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Big Sky

Big Sky’s Locally Owned & Published Newspaper

January 7, 2011 Volume 2 // Issue #1

Hockey debuts in Big Sky Dawson Case Raden & Brady Hobby skate at the new Big Sky Hockey Arena Photo // Eric Ladd

Tips and Tales from Big Sky Snow Sports BYEP in 10th year of service to youth

Local food from Gallatin Valley Botanical explorebigsky.com

Big Sky January 7, 2011 Volume 2, Issue #1

Big Sky Weekly

“Soldiers Chapel” December 31, 2010 Photo by Eric Ladd

H appy N e w Y ear

f r o m t h e o u t l aw pa r t n e r s

2011

CEO, PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Eric Ladd COO & SENIOR EDITOR Megan Paulson CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mike Martins MANAGING EDITOR Emily Stifler GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kelsey Dzintars ASSISTANT EDITOR Abigail Digel Sales Director Hunter Rothwell Distribution Director Danielle Chamberlain VIDEOGRAPHER Brian Niles CONTRIBUTors

Editorial Policy Outlaw Partners LLC is the sole owner of The Big Sky Weekly. No part of this publication may be reprinted without written permission from the publisher. The Big Sky Weekly reserves the right to edit all submitted material for content, corrections or length. Printed material reflects the opinion of the author and is not necessarily the opinion of Outlaw Partners or the editors of this publication. No advertisements, columns, letters to the editor or other information will be published that contain discrimination based on sex, age, race, religion, creed, nationality, sexual preference, or are in bad taste.

Paper Distribution Distributed every other Friday in towns across Southwest Montana, including Big Sky, Bozeman, West Yellowstone, Three Forks and Livingston.

CORRECTIONS The Big Sky Weekly runs corrections to errors we’ve printed. Please report them to emily@theoutlawpartners.com OUTLAW PARTNERS & THE BIG SKY WEEKLY P.O. Box 160250 Big Sky, MT 59716 ExploreBigSky.com (406) 995-2055 media@theoutlawpartners.com © 2010 The Big Sky Weekly Unauthorized reproduction prohibited

2 January 7, 2011

Mountain Outlaw Magazine is Hot off the Press

Mountain

The Outlaw Partners’ inaugural issue of Mountain Outlaw magazine covers “life and land” in Southwest Montana. The bi-annual publication has spectacular images, a hip layout and in-depth articles about a range of topics from community to tourism across the region.

In each of the articles, real Montanans talk about their lives. Through ranching, music, ski mountaineering, solar

installation and snowmobiling, their stories make it clear that community and sense of place are important to all who live here.

Mountain Outlaw has one of the largest regional magazine publications in Montana, with extensive direct mail list and placement in 25 cities. For a subscription, please call the Outlaw Partners’ office at (406) 995-2055.

wintEr 2011

Exploring lifE & land in SouthwESt Montana

into thE

photo by eric berger

Rebecca Baker, Sara Hoovler, Brian Hurlbut, Dave Granger, Brenna Kelleher, Sam Magro, John Milich, Mauray Miller, Twila Moon, Ciche Pitcher, Neil & Company CPAs, Brandon Niles, David Nolt, Greg Pack, Rikshots Photography, Shawn Robertson, Eric Ross, Matt Rothschiller, Scotty Savage, Greer Schott, Katie Smith

Great White Open MurdEr at boiling rivEr featured town: West yellOWstOne

theperfect spot explorebigsky.com

advicE // “Skiing will be good tomorrow. You Should call in Sick.”

New Year Brings Hope The new year brings hope for a full recovery by one of our newest residents. Sarah and Jonathan Heames announced the birth of their son, Finn, in November. One month later, their baby was diagnosed with group B strep bacterial meningitis. After spending a week in ICU in Bozeman, Finn was transferred to the Children’s Hospital in Seattle. The Heames spent the holidays together in WA and hope to return to MT this month.

They received the best gift of all this year, positive test results that little Finn is beating the infection. Sarah and Jonathan have been members of the West Yellowstone, Island Park, and Big Sky communities for many years. Jonathan is a fly fishing guide for the Trouthunter in Island Park and Sarah is the assistant manager at the Henry’s Fork Lodge. Sarah and Jonathan own a home on the Horse Butte, and are eager to return.

The Big Sky Rotary Club would like to thank the Big Sky community for the overwhelming support of the Christmas Giving Tree project. With your support, we were able to help more than double the number of families this year and we know many children had a Christmas to remember. Thank you again for your support of this Christmas project and all the Big Sky Rotary Club Projects.

The Heames feel lucky to be able to stay at the Ronald McDonald house, which is next to the hospital, while they are so far from home. Please keep Sarah, Jonathan and Finn in your hearts as they continue down the road to a full recovery.

Thank you for your kindness, Friends & Family of Sarah, Jonathan, and Finn Heames

Letters to the Editor Please include: first and last name, address, phone number and title. Send letters to emily@theoutlawpartners.com

Big Sky Weekly

Big Sky Resort Beaverhead Condo

Yellowstone Club Sunrise Ridge Condo

Meadow Village Horse Property

Moonlight Basin Saddle Ridge

The Club at Spanish Peaks Settlement Cabin

BIG SKY COUNTRY. WE LIVE HERE. WE WORK HERE. WE PLAY HERE.

THIS IS OUR WORLD.

We can help you realize your investment goals by offering unrivaled access to qualified people and distinctive properties within Big Sky, Montana and around the world.

Proudly serving buyers and sellers in Big Sky, Yellowstone Club, Moonlight Basin, and the Club at Spanish Peaks

Big Sky Sotheby’s International Realty 19 Meadow Village Drive, Big Sky, MT 59716 406.995.2211 info@bigskysothebysrealty.com biskysothebysrealty.com January 7, 2011 3

Big Sky Weekly

community Slope Angler, First Security Bank, Eye in the Sky Photography, and Trailhead Pizza.

A.D.

LPHS Boys’ Basketball

(All games are at 5 p.m. unless stated otherwise)

1/11 vs. Gallatin Valley Home School @ LPHS 1/13 vs. Mt. Ellis @ LPHS 1/18 vs. Harrison @LPHS 1/20 @ Mt. Ellis 6:30 pm 1/24 @ Harrison 6:30 pm 1/31 @ Manhattan Christian 4:00

Fifth Graders Learn Fiscal Responsibility Fifth grade students at Ophir are learning to be fiscally responsible through an economic system designed by their teacher, Dave Neal.

Neal believes his system, which he developed from his masters teaching program, is one of the most valuable lessons of his students’ elementary school experience. Through Neal’s system, classroom desks are rental property, and students don’t quite make the cut when it comes to their monthly bills. They must interview and provide references for salaried positions of varied responsibility.

Students can earn “bonus money” by excelling in attendance, grades, and civic responsibility. The possibility of eviction from their desk “homes” exists, where they are forced to use a clipboard until they get “bailed out” by another student, or make enough money to pay rent.

“Understanding economic responsibility is a valuable skill for anyone growing up, and because we do it with so much laughter and fun involved, the student’s don’t even realize at the moment what a great learning experience it actually is.”

Every month, the students can purchase items donated from local sponsors in an auction, depending on how much disposable income, or “Neal Bucks,” they have leftover. Local sponsors include: Big Sky Resort, Big Sky Build, Highline Partners, Conoco, Grizzly Outfitters, Geyser Whitewater, The Wrap Shack, Cinnamon Lodge, Blue Moon Bakery, 320 Ranch, The Gourmet Gals, True Value, La Luna, Hungry Moose, East

4 January 7, 2011

High Energy at the First Annual Pavelich Invitational First hockey game in Big Sky in over two decades

By Rebecca Baker The sun shone on the brand new sheet of ice in Big Sky on January 1.

The temperatures were in the single digits, but that didn’t stop over 25 hockey players playing in the inaugural game for the Big Sky Skating and Hockey Association (BSSHA) and Alpine Ice Rink at Town Center.

The ice looked pristine in the afternoon sun, and with Lone Peak and the surrounding mountains looming in the background, it was a great setting for the First Annual Pavelich Invitational hockey game.

The Rotherham Construction warming hut was packed with excited players getting ready for the game, many who were lacing up their skates for the first time this winter (one for the first time in 10 years!) to play in the Invitational. Other players had skated together previously, and all were anxious to step onto the Alpine Ice Rink for the first time.

The teams were made up of players from Big Sky and Bozeman, and they were invited due to their

contributions to hockey in the area, both past and present.

After a brief warm-up, the teams lined up for the National Anthems – both the United States’ and Canadian National Anthem, in keeping with hockey traditions, were performed beautifully by Carmen Wooldridge and renowned musician Jim Salestrom, respectively. Former Detroit Red Wings and four-time Stanley Cup Winner, Marty Pavelich was on hand to drop the puck for the ceremonial face-off.

Pavelich stayed to watch the game and cheer on the players, and was as excited as the skaters to see hockey played in Big Sky for the first time in 23 years.

Taking the ceremonial face-off were BSSHA board members Griffin Kilby and Ryan Blechta, both of whom spent many nights at the rink building the ice and ensuring it was ready for the New Year’s Day event.

Kilby opened the scoring for the black team with a goal early in the first period. There was no scoreboard and no referees, only a timekeeper, and the players kept track of the score. The game was played “shinny” style, an informal way to play the game without referees, which many had played on backyard ponds growing up.

The black team scored two more goals before the white team responded, and the black team went on the win the game 15-12, taking the first annual Pavelich Cup. After the game, the festivities continued with food from the Hungry Mexican, open skate and music until sundown.

December 29th Bridge Results 1st- Lynne Malpeli 2nd- Melissa Martin Sacajewea- Carrie Scott

Big Sky Fire Department CPR Classes are offered by appointment as needed at a nominal charge.

Please call Station 1 at 995-2100 to arrange for a class.

12/25 – 13:22-16:50 - EMS personnel responded to Big Sky Ski Patrol. Patient received ALS care and was transported to BDH. 12/26 – 10:28-14:15 - EMS personnel responded to Big Sky Ski Patrol. Patient received BLS care and was transported to BDH. 12/26 – 12:43-13:03 – Fire personnel responded to a Dumpster Fire. The fire was extinguished and no structures were affected.

12/26 – 20:48-23:55 – Fire and EMS personnel responded to a Vehicle Rollover on Hwy 191.

Patient received BLS care and was transported to BDH. 12/27 - 08:06-11:14 – EMS personnel responded.

