in and visiting the region. The exhibition is chronological and traces which begins long before Euro-Americans first saw them. local entrepreneurs, railroad executives. The the natural wonders of of a thestory, development ofand a tourist experience from earliest concepts theplayground park serve for as the backdrop to this story, which begins long before the American people envisioned by explorers, politicians, American Indians were familiar Euro-Americans with Yellowstone first for centuries saw them.before local entrepreneurs, and railroad executives. The natural wonders of these newcomers happened upon the American region. Groups like the Shoshone, Indians were long familiar withBannock, the park serve as the backdrop to this story, which begins before Crow, Blackfeet, Nez Perce, Salish and Kootenai were regular visitors, as Yellowstone for centuries before Euro-Americans first saw them. were peoples who traveled long these newcomers happened upon thedistances American Indians were familiar with to hunt, explore andShoshone, marvel at the region. Groups like the Yellowstone for centuries before thermalCrow, features. In fact, thePerce, National Bannock, Blackfeet, Nez these newcomers happened upon the Parkand Service records more than 20 Salish, Kootenai werethat regular region. Groups liketribes the Shoshone, American creation visitors, as wereIndian peoples whohave traveled Bannock, Crow,orBlackfeet, Nez Perce, stories language longmyths, distances to hunt, explore,components and Salish, and Kootenai werethe regular based marvel at on thefeatures thermalwithin features. Inborders fact, visitors, as were peoples who traveled what is Park now Yellowstone National theofNational Service records distances to hunt, explore, Park. While a few hardy nativesand lived thatlong more than twenty American marvel at the thermal features. year-round in the high elevations of the Indian tribes have creation myths, In fact, the National Park Service records Yellowstone, most people—then as well stories, or language components that more than twenty American as now—visited the area in the spring, based on features within the borders Indian have creation myths, summer andYellowstone fall, when the daunting of what is tribes now National stories, or alanguage components snowpack receded. Park. While few hardy natives lived based oninfeatures the borders year-round the highwithin elevations of of what is now Yellowstone National history ofmost American Indians in theThe Yellowstone, people—then His “benefit and enjoyment Park. fewinterpretation hardy natives lived the park andathe by President Ulysses Grant, of thatthe as well asWhile now—visited the area in of people” reference from in theand high their relationship with itwhen over time While Roosevelt wasincame not the firstthe created the park 1872, when theyear-round spring, summer, fallelevations theof are fascinating and somewhat controversial. president to visit Yellowstone, the text of the congressional act, signed the Yellowstone, most people—then Roosevelt himself was just thirteen daunting snowpack receded. there cornerstone-laying ceremony forthat the by President Grant, asInterestingly, wellhistory as now—visited thewas areanever in years old. Ulysses The ofwhile American Indians anyrelationship question that peoples archcreated that bears his in Gardiner theWhile parkname in 1872, when the spring, summer, whenhad the Roosevelt was not the first president to visit Yellowstone, in the park and the interpretation of their withnative itand overfall time visited and harvested the resources of was Roosevelt an important and historic event. himself was just thirteen daunting snowpack receded. the cornerstone-laying ceremony for the arch that bears his name in are fascinating and somewhat controversial. Interestingly, while there the region for generations, later park It ushered in a new era of tourism to years old. was an important and historic event. It ushered in a new era of Thevisited historyand of American Gardiner was never any question that native peoples had harvested Indians interpreters, from superintendents to later tourism shielded Yellowstone National Park because highlighted the arrival the railroad While Roosevelt wasitnot thebecause first president to of visit Yellowstone, the park and theregion interpretation of their relationship with itactively over tourism to Yellowstone National Park it highlighted the arrival of theinresources of the for generations, parkpromoters, interpreters fromtime knowledge from thepromoters traveling public. As Yellowstone was there transformed at the to atwhat was already onewas of the the mostone important tourist railroad the border to what already ofbears the most important superintendents to actively shielded this knowledge theborder cornerstone-laying ceremony for arch that his name in arethis fascinating andtourism somewhat controversial. Interestingly, while from wilderness to a As tourist destination thevisited mid-19th century, the story destinations inwas North America. tourist destinations in Northand America. the traveling public. wasintransformed from a Gardiner an important historic event. It ushered in a new era of from was never any question thatYellowstone native peoples had and harvested of American Indians in the park fell victim to the realities (and fantasies) SeptemberNational 2013, thePark Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman to a tourist destination in the mid-nineteenth century, the from story of tourism toInYellowstone because it highlighted the arrival of wilderness the resources of the region for generations, later park interpreters current events inin thethe American While national was founded In September 2013, Museum of the Rockies Bozeman opened its of opens its groundbreaking exhibition theinone history andmost adventure ofsuperintendents American Indians park fell West. victimactively to the the realities (and fantasies) the railroad at thethe border to what wasabout already of the important to tourism promoters shielded thispark knowledge in 1872, the Sioux wars of the 1860s and 1870s, followed by the groundbreaking exhibition about the history and adventure of visiting visiting Yellowstone National Park. Welcome to Yellowstone! Tourism of current events in the American West. While the national park was tourist destinations in North America. from the traveling public. As Yellowstone was transformed from a Nez Perce War of 1877, worried park-boosters potential visitors would afraid Yellowstone National Park. Welcome to Yellowstone! Tourism and America’s In September 2013, the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman wilderness to a tourist destination in thethat mid-nineteenth century, thebestory to travel through the now formally seized Indian lands. To allay these fears, Firstopens National Park explores the rich history of people living in, and visiting, its groundbreaking exhibition about the history and adventure of of American Indians in the park fell victim to the realities (and fantasies) luminaries from Park Superintendent Philetus Norris to General the region. The chronological exhibition traces the development of a tourist visiting Yellowstone National Park. Welcome to Yellowstone! Tourism of western current events in the American West. While the national park was On aRoosevelt beautifullaid spring in 1903,ofPresident Theodore Roosevelt laid the day cornerstone a triumphal—if somewhat rustic—arch the cornerstone of a triumphal—if somewhat rustic—arch at the north at the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park in the fledgling town On a beautiful spring day in 1903, President Theodore entrance to Yellowstone National Park, in the fledgling town of Gardiner, of Gardiner, Montana. “This Park was created, and is now administered Roosevelt laid the cornerstone of a triumphal—if somewhat rustic—arch Montana. “This Park created, and now administered forfledgling the benefit forthe thenorth benefit andwas enjoyment of theispeople, ” Roosevelt in histown at entrance to Yellowstone National Park in declared the and speech enjoyment ofassembled the people,” Roosevelt declared in his speech tophrase the to the crowd of nearly 4,000 spectators. His of Gardiner, Montana. “This Park was created, and is now administered assembled of and nearly 4,000 spectators. His phrase, “For the Benefit “Forthe thecrowd Benefit Enjoyment for benefit and enjoyment ofofthe people, ” Roosevelt declared in his and the Enjoyment of the People,” was later chiseled into the stone tablet People” was later chiseled into speech to the assembled crowd of nearly 4,000 spectators. His phrase across upper section ofthe theupper arch, which was finally completed in 1905. thethe stone tablet across “For the Benefit and Enjoyment of For many this quote sectionvisitors, of the arch, which reflects was the People” was later chiseled into Roosevelt’s feelings about Yellowstone finally completed in 1905. For many the stone tablet across the upper and America’s national parks in general.s visitors, this quote reflects Roosevelt’ section of the arch, which was These words, however, were not feelings about Yellowstone and finallyTheodore completedRoosevelt’s, in 1905. Forwho many originally America’s national parks in general. visitors, this quote reflects Roosevelt’ s is sometimes mistakenly the These words, however,seen wereas not feelings about Yellowstone and founder of America’s first nationalspark. originally Theodore Roosevelt’ , who America’ s national parks in general. In fact, the reference came from the is sometimes mistakenly seen as the however, not by textThese of thewords, congressional actwere –national signed founder of America’ s first originally Theodore Roosevelt’ s, who President Ulysses Grant – addressed that created park. As the president isthesometimes seenthe as the the park in 1872, when24, Roosevelt crowd on mistakenly April 1903, founder of America’ s first national himself just welcoming 13 years old. As theto parkwas he was visitors park. As thethirty-one president addressed president addressed the crowd on April was already years old. onand April 24, 1903, the 24, the 1903, the park toenjoyment which he of was Hiscrowd “benefit the park he visitors was welcoming visitors to welcoming was already 31 people” reference came from theyears was already thirty-one years old. old.text of the congressional act, signed