Patient received ALS care and was transported to BDH. 12/27 –10:56-14:45- EMS personnel responded to Big Sky Ski Patrol. Patient received ALS care and was transported to BDH. 12/28 – 04:35-04:45 – Fire and EMS personnel responded to a Vehicle Accident on Hwy 191.

No damage and no injuries were found.

12/28 – 09:35-11:35 – EMS personnel responded. Patient received BLS care and was transported to BDH. 12/28 – 19:51-20:50 – EMS personnel responded. Patient received BLS care and refused transport.

12/28 – 21:09-21:27 – Fire personnel responded to a Fire Alarm and were cancelled while enroute.

12/28 – 21:43-00:34 – EMS personnel responded. Patient received BLS care and was transported to BDH. 12/29 – 06:00-10:40 – EMS personnel responded. Patient received ALS care and was transported to BDH. 12/29 – 13:59-14:58 – EMS personnel responded to Big Sky Ski Patrol. Patient received BLS care and refused transport.

12/29 – 14:59-19:00 – EMS personnel responded to Big Sky Ski Patrol. Patient received ALS care and was transported to BDH. 12/29 – 19:26-19:50 – Fire personnel responded to an Activated Alarm. No hazard was found.

12/30 – 18:18-19:18 – EMS personnel responded. Patient received BLS care and refused transport.

12/31 – 04:23-06:00 – Fire personnel responded to a Fire Alarm. Conditions were mitigated and property turned over to property management.

12/31 – 04:25-05:20 – Fire personnel found an unresponsive dog in the snow bank. BLS treatment was given and an off duty paramedic transported dog to the vet in a private vehicle.

12/31 – 08:23-12:00 – EMS personnel responded. Patient received ALS care and was transported to BDH. 12/31 – 09:02-10:00 – Fire personnel responded to a CO Alarm. Conditions were mitigated and property turned over to owners.

12/31 -13:08-13:47 – EMS personnel responded to Moonlight Ski Patrol. Patient received BLS care and refused transport.

12/31 – 13:54-17:10- EMS personnel responded to Big Sky Ski Patrol. Patient received BLS care and was transported to BDH. 12/31 – 14:58-15:54 – EMS personnel were placed on stand-by to assist Search and Rescue with a lost skier out of bound at Big Sky Resort.

Individuals refused care and transport.

12/31 – 18:46-19:30 – EMS personnel responded. Patient received BLS care and refused transport.

Big Sky Weekly

local news

Committee Working to Amend Big Sky Zoning Regulations Planners encourage public to attend meetings On Monday January 4, five members of the Big Sky Zoning Advisory Committee, and two staff from the Gallatin County attorney’s office met in Big Sky to discuss ongoing text amendments in the district’s zoning. This group is working to develop a comprehensive package of amendments in to the Gallatin Canyon/Big Sky Zoning regulations.

The committee’s ultimate goal is to amend the current regulation and zoning. They are working to create new regulations on 17 different subjects that cover new and old issues, clarification of existing language, and a review of how regulation standards are working. The timeline for this project is ongoing; it will be complete, they say, when they have a consensus and then approval by the Gallatin County Planning and Zoning Commission (PNZ) in Bozeman.

The group is working to create “a well-written document that is enforceable,” says Big Sky Owners Association staff attorney, Mindy Nowakowski. “The text amendments are difficult to draft in a committee like this,” she adds.

The standards they’re tackling include lighting regulations, hillside and ridgeline development, signing regulations, and residentially zoned property for commercial events, short-term rentals and bed and breakfasts. The work they are doing is in Gallatin County and has no affect on the Madison County part of Big Sky.

New development and business must “conform to the character of the community,” says committee member Steve Johnson.

The committee’s other big project is updating the capital improvements and looking toward the future infrastructure needs of the community including fire, police, water and sewer.

“I’d like to get more public input,” says committee member and Town Center developer, Bill Simpkins. “We are trying to craft the best regulation we can.”

The group meets at 9:30 a.m. the first Monday of each month at the Water and Sewer building in the Meadow Village. E.S.

New OnMountain Dining at Big Sky Resort Grab a hot drink and a sandwich at Big Sky’s newest on-mountain dining location, the Black Kettle. This lunch establishment is located near the bottom of the Bowl, just uphill from the Lone Peak Triple chairlift loading station.

The Black Kettle serves coffee and other hot and cold drinks, pastries, and a variety of snack foods from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Lunches are served daily with a variety of soups, chili and bread on the menu. The Black Kettle offers a convenient walk-up service window for food on the go, and warm indoor seating with exceptional views of Lone Peak.

“Bringing the food service up to the big mountain skiers and riders in the Bowl is elevating the service level Big Sky prides itself on,” says Greer Schott, Public Relations Coordinator.

“What better way to complement the ski terrain than to offer quick, easy and delicious food for the powder glazed guests on the mountain. We couldn’t be more excited for this partnership this winter season.”

Arts Council of Big Sky Receives State Tourism Grant

time enjoying beautiful music in Big Sky.”

By Brian Hurlbut

“Hosting special events serves as an important catalyst to bringing visitors into our downtowns and main streets,” says Schwinden. “It is these 10 million annual visitors whose $2 billion in spending helps support our myriad of small Montana businesses.”

Big Sky has been chosen as one of four Montana communities to receive a total of $80,000 in grant funding from the Montana Office of Tourism’s Special Events Grant Program (SEGP), through the Montana Department of Commerce.

The Montana communities of Big Sky, Butte, Hardin and Trout Creek will use the SEGP funds to assist in the marketing and promotion of tourism-related events. Commerce Director Dore Schwinden approved the SEGP grant funding for the four Montana events following recommendations from Department of Commerce staff and representatives of Montana’s public and private businesses.

“Fairs, festivals and special events emphasize the character and heart of our Montana communities,” says Schwinden. “These grants help ensure that Montana’s communities have the resources available to draw travelers near and far to experience and enjoy our distinctive celebrations.”

The Arts Council of Big Sky applied for and received a $6,000 award for its upcoming Classical Music Festival in the summer of 2011. The three-day event will bring nationally recognized classical artists to Big Sky for a weekend of free music.

“We are extremely excited that Big Sky was selected from a distinguished group of applicants,” says Ginna Hermann, President of the Arts Council of Big Sky. “The Classical Music Festival will be a great event for Big Sky, and the grant will help us effectively market the festival and get people to spend

Other communities receiving 2011 SEGP award funding include Butte for the Montana Folk Festival ($50,000); Hardin for the Custer’s Last Stand Reenactment ($13,550); and Trout Creek for its Huckleberry Festival ($10,450).

The SEGP was developed in 2002 to assist communities with economic development through the creation and/or enhancement of new annual, on-going events. Grant funds are available for event marketing and promotion outside a 100-mile radius of the event. To date, the SEGP program has provided $657,500 in grant funding to 81 events in numerous Montana communities.

For more information on the Big Sky Classical Music Festival, contact the Arts Council of Big Sky at (406) 995-2742.

Country Market Supports Bozeman Warming Shelter Stop by the Country Market between now and Valentine’s Day and drop $5 into the Christmas stalking for a chance to win a $200 bottle of Fleur de Champagne. The donations support keeping a warming shelter open in Bozeman for people in need during the winter months.

Lynne Anderson from the Country Market encourages Big Sky community members to help keep this cause in motion. Winners will be announced on February 14th.

January 7, 2011 5

Big Sky Weekly

regional BYEP Launching 10th Year of Service to Local Youth

By Dave Granger

2010 witnessed the best year to date for Big Sky Youth Empowerment (BYEP). This local scholarshipbased mentoring organization offers creative programs for at-risk teenagers. Combining outdoor adventure and character education, BYEP seeks to decrease problem behaviors while providing a catalyst for youth to reach their potential.

During 2010, over 200 youth and 100 adults applied to the 17 seasonal mentoring programs. In addition to nine years of service in Belgrade and Bozeman, BYEP expanded to Big Sky, thanks to a generous grant from the Yellowstone Club Community Foundation. BYEP’s adventure-based group mentoring program is youthcentered, educational and thrilling.

The 2010 winter program granted scholarships to 54 youth partici-

pants–the largest cohort yet. 27 adult mentors and seven youth mentors (veteran youth ages 18 to 20) provided excellent guidance for nine groups of six youth. Once again, Big Sky Resort generously provided the optimal setting for empowerment through skiing and snowboarding. The summer program awarded scholarships to 48 local youth. Summer programs included indoor and outdoor rock climbing, whitewater rafting on the Yellowstone and Gallatin Rivers, a professionally guided day trip to Yellowstone National Park, and unparalleled high ropes challenges at the Yellowstone Club. All of the seasonal outdoor activities were bolstered by weekly workshops focused on the Character Education curriculum: teamwork and trust, identity and consumerism, effective communication, conflict resolution/healthy relationships, drug and alcohol education, sexual reproductive health and environmental/community stewardship drive the core competencies which expand participants’ knowledge and perspective.

The 2011 winter program launches January 10. This season, BYEP will again have the largest cohorts of youth participants (60), youth mentors (12) and adult mentors (28) to date. Two supervisors will assist the program director with weekend

adventures and weekly workshops on character education. It’s shaping up to be an awesome winter in Southwest Montana, and the collective enthusiasm in BYEP is palpable.

Check out BYEP at Big Sky Resort on February 5-6 for the 3rd Annual Billy Poole Memorial Collaboration. This event connects professional skiers and snowboarders including Julian Carr, Rachael Burkes, Drew Stoecklein and Jamie Pierre with BYEP groups for an incredibly inspirational weekend in celebration of the life of professional skier, Billy Poole.

Big Sky Youth Empowerment is extremely grateful for its volunteer mentors. During a 14-week program, BYEP mentors donate over 150 hours of volunteer service to local youth. The impact is profound. Please contact BYEP today at byep.org or by getting in touch with Founder and Executive Director, Pete MacFadyen, at (406) 539-0399 and pete@byep.org.

Dave Granger has been Program Director of Big Sky Youth Empowerment for four years.

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320 Ranch Saloon & Steakhouse is Lovin’ The Locals!

Monday Prime Rib Night Starts Monday, January 10th, 2011 Get Prime Rib EVERY Monday night!!

No reservations required $15 Prime Rib ~ 5pm - 8pm

3 For $30 Menu Request our 3 for $30 Menu to view the tantalizing options this menu offers; available every night

Two For One Wednesdays Buy one entree and get the second free when you order from the 320 Steakhouse Saloon Menu on Wednesday evenings.

The 320 Ranch is located at Mile Marker 36 on HWY 191 toward Yellowstone Park

406.995.4283 6 January 7, 2011

e

www.320ranch.com

Big Sky Weekly

i k S s é r p A

S R E T R A U

Q D A E H

• Daily drink specials • Live Music • 12 HDTVs • Amazing Food • 100 beers • 100 wines

OPEN MIC NIGHT - EVERY WEDNESDAY AT 9:30 P.M.

OPEN DAILY AT 11:30 A.M. LUNCH & DINNER

LOCATED IN THE BIG SKY TOWN CENTER big sky, montana 406-995-3830

January 7, 2011 7

Big Sky Weekly

word from the resorts Big Sky big sky

Winter is in full swing at Big Sky Resort, made official by last week’s snowstorm bringing in the season’s first big powder day. We rung in the new year with fireworks and music, and now we’re gearing up for our fun January events.

Operation “SAS” (Sports, Afield, and Stream) will bring wounded troops from around the country to Big Sky January 7-11. Join them for a dinner banquet on January 7 with Lee Greenwood, known for his CMA Song of the Year, “God Bless the USA,” as Master of Ceremonies at the Big Sky Resort Conference Center. Speakers at the event include Tim Medvetz, a seven summit mountaineer from Highway to Everest, Marc Hoffmeister, a team leader of Operation Denali and National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, and Sam Kavanagh, a world Paralympic cyclist ESPN recognized contender. All are welcome to attend, so please join Big Sky Resort on this fun-filled night in support of these heroes.

On January 14-16 come check out the exciting college race action of FIS-U held on Hangman’s.

We’re also excited to host the annual

Sno-Ball and Sno-Bar on January 15.

Join us from 12-4 p.m. in the plaza for fun children’s activities, a bounce house, ice carving, and other family fun, then book a babysitter and head out to the Sno-Bar. From 6-8 p.m. the 21+ crowd will rock out next to the Swift Current Lift at an outdoor bar and dance floor made of pure snow ($5 cover). Hit the Sno-Bar again January 22, same time and place for those of age.

Montana Appreciation Day, where guests will be able to show their instate driver’s license or college id and get a ticket for only $20.

Call Big Sky Resort for tickets and details: (406) 995-5000 See you on the slopes! bigskyresort.com -Greer Schott

Bridger Bowl

Moonlight Basin Big Sky

The skiing and riding over the last couple of weeks has been incredible. This new snow has made the Headwaters and the North Summit exceptional for this early in the season. The cold temps did have an impact on skier visitation over this last weekend, but the good news is our spa was busier than ever servicing those in need of indoor activities.

We look forward to thanking all of our Montana residents Friday at our

Sno Ball Snow Bar

This week Moonlight will also host another “Dreams Come True” family and have the opportunity to show them how fantastic, generous and special our community can be. moonlightbasin.com - Greg Pack

Bozeman

Happy 2011—Bridger has hit the 100” mark. Good news: the new Bridger chairlift is a hit, and with a few recent visits from the legendary Bridger Bowl Cloud, the resort’s loyal fans are still happy and many. Coming up in January, Bridger has a community race series and a three part telemark race series with a “mountaineering twist” (classic tele race, a timed hike up the Apron, off-piste Super G course). Bridger is also encouraging skiers to carpool: on January 14 and 21, the resort is offering $15 lift tickets for all carloads of three or more.

Don’t miss the free birthday cake on Bridger’s 56th birthday celebration, January 14. bridgerbowl.com

Lost Trail Conner

POWDER ALERT! It has snowed over 140 inches at Lost Trail already this year. They are closed Mon-Wed. Wanna float around in bottomless pow? Hit LT on a Thursday. Also, the Lost Trail Snow Sports School still has openings available on its Slopestyle team, which is part of the All-Mountain program. The freestyle team is open to skiers and boarders, and is designed to help riders refine skills on the mountain’s natural and terrain park features. losttrail.com

Discovery Phillipsburg

Saturday, January 15 & 22 in the Mountain Village Snoball: Noon to 4 pm

DJ, ice sculpting contest, ice skating and family activities in the base area.

Snobar: 6 to 8 pm

The party gets hot in the coolest bar in Montana! Big Sky Resort transforms the base area into a palace of ice and snow enclosing a bar, dance floor and DJ. Don’t miss the second Snobar on January 22nd!

Learn more at bigskyresort.com/events. facebook.com/bigskyresort

8 January 7, 2011

We have had a great Christmas season so far. The early snowfall this season has allowed us to get all of our terrain open, and the backside of the mountain is hosting some great skiing. We also have opened the new Silver Chief Lift and gotten a great response from our clientele. The mountain is in great shape and we are looking forward to the rest of the season. skidiscovery.com -Ciche Pitcher

Rendezvous Ski Trails West Yellowstone

The West Yellowstone Ski Education Foundation has an exciting January planned for area skiers. On January 9, 2011, WYSEF will host the second SPAM Race of the season.

Grab your skis and head to West Yellowstone for the 1K, 2K, 8K and 16K courses, mass start at 11 a.m. 1K, 2K, 8K will be Freestyle Technique. 16K will be a Pursuit Race. First lap classic technique, second lap freestyle technique. The clock stays running so be prepared to swap skis fast.

Moonlight ski on January 19. Join WYSEF board members for a fun ski under the stars. Meet at 6 p.m. at the trailhead building. Bundle up, and bring a headlamp if the clouds are out. Warm refreshments will be at the biathlon cabin.

In partnership with the USFS and the National Winter Trails Day, the trail fee will be waived for the Rendezvous Ski Trails on January 29.

WYSEF board members will offer FREE one-hour ski lessons to all those who are interested. First timers to weekend warriors! Skate and classic technique. Local ski shops will offer complimentary ski and snowshoe rentals on a first come/first served basis. Come out and enjoy the trails! rendezvousskitrails.com -Sara Hoovler

Bohart Ranch Bozeman

Sunday January 9 is the Subaru of Bozeman Nordic Fest at Bohart Ranch -- try Nordic skiing for FREE! Free lessons, with rentals and trail privileges at 10:00 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Reservations for lessons are required beginning January 3. Skate and Classic, kids and adults, beginners and intermediates welcomed. Call Bohart Ranch, 586-9070.

Limited registration fills quickly!

January 15-16 collegiate teams compete at the MSU Invitational. Come watch and cheer for the best in the West! Saturday interval start 5K and 10K skate races. Sunday mass start 15K and 20K classic races. Call (406) 994-4118 for information. Go Bobcats! bohartranchxcski.com

Big Sky Weekly

featured Resorts

Lone Mountain Ranch Big Sky

When skiing on the trails off of Yellow Mountain, a LMR pass is required as well as avalanche safety equipment, which is available for rent. Check out the nordic terrain park, built new for 2011.

Also, it’s time to start training for the Big Sky Nordic Ski Festival on March 6-13. Individual events are

The White Thunder Returns

to Maverick mountain

By David Nolt

$10, and it’s $99 to join the entire week of festivities including a race from Andesite to Lone Mountain on anything that slides.

“Our other goal is to generate more interest and enthusiasm for Nordic skiing among kids and families, and to really share how accessible, fun

and family oriented the sport is,” says Davis.

Proceeds support the Nordic programs of the Big Sky Ski Education Foundation. Stay tuned for more information. Contact: ncook@lmranch. com lmranch.com A.D.

Back to the skiing. Although Maverick only has one lift, it’s all she needs. There’s hardly ever a lift line, and with the amount of wide-open, uncrowded skiing, you’re more likely to retire to the lodge early to salve your wounds with an I.P.A. than to drag your weary ass to the last chair.

Relax. Have some homemade food. The skiing is still going to be great tomorrow. Hope to see you out there.

Snow Data

Aside from good terrain and exquisite views, the atmosphere at Mav is classic and void of any attitude you so often see elsewhere. No pretentiousness here. Just people happy to be out in the snow. Cowboys skiing in jeans. Carpeted walls. A day glow orange retro fireplace. I often wish I’d lived through the 70s. When I ski at Maverick, I capture just a taste of that sweet vibe.

90

Maverick’s friendly cast of characters is led by the ever-present, amicable owner Randy Schilling (look for the “Silver Fox” wearing a timeless, festive sweater).

Randy works hard to preserve the character of the mountain by keeping it affordable and non-commercial. He sets a great tone. Maverick strikes a refreshing balance of skiing attitudes; it’s totally family friendly, but its raucous skiers and snowboarders always assure all ages have a good time.

60

30

0

120

90

60

30

2010 87%

120

Lone Mountain

It is possible, even on weekends, to stop in the middle of a run and feel like you are the only skier on the mountain. Maverick’s 255 acres and 2,000 vertical feet are so under-skied, delicious pockets of untouched snow are almost always available.

150

Lone Mountain

150

2011 134%

% average SWE (snow water equivalent) as of January 1, 2011

2010 80%

Steady snows of two to six inches and more have stacked up nicely since photo by Rikshots Photography Halloween. Cold temperatures have kept the snow around, and with the latest storm’s pummeling, the skiing just went from good to ludicrous.

Maverick Mountain is open Thursdays through Sundays, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. skimaverick.com

SW Montana

La Niña has been good to Maverick Mountain.

Lord knows Maverick’s faithful earned it after last year’s thin offerings.

With nearly a 40-inch base, Maverick already has more snow than it had at any point last season.

115%

Davis says skiers should always have their pass visible, and should never walk on the carefully groomed trails.

Some trails are on private properties: 90 different landowners have agreed to allow the groomed trails on their land through a co-op effort, so please stay within the designated trail

signs. Remember that not all trails are dog friendly – Fido can only come along on trails south of the Spur Road, and please clean up after your pup.

Check with LMR for more information on dog friendly trails.

SW Montana 2011

Cross-country skiing is bigger than ever, and Herb Davis, the Director of Skiing and Activities at Lone Mountain Ranch, wants everyone to know.

It’s not too late to purchase a Lone Mountain Pass, which helps support the grooming of the 100 K trail system that runs through the area. Lone Mountain Ranch encourages community members to kick and push their way onto the professionally groomed trails by offering members of the Big Sky Homeowner’s Association season passes for $50, Chamber of Commerce members for $150, and volunteer ski patrollers can grab theirs at no cost.