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founded in 1872, the Sioux wars of the 1860s and 1870s, followed by Philip articles in nationally circulated the Sheridan Nez Percepublished War of 1877 worried park-boosters thatnewspapers potential visitors reassuring would-be adventurers thatnow American terrified would betheafraid to travel through the formallyIndians seizedwere Indian lands. of Yellowstone’s thermal and made afrom strictPark point of avoiding the “bad To allay these fears, features western luminaries Superintendent medicine” theyto indicated. would still be telling Philetusthat Norris General Park Philipinterpreters Sheridan published articles in visitors thisnationally wholly fictitious talenewspapers, 100 years later. circulated reassuring the would-be adventurers that American Indians were terrified of Yellowstone’s thermal features and Themade storyaof American in Yellowstone National one of fivePark strict point ofIndians avoiding the “bad medicine” thatPark theyis indicated. primary themes that run throughout Welcome to Yellowstone! interpreters would still be telling visitors this wholly fictitiousTourism tale 100in America’s First National Park. From the moment the park was designated as years later. open to all visitors, the of challenge of actually getting to Yellowstone The story American Indians in Yellowstone Nationalbecame Park is a concern for those seeking to promote the region. The importance of one of five primary themes that run throughout Welcome to Yellowstone! transportation and making theNational park’s features accessible to visitors Tourism in America’ s First Park. From the moment theconstitutes park another exhibition as theme. played individual entrepreneurs was designated open The to allrole visitors, thebychallenge of actually gettingin the national park, whobecame offeredavisitor services from lunchtocounters elaborate to Yellowstone concern for those seeking promotetothe hotel accommodations, was critical to this effort. region. The importance of transportation and making the park’s features accessible to visitors constitutes another exhibition theme. The role played In 2009, Eleanorentrepreneurs Povah of Westin Yellowstone, thevisitor Museum by individual the nationalMT, parkpresented who offered of the Rockies with the single largest donation it has ever received. Mrs. services from lunch counters to elaborate hotel accommodations was Povah and her late husband Trevor operated the famous Hamilton Stores in critical to this effort. Yellowstone National Park after taking the business over from her father, In 2009, Eleanor Povah of West Yellowstone, MT, presented Charles A. Hamilton, 1948. Together, they amassed a magnificent the Museum of theinRockies with the single largest donation it has collection of American Indian artifacts that had been displayed or offered ever received. Mrs. Povah and her late husband Trevor operated the for salefamous in the Hamilton Stores. Hamilton Stores in Yellowstone National Park after taking the business over from her father Charles A. Hamilton in 1948. Together These along with a spectacular array of Hamilton Stores signage, theyitems, amassed a magnificent collection of American Indian artifacts documentation, architectural elements, and even vehicles, became the that had been displayed or offered for sale in the Hamilton Stores. Hamilton-Povah Yellowstone Collection, which the museum gratefully These items, along with a spectacular array of Hamilton Stores signage, documentation, architectural elements, and even vehicles, became the Hamilton-Povah Yellowstone Collection, which the museum gratefully accepted. This acquisition became the inspiration for Welcome to 104Yellowstone! Destination Big Skyin 2015 Tourism America’s First National Park.

While the Yellowstone region evokes much of the physical accepted. acquisition became inspiration for Welcome to wonder that This enchanted visitors in the the mid-nineteenth century, the ways Yellowstone! in America’s First National Park. in which visitorsTourism experience the park has changed dramatically over the years. The exhibition transports visitors back to the time before anyone While thewhat Yellowstone region much oftothe wonder that really knew a national park evokes was supposed be. physical In the early 1870s, visitors thelargely mid-19th century, the ways in whichIndians, visitors theenchanted Yellowstone regioninwas unknown except to American experience the park has changed dramatically the years. The exhibition a few fur trappers, prospectors, and members of aover few government survey transports visitors back to the time before anyone really knew what a national parties. park was supposed to be. In the early 1870s, the Yellowstone These early survey groups included interested locals, region was largelyofficers, unknown to American a few fur trappers, military andexcept later members of theIndians, scientific community. In prospectors andFerdinand members of few government survey parties. 1871, V. aHayden, geologist-in-charge of the United States Geological and Geographical Survey of the Territories, led a survey that Thesescientists early survey locals, area military officers, and, brought fromgroups many included fields intointerested the Yellowstone to assess later, members of theand scientific community. In 1871,and Ferdinand V. Hayden, geological, atmospheric, meteorological conditions to conduct a geologist-in-charge of the United States Geological and Geographical broad investigation of the plants and animals that inhabited the region. Survey of the he Territories, led the a survey brought scientists from Hayden’ many fields Because was perhaps nation’that s most respected geologist, s into the Yellowstone area to assess geological, atmospheric and meteorological explorations were closely covered by the press and ensured that he and conduct broad investigation of the and animals that hisconditions party wereand welltofunded anda provisioned. Realizing the plants national inhabited the region. attention that his trip would garner, Hayden made sure to include artists, photographers, and topographical illustrators on his expedition. Because was perhaps respected Artists like he Thomas Moranthe andnation’s Williammost Henry Jacksongeologist, recordedHayden’s their explorations were closely covered by the press and ensured that he and his impressions of Yellowstone, while master cartographer Anton Schönborn party were well funded and provisioned. Realizing the national attention that produced accurate maps of the party’s route for use by future travelers. his trip would garner, Hayden made sure to include artists, photographers, Hayden’s expedition report along with Moran’s paintings and Jackson’s and topographical illustrators on his expedition. Artists Thomas photographs were presented to Congress later that year andlike became theMoran andfor William Jackson recorded their impressions of Yellowstone, while basis a push Henry to create the national park. master cartographer Anton Schönborn produced accurate maps of the party’s The concept of a grand national park in 1872, however, was route for use by future travelers. generally based on urban ideas of outdoor recreation. When most Americans thought of parklands, they pictured places like New York City’s famed Central Park. Yet the northern Rocky Mountains were a long way from Manhattan, and the animals that lived there were decidedly not in any sort of zoo. Americans’ ideas about parks would not just have to be

Hayden’s expedition report, along with Moran’s paintings and Jackson’s photographs, were presented to Congress later that year and became the basis for a push to create the national park. The concept of a grand national park in 1872, however, was generally based on urban ideas of outdoor recreation. When most Americans thought of parklands, they pictured places like New York City’s famed Central Park.Yet, the northern Rocky Mountains were a long way from Manhattan, and the animals that lived there were decidedly not in any sort of zoo. Americans’ ideas about parks wouldn’t just have to be adjusted – they would have to be completely reinvented. The U.S. Department of the Interior was charged with management of the newly created Yellowstone National Park. The department, however, was primarily administrative, poorly funded and ill equipped to operate a park that encompasses more than two million acres of some of the roughest terrain in the United States. After more than a decade of struggling along as poachers killed federally protected game and visitors complained about poor roads and park infrastructure, the few Interior Department employees in Yellowstone were joined by the U.S. Army in an effort to maintain law and order within the park’s boundaries. During this period in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, visitation to Yellowstone grew steadily and the need for more amenities for travelers became acute. Independent operators ran concessions, such as small log-cabin hotels, and primitive lunch depots had been operating with the Interior Department’s blessing since the park was opened in 1872, but larger concessions requiring greater capital investments were important players in the tourist experience by the 1890s. Large-scale investors like Harry Child, founder of the Yellowstone Park Company, built massive hotels at Yellowstone Lake, Old Faithful and Mammoth Hot Springs. By 1903, the Northern Pacific Railroad delivered visitors directly to the park’s northern entrance (the scene of Roosevelt’s arch dedication) and the Union Pacific soon offered similar service through the west gate. Once inside the park, visitors traveled by stagecoach either to the park’s hotels or to one of the many privately operated permanent tent camps like those established by William W. Wylie, a Bozeman schoolteacher whose “Wylie Way” camps set new standards for services in the national parks. In 1915, Harry Child’s one-time secretary Charles A. Hamilton entered the park concessioners’ group when he purchased the general store next to the Old Faithful Inn. His timing was excellent because this proved to be the final year that stagecoaches, wagons and horses were the only means of transportation available in the park. In August 1915, a Ford Model T became the first automobile to legally enter Yellowstone National Park. Hamilton

and his family would go on to operate every service station in the park. By 1917, the stagecoaches that had been ubiquitous within the confines of the park for more than 30 years were replaced with automobiles, buses and touring cars. While wealthy visitors still flocked to the hotels, a new breed of tourist, driving their own car, now began to explore Yellowstone at their own pace. The park experience would never be the same. The year 1916 also marked a major organizational milestone in Yellowstone. The Department of the Interior created the National Park Service, which took over the administrative duties that the U.S. Army had provided for 30 years. The new agency took the operation of the national parks in new directions, focusing on visitor services and tightening restrictions on private concessioners in the parks. Just as importantly, the National Park Service developed educational programs that taught visitors about the plants, animals and geology of the parks. These efforts, in concert with the work of scientists, scholars, and preservationists, brought the value of the parks to the attention of visitors like never before, imbuing them with a sense of stewardship and respect for these places that had been set aside “for the benefit and enjoyment of the people” and that were owned by those people themselves.