0

January 7, 2011 9

Big Sky Weekly

415 Windy Pass Trail

Welcome,

• Big Sky, MT 59716

• (406) 995-4811

The sun has long sin ce set, and the rosy g low on Lone Mounta a smoldering purple in is giving way to as I sink into my clu b ch air and gather my th this letter. A fresh sn oughts to write owfall blanketed the sk i sl o p sounds are the crack es yesterday, and the le of seasoned pine o only audible n the fire and the occ I tip my glass. If it’s asional clink of ice as true that how we spen d an afternoon is ho then our place of retr w we spend our lives eat – our shelter – su , re ly must reflect that wh hold most dear. ich we value and For me, living in a lo g home is about mo re than the romance beauty of artistry in of living simply or th wood. It is about ap e p re ci ating where I am an I got here. These wal d recognizing how ls were trees that wer e hand-scribed by so and appreciated ever meone who recogniz y curve, every knot. ed Th er e is a tradition of craf in every stone detail, tsmanship visible in the ubiquitous jo inery and in the way into one another seam that the rooms flow lessly. Day or night, th e amber hue of the log room, creating a rad s illuminates the iance that only Moth er Nature can duplica dwell at the edge of te. I have chosen to a forest underneath th e b ig sky. My home, my w that decision every d alls, reinforce ay. And I am gratefu l.

Perhaps my own bia s for log comes from years of enjoying the of my own home. O solitude and artistry r maybe it is my life lo n g p assion to handcraft h properties. Either way eirloom , the fire is roaring. Th e beverage is poured here ... come see for . You are welcome yourself.

Your lot or ours—w e’ll transform the dre am Chad Rothacher

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Owner Representation • www.rmrgroup.net • General Contracting 10 January 7, 2011

Big Sky Weekly

montana

GM and Stillwater Mining Company have New Contract

“This decision means more good jobs in Montana and a stronger future for Stillwater Mine, for the folks who work there, and for the communities that benefit from it.”

-Senator Jon Tester

By Emily Stifler In December 2010, General Motors (GM) announced a new three-year contract to resume buying palladium from Montana’s Stillwater Mining Company (SMC). The Billings, Montana-based mining company’s original ten-year contract with GM, began in 1998. When GM declared bankruptcy in mid-2009, SMC lost that contract.

at Stillwater Mining Company, John Beaudry. “What happened with the price of metals corresponded with the employment.”

In the end of 2008, when the value of platinum and palladium dropped by two-thirds, Stillwater, which then had just over 1700 employees, laid off nearly 300 employees. Over the next couple years, SMC reduced to 1300 between its three sites. Mine workers in the surrounding counties—Park, Sweet Grass, Stillwater, Carbon and Yellowstone—were hit hard.

“It just makes sense for GM to get back in the business of buying from American companies, because American taxpayers saved GM,” states Montana Senator Jon Tester. “This decision means more good jobs in Montana and a stronger future for Stillwater Mine, for the folks who work there, and for the communities that benefit from it.”

“Losing the GM contract was not the driving factor [behind the layoffs],” says Public Affairs Manager

Since metal prices recovered in 2010, Beaudry says the company has been hiring again. The new GM contract will also benefit the company.

Mining history in the Stillwater area began in the late 19th century with copper-nickel exploration. The palladium rich J-M Reef was discovered in

the 1970s, and underground mining commenced in 1986. Since 1998, the Stillwater Mine has produced over 400,000 ounces of palladium and platinum each year. Today, the company’s mining operations are near the town of Nye and at the East Boulder Mine South of McLeod. SMC also operates a smelter, refinery and laboratory in Columbus.

“Now, the market for catalytic converters, which is part of clean air technology, is expanding world wide,” says Beaudry. Platinum group metals are also used for fuel cells, hydrogen purification, electronics, jewelry, dentistry, medicine, water treatment and coins. The Stillwater mine has publicly reported proven reserves of these minerals.

Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol “SWC”. The AP in Helena reported Russia’s Norilsk Nickel sold its stake in SMC this month for around $900 million.

Three new national policies are affecting SMC and its employees.

The Diesel Emission Reducion Act (DERA) provides funding for state and local governments to retrofit diesel equipments, which, Beaudry says, “has benefits for cleaner air and creates additional demands for our metals.” Congress recently extended and made retroactive the tax incentive for biodiesel fuel. SMC is thought to be the largest user of biodiesel in Montana. And at the urging of Montana Representative Rehberg, Congress recently passed a palladium coin bill.

The company’s common stock is publicly traded on the New York

helping owners of rental properties enjoy a pleasant, hassle-free and rewarding second home ownership since 1999.

East West considers the relationship with our Big Sky and Moonlight Basin homeowners a partnership. We’ll work together to maintain and improve the condition of your Big Sky/ Moonlight property and its rental performance.

e a s t w e s t bi g s k y. c o m | 8 7 7 . 5 1 2 . 9 7 9 4 January 7, 2011 11

Big Sky Weekly

12 January 7, 2011

Big Sky Weekly

sustainable living

Disposable Society

By Eric Ladd With the holidays over, we now look toward a new year full of ideas, excitement and hope. This holiday season I caught myself staring at the pile of waste created from all the gifts and stuff we shower ourselves with—most of which is plastic. We are becoming a disposable society: single use razors, single use water bottles, single use snacks and incomprehensible amounts of packaging with almost every item we consume.

What happens to all that plastic?

Try to absorb this: •

Americans consume 2 MILLION plastic beverage bottles every 5 minutes.

•

Americans use 380 billion plastic shopping bags each year.

•

The average consumer spends over $600/yr on bottled water, or $40,000 in a lifetime.

•

It takes 1,000 years for a plastic grocery bag to break down in a landfill.

•

If every resident in Gallatin and Madison County consumed one less plastic bottle per week, this would equate to 4.8 MILLION plastic bottles per year not going into a landfill or the ocean.

•

There is a mass of plastic five times the size of Texas floating in the ocean.

•

It takes 430,000 gallons of oil to produce 100 million plastic bags.

More plastic consumption = more oil consumption

•

It’s estimated that 1 to 2 percent of all plastic is currently recycled.

These are not facts we can ignore. We have the luxury of being in Montana where the air, water and land is relatively clean, but this can all change if we continue to live self-centered lives of high consumption and don’t take action.

Plastic is an easy one to solve: reduce consumption and recycle. If you use fewer bottles, companies will make fewer bottles. If you recycle plastic it won’t go into a landfill or an ocean.

Use a cloth shopping bag. Change your habits. DO SOMETHING. Let’s work to make our society less disposable.

1

Avoid products that use plastic: Plastic is convenient, but most of the cheaper grades (the clear stuff) find its way into our food, often leaving a film on anything that is wrapped in it and which we then eat. Microwaving anything in plastic cooks plastic residues right into the food, vaporizing other chemicals that contaminate the food and air.

Consider the amount of sheer waste a single meal or serving produces (Kraft Singles is second to Individually Wrapped Breaths of Air ™ in the Most Wasteful Products Award).

2

Kick the bottle: High on the list of most wasteful products is Individually Wrapped Drinks of Water, a lingering 1990’s fad for those pretending to be health conscious.

Corporations are taking over town aquifers and selling it back to the people for $2 per bottle. Shipping one bottle of water costs on average 1/3 bottle of fuel. It is best to filter or distill your own water and use metal or glass containers. Companies like Klean Kanteen make trendy reusable water containers of high-grade metal or plastic. Opt for tap water with lemon in restaurants and remember to request no straw with your drink.

3

Recycle or reuse materials: Plastic can be recycled. You’ll even save money on trash bags. Many food containers can also be washed out and reused.

4

Choose products with biodegradable plastic: Companies like Ecosafe and Natur-Tec are providing real solutions to the plastic problem by making products like biodegradable plastic cups, packaging peanuts and other supplies.

5

Repair, sell or upgrade gadgets: Many people run out and buy the latest new cell phone or iPod more often than necessary. Old electronic devices add to landfills and leak contaminants like mercury. Meanwhile, older components, while larger, are often superior, as they tend to be constructed of more solid materials.

By repairing your items, you can keep things in good shape longer. Tackle small problems when they arise.

Take the time to fix things right. Buy used products when possible and sell yours when you’re done with them.

Choose products that offer replacement parts.

6

Recycle computer parts: When you do discard items like monitors or printers, take them to an electronics recycler. Staples accepts old monitors and other devices for a small fee.

7

Use cloth grocery bags: Some shoppers individually wrap each type of vegetable. Instead, use as few bags as possible, then reuse those, and recycle them when they tear.

8

Sweat the small stuff: The worst pieces of plastic are the tiny bits.

These are the ones that birds, turtles and fish mistake for food and eat and then can’t pass them. Eventually these animals become full of plastic and die of starvation or are consumed by larger animals. After they die, the plastic is the only part that is left behind, where it kills again.

9

Don’t be a litterbug: Many people think if they don’t litter, they will be putting the garbage man out of a job. Some people chuck used car batteries (full of sulfuric acid) into the woods behind their home. This debris will

persist for decades. In 1970s TW commercials, Woodsy Owl reminded us, “give a hoot, don’t pollute.” In today’s corporate-controlled media, the best we get is talk about the Carbon Tax. Even the threat of Nuclear War is brushed aside in favor of the War on Drugs, the War on Terror and the War on Manners.

10

Clean up your neighborhood ponds: Many neighborhoods have small ponds containing water that is cleaner than their municipal tap water. These ponds are often teeming with fish and turtles that help keep them pure. However, these ponds (and wildlife) are normally loaded with plastic debris. By taking 15 minutes each week, one person can help clean up his or her neighborhood.

Provided by thegoodhuman.com

January 7, 2011 13

Big Sky Weekly

PEAKS CENTRE BUILDING 175 Aspen Leaf Drive, Big Sky, MT Office / Retail Suites – Available for Sale or Lease

~Between the Fire Station & the Hungry Moose Market ~ This is the perfect opportunity to move your business to the Big Sky Town Center or start a new business.

Shared parking with the Hungry Moose Market will allow tenants to have built‐in exposure from the busiest place in Big Sky Town Center!

Ground Floor

Suite A

Suite B

Suite C

Size 1,826 square feet 1,266 square feet 1,735 square feet (RENTED)

2nd Floor Suite D Suite E Suite F

Size 1,974 square feet 1,292 square feet (SOLD) 1,965 square feet

Price and terms very negotiable. Owner is in a position to make a business succeed.

For more information, please contact: Exclusive Agent, Tim Ryan / Ryan Properties – TRyan@3rivers.net ~ (PH) 995‐4455 or Owner, Sam Sammis ~ (PH) 802‐522‐8500

S R E L L SE d e t n a W BUYERS 304 & 305 LOOKING FOR GLACIER / YELLOWSTONE / SILVERBOW CONDO. 2 couples, one from Wisconsin and another from SD looking to relocate to Big Sky. ONE BUYER CLOSED

BUYER 003 LOOKING FOR 3 TO 4 BEDROOM HOME IN MEADOW, CANYON, GATEWAY. Couple from Bozeman looking to be closer to Big Sky, pre-qualified and ready to buy.

NEGOTIATIONS PENDING

BUYER 102 LOOKING FOR DIAMOND HITCH HOME. Older couple from Florida, ready for a family vacation ski-in/ski-out home at a great price.

NEW BUYER 200 LOOKING FOR 4 BEDROOM BUILT PRODUCT UNDER $500K. Newlyweds relocating to Big Sky need immediate occupancy. Quick closing.

NEW BUYER 058 WANTS A GROUND FLOOR HILL CONDO. Cash buyer. No contingencies. Quick closing. $55.

BUYER 210 LOOKING FOR 1,000+ SQ.FT. UNDER $300K W/GARAGE. Young, working family ready to step on the real estate ladder. Pre-qualified.

WANNA BUY IN BIG SKY? WE’LL MARKET YOU. IT’S NEW AND IT WORKS. R E G I S T E R TO D AY.

14 January 7, 2011

RYAN KULESZA | BROKER Ryan@RiversToPeaks.com

406.539.4666

TALLIE JAMISON | ASSOCIATE Tallie@RiversToPeaks.com

406.600.8081

obituary

DR YSDALE M CLE AN W IL LETT

Gone Fishing Philip Earl Hoberecht passed away on December 17, 2010, surrounded by his family and his faithful pet Dirk.

Phil was born October 12, 1927 in Lakewood, Ohio to Leslie and Jessie Hoberecht. He was raised in Lakewood, where he graduated from Lakewood High School.

Before Phil was eight years old, his uncle John put a fishing pole in his hands. It was his favorite pastime ever since. Rocky River was in his backyard, and he spent all his free time fishing and enjoying the wildlife—he even raised a baby raccoon.

He told many wonderful stories about “Tuffy” the raccoon over the years.

Phil attended Syracuse University and then the University of Missouri, majoring in Agriculture with a minor in Fisheries. Upon graduation, he attended Officer Candidate School then entered the Air Force as a 1st Lieutenant. Two weeks after his commissioning, on September 29, 1951, he married Barbara Anne Tomey of Lakewood, Ohio. They then began their odyssey in the military.

Phil and Barbara were first stationed at Lowry A.F. Base in Denver Colorado, allowing them to continue to spend every free moment exploring and fishing. Lt. Hoberecht spent a short time at Yorktown, Virginia, training at the Indian School of Mines learning the fine art of underwater explosive defusing. Phil then headed off to Korea with a permanent station at Misawa, Japan as an Explosion Ordinance Officer, leaving his pregnant wife behind in Cleveland, Ohio. After the birth of their first child on April 16, 1953, Barbara and their wee daughter Christy joined Phil in Japan.

Two years later, they returned to Wright Paterson A.F.B. in Dayton, Ohio. On June 2, 1955 their second child, a son, Kim, joined them. Next stop, Hill A.F.B. in Ogden, Utah, where another son, David, was born on May 3, 1957. Phil and the family moved to Tachikawa, Japan in the summer of the year David was born.

Three years later they returned to the U.S. where Phil taught ROTC at University of Wisconsin at Superior. While there, Phil and Barbara’s youngest child, Todd, was born on December 19, 1961.

Four years later, Phil was sent on a remote assignment for a year in Turkey, leaving the family behind in Wisconsin. A year later, Barbara and the four children joined Phil in Germany, where they lived for a year and a half

before moving to Aviano A.F.B., Italy for another two and a half years.

Returning to the U.S., Phil retired from the Air Force and settled the family in Boulder, Colorado. Still wanting to fish new streams, the family headed to Snowmass, Colorado, and then found their way further north to the rivers of Montana.

In Montana, Phil taught AARP drivers’ ed classes for senior citizens for many years, and also helped with income taxes at the Senior Center. As a member of American Legion Post at Big Sky, he helped put up the white crosses on Highway 191. Yearly, he and the vets added new paint and flags to the old crosses for Memorial Day. Phil was a member of Big Sky Christian Fellowship and Peregrinatio Church in Bozeman, where his son Todd was Pastor.

He is survived by his beloved wife Barbara, daughter Christy (John) Gervers of Santa Fe, New Mexico; son Kim (Suzy) Hoberecht of Bozeman, David (Laura) Hoberecht of Seattle, Washington; and son Todd (former wife Kathleen) Hoberecht of Bozeman. Also, eight grandchildren: Michelle (Boston, MA); Erin (Albuquerque, NM); Arman and Anzhela (Bozeman); Jackson and Leif (Seattle, WA); Corinne (Ryan) Todd and Adam (Bozeman). He is also survived by his only brother Leslie Wilson (Lois) Hoberecht, and two nephews, Mark and Bart Hoberecht. He was preceded in death by his mother Jessie Hoberecht and father Leslie Hoberecht, two aunts and two uncles.

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Phil loved Montana and living on the great fishing river of the Gallatin for 31 years. He would walk out the back door and get the night’s dinner; a fisherman’s dream come true. The last stop on his long journey of life ended here in “God’s Country,” with a humble little house in the Gallatin Canyon.

According to Phil’s wishes he has been cremated and his ashes will be scattered in the streams surrounding his home for his last journey as a fisherman with his beloved friends—his fish.

I N T H E M O U N TA I N M A L L

B I G S K Y, M O N T A N A

406-995-3210

Phil’s memorial was held Wednesday, December 29 at 1 p.m. at the Soldiers Chapel in Big Sky, Montana.

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Big Sky Weekly

A Prayer for Snow photo and poem By John E Milich If I could piece together all The fallen snowflakes I could build the perfect Picture of God Not the God of the Church Nor man But God as God must be Crystal Perfection shot through a Prism of chaos a full spectrum Of Love and Light so perfect It appears crystalline white Man is a shadow Of God reflected onto a Mountain of clouds A source of light so vast As to be beyond the Boundaries Of imagination If I could piece all The snowflakes together With all the human hearts I could build the perfect Picture of the perfect world Crystalline Perfection

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-Amen and powder to the people

Count Your Blessings

By Mauray Miller Have you ever wondered why you were born into your particular family? Adopted by the parents who did so? Wondered why you were so blessed to be born in the United States or able to immigrate to this land of plenty? What about being born into this place and time? Why weren’t you born 900 years ago in 1111? If you were, you could be freezing in a log or skin hut, cooking outside over a fire pit, wearing fur that has not been washed in years, walking wherever you went, with no grocery stores or cell phones, and never straying more than a few miles from home. As for me, I probably would have been dead at age 10 from pneumonia, or walking with a bad limp from a broken leg. I often think of the endless possibilities of ‘what if’?

“Count your blessings” is an old phrase. The words blessings and thanksgiving are printed 136 times in the Bible, well back into the Old Testament. If people had reason to feel blessed in 1000 B.C., how much more do we have to be thankful for today?

As I drove Gallatin Canyon from Big

Sky to Bozeman after Christmas, I felt blessed, both materially and ethereally: thankful for family, friends, faith and for snow, for not snowing while I drove the canyon, for wild animals (moose recently devouring nice landscaping in the meadow village), no wild animals on the road, a car to drive the 40 miles to town instead of walking, skiing or wagon ride, and for all the things we take for granted like washing machines and dryers, (boot dryers no less), ovens, stoves, central heating, groceries stores that stay open on Christmas day for the items we forgot or because we are just getting into town… and so on.

So, for those of you recovering from the holiday doldrums, thinking about taxes, or just with the winter blues, please take a moment to ask yourself: what are your blessings?

Mauray Miller has lived in Yellowstone National Park and the greater Yellowstone area since 1972. She raised a family here, and has worked as a nurse and a greenhouse gardener.

She lives in Gardiner, Montana and loves the outdoors. photo by Eric Ross

January 7, 2011 Volume 2 // Issue #1

gallery

Big Sky

Twila Moon Wild Bear Buckles Originally from Colorado, Twila Moon shares her time between Big Sky and Seattle. In Big Sky, she lives with her husband Chris Moon, a big sky fireman, her dog Tio, and Kitty Greenpaw, who is not to be messed with. In Seattle, she is completing her PhD in glaciology at the University of Washington. A mountain girl at heart, Twila loves being home in Big Sky. My parents called me “wild bear” when I was growing up. I was wild and independent and liked to explore the woods. I thought that was a perfect name for a business, because I think of my buckles as playful and free-spirited.

Chris and I moved to Big Sky about three and a half years ago. We moved there because I got a job work-

ing for the Big Sky Institute when they opened an office in Big Sky. I started the PhD program at the University of Washington last January.

Twila’s buckles are pewter, 2.5” x 3.25”, and have a hard They are on the quarter clear coating to take a beating. She has a variety of unique system, so I’m in Seattle in designs and can also make special order buckles. The buckfall and spring, and in Big les fit 1.5” and 1.75” belts. They are available at Made in Big Sky summer and winter.

Sky. wildbearbuckles.blogspot.com I study earth science and glaciology, mostly the Greenland ice sheet. I went to Greenland in I fill the blanks with whatever I like—collage, single 2006, and I expect to go there again. Hopefully I’ll images, fabrics—then it takes a couple kinds of glue get to go to Antarctica for a field season, too. coatings, and then I cover it with a hard resin that takes a couple of days to dry. I’m still playing with I quilt and sew and images. I like natural designs and ones that are fun for make cards. I also the ski crowd, but I make a wide variety. still make jewelry, like for Chris’s sisters’ weddings.

Belt buckles are my accessory of choice.

The pewter back part of the belt buckles with the hook and the rim are called blanks.

I order them from a little company in Ohio. They’re solid and have weight to them. Hooks on belt buckle blanks are not created equal, and I really like these.

I had seen similar belts from Little Green Things a while ago, and I thought they were so cool. She tends to stick with vintage images from old books and magazines for her belts.

Big Sky is a nice place to start a little business and sell things to tourists and people in the community.

There is a core group of people making arts and crafts here, and I really like that. It makes me feel like it’s not a really big step to start a business, and not overwhelming.