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This national park ideal is the focus of the final theme running throughout Welcome to Wonderland! Tourism in America’s First National Park.Yellowstone’s establishment in 1872 was but the first step on a long journey of creating, preserving and appreciating the special places that evoke the wonder experienced by everyone who visits it. As Ken Burns points out in his epic series The National Parks: America’s Best Idea, there is something very American about the idea of national parks. Today, such parks are located all over the world and their management is largely based on the lessons learned and techniques employed in America’s national parks – especially Yellowstone. We, at the Museum of the Rockies, hope that our exhibition will inspire visitors to explore and celebrate America’s tradition of visiting national parks. And, of course, the best way to do that is by visiting America’s first:Yellowstone! n Michael Fox is the Curator of History at the Museum of the Rockies.

We specialize in Big sky homes! From a rustic cabin in the woods to your luxurious high-value home, we can help.

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“A must-see attraction.” -Fodor’s Museum of the Rockies at Montana State University is a Smithsonian Affiliate. Recognized for its dinosaur collection and its permanent regional history exhibits, MOR also thrills visitors with changing exhibits from around the world, the Martin Children’s Discovery Center, the Living History Farm (open summers), and the Taylor Planetarium, featuring a state-of-the-art digital projection system. Visit us and experience MOR.

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West Yellowstone - A Year-Round Family Destination

holly scholl photpgra[hy

shutterstock

by the west yellowstone chamber of commerce

Regardless of season, West Yellowstone has something unforgettable to offer every visitor! The long summer days provide outdoor enthusiasts unlimited access to explore and play in the splendor of the high country. And no other destination rivals the wonder of Yellowstone National Park (Yellowstone) in the winter. Located in the heart of Yellowstone country – mere blocks from the Park, 45 minutes from Old Faithful and just 86 miles north of Grand Teton National Park – West Yellowstone is the perfect Yellowstone location for your Montana vacation. Small in size, but large in accommodations, West Yellowstone offers thousands of different comfortable and affordable lodging options. West Yellowstone also has a variety of dining options, including family-run restaurants, cafes, pancake houses, coffee houses and bistros. Enjoy regional trout, elk and bison specialties or traditional western cuisine. Be sure to top it off with a Montana huckleberry treat! The rustic history of West Yellowstone comes alive in many of its dining facilities. SPRING Warmer temperatures and lengthening days produce sunny afternoons, stunning sunsets and starry nights. Wildlife abounds close to roads and rivers and there is a photo waiting to be taken around each corner. Spring and early summer bring some of the best wildlife spotting opportunities of the year. In the spring, bears come out and many reported sightings will be noted. There are several scenic drives throughout the area that allow for wildlife viewing. This is a unique time of year, when the public can enter Yellowstone by bicycle, roller skis and roller blades or other non-motorized travel. The roads between the west entrance at West Yellowstone and Mammoth Hot Springs open as conditions allow from late-March (generally the last Friday in March) through the third Thursday in April, depending on weather. The West gate does not start charging entrance fees until it re-opens for vehicle travel. So you can blade, bike or hike in at no charge. Roads into Yellowstone’s interior begin opening in mid-April, with the west entrance and access to Madison Junction, south to the Old Faithful area, north to Norris and then east to Canyon. 108 Destination Big Sky 2015

On Memorial Day weekend, the historic Earthquake Lake Visitor Center on Hwy 287 opens to the public and provides daily presentations and weekly guided hikes. Admission is free. SUMMER Throughout the summer, West Yellowstone offers a variety of activities and events. Outdoor enthusiasts can choose from fly and lake fishing, related lessons and guided trips; kayak lessons and rentals; horseback rides, mountain trail rides and overnight pack trips; outdoor mountain cookouts; mountain bike trail rides; bird watching and hiking. Just north of West Yellowstone, Hebgen Lake provides miles and miles of shoreline perfect for camping, boating, canoeing and some of the best fishing around. History buffs should make sure to include a stop at the Yellowstone Historic Center Museum or a stroll with the West Yellowstone Historic Walking Tour. Enjoy a great family-friendly 4th of July complete with a small parade that anyone can participate in, Pie on the Porch at the Museum, and free music in the City Park. End the evening with a great fireworks display set against a majestic mountain backdrop. It’s a small town celebration at its best! Other events and attractions include the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, the Smokejumper Ranger program for kids, Yellowstone Giant Screen Theater, Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo, The Playmill Theatre, Rod Run car show and 10-day Mountain Man Rendezvous. FALL West Yellowstone is at its best for hiking, scenery, fishing and wildlife watching during the fall. Fall temperatures and foliage create oncein-a-lifetime photo opportunities at Old Faithful and other geysers in Yellowstone National Park. Fall is also elk mating season: huge bull elk battle for their harems with eerie, echoing bugles across wide valleys. And bears enter into a state of hyperphagia, during which they eat as much as they can in anticipation of the coming winter. There are several scenic drives around the Yellowstone area as well, where one has the opportunity to view wildlife, capture gorgeous photographs and see the area at its most colorful.

West Yellowstone is a cross-country ski mecca. Snow-covered trails, perfect corduroy and rolling terrain entice everyone from beginners to diehards. The groomed Rendezvous Ski Trails – at the southwestern edge of town – offer over 35 kilometers of varied terrain, from gently rolling hills to challenging climbs. The “Upriver” and “Downriver” loops of the Riverside Trail combine to create nearly 10 kilometers of classic track along the banks of the Madison River. Dogs, classic skiers and snowshoers are also welcome on the Boundary Trail, a six-mile trek out and back from town to Baker’s Hole Campground. Just north of West Yellowstone is some of the best, low-angle backcountry skiing in the west. Trailheads along Highway 191 provide easy access to incredible scenery, petrified trees and winter wildlife.

john layshock

holly scholl photpgra[hy

WINTER In the West Yellowstone winter wonderland, snowfall averages 143 inches, starting in November and lasting through mid-April. The streets of West Yellowstone remain snow-packed all season, providing a trailhead literally at your front door. Ski or snowmobile from your hotel or motel to an extensive trail system. Snowmobile rentals (including clothing) are available for different skill levels. A 400-mile groomed trail system winds through the southern reaches of Montana and into Island Park, Idaho. For the experienced skier or snowmobiler, groomed trails lead to backcountry adventures. Professional guides are available to take enthusiasts to remote locations with untracked powder and no lines.

snowcoach and snowmobile tours travel over snow-covered groomed roads, from the west entrance at West Yellowstone to popular destinations inside the wintry heart of Yellowstone. All tours are conducted by interpretive guides, local experts that provide a wealth of information about Yellowstone and personal experiences that you could never read in a guidebook. Winter also brings a variety of events to West Yellowstone. Monthly Kids’N’Snow weekends offer an assortment of inexpensive activities introducing families to winter activities including ice-skating and sledding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, winter learning programs and Saturday night s’mores. Ski events include the annual Yellowstone Ski Festival – held Thanksgiving week each November – and the annual Yellowstone Rendezvous Race in March, the area’s only marathon cross-country ski race. Make it a weekend and bring your camera for the Youth Ski Festival. Or try one of the citizen ski races, open to every age and racing ability. In January, the NAIFC Ice Fishing Tournament takes place on Hebgen Lake, just north of town. This official North American Ice Fishing Circuit event – on Hebgen Lake at Kirkwood Resort & Marina – is winter’s equivalent of summer’s big bass and walleye tournaments, filled with seminars, a kid’s workshop and the fishing competition itself.

Experience the winter wonderland of the forests around West Yellowstone by taking a sled dog ride. Nothing beats the thrill of a well-trained team of sled dogs pulling you through the snow-covered landscape. Our local musher and breeder welcomes you to take a tour of the kennel and learn more about this exciting sport. Four times during the winter, West Yellowstone explodes with the excited yips and barks of sled dog teams as they line up for races, including the International Pedigree Stage Stop.

Yellowstone winters culminate in the World Snowmobile Expo, which features snowmobile events, a vintage snowmobile show, a freestyle competition, and the Exhibition Hall show, where all four snowmobile manufacturers showcase the next year’s models. In 2015, the outdoor concerts returned to the Expo, providing two nights of music and highflying snowmobile aerial stunts at the City Park.

On December 15th, the west entrance to Yellowstone opens to offer a unique experience and adventure. Each day, commercially guided

It’s always the perfect season for a visit to West Yellowstone! We look forward to seeing you. For more information, visit DestinationYellowstone.com.