I’m getting new belts that are genuine leather, which I will sell separately from the buckles. I’d like to find a Montana made belt. I haven’t found any I like that are affordable. If you know anyone who is selling good Montana-made belts, let me know.

January 7, 2011 17

Big Sky Weekly

outdoors

Photo by Shawn Robertson

From the Ladies: Big Sky Snow Sports School’s Tips and Tales

By Brenna Kelleher

It was a low visibility day, with two feet of epic powder off the tram. I was on my third lap and headed to Marx when I came across a woman gripped and sitting just below the Yeti Traverse. I stopped and asked her if she was OK, and she said she’d come up with her family but lost them.

She didn’t know the way down and couldn’t see very well. Her goggles were iced over, and she was having a difficult time breathing, as well as sweating profusely.

This woman was stuck in a precarious place, and there was no way I could

18 January 7, 2011

leave her. With clients, I’d seen people get vertigo, as well as sudden lack of confidence in their ski ability. I sat down next to her and tried to sidetrack her, asking her questions about herself, her family and skiing level.

I determined she had a solid enough background in skiing to make it down.

After about 20 minutes, I was able to coax her into her first turn.

When a skier of any ability hits a certain point of fear, the first turn is always the hardest. However, that first turn soon becomes a second turn, a third, fourth and then a

fluid set of turns. In this woman’s case, with each turn she made, the visibility improved, as did her confidence. By the bottom, she was relatively relaxed, grateful and glad to be reunited with her awaiting family.

Brenna Kelleher grew up skiing Big Sky. A PSIA Level III certified instructor, she has instructed for over eight years. She is also a Montana State University NCAA ski racing athlete, world champion kayaker, a pilot, and works summers as a guide and outfitter in Yellowstone.

Don’t get stuck trying to make the first turn. On January 13, 14 and 15, Big Sky Snow Sports will offer a women’s clinic for solid intermediate skiers and up.

The clinic is geared to provide women with the tools to take that first turn in any terrain.

From blues to black to double blacks or anywhere off-piste, this will help skiers continue to build on ability levels and confidence to surpass those times of fear and uncertainty.

Big Sky Weekly

ICE AND CLIMBING

By Sam Magro

When I first thought about ice climbing, intuition, along with years of evolution, told me not to climb on something that breaks as easily as glass. Then I laid my climbing eyes on a frozen waterfall. The universal solvent locked in place, frozen in time. Desire led me to believe that two words such as ice and climbing could actually be placed together, and that yes, you can ascend these frozen falls with relative ease.

Ice season begins even before the rock season has fully ended. Days begin to grow shorter, and Old Man Winter lays his frigid grasp on our beloved stone, enveloping craggy canyons with his snowy blanket. Simultaneously, a whole new climbing world comes to life. Small trickles of water grow by night, until they reach enough volume to support the weight of a climber.

I never quite know what to expect from an ice route until I go. Some routes form year after year, while others may not reform for over a decade. I have long dreamed of creating a massive spreadsheet with all applicable variables (precipitation, monthly temps, snow pack, etc.) that would aide in predicting what the coming winter will bring with regards to ice. But not knowing when a route forms or what it will be like is one of the sport’s allures: a surprise gift I hope to open. When rare lines form, they often are not around long, so you better be ready when opportunity arises.

With Hyalite Canyon so close, it’s relatively easy to log many miles on the ice, whether you are just learning, or honing in your skills to be ready for that ephemeral ice line when indeed it does form. Fortunately, this dazzling canyon now has plowed access, thanks to the forest service, the Southwest Montana Climbers’ Coalition, and other interest groups. From Bozeman, you can be at the trailhead in 30 minutes and climbing in 45. Hyalite Canyon is aesthetic for any visitor and universally accepted as one of the top four ice climbing destinations in the country.

Big Sky’s Ousel Falls, Paradise Valley’s Pine Creek, the Beartooth and the Madison Ranges also offer ice of all sizes and difficulties for Southwest Montanans.

Every winter, the time I spend in Hyalite expands my vision of what is possible. I always try to be ready for the rarest lines. It’s good to remind myself that at first, I hardly believed two words like ice and climbing could even fit together.

Justin Griffin in Hyalite Canyon.

Sam Magro photography

Sam Magro grew up rallying in the woods of southern Ohio in a family of five before he migrated in 2000 to Montana. Climbing and photography have taken him up unclimbed alpine faces in Alaska, and to remote villages from Africa to South America. He works as a professional climbing guide around Gallatin Valley, in the Tetons during the summer, and on several other continents.

During this publication he will be on a guiding, climbing, and photography trip in Morocco and Spain. Sam runs and operates his photography business out of Bozeman.sammagro.com or contact him directly sammagro@hotmail.com.

“Every winter, the time I spend in Hyalite expands my vision of what is possible.”

January 7, 2011 19

Big Sky Weekly

20 January 7, 2011

Big Sky Weekly

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January 7, 2011 21

New Year's Resolutions

This is how Big Sky gets into hot water.

Big Sky Weekly

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22 January 7, 2011

3090 Pine Drive #2, Big Sky 406-995-2728

Profile

Big Sky Patrolman

Phil Capy

By Nate Opp Every once in a while, our fearless leader and ski patrol director opens up a tab at one of the local bars, and we have a few rounds on the boss.

So, when Phil Capy turned 80 a few years ago, we couldn’t not have a party. After a few beers and a couple toasts, it was time for a speech.

“Well sometimes I just can’t believe I’m still alive after all the dangerous things I’ve done,” said Phil, never one to be at a loss for words. Background noise drowned out the rest of the speech.

Nine years ago, Phil and I went on a ski patrol exchange to Winter Park, Colorado. As we went south on 191, his mostly homemade Volkswagen station wagon rattled along the road.

“Phil, have you ever thought you were going to die?” I asked.

“Both times I went down in an airplane in Korea, I knew it was over,” he said. “Same with my motorcycle wreck.”

Luckily, it would take more than that to stop the ‘Original Hippie,’ a nickname Phil earned in Oregon, where they invented hippies.

Mike Russell’s 40th birthday party in 2002 was memorable as well. We built two pallet fires side by side, and someone jumped one of the fires on a snowmobile and crashed into Ben Stevens. To prove he was OK, young Ben ran and jumped back over the same fire.

“That looks like a real good idea,” said Phil. I was standing next to him, and I told him I wasn’t so sure.

These were pretty big fires.

Phil handed his beer to Katie Feris and said, “When you get to be my age you got nothing to lose.” He took a running start into the flames, landed on a pallet in the middle of the fire, and executed a triple jump out the other side, completely unscathed.

Phil was born in Texas and is a veteran of World War II and the Korean War. He started working as a Big Sky ski patrolman in 1994. Previously, he’d spent almost 20 years patrolling at Mount Bachelor in Oregon, a few years at Jay Peak in Vermont, and did a brief stint in Hollywood, where he worked on the set for Gunsmoke.

Before this, he had a career in military diving, rescuing and spying on

Russians before the creation of the Special Forces. In 1957, Phil crewed on a military icebreaker that went further north than anyone had ever gone—they came within 400 miles of the North Pole.

Phil’s meticulous attention to safety is almost extreme. He won’t drive with skis in the back of his car, because he once ran an ambulance call where the driver was impaled by skis from the back seat. After the plane crashes, Phil realized the airplanes were going down because of mechanical failures more often than because of being shot at—that’s when he begin learning about mechanics.

Today, Phil stretches and practices yoga daily and is a strict vegetarian.

After knowing and working with Phil for over a decade I’ve learned to try to be ready for anything, not to be too afraid, and that many things in life are more dependent on luck than anything else.

In the fall of 2009, when Phil took a job as patrol director at Spanish Peaks, I thought he was done with his chapter on Big Sky patrol. But now he’s back as a full time patrolman, skiing around sticking bamboo in the snow and keeping everyone else up to date on the constant and most recent changes from the American Heart Association on how to do CPR. We were all glad to see him with a brand new Subaru for the start of 2010/2011. I hope he can keep this one running as long as the Volkswagen.

Nate Opp started with Big Sky ski patrol in 1999 and became unofficial biographer for Phil after they went on exchange to Winter Park in 2002.

January 7, 2011 23

Big Sky Weekly

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Big Sky Weekly

T H E W E S T M AY B E W I L D , but it’s not uncivilized

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Big Sky Weekly

sports

F

By Brandon Niles In 2006, the NFL initiated flex scheduling to late season games. The idea behind this was it would ensure nationally televised games late in the season had playoff implications. Because of flex scheduling, on Sunday night we had the opportunity to see the St. Louis Rams play the Seattle Seahawks for the NFC West division title. However, should this game even have had playoff implications?

The Seahawks have been dreadful this season, not even winning half of their 16 games; their last five games include four losses and a victory over the league’s worst team. The Rams have hardly fared better. Yet, even with these teams’ dismal records, the winner of this match-up was destined for the playoffs.

Two teams with losing records had the chance to vie to make the playoffs because the other two teams in their division were worse. The 49ers and Cardinals have won a combined nine games this season, making the Rams and Seahawks the “class” of the NFC West.

The NFL has always guaranteed if a team wins its division, they go to the playoffs, and also get a home game in the playoffs. It’s all a way of increasing rivalries within divisions and rewarding teams that come out on top. Sometimes the division is difficult, and sometimes it isn’t. Many argue it isn’t fair to keep winning teams out of the playoffs, while a team as bad as the Rams or Seahawks gets in.

People spend entirely too much time and effort whining about the so-called atrocities in sports.

Fans riot after victories and shout obscenities at defeat. They act as though a bitter wrong has been done when a mascot is mocked, and they suffer deep depression after their favorite team has lost.

Basketball fans across the league hold unnatural hatred for Lebron James, simply because he changed teams.

Last week, I was excited for both the Rams and the Seahawks. I’ve always been a fan of losing teams, and I love to like the underdog. I don’t see a place for whining in sports. So when the experts say the system is broken because their favorite teams aren’t making the playoffs, I say stop whining and enjoy the games. After all, with the flexible scheduling, it may be a long time before we see a game this horrible nationally televised on a late season Sunday night.

Brandon Niles has done online freelance writing about the NFL since 2007. His articles range from NFL news to teamspecific commentary. A Communication Studies graduate student at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, Niles is also an avid Miami Dolphins fan, which has led to his becoming an avid Scotch whisky fan over the past decade.

January 7, 2011 27

Big Sky Weekly

Hockey debuts in Big Sky photos by the Outlaw Partners

28 January 7, 2011

food & dining

January 7, 2011 Volume 2 // Issue #1

Big Sky

Where to Get It

The go-to market for producers and consumers in the area is the Community Food Co-op in Bozeman. It’s often the first place where local farmers and ranchers try to sell their products, and the Co-op prides itself upon its selection of sustainably produced local products. Find carrots from Gallatin Valley Botanical, winter squash from Geyser Farm, potatoes from the Kimms, and onions from several smaller local producers. The Hungry Moose Market in Big Sky is also a dedicated supporter of local products.

It’s Easy to Eat Local Matt Rothschiller, co-owner of Gallatin Valley Botanical, dishes on what’s good and fresh during the cold winter months, and where to find it.

What’s Good Now

Farmers are at the low point of the local produce season. Carrots, potatoes, onions, garlic and other roots, as well as winter squash constitute the December through May availability of locally produced vegetables in Southwest Montana. Fortunately, grains, eggs and cheese, grass fed beef and lamb, free-range organic pork, and other sustainably produced farm goods can be found in abundance through the winter months at local grocers and restaurants, at online markets and directly from the producers themselves.

Many independently owned local restaurants in Big Sky and in Bozeman use local meats, dairy and produce.

Several of GVB’s restaurant accounts are in Big Sky: By Word of Mouth, Lone Mountain Ranch, Spanish Peaks and Rainbow Ranch Lodge all use GVB products whenever they are available, and they often buy in large amounts, storing what they can to offer local produce through the dark months of the calendar. The best way to find out what’s local in a restaurant is to ask the server, and don’t forget to needle them for the details.

At least two online markets send local products directly to consumers in Southwest Montana. Mariann Van-

denelzen markets produce directly from her own farm as well as products from other local producers of beef, lamb, bread, and cheese on her online market fielddayfarms.com. Also try bigsky.luluslocalfood.com, which was started this fall by Ennion Williams, a long time local product supporter in his past role as GM of Lone Mountain Ranch.

Head to the Bozeman Winter Market twice monthly from October through April. It was started up several years ago in Bozeman at the Emerson Cultural Center Ballroom in response to local producers looking for a venue to market their products in a warm environment through the winter months.

The next market is on January 8 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Emerson. bozemanwintermarket.com Direct purchases are occasionally available from the farm, and one of the best ways to get in touch with local producers is to use the farm search engine localharvest.org. GVB stores root veggies, cabbage, alliums, Brussels sprouts, winter squash, harvest kale, chard, arugula and lettuce greens from the greenhouses and delivers weekly to those who subscribe to the winter Community Supported Agriculture. gallatinvalleybotanical.com

F ull S ervice Big Sky’s G rocery S tore Big Sky’s largest grocery selection • Affordable prices Delivery available - Call us 406-995-4636

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Located in the Meadow Village Center next to Lone Peak Brewery

January 7, 2011 29

Big Sky Weekly

business

how to photocopy your butt productive (and not-so-productive) uses of technology in the workplace Never before have we seen a bigger disconnect between generations when it comes to using technology in the workplace.

smartphone, keeping them in constant contact with clients using tools like SKYPE™ and mobile email programs.

On one end of the spectrum are employees who grew up using the latest technologies that were available at their fingertips. This is the same generation whose first words were likely to be “Twitter” or “Google.”

Unemployment Applicant: Just texted co-workers about last weekend’s bar hop. “OMG what an exciting night out. LOL.”

On the opposite end are the holdouts and the paper-pushers who insist on sending digital files via snail mail. Unfortunatly for this group, technology has become an essential part of our daily tasks.

The defining skillset that comes with it, separates an unqualified candidate from employee of the year.

Mobile Phones The Rockstar: Makes use of the ever growing 3G speeds by downloading all of the latest productive apps on their

30 January 7, 2011

Social Media The Rockstar: Utilizes programs such as Facebook or LinkedIn to connect with like-minded collaborators and clients. If used properly, social media is a free and fun way to drive users to your site and boost your search engine optimization.

Unemployment Applicant: Recently Twitter’d how much he despises his boss. Wishes he would suddenly become passionate about bull riding. This is a great way to trample your career in 140 characters or less.

email The Rockstar: Developed a well-designed marketing campaign to announce a new product, driving clients to their website and increasing product inquiries.

Unemployment Applicant: Updated recent additions to his Farmville. Seriously, nobody cares that you found a golden chicken.

Online Resources Productive skype.com Free video and instant messaging software for Mac or PC.

mint.com Great budgeting software to centralize all of your accounts.

ted.com

PRINTERS The Rockstar: Implemented a “no-print” policy to be more eco-conscious, as well as saved costs on paper and supplies.

Unemployment Applicant: Making photocopies of certain anatomy is frowned upon in many workplace settings, but there has to be something said for a good laugh and employee morale.

A video database of lectures and educational material from the top pros.

-------------------------

Time To Burn? incredibox.fr This site gets my top vote in the category of wasting time and making sweet beats.

Be warned... it can be addicting.

EVENTS Big Sky Nordic Fest January 8, $5 skiing @ Lone Mountain Ranch, 9 - 5 p.m.

“House of Quist” January 8, Live at Buck’s T-4, 9:3012:30 p.m.

Muir String Quartet January 12, Talus Room, Summit Hotel, Big Sky Resort, 5:30 p.m.

Cinnamon Lodge Rail Jam January 15, live music, full bar, $10 cover. Cinnamon Lodge Highway 191, 9 p.m.

Special Story Time: Winnie the Pooh Author Birthday Celebration January 17, Big Sky Community Library10:30 a.m.

Big Sky Weekly

Planning an event? Let us know!

Email abbie@theoutlawpartners.com and we’ll spread the word.

BSCC Dodgeball Tournament January 17-20, Ophir School Gymnasium, 6 p.m.

Bridger Bowl’s 56th Birthday

Moonlight Ski sponsored by WYSEF

January 14, $15 dollar lift tickets for carloads of 3 or more, 8:30 a.m.

January 19 , Trailhead Building at Rendezvous, 6 p.m.

Mountains and Minds Speaker Series January 18, “Adapting Forest Management in the Face of Climate Change, Insects and Pests” Big Sky Institute Office, Westfork Meadow, 6:00 pm to 7:30 p.m.

Paradise valley

gallatin gateway Beer Pong @ the Buffalo Jump Sports Bar January 14

Pine Creek Lodge and Café presents the Fossils January 8

Bozeman Winter Farmer’s Market January 8, Emerson Cultural Center Ballroom, 9 a.m.

Building the American Prairie Reserve on Montana’s Northern Prairie January 10, Slide show presented

by Alison Fox of the American Prairie Foundation, First Security Bank West, 7 p.m.

west yellowstone

Livingston Live and Let Livingston Vegan Potluck

West Yellowstone Smores and More

January 9, Theme: Nifty Re-Gifty Fifties Party, Library, 4:30 p.m.

January 15, West Yellowstone Ice Rink, 6 - 9 p.m.

Winter Young Actor’s Workshop January 10-22, “Pirates of Penzance Jr” Dulcie Theater

New Year, New Tax Considerations Neil & Company, P.C. Certified Public Accountants December was a big month in the tax world, as temporary provisions were reinstated and extended to 2012. Congress has approved and the President has signed a multi-billion dollar tax cut package, the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010. The Tax Relief Act extends individual and capital gains/dividend tax cuts for all taxpayers for two years.

The bill also provides for an Alternative Minimum Tax “patch” intended to prevent AMT from encroaching on middle-income taxpayers, a one-year payroll tax cut, 100 percent bonus depreciation through 2011 and 50 percent bonus depreciation for 2012, a top federal estate tax rate of 35 percent with a $5 million exclusion, and more. Further explanation, as well as other tax changes and updates of interest include: •

•

•

Starting in 2010, employers with 10 or fewer full-time-equivalent workers and average wages under $25,000 get a credit for 35% of the lesser of what it pays for employee health coverage or the average group premium for small businesses in the employer’s state.

Effective for 2010, self-employed individuals can deduct health insurance premiums for themselves, their spouses, their dependents or their children under age 27 for self-employment tax as well as for income tax.

Beginning 2011, qualified medical expenses paid by a flexible spending account, health reimbursement account,

health savings account, or Archer medical savings account no longer include over-the-counter medicines unless prescribed by a doctor.

•

•

•

•

Standard business mileage rates for 2010 have been set at $0.50/mile.

Beginning in 2011, the rate will increase to $0.51/mile. Medical and moving rates are $0.165/mile for 2010 and increase to $0.19/mile for 2011.

Rates for miles driven in service of charitable organizations have been set at $0.14/mile for 2010 and 2011.

Reinstated and extended individual tax breaks include: $250 above the line deduction for certain expenses of elementary and secondary school teachers, above line deduction for qualified tuition and related expenses, and the rule allowing mortgage insurance premiums as an itemized deduction.

Beginning in 2011, employee portion of the 6.2% Social Security tax is cut by 2% to 4.2%. For self-employed, the 12.4% Social Security tax is cut by 2% to 10.4%.

Maximum Section 179 depreciation deduction increases to $500,000 for 2010 and 2011.

Neil & Company CPAs P.C. appreciates our clients’ loyalty, value and enjoy our business relationships. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Tax return preparation Tax planning Payroll Services Bookkeeping Financial Statement preparation Business Consulting Business Valuation

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Celebrating 40 years of business serving Montana and the Gallatin Valley!

1184 North 15th Ave. Ste. 1, Bozeman, MT 59715 Phone (406) 587-9239 Fax (406) 586-4737 January 7, 2011 31

Big Sky Weekly

business directory

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Business Profile of the Week:

ROOF SHOVELING

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32 January 7, 2011

Kiwi’s - A West Yellowstone Favorite

By Hunter Rothwell Among the many unique treasures that West Yellowstone has to offer is a small lunch spot with a big heart. Alison Vanderaarde, owner and chef, was born in the small town of Hukerenui, just north of Auckland, New Zealand where she was raised. As a native Kiwi, her history is rich. Her mother’s side of the family is among the Ngapuhi iwi, the northern most tribe on the islands. Her father is an American from South Dakota that made his way to New Zealand after World War II.

Big Sky Weekly

Big Sky L I M IT E D

AD SPACE AVAILABLE

CONTACT ERIC

Alison arrived in West Yellowstone after living her first ten years in the states in San Francisco. During her time on the West coast she completed a three-year internship with master chef Peter Chin learning the restaurant trade. Before opening Kiwi’s in May of 2008, Three Bear Restaurant was the recipient of her culinary talent.