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Alara Jewelry Despite the awards, accolades and articles from national magazines lining the walls, Alara Jewelry has a casual feel that appeals to everyone, from the jewelry newbie to the maven. And that comfortable ambiance is every bit as intentional as the selections found in the showcases. “An industry-wide jewelry survey conducted in the nineties concluded that most people would rather get a root canal than shop for jewelry,” says Alara Jewelry’s founder, Babs Noelle. “When I read the survey’s results, I thought, ‘How sad that beautiful, personal, sentimental gifts are attached to such a miserable shopping experience.’” But rather than just shrug her shoulders and continue “business as usual,” Noelle decided to do something about the disconnect between the art form she loved and the seemingly unsatisfying way it was brought to its appreciators. While any number of original approaches could have been a breath of fresh air, Noelle chose to work with aspects from her childhood and education. “Humor and design filled my family home. Despite speaking English as a second language, my dad was quite the quipster; and my mom was a European-trained fashion designer, who introduced me, however subtly, to design concepts—even at an early age. Thanks to my jewelry design training in Germany, I was familiar with how European jewelry shops differed from their American counterparts. I just blended the humor, forward design and fresh retail approach, and the concept behind Alara Jewelry was born.” Though the fresh retail concept might make the environment pleasant, it’s clear that the jewelry is the star at Noelle’s gallery. In addition to handling the gallery’s bustling custom design business and producing the in-house collections, Noelle oversees the curation of a collection of jewelry art that includes 58 designers. Noelle prides herself on variety. “The collection spans a vast array of materials and techniques, and prices from fifty dollars to many tens of thousands. And my custom design work, which welcomes the recycling and incorporation of my clients’ gems and precious metals, assures

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that I keep in touch with what inspires real people, not what the commodity jewelry manufacturers thrust upon them. Given the choice, very few people would choose to have the same piece of personal decoration as their neighbor.” Included in the collections at Alara Jewelry are pieces crafted around the corner, around the state and around the globe. Materials utilized include locally and regionally-sourced Yogo sapphires, Montana sapphires and agates, Yellowstone petrified wood and palladium. Add to that, traditional gems and precious metals, as well as new gemological finds and alternative metals, and Alara Jewelry boasts a breadth of jewelry options that is unique enough to have garnered the gallery several national awards. “Pop on in!” says Noelle. “We don’t bite or push and most days my big, sweet, fluffy dog is here to entertain whoever dislikes shopping.” n

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Raising the WOOF with Dee-O-Gee Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened. —Anatole France Josh and Holly Allen, owners of Dee-O-Gee, are in the business of supporting just such transformation. Established in Bozeman in 2008, Dee-O-Gee is Montana’s best source for pet nutrition, supplements, grooming, toys and unique gear for your most loyal family members. The Allens have featured eco-friendly products, natural foods and holistic supplements at Dee-O-Gee since its inception, focusing on nutrition as an integral facet of pet care. Many of the common “ailments” pets experience — dry skin, dull coats, allergies (itching and licking), gassy stomachs — are related to substandard food and inconsistent formulas with too many fillers and low-quality ingredients. The best dog or cat diet is not unlike the best human diet: it consists of a variety of whole foods enhanced with vitamins and minerals, enzymes and supplements (when necessary) to promote optimal health and prevent disease. With very few exceptions, grocery store or pet chain box store foods are low quality and nutritionally deficient. “Your pet’s nutrition can be one of two things – the best proactive preventative medicine or the worst slow-acting poison,” Holly remarks. “We’re really about helping our local pet owners make educated choices for their furry family members’ wellbeing. And we love what we do.” Dee-O-Gee helps to ensure the kind of nutrition and consistent quality your pet deserves by offering a range of reasonably priced, high-quality foods with a variety of protein, carbohydrate, vegetable and formula options, as well as the largest selection of natural pet supplements in Montana. In addition to providing exceptional nutrition products and holistic support, Dee-O-Gee also offers pet grooming and daycare services. Voted “Bozeman’s Best Pet Groomers” for 2012 and 2013 – the only years this category has been in existence – Dee-O-Gee offers retail products, full- and self-service dog grooming and dog daycare services at two convenient locations in Bozeman – historic downtown and 19th Ave. The expansive new space at 19th and Oak facilitated the recent addition of a dog daycare service (“day camp”) and additional grooming capacity, as well as an expansion of retail offerings. The downtown location continues to provide the full retail selection and selfservice dog washing facilities. The Allens’ expertise, the staff’s concerted commitment, and their overwhelming collective passion for animals, supports the best pet care experience to be found in the Gallatin Valley. Previously a veterinary technician, Holly brings her experience and sought-after dog treat recipes to work with her every day. Enthusiastic employees offer customized care and dietary guidance, even reviewing labels and providing samples to ensure each pet likes and reacts well to a food before committing to a whole bag. And Jericho, the Allens’ owner-relinquished rescue Papillion and “shop dog” graces every lucky visitor with a tail-waggingly eager greeting. Dee-O-Gee boasts a fun, active and life-giving culture filled with hardworking individuals that genuinely care about their pets and yours. Located at 2051 Oak St, #4 (19th and Oak) and 424 E. Main (Downtown), Dee-O-Gee can be reached by calling 406.551.2364. To learn more about Dee-O-Gee or to check out their blog for health tips and more, visit www. Dee-O-Gee.com. n

*MONTANA’SBEST Montana’s best source source for quality nutrition, supplements, treats and unique gear for your most loyal family members. Dee-O-Gee at 19th & Oak 2051 Oak St. #4 Bozeman, MT 59718 Dee-O-Gee Downtown 424 E. Main #103 Bozeman, MT 59715 DEE-O-GEE.COM

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406-551-2364

Caring for Her Community

Country Star Stephanie Quayle Gives Back in a Big Way by nicole Hom

Going home – some people take a bite of a certain food that transports them home; for others, it’s a whiff of subtle fragrance. For county singer and songwriter Stephanie Quayle, the mere glimpse of mountain peaks on TV or in a magazine transports her back to her hometown, Bozeman, Montana. This past October, with boots stomping to the sweet sound of her guitar, Quayle returned to Bozeman and the Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture’s stage for her second annual Homecoming Concert. But Stephanie wasn’t there for the taste and smell of the familiar – or even the sight of her beloved mountains – she was in Bozeman to support and give back to the people and place that raised her. It has been three years since Quayle packed her boots and guitar, left Montana, and headed to the epicenter of country music: Nashville, Tennessee. “When I arrived in Nashville, a girl from small town Montana, I wasn’t expecting this city to be such a welcoming community,” remarks Quayle. “But, it is amazing how the people of Nashville — especially in the songwriting community — support and encourage each other.” This sense of community is something Quayle holds very close to her heart. “Having grown up in Bozeman, I was surrounded by a community that shaped the artist I am today and who I am becoming,” Quayle says. “The love I have for Bozeman and Montana is why it’s important for me to give back to those who gave me so much.”

The GVFB was a natural choice for Quayle’s effort. “The need is great and the impact [of donations] is noticeable,” remarks Quayle, whose desire to make an impact in her hometown community proved contagious. A few days into her visit, Quayle learned that the staff, students and young program participants of Lone Mountain Gymnastics had joined her cause and were also hosting a food drive and raising donations for the GVFB. As soon as she learned of Lone Mountain’s efforts, Quayle made her way to the gym to sing for the hardworking youth. “This is exactly what I had hoped for from my Homecoming Concert,” says Quayle. “It’s amazing to see kids learn how to be good givers.” Quayle continued to inspire more community members through radio spots on XL Country 100.7, appearances at Bozeman Ford and an outstanding rendition of “The StarSpangled Banner” at the Montana State University Bobcat football game. By the night of her concert, Quayle’s efforts had raised more than 3,083 pounds of food, which was also accompanied by monetary donations. GVFB’s Director Tim Trzinski was more than impressed with Quayle’s efforts: “Stephanie was a phenomenal source of inspiration and giving.” As the lights dimmed in the Emerson Center’s Crawford Theater, one bright light focused on the stage and Stephanie Quayle found herself truly at home. “The stage is my home. It’s where I am the most comfortable. It’s where I am truly myself.” On stage in her hometown, Quayle’s talents were on full display for her devoted fans.

For the second year, Quayle’s homecoming concert – and the events leading up to her big show – has supported the Gallatin Valley Food Bank (GVFB). The entry to Quayle’s October 18th concert was only five dollars with the donation of two cans of food, a great price for a world-class country act and the chance to support one of Gallatin Valley’s most critical community service providers.

As a rising star with a trajectory fueled by a heart as wide open as the Big Sky state, Quayle again shared her spark with the Bozeman community. Another successful Homecoming Concert behind her, Quayle returned to her new home of Nashville — exhausted, but elated with the success of the food drive — and is already planning next year’s trip back to Bozeman.

Since it’s inception in 1982, the GVFB has been improving Gallatin Valley’s access to food and meals. Far more than a short-term emergency resource, the GVFB provides essential programming that feeds several underserved groups in the community, from at-risk youth and families to senior citizens. During the course of a single year, the GVFB distributes two million pounds of food to more than 3,200 people a month in the area.

To learn more about Stephanie Quayle and listen to her music visit StephanieQuayle.com. Music is also available for purchase on iTunes.com. The GVFB has several programs that community members are invited to support. Visit GallatinValleyFoodBank.com or call (406) 586-7600 for more information. n

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The History of

Mountain Sheet Metal By dave reuss

The equipment in the Mountain Sheet Metal shop could be in a museum. Huge metalworking machines—the stomp shear, the Pittsburgh machine, the brake—all have handles and bars worn smooth as marble from thousands of jobs and years of daily use. It’s the very same shop equipment that Corky and Lois Johnson bought back in the late ‘70s and, even though it doesn’t look fancy, all the gear can still do the job, and do it well. In fact, their machines can easily outpace brand new, expensive versions. “There’s no reason to buy new equipment. If it’s built right, it’ll last,” says Corey Johnson, owner of Mountain Sheet Metal. It’s this same mentality that’s seen the company through three depressions, thousands of jobs and over 30 years of satisfied customers. Corey’s company has been built right—and it’s lasted. Mountain Sheet Metal was founded by Corey’s parents Corky and Lois back in 1977. “I was seven years old. It was right around the time the first Star Wars came out,” Corey laughs. They started by running the company out of their garage and built their shop outside Four Corners two years later. But almost immediately, the company fell on hard times. A severe economic recession hit in the early 118 Destination Big Sky 2015

‘80s and businesses suffered across country. Worst of all, the heating and air conditioning industry has always been notoriously impacted by the economy. Undeterred by the chilly economic climate, Corky and Lois diversified their company and ventured into restoring antique cook stoves—a late 19th century “Frost Killer” potbelly stove still sits proudly in their office as a reminder of the company’s history. Thankfully, the economy slowly came back and, by the late ‘80s, the company was going strong. They saw years of solid work and their staff expanded. In 2002, the company built an addition, expanding their building and doubling the square footage. Government-based incentives on furnace replacements helped when the economic crash of 2008 hit, but, by this time, Mountain Sheet Metal was well versed in adapting to a fickle economy.

In 2011, Corky was ready to retire and his son, Corey, and his wife, Meredith, bought Mountain Sheet Metal to continue the business. But Corey never felt pressured to carry the family torch. “Actually, I begged my dad to work here during college,” Corey says. “But he wouldn’t let me. He’d always say, ‘I don’t want my kids to work as hard as I did.’” Now, celebrating Mountain Sheet Metal’s 36th anniversary, Corey and his staff are still going strong. After spending 15 years as a licensed architect, Corey uses his knowledge of designing homes to give his customers the very best, focusing on efficient heating and cooling systems. But, to Corey, it’s about more than just relationships between the components in his clients’ homes—it’s about building relationships with his clients. When his staff runs into questions on projects, Corey likes to ask, “How would you do this for your grandmother? That’s the kind of service that we want to give our customers.” The newest advance in the industry is fully integrated technology. “In reality, we sell two computers every time we put in a furnace: one in the thermostat and one onboard that matches it. It’s changed the way we make ductwork—I feel more like a computer dealer,” Corey says. Across the board, the central thermostat has become the hub for energy use in people’s homes and the homeowner can control it all with their phone or iPad from anywhere in the world. They can monitor energy consumption, change temperatures or even alert a service technician to fix potential issues. Best of all, Corey’s team can track energy data from homes and fix problems before they even start. “It’s a great option. In the last year, we’ve installed over 100 connected thermostats.” From old pot-bellied stoves to heating a home with an iPhone, Mountain Sheet Metal has successfully navigated nearly 40 years in the industry. “We’re excited to see what the future will bring—and to be able to give the best to our customers,” Corey says. You can find Mountain Sheet Metal at 6693 Lynx Lane near Four Corners or at mountainsheetmetal.com. n

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Design the Perfect Home Gym by Kritika Parwani

In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s age, everyone has become health conscious and understands the importance of exercise. However, for many people, going to a commercial gym is not always possible. Hence, the perfect solution is a home gym. A home gym can be considered an investment for your health. It is not only convenient and peaceful but relatively inexpensive. But while creating a home gym, it is crucial for selecting a home gym design that is inviting and inspirational. Home gym decorating is easy and even fun. A home gym can be an investment for a healthy life, but some people might not be able to reap the benefits because their home gyms are not appealing or inspiring. The following tips will help you in designing your own home gym and workout plan. Color: The first step you need to focus on is selecting the color of the home gym. Colors can have a very strong influence on the appeal of your gym. Since a gym is a place where you want to be energetic for your workout routines, choosing calming colors like blue and white is not the wisest choice. Instead opt for bright colors like orange, yellow etc. that have an energizing and motivating effect on people. However, too much bright color can be over stimulating and even fatiguing.

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Hence, the safest option would be to use two toned walls with bright and pastel colors for a balanced effect. Lighting: Another thing to take into consideration for home gym ideas is the lighting. It is very necessary for the home gym to be brightly lit up to create an energizing effect. A great idea is having full spectrum daylight bulbs which create natural light frequencies that have a more energizing effect than yellow light. Remember never to use fluorescent lighting as it has a very draining effect. Another point to consider is how flattering the light is for you. Since it is a gym and it will have mirrors, you will want lights that make you look good and thus, help your self-confidence. Equipment: Perhaps the most important part of home gym decoration is the equipment. While selecting exercise equipment it is important to take a lot of factors into consideration. You should not rush into buying cheap gym equipment. It is important to buy equipment of the best quality, which is in your budget and which will help you save money in the long run. Make sure you buy only what you need and what is necessary for your home gym workout plan. A treadmill, rowing machine and stationary bike are the perfect choice to maintain cardiovascular health. Also make

Opposite: Home Eliptical Left: Gym 3D Rendering

sure you have gym mats for stretching exercises as well as aerobics. Also dumbbells and exercise balls are great for weight watchers and can be stored easily as they do not take up much space. When arranging the equipment in your home gym, it is important to utilize the space in the best way. Arrange the tallest machines against the wall and the smaller ones towards the center of the room. This will make the room look a little better. To make it easier, make a floor plan and remember not to clutter the room with unwanted machines as that will create a very uninspiring effect. Flooring: Flooring is also an element to take into consideration for home gym design ideas. There are a lot of options. It is important to select one that is suitable as per your needs

and budget. A hardwood flooring is a stylish and chic option and will give the room a professional look. However, rubber mats are essential if you go for hardwood flooring. For more functionality try rubber sports flooring with color options that blend with or complement the walls. Another option is investing in carpeted flooring. It will create a comfortable effect for doing floor exercises but will need a lot of maintenance. These were just a few design ideas for home gym that need to be considered. For more inspiration, try picking up some magazines and books. Though outfitting and decorating a home gym may seem like a lot of work, it will be well worth the effort when you achieve the body you’ve always wanted and experience a healthier lifestyle. n

Better Body Fitness of Montana, Inc.

Fitness Equipment Sales & Service

1-866-348-3434 • 406-449-4672 • www.betterbodymontana.com

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Through the years, the company always remained a family business, passing down to Chris and Doug Westlake, Chuck and Patty’s son’s. Val Lint, Patty’s brother, also began working with the company as an apprentice machinist while attending Bozeman High School in 1971. He was the first student placed through the DECA program and worked half days at the company during his senior year in high school. He joined fulltime following his graduation in 1972 and today owns and manages the shop. One symbol of its connection with Bozeman is the giant anvil that sits on the lawn out front. One of the world’s largest anvils, it is an exact replica of the Hay Budden anvil displayed in the foyer of the shop.

through the years, each day Midwest Welding & Mathe anvil reminds everyone chine obtained the anvil of the company’s values from a 90 year old retiring and dedication to service. blacksmith in 1962. The blacksmith had made his As Val says, “The success living on the anvil for his of the company is the reentire life, supporting his sult of the dedicated craftsfamily and raising his chilmen’s efforts dren. He agreed over the years. to part with it You can’t go after assurances anywhere in by the company the area withthat it would out seeing exnever be sold amples of their or abused, a “The success of the workmanship. promise they We are excited have kept company is the result to be a part of through the inof the dedicated this communitervening decraftsmen’s efforts ty and still the cades. go-to place for over the years. welding and The anvil is an machining” that job has important symbol for the always been critical to the company. It signifies both success of Midwest Weldthe history of the welding ing & Machine and its workand machining business ers and will continue to be and the company’s dedicafar into the future. tion to its community and roots. Though Midwest Welding & Machine has upgraded its equipment

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Relighting History Ambiance Lighting NewNew World Relighting History Ambiance Lighting Illuminates Bright World Relighting History Ambiance LightingIlluminates IlluminatesaaaBright Bright New World By Jessica Bayramian Byerly

By Jessica Bayramian by jessica Bayramian Byerly Byerly

“No one lights lamp in order “No one alights a lamp in order “No one lights a lamp in order to hidetoit hide behind the door: the the it behind the door: to hide it behind the door: the is to create purposepurpose of lightofislight to create purpose of light is to create moreto light, to open people' s eyes, more light, open people' s eyes, more light, to open people's eyes, to reveal the marvels around. to reveal marvels around. ” ” to reveal thethemarvels around.” - Paulo Coelho - Paulo Coelho - Paulo Coelho Toby Zangenberg, lighting designer extraordinaire and owner of