406-570-0639 • 406-995-2055 MEDIA@THEOUTLAWPARTNERS.COM

Kiwi’s is a local favorite for a fantastic lunch. You’d be hard pressed to find a better handmade, 1/2 lb. beef or buffalo burger anywhere else. Alison makes everything from scratch on whenever possible. The menu includes New Zealand staples like fresh fish and chips, and traditional meat pies with a twist.

These single serving pies are minced buffalo with mushroom or swiss, peas, potatoes, a hint of garlic and cooked in its own sauce. Grilled and fresh fish sandwiches and the New Zealand Green Mussels are other favorites.

Alison says, “We’re not flash, but we’re friendly.” In the restaurant the walls are lined with maps and unique memorabilia from her homeland. It is a pleasure to visit Alison and hear tales of New Zealand while enjoying the food. Just remember that French fries are “chips,” and only the most adventurous should try beets on their burgers like the Kiwis do.

Kiwi’s is located at the intersection of Highway 20 and Electric St. in West Yellowstone. They are proud to not use products that endanger our natural resources.

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Big Sky Weekly

Big Sky Weekly home of the

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Each Ad can be up to 4 lines (Maximum of 30 words).

Additional lines are $5 per line, Maximum of 8 words per line.

Email classifieds and/or advertising requests to: media@theoutlawpartners.com (406) 995-2055

HELP WANTED Engineering Tech (Part time) The successful candidate will possess basic maintenance skills as they relate to the maintenance and upkeep of household and condominium environments. The ability to diagnose and repair common maintenance items such as simple plumbing issues, heating problems, small appliance repair, are required.

Any experience with satellite TV repair or troubleshooting is a plus.

Candidate must be able to use simple hand tools and lift up to 50 pounds. The successful candidate will be a self-directed and active problem solver able to work under pressure with tight deadlines. Candidate must live in the Big Sky area and be able to fulfill on-call duties as needed. Submit cover letter and resume to: employmentinfobigsky@ gmail.com. EEO --------------------------By Word of Mouth Restaurant is hiring a FT night line cook. Please call or email to set up a interview 406-995-2992 or bwombigsky@ montana.net --------------------------Ophir School District #72 seeking a route bus driver. CDL w/”S” endorsement required. Please see full ad and application online at www.ophirschool.com

ORGANIC COFFEE, ESPRESSO AND TEA

Office Administrator needed, year round employment in a professional office in Big Sky. Ideal candidate will be friendly, energetic and highly organized. Responsibilities include client reception in person and over the phone, assisting with workflow management, maintaining office records, and general office administration.

Applicants should be skilled in general computer operations, WORD and EXCEL. Experience with QuickBooks and bookkeeping are a plus. The position offers health insurance, flexibility, and other benefits for a professionallyminded individual. Contact info@ bigskycpas.com or 406-995-2511 for more info --------------------------Need some extra money? Come share your passion for the Big Sky area as a Driver for Shuttle to Big Sky & Taxi. Must be at least 25 yrs of age w/ clean driving record and able to lift 50 lbs. FT & PT positions avail. Please submit resume to info@bigskytaxi.com. EEO. --------------------------Reservationist (Part Time) Successful candidate will have reservations experience selling lodging over the phone for hotel or condominium properties. Ability to verbally communicate features and benefits of different properties to sell inventory is required.

Familiarity with the Big Sky area is a plus. Must be able to learn and use computer software to book reservations. A high level of professionalism is required for this position selling luxury accommodations. Please send cover letter and resume to: employmentinfobigsky@gmail.com. EEO --------------------------Bucks T-4 Restaurant Hiring experienced evening line cooks, dishwashers, wait staff Send resume to info@buckst4. com or fill out application at Hotel Front Desk. For more info call Chuck 406-995-4111 --------------------------Caseys’ Corner – Big Sky Exxon Store Manager for Big Sky Exxon Starting $14 -15 per hour – 40 hours weekly. Paid Medical, vacation, quarterly bonus program Please send resume to karlas@ storydist.com

For rent Want to Open a Business?

Commercial Space in Town Center – owner is prepared to make deals happen for lease or ownership. Amazing spaces range from 1200sq/ft to 2000sq/ft. Owner, Sam Sammis - (PH) 802-522-8500 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 6:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. LOCATION - IN FRONT OF EXXON ON HWY 191, 1/4 MI. SOUTH OF BIG SKY TURNOFF

34 January 7, 2011

SERVICES

Steam Ice Dam Removal - Custom Roofing Professionals - Copper, Cor-Ten, Cold-Rolled, Standing Seam, Cedar Shake, Asphalt - Full-Spectrum Roof Inspections, Including Infrared 406.209.3786 www.roofcoop.com --------------------------SNOWMOBILE RENTALS DELIVERY AVAILABLE www.bigboystoysrentals.com 406-587-4747 --------------------------In need of a Caretaker or Estate Manager? Former corporate facilities manager with 20 years of home building experience seeking long-term caretaker/estate manager position. I will provide an exceptional level of service and commitment in exchange for housing + salary. Excellent references.

Contact Scott @ 406.451.8510 ---------------------------

Pilates/Yoga fusion class EVERY Sunday at 9:00 am @ BENTLEY BODIES studio in Big Sky. Increase strength, flexibility & balance. All fitness levels welcome.

WWW.BENTLEYBODIES.NET 406.570.9154 Want to advertise?

Contact Outlaw Partners at (406) 995-2055 or media@theoutlawpartners.com

Big Sky Weekly

fun

People on New Years Traditions the street Around the World What is your new year’s resolution?

Mexico Mexicans eat 12 grapes at midnight. At each clock stroke one grape is consumed, symbolizing one of the twelve months of the year. The taste of each grape tells whether each month will be good or bad.

Ursula Neese Livingston Not to get so angry with people who don’t seem to want to be informed.

Italy A New Year’s dinner has dishes made with lentils.

Italians believe that lentils bring financial prosperity.

France The French make a lot of racket on New Year’s eve, chasing bad spirits away. They also believe that the first person to enter the house on the New Year’s day symbolizes the good or bad fortune for the owners of the house.

Chris Kangas Bozeman Wear flannel until the snow melts.

Japan Traditionally on New Year’s Eve, house facades are decorated with straw garlands. These garlands chase evil spirits away and symbolize luck and happiness.

Denmark Denmark has a well-cherished tradition to have a pile of broken dishes at the front door. After collecting dishes for the whole year, the Danish throw them at friends’ and neighbor’s doors on New Years Eve. The more broken dishes, the more friends a person has.

Kyle Decker Big Sky No more black eyes.

Need help keeping New Year’s resolutions? Try these websites to

help track your progress and keep you motivated.

Health: livestrong.com

genuisbeauty.com/news/new-year-eve-traditions-in-different-countries

Katie’s Joke Corner

Great ideas: ted.com Save money: mint.com Share thoughts on literature: goodreads.com Volunteer: idealist.org, bsyep.org Track progress: stickK.com

What do you get when you cross a snowman with a vampire? frostbite!

Why do seals swim in salt water?

Because pepper makes them sneeze!

January 7, 2011 35

Big Sky Weekly

Noun: wild or rough terrain adjacent to a developed area Origin: shortened form of “back 40 acres”

For the Big Sky Weekly, the Back 40 is a resource: a place where we can delve into subjects and ask experts to share their knowledge. Topics include regional history, profiles of local artists and musicians, snow and avalanche education, and how-to pieces for traditional or outdoor skills.

By Scotty Savage

new year’s Resolutions Our resolutions range from the common – lose weight, exercise more, stop smoking, get out of debt – to the “less common” – I will assure my lawyer I’ll never again be drunk at a custody hearing, I will avoid taking a shower to conserve water, I must remember to suck less on a daily basis (medindia.net).

I’d suggest a New Year’s resolution for winter recreationists that love playing in avalanche terrain: I will own my mistakes and learn from them.

Unless you’re a newborn or a politician, you’ve made plenty of mistakes. But how many of you regularly embrace the mistakes you make? Cognitive psychologists have shown that we tend to justify or rationalize our poor decisions so we can continue to see ourselves in a positive light.

40-45% of us make New Year’s resolutions (Journal of Clinical Psychology, 2002).

A fictional scenario: A telemark skier (we’ll call him Seth) is ripping up a 40-degree backcountry avalanche path when he door-hinges and falls on his face partway down the slope. Seth’s partner (we’ll call him Ned) is waiting patiently in a safe spot at the top of the slope to avoid exposing more than one person at a time to avalanche hazard. After five minutes, Seth is still floundering in the middle of the slope. Knowing full well he should wait for Seth to get off the slope, Ned drops in and charges down the slope anyway.

Being an experienced backcountry skier, Ned knew placing more than one person on a suspect avalanche path at once was foolish. So, why did he choose to endanger himself and his partner by skiing the slope while Seth was still wallowing on it?

Maybe Ned thought because Seth’s face-plant didn’t cause an avalanche, it meant the slope was stable, even though Ned knows many avalanches occur on slopes that have tracks on them. Maybe Ned justified his poor decision by telling himself he hadn’t seen any other avalanches on adjacent slopes, even though nearby slopes almost identical to the one he was on had recently avalanched. Maybe Ned rationalized his impatience by thinking that “nothing bad can happen on this slope – the skiing is way too good,” even though he knows avalanches occur in both stellar and heinous riding conditions.

Ned and Seth were fortunate Ned’s mistake didn’t cause serious consequences. Because of this, Ned likely didn’t realize or quickly forgot that he’d

exercised poor judgment that day.

Make it your New Year’s resolution to recognize when you’re rationalizing or justifying your own poor decisions, especially in avalanche terrain. Instead Highly recommendof sweeping your ed reading: Mistakes mistakes under Were Made (but not by the rug, embrace me), Tavris and Aronson and examine them. Learn from them. Remember: making good decisions in avalanche terrain will help keep you safe tearing up that cold smoke for years, but avalanches don’t care whether you ever take another shower again.

Scotty Savage has spent much of the past two decades with his head in the snow (by design some of the time) while working as an avalanche forecaster in and around Big Sky, Montana. He is currently studying his and others’ avalanche related mistakes in an effort to reduce avalanche workplace accidents. Scotty is an avalanche educator for the Friends of the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center. His New Year’s resolution is to quit his knee surgery habit cold turkey.

Formerly Big Sky Exxon on Hwy 191 36 January 7, 2011