Zangenberg, lighting designer extraordinaire and owner or of Ambiance Lighting (Ambiance), isn’t merely a designer Toby Toby Zangenberg, lighting designer extraordinaire and owner ofautoCAD drafter or(Ambiance), project manager ormerely consultant. He is, though all of those as Ambiance Lighting isn’t a designer or autoCAD Ambiance Lighting isn’t merely a his designer or autoCAD well,(Ambiance), anmanager artist at heart. A new build muse, architectural plans drafter or project or consultant. Heisis, is, though though all ofofthose asas a drafter or project manager or consultant. He those canvas uponAwhich he paints a picture inarchitectural all of theallvarying tones and well, an artist at heart. new build is his muse, plans a well, an artist athues heart. A new build is his muse, architectural plans a of light and darkness. And with the sprint at which technology canvas upon which he paints a picture in all of the varying tones and canvas upon which he paints a picture all ofoflighting the varying and continues to advance in thein areas design, tones home automation hues of light and darkness.aesthetics, And with the sprint atwhich which technology hues of light andand darkness. with the sprint technology decorativeAnd his picture isatonly becoming brighter and continues tomore advance in by the areas lighting design, home automation refined the minute. Ambiance is thehome premier provider of continues to advance in the areas of oflighting design, automation and decorative aesthetics, his picture is only becoming brighter commercial and residential lighting design and automation systems, and decorative aesthetics, his picture is only becoming brighterand and refined byaccolade the minute. Ambiance the premier provider ofof hardAmbiance earned through years of personalized moremore refined byan the minute. isisthe premier providerservice, commercial and residential lighting design andcommunity automation systems, and collaboration with partners to illuminate commercial andcoordination residential lighting design and automation systems, the beautiful, to create drama and depth with theservice, flip of a switch. an accolade hard earned through years of personalized an accolade hard earned through years of personalized service, coordination and collaboration with communitypartners partners to to illuminate coordination andOne collaboration with community illuminate of the greatest advancements of late in lighting technology is with the beautiful, to create drama and depth with the flip of a switch. the beautiful, to light-emitting create drama and(LEDs). depth with flip of concentrated a switch. light beams diodes Initialthe issues with

education, education, stage. In fact, part of adaptation adaptation andandlove for Zangenberg’s creativity. “I alwaysfrom creativity. “I his workalways comes find something find something that that the constantly m not looking I’mI’not looking for,” for,” changing, always jokes Zangenberg jokes Zangenberg range asimproving he points to some as possibilities he points to some of and of the newnew styles of the styles continued need for and innovations in and innovations in education, adaptation one of many bibleonecatalogues of many biblesized and creativity. “I always sized catalogues hefind consults on something that I’m he consults a regular basis. on not looking for,” jokes a regular basis.as he points “The technology Zangenberg “The technology is to always evolving some of the new andisthe lighting always evolving styles and innovations in needs and scenarios and the lighting one of many everneeds changing. It’s biblesized a and scenarios catalogues he consults surprisingly exciting ever changing. It’s a onofa work. regular field ” basis. “The

surprisingly is exciting technology always field of work. For Zangenberg, evolving and” the lighting each project needs andinvolves scenarios Forparts Zangenberg, equal problemIt’s a ever changing. each innovation project involves solving, surprisingly exciting andequal application, parts problem field of work.” elements solving,heinnovation includes in every and application, For Zangenberg, each project involves equal partsoneproblem solving, ofelements his detailed he andplans, application, elements he includes inProviding every one of of his detailed and cost have been remedied in recent years as the product has become both more innovation electrical design the hallmark of an Ambiance project. layers One of the greatest advancements of late in lighting technology is with includes in every layers One of the greatest advancements late people in lighting technology is withnot knowing electrical design plans,sthe of an Ambiance project. Providing affordable and effective.of“Some think that they hate LEDs, information, Zangenberg’ planshallmark are both exhaustive in detail and easily readable, light-emitting (LEDs). Initial withconcentrated concentrated beams detailed thatdiodes the(LEDs). color temperature ofissues thewith bulbs can make a hugelight difference, ” remarks each layer of Zangenberg’s information cleanly illustrated andexhaustive labeled.one Butof it’inshis not always light-emitting diodes Initial issues light beams ofwith information, plans are both detail and easily and cost have been remedied in recent years as the product has become both more electrical design plans, the hallmark of an Ambiance project. Providing layers of But Zangenberg. “They can lookyears like fluorescent lights if you knowboth what you’re readable, about the bigger picture. Sometimes, the greatestcleanly challenges are his clients’ and cost have been remedied in recent as the product hasdon’t become with each layer of information illustrated andunique labeled. affordable and effective. “Some people think that they hate LEDs, not knowing information, Zangenberg’ s plans are both exhaustive in detail and easily readable, looking for. It’ s details like that that make all the difference and, unfortunately, lighting needs. Like his friend in southern California, for instance, who wanted more affordable and effective. “Some people think that they hate LEDs, not it’s not always about the bigger picture. Sometimes, the greatest challenges that that the color temperature of the bulbs make a huge difference, remarks layer of information cleanly illustrated and labeled. But s not always re details most people know tocan consider. ” But with ”adifference,” projected lifespan with hiseach sports collectibles, boxing gloves specifically, to his be onfriend displayinin hisit’home knowing thethey’ color temperature ofdon’t thecan bulbs make a huge are his clients’ unique lighting needs. Like southern California, of“They 50,000can hours (20like to fluorescent 30 years) andlights powerif usage of approximately 80% less gym. Zangenberg’ s solution? Have a famous Mohammed Ali photograph laserunique Zangenberg. look you don’t know what you’ r e about the bigger picture. Sometimes, the greatest challenges are his clients’ remarks Zangenberg. “They can look like fluorescent lights if you don’t know for instance, who wanted his sports collectibles, boxing gloves specifically, than their incandescent counterparts, are inarguably the future of lighting, lighting etched onto an 8’ xhis 8’ mirror, which he thenCalifornia, backlit withfor programmable LED for. It’ s details likedetails that that make allthat theLEDs difference and,difference unfortunately, Like friend in southern instance, Have who wanted what looking you’re looking for.forIt’s like that make alland the be needs. on display in his gym. Zangenberg’s solution? a famous a future whichdon’t Zangenberg isconsider. both prepared excited. By employing the histosports lights and surrounded by home specially litspecifically, glass cases showcasing the gloves. Thehome result they’ r e details most people know to ” But with a projected lifespan collectibles, boxing gloves to be on display in his and, unfortunately, they’re details most people don’t know to consider.” Mohammed Ali photograph laser etched onto an 8’ x 8’ mirror, which he wide (20 gamut options to each of his projects, Zangenberg andless his team notgym. was a professional and personal triumph. Zangenberg’ s designAli notphotograph only involved of 50,000 hours toof30LED years) and power approximately 80% Zangenberg’ s solution? Have a famous Mohammed laser lit But with a projected lifespan of 50,000 hours usage (20 and toof30 years) and power backlitandwith programmable LEDtolights surrounded specially only create unique lighting environments specialized, custom formulations, then innovation creativity, but also attention criticaland details, like how thebybulbs than their incandescent counterparts, LEDs are inarguably the future of lighting, etched onto an 8’ x 8’ mirror, which he then backlit with programmable LED usage of approximately 80% less than their incandescent counterparts, glass cases showcasing The result was a professional but they provide thousands of dollars in cost savings for their clientsLEDs (nearly would be changed and thethe bestgloves. colors and styles to use. “When they see my and work,personal ” a future forthe which Zangenberg both prepared and excited. By employing lights andZangenberg, surrounded specially litnot glass cases showcasing gloves. result $7,000 for of thelighting, averageis25-bulb household). states “I by want people absolutely know thatinnovation a lotthe of thought has are inarguably future a future for which Zangenberg is boththe triumph. Zangenberg’s designto only involved andThe creativity, wideand gamut of LEDByoptions to each a professional andtopersonal triumph. Zangenberg’ not onlybe involved gone intoattention it.” Considering Zangenberg’ s thriving business, they inarguably do. prepared excited. employing theof his projects, Zangenberg and his team not was but also critical details, like how thes design bulbs would changed only create unique lighting environments and specialized, custom formulations, innovation and creativity, but also attention to critical details, like how the bulbs Automation is another area of exponential technological growth. Thanks to wide gamut of LED options to each of his projects, Zangenberg and his and the best colors and styles to use. “When they see my work,” states but they provide thousands of dollars in cost savings for their clients (nearly would be changed and the best colors and styles to use. “When they see my advancements with Vantage, Ambiance’ s automation system of choice, lighting, Since Zangenberg first opened Ambiance in 2003, he has led the local industry team not only create unique lighting environments and specialized, custom Zangenberg, “I want people to absolutely know that a lot of thoughtwork, has”gone audio/visual, heating,household). water, etc. can now be integrated into one, fully automated states in professional quality lighting design. For a little know over a dollar per square foot, has $7,000 for the average 25-bulb Zangenberg, “I want people to absolutely that a lot of thought formulations, but they provide thousands of dollars in cost savings for their into it.” Considering Zangenberg’s thriving business, they inarguably do. system requiring a single computer. Whether the client has a new construction goneZangenberg drafts detailed electrical plans that take into consideration building into it.” Considering Zangenberg’ s thriving business, they inarguably do. clients (nearly $7,000 for the average 25-bulb household). older home conventionaltechnological switching, Ambiance design to a system to design, client usage and needs, unique custom accents and flourishes, automation Automationorisananother area with of exponential growth.can Thanks Since Zangenberg firstrateopened Ambiance in 2003, hemeetings has led and the local efficiently and effectively automate any given circumstance. Further, the systems Since andZangenberg budget. Further, includes his time, whether advancements witharea Vantage, Ambiance’ s automation system of choice, lighting, firsthis opened Ambiance in 2003, heweekly has the local Automation is another of exponential technological growth. Thanks to the industry in professional quality lighting design. Forled a little overindustry a dollar are fully customizable. Ambiance consults with the client and programs walk-throughs with his clients or consultations with electricians and architects, audio/visual, heating, water, etc. can now be integrated into one, fully automated in professional quality lighting design. Fordetailed a little over a dollar plans per square foot, into advancements with Vantage, Ambiance’s automation system square foot, Zangenberg drafts that take home with presets based on client desires. Then, after of thechoice, client has lived with the per through completion of the electrical rough-in. “I loveelectrical working in this field, with system requiring a single computer. Whether the client has a new construction Zangenberg drafts detailed electrical plans that take into consideration building system, Ambiance staff revisits the client to determine these clients andbuilding these amazing structures, Zangenberg. “Each house lighting, audio/visual, heating, water, etc.the canpresets now with be integrated into one,what has consideration design, client” remarks usage and needs, unique custom accents or an older home with conventional switching, Ambiance can design a system client and needs,special unique custom accents and flourishes, automation worked and what hasn’t, adjusting accordingly. Additionally, really has itsusage ownautomation character, unique spaces. I get to highlight those fully automated system requiring a single computer. Whether the iPad/android client has atoapps design, and flourishes, andfeatures, budget. Further, his rate includes his time, efficiently and effectively automate any given circumstance. Further, the systems and budget. Further, his rate includes his time, whether weekly meetings and allow for wireless system control, both inside and outside of the structure. With nuances and accent those features, illuminating the shadows and bringing the new construction or an older home with conventional switching, Ambiance whether weekly meetings and walk-throughs with his clients or consultations are fully customizable. with automate the and walk-throughs or consultations with electricians andelectrical architects, Vantage andAmbiance Ambiance, the possibilities are client truly endless! homeelectricians to life.” with his can design a system to efficiently andconsults effectively anyprograms given the with andclients architects, through completion of the home with presets based on client desires. Then, after the client has lived with the through completion of the electrical rough-in. “I love working in this field, circumstance. Further, the systems are fully customizable. Ambiance consults rough-in. “I love working in this field, with these clients and thesewith amazing But the staff technological advances arewith onlythe as valuable asdetermine the minds and hands Located 7620 Shedhorn Drive, Ambiance is open Monday through system, Ambiance revisits the presets client to what has these clientsatand these amazing structures, ” remarks Zangenberg. “Each house with the client and programs the home with presets based on client desires. structures,” remarks Zangenberg. “Each house really has its own character, employing them, an arenaaccordingly. in which Ambiance, once again, finds itself apps center Friday, from to 5PM. For more information aboutI get products and those andclient what hasn’t, adjusting Additionally, iPad/android really has its own9AM character, special spaces. to highlight Then,worked after the has with the system, Ambiance revisits special features, unique spaces.features, I get tounique highlight those nuances accent stage. In fact,lived part of Zangenberg’ s love foroutside his workofstaff comes from the constantly services oraccent to make an appointment, please call 406.585.2276 or visitand allow for wireless system control, both inside and the structure. With nuances and those features, illuminating the shadows and bringing the the presets with changing, the client to determine whatof has workedand and what hasn’t, those features, illuminating the shadows and bringing the always improving range possibilities continued need for www.ambiancelighting.net. Vantage and Ambiance, the possibilities are trulyapps endless! home to life. adjusting accordingly. Additionally, iPad/android allow for wireless home to ”life.” system control, both inside and outside of the structure. With Vantage and But thethe technological advances areendless! only as valuable as the minds and hands Ambiance, possibilities are truly employing them, an arena in which Ambiance, once again, finds itself center stage. In fact, part of Zangenberg’ s loveasforvaluable his workascomes from the But the technological advances are only the minds andconstantly hands changing, always improving range of possibilities and continued need employing them, an arena in which Ambiance, once again, finds itselfforcenter 124 Destination Big Sky 2015

Located Drive,Ambiance Ambiance is open Monday Locatedatat7620 7620 Shedhorn Shedhorn Drive, is open Monday throughthrough Friday, from 9AM to 5PM. For more information about Friday, from 9AM to 5PM. For more information about productsproducts and and services or to make an appointment, please call 406.585.2276 or visit services or to make an appointment, please call 406.585.2276 or visit www.ambiancelighting.net. www.ambiancelighting.net. n

Destination Big Sky 2015 125

Sage Kitchens by susan Curtis

Sage Kitchens is your source for fine custom cabinetry for bespoke design. Conveniently located on 777 East Main Street across from the Bozeman Public Library, we offer products for the most discerning, as well as cost conscious clients. We specialize in custom design to fit your spaces and reflect your vision. Whether your vision be traditional, transitional, modern or contemporary we have the products to create the design to suit your needs and taste. Sage Kitchens offers four cabinetry manufacturers to include full custom Christiana Cabinetry and Rutt (which is in the White House), semi-custom Canyon Creek Cabinetry and builder grade stock Way Point Living Spaces. Each product offers quality and value to ensure a wise investment to be enjoyed for years to come. Our design services are tailored to maximize efficacy in function to include optimum space planning, storage options, work flow, and overall aesthetics. Our goal is to create the kitchen to suit your lifestyle, whether it be a chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s space, a space for entertaining, a family gathering space or all of the above. Our expertise and service ensure a smooth and pleasant process from beginning to end. Sage Kitchens services include space planning, coordination of cabinetry, flooring, counter tops, backsplash, lighting, hardware, and interior accessories. Please visit www.sagekitchens.com to view completed projects. n

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Head West When you walk through the door of Head West at first you might think that it is a typical western store, but within only a few steps you realize it’s so much more. The inviting smell of leather and the creaks of an original wooden floor greet you. Men’s Stetson hats line the walls and a great selection of handsome shirts in wools and winter plaids tactually tantalize. As you glide past the antique cases filled with turquoise and silver artisan-crafted jewelry and unique western influenced gifts, you are now inspired! The women’s section extends throughout the rest of this well merchandised store, offering many types of cross-over and western inspired pieces. No western store would be complete without the boot wall, and Head West does not disappoint! With boot eye candy from Corral to Old Gringo, and even hand fashioned Montana made Canty Boots, their selection is not to be missed. The most original part of Head West isn’t even on the main floor. Past the register is a special stairway that takes you down into an expanse of fabulous vintage and consignment pieces that have been hand selected from all over the country. Whatever you’re looking for, this little locally owned Bozeman boutique seems to have something for everyone! n

Ryan Michael, True Grit, Pendleton, Stetson, Powder River Old Gringo, Corral Minnetonka Ranch Organics, Gifts, Jewelry, Handbags, Belts, Buckles, Boots and so much more...

New

Lynette Zambon, ASID Carol Merica, ASID Eleana Montoya

www.dainteriors.com

Western Resale

Come shop with us Downtown Bozeman!

Vintage

y, trade We bu ign! & cons

Mon-Sat 10-6 Sun 12-5

24 W. Main Bozeman, MT 406.587.2153 www.headwestbozeman.com Destination Big Sky 2015 127

PIERCE FLOORING & DESIGN CO. MISSION STATEMENT

To be the leader in our industry through our tradition of honesty and fairness to customers, employees and business partners.

ver the years the Pierce businesses have grown into a large Montana-family owned operation. Pierce Flooring is recognized as one of the top 30 retailers in the United States, and all businesses have been cited for many awards and accomplishments. George R. Pierce came to Montana in 1913. He sold patented medicine on the road, traveling in a Ford Model “T”, often using a compass for direction. In 1916 he moved to Billings where he held various jobs in the automobile industry, including selling used cars and distributing for Willy’s Jeep.

George always said, “No one works for me, they work with me.”

Butte was selected as the next location for a flooring store in 1994. As business grew in Bozeman, the decision was made to build a new facility in 1995, at 1921 W Main Street, where it is located today. In 1996, further expansion took place in that same market, with the opening of Carpet Mill Outlet, located west of Bozeman on Huffine Lane. Like the Carpet Barn in Billings, it specializes in discounted and promotional inventories. In 1998, a new Billings Pierce Flooring store was opened.

Expect the exceptional at Pierce!

Shortly thereafter, he added carpet to his business. Automobiles were handled on one side of the building, carpet on the other, with linoleum, tile, and paint in the basement. The business grew, making it necessary to purchase a used

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Ownership was about to undergo changes as well. George R. Pierce passed away in 1958. After a few changes, George L. Pierce’s family became the sole owner in 1971. In 1967, Pierce Flooring expanded its operations by establishing a retail store in Bozeman, located at 6th and East Mendenhall. Then a new store was constructed in 1971 across the street. In 1972, the Pierces purchased a building to be the Carpet Barn, a “discount” retail store in Billings. In 1977, Missoula became the next location for Pierce Flooring, followed by Great Falls in 1984. When George L. Pierce passed away in 1993, his sons Ron and Bill assumed ownership, until Bill’s death in 1998. At this time and into the present, Ron has assumed ownership of the Pierce companies.

George Pierce was a master organizer and salesman. However, a man once remarked to him “Your place is so dirty. How can you get people to stand still long enough to sell them anything?” George replied, “The joint is dirty, but we are sociable.” This became a new phrase in his advertising. Over the years, he employed many men and boys, often providing them meals and shelter during tough times. George always said, “No one works for me, they work with me.” George R. started in the flooring business with linoleum around 1939. Used cars, used parts, automobile repair, and what little linoleum was available, carried on the show through World War II. After the war, his sons, John, Frank and George L. Pierce came home from the Army and joined in the business.

car lot. Later, travel trailers and mobile homes were acquired. This rapidly grew into one of the largest RV, manufactured homes, leasing, and parts & service businesses in the region.

The Homes and RV’s side of the company saw expansions and changes when a modular and manufactured housing location opened in Great Falls in 2001. Pierce Homes and RV’s moved to their new location next to the Zoo Drive interchange in Billings in 2002, and in 2006, Pierce opened a second location for RV’s, in Kalispell.

Our family of companies now employs over 230 people. The businesses are based on hard work, honesty, trust, and taking extreme care of our customers, suppliers, and employees, while giving back to Montana’s communities. n

“I t is our goal...

To treat every customer in a manner that they will do business with us for the rest of their lives.” - Ron Pierce

Billings • Bozeman • Missoula

Bozeman 1921 West Main 406-587-5428 PierceFlooring.com Destination Big Sky 2015 129

Biggerstaff Biggerstaff Construction Construction

Bob Biggerstaff firstcustom customhome homein in Big Sky over ago, WhenWhen Bob Biggerstaff builtbuilt hishis first over3030years years he considered lifestyle – the look and feel of a home, the views and light, the ago, he considered lifestyle – the look and feel of a home, the views and way accommodates a family and atheir interests – a key design component. light,space the way space accommodates family and their interests – a key Bob’s son,Today, Jerad, runs family company andfamily is equally committed designToday, component. Bob’sthe son, Jerad, runs the company andtoishis father’ s values. The father and son teamThe enjoyfather the outdoors when they’ re equally committed to his father’s values. and sonand, team enjoy the not ensconced in the family business, they may be found with their families trout outdoors and, when they’re not ensconced in the family business, they may fishing in atheir pondfamilies or stream,trout making someinturns together on the making ski hill orsome golfing be found with fishing a pond or stream, friends.onRealizing thator their clientswith choose Big Sky for the same turnswith together the ski hill golfing friends. Realizing thatreasons their they do,choose their mission is to homereasons that is athey true reflection a client’iss way of life. clients Big Sky forbuild the asame do, their of mission to build a home that is a true reflection of a client’s way of life. Biggerstaff Construction specializes in custom and single-family homes and takes pride in the quality of their product and developing client relationships. Biggerstaff Construction specializes in custom and single-family homes The company small; thus,ofprojects are closelyand managed and costs kept aligned and takes pride in isthe quality their product developing client with the client’ s budget. When constraints surface, the Biggerstaff team relationships. The company is small; thus, projects are closely managedsteps in quickly. teamwith excels coming budget. up with alternate solutions forsurface, finishes and costs kept“Our aligned theatclient’s When constraints that give theteam samesteps impression or feel“Our that ateam clientexcels wants,” at Jerad says, noting that the Biggerstaff in quickly. coming up with excavation costsfor canfinishes also quickly a budget. with or water, alternate solutions thatderail give the sameDealing impression feelclay thatand a a sloping landscape can be expensive and a good soils engineer is a requirement client wants,” Jerad says, noting that excavation costs can also quickly derailfor building in Bigwith Sky’s water, mountainous terrain. a budget. Dealing clay and a sloping landscape can be 130 Destination Big Sky 2015

Jerad has developed appreciation for all aspects of running for the family business. expensive and a an good soils engineer is a requirement building in Big Having grown up wearing a tool belt, he’ s worked in the business from excavation Sky’s mountainous terrain. to finished product, filling in wherever his dad needed help. After earning a degree business management and marketing at MSU, in to the Jeradinhas developed an appreciation for all aspectsheofstepped running therun family company when his father semi-retired. business. Having grown up wearing a tool belt, he’s worked in the business from excavation to finished product, filling in wherever his dad needed help. Biggerstaff has designed houses and commercial buildings After earning a degree in business management andthroughout marketingBig at Sky, MSU, he including Condominiums. steppedtheinArrowhead, to run the Hidden companyVillage whenand hisYellowstone father semi-retired. With the shifting economy, the company has seen an increase in remodeling projects. “Peoplehas who have postponed building their dream home are remodeling Biggerstaff designed houses and commercial buildings throughout existing spaces, ” Jerad says. addition, with the growing toward Big Sky, including the In Arrowhead, Hidden Villagemovement and Yellowstone energy efficiency, theWith company buildingeconomy, more Energy certified Condominiums. the isshifting the Star company hashomes. seen an Biggerstaff hasprojects. also expanded intowho the Bozeman area where the increaseConstruction in remodeling “People have postponed building construction industry has experienced a speedier recovery; however, they have their dream home are remodeling existing spaces,” Jerad says. In addition, nowith plansthe to leave Big Sky. “Our family has deep rootsefficiency, in the Big Sky growing movement toward energy thecommunity, company is” remarks Jerad, “andEnergy we’re here forcertified the long haul. ” Biggerstaff Construction has building more Star homes. also expanded into the Bozeman area where the construction industry has experienced a speedier recovery; however, they have no plans to leave Big Sky. “Our family has deep roots in the Big Sky community,” remarks Jerad, “and we’re here for the long haul.” n

BELZ MOONLCGHT SKI CHATEAU BELZ MOONLCGHT SKI CHATEAU

Sensible opulence only begins to describe this exquisitely designed custom home ideally located in the High Camp of Moonlight Sensible opulence only begins describe and this dramatic exquisitelydesign, designed thehas High Camp ofunimpeded Moonlight Basin. With unparalleled privacy,tocharacter this custom slopesidehome homeideally on a located forestedinlot spectacular Basin. With unparalleled character and dramatic slopeside onheated a forested lot hastospectacular unimpeded views in every direction. privacy, Upon driving through a private design, gatewaythis entrance andhome up the driveway the noble south facing views in every direction. Upon driving through a private gateway entrance and up the heated driveway to the noble south facing front entrance, its appeal is immediate. The famed Suzanne Dahl’s selection of exquisite finishes combined with elegant architectural front entrance, its spacious appeal isand immediate. The famed Suzanne Dahl’s selection of exquisite finishes combined with elegant architectural design and layout, private interior, as well as ample living areas add further to the distinct mountain charm of this home. design and layout, spacious and private interior, as well as ample living areas add further to the distinct mountain charm of this home. This is the home for Big Sky’s most discerning buyer and affords a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the true ski enthusiast. This isatthe home for Big Sky’s most buyer and affords a once-in-a-lifetime true| ski enthusiast. Offered $18,000,000 | 17,000+/Sq.discerning Ft | 5 Bedrooms + Guest Quarters | 9 Baths | Skiopportunity to Moonlightfor& the Big Sky Web ID:190248 Offered at $18,000,000 | 17,000+/- Sq. Ft | 5 Bedrooms + Guest Quarters | 9 Baths | Ski to Moonlight & Big Sky | Web ID:190248

PRIVATE PRIVATE SKIING SKIING

ARTISTRY ARTISTRY JEFF HELMS

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BIG SKY: 406.539.0121

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LUXURY LUXURY BIGSKYSIR.COM

® JEFF HELMS 406.539.0121 BIGSKYSIR.COM Sotheby’s International Realty is a registered trademarkBIG licensedSKY: to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

Destination Big Sky 2015 131

Sotheby’s International Realty ® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

132 Destination Big Sky 2015