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Big Sky Weekly

Big Sky

Big Sky’s Locally Owned & Published Newspaper

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March 23, 2012 Volume 3 // Issue #6

ENNIS SCHOOL DISTRICT LOOKS TO FIX BUDGET PITFALLS

Unemployment rate in Montana drops, again

Major avalanche cycle in SW Montana backcountry

TEDx in Bozeman road trip: BIG SKY TO JACKSON

MOONLIGHT BASIN: The Freeskiing World Tour and the Headwaters Runoff

media@theoutlawpartners.com

Photo: Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Forecaster Eric Knoff stands beneath a crown line in the Lionhead Range on March 17. See details of the slide inside. PHOTO COURTESY OF GNAFC.

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Big Sky Weekly

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On the cover: New snow and strong winds have loaded leeward slopes in the backcountry, causing widespread natural and human-triggered avalanches throughout the mountains of Southwest Montana. In this photo taken on March 17, Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Forecaster Eric Knoff stands beneath a crown line in the Lionhead Range.

According to the GNFAC website, the slide occurred off Lionhead Ridge (likely the previous day) and broke on a layer of facets about 60 cm above the ground. The crown was 3-8 feet deep and propagated 400 feet wide. Photo courtesy of GNFAC. mtavalanche.com

Business of the Year March 23, 2012 Volume 3, Issue 6 PUBLISHER Eric Ladd COO & SENIOR EDITOR Megan Paulson CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mike Martins MANAGING EDITOR Emily Stifler GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kelsey Dzintars EDITOR Abbie Digel

Outlaw Partners’ BSIA video wins Telly Award

Assistant Editor Taylor Anderson

A Biggest Skiing in America promotional video made by the Outlaw Partners’ video production team has won a Telly Award this year.

Outlaw’s lead videographer, Brian Niles, expressed pride for the team at Outlaw, and thanks to the Big Sky community.

In its 33rd year, the Telly is the premier award honoring the finest film and video productions, groundbreaking web commercials, videos and films, and outstanding local, regional and cable TV commercials and programs.

Its mission is to strengthen the visual arts community by inspiring, promoting and supporting creativity. There are approximately 11,000 entries each year.

“As a filmmaker it’s nice to be able to work in that creative, outdoorsy atmosphere,” Niles said. “It’s exactly where I want to be. Four years ago I never would have thought I’d be filming out of helicopters, or creating a story with a child who’s telling it, like we did for the BSIA video. To be recognized is definitely a true honor.”

Distribution Director Danielle Chamberlain VIDEO director Brian Niles videographer Chris Davis Account relations coordinator Kacey Brown Operations director Katie Morrison WEB Programmer/Designer Sean Weas CONTRIBUTors

Chloee Beardsley, Carrie Corrigan, Pat "Kuru" Gannon, Katie Pearl Hoffman, Jimmy Lewis, Anna Middleton, Colter Miller, Jessie Neal, Brandon Niles, Mark Parlett, Elizabeth Quackenbush, Christine Rogel, Greer Schott, Austin Trayser, John Zirkle, Lucas Zukiewicz

The Telly is one of the most sought-after awards by industry leaders, from large international firms to local production companies and ad agencies.

“There is no better agency more qualified to portray the brand of Biggest Skiing in America than the hardworking, intuitive and cutting edge team at Outlaw Partners.

We are fortunate and grateful for their vision and passion this video created in exposing Big Sky to an international ski audience.”

View the video at biggestskiinginamerica.com/gallery

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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.

Letter to the Editor Parameters The Weekly accepts letters to the editor to give readers a platform to express their views and share ways they would like to effect change. These should not be Thank You notes. Letters should be 250 words or less, respectful, ethical, state accurate facts and figures, and proofread for grammar and content. We reserve the right to edit letters. Include: first and last name, address, phone number and title.

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ADVERTISING DEADLINE For April 6 issuE: Mar. 30, 2012 CORRECTIONS The Big Sky Weekly runs corrections to errors we’ve printed.

Please report them to emily@theoutlawpartners.com

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2 March 23, 2012

“We wouldn’t have projects like that unless we had the whole team [at Outlaw],” he added. “It shows the impact we have on Big Sky and the local area.”

Meg O’Leary, a leader with the BSIA group and director of sales and marketing at Big Sky Resort, sent her congratulations.

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Table of Contents Community...4 Letters...7 Local News...8 Regional..10 Montana...13 Explore...17 Health & Wellness...21 Business...23 Business Profile...25 Ophir School News...26 Real Estate...28 Classifieds...30

Food & Dining...33 Sports...35 Gear...36 Book Review...37 Events...39 Entertainment...41 Arts....45 Back 40 ...48 Ski Area News..49 Word from the Resorts...50 Road Trip...54

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Big Sky Weekly

After years under the radar, Ennis School Board looks for way out

By Taylor Anderson

big sky weekly assistant editor

This is the second in a three-part series on the Ennis and Big Sky School Districts ENNIS—The Ennis School District has been clouded in fervor over the past few years, and it’s not due to its academics.

Several financial moves have put the district under the public and legal spotlight, and the board of trustees is now working toward remedying the issues.

But fixing the problems has been like trying to run a marathon through muddy water.

The school’s trustees were catapulted into a frenzied firestorm after the Teachers’ Retirement System ruled the school’s superintendent, Doug Walsh, along with the district, owe more than $760,000 in improperly collected retirement funds, according to TRS executive director David Senn.

With the direct and indirect funding, $6,275,819 (or 62 percent) of the $10 million project came from adult education and transportation.

County employees began questioning the use of funds, and in summer 2010 Madison County Deputy Attorney Chris McConnell asked the Montana Office of Public Instruction to conduct an audit on the school’s accounting.

In a letter from Aug. 16 of that year, Montana OPI Deputy Superintendent Dennis Parman told McConnell that although the transfer of funds technically wasn’t illegal in the eyes of the state, the trustees would be wise to plan for a drastic increase in adult education offerings.

was illegal, and transferring that much money required a public vote. Bullock’s decision—which holds the weight of law—set the ground rules for Montana schools to follow, as the case was unprecedented.

Separated by a mountain rage and a private road yet part of the same county, Big Sky’s Madison County residents have been stirring because of the money they’ve contributed to the Ennis School System over the past four decades.

Big Sky residents in districts 28 and 29 of Madison County have contributed about 50 percent of the property taxes collected annually due to the high price of real estate in those areas, "The taxpayers absolutely which include should see a reduction the resorts and in school taxes this year Yellowstone because of the over Club.

An opinion released in December 2011

by Attorney General Steve Bullock declaring the school used more than $9 million in improperly raised and allocated funds to build a new school further muddied the mess, and the town has been split over how to take the next step forward.

“We assume the district’s unorthodox method of funding the taxation that has gone on. project reflects The adult education fund is the mutual not the only fund that has desire of the been over taxed." school district and commu-Lisa Frye, Ennis School Board Trustee nity to provide significantly expanded adult education opportunities in the community,” Parman wrote.

The two decisions highlighted only some of the legal struggles the board has faced in the past few years, and February 2012 marked a potential peak of problems before the trustees hope to work at sifting through the issues and coming to a long-lasting solution.

“If, in the future, the district does not provide expanded adult education opportunities to the community in this new facility proportional to the funding the taxpayers have provided in support of that effort, there will be an issue of significant concern at that time.”

The town has been split, and the trustees are only beginning to see the full spectrum of its financial woes before it can work to right them in the eyes of the TRS, the state and the Ennis community.

Parman said in an interview in March that McConnell’s request had come after the foundation had already been poured on the now completed building.

Though money is the key issue in most instances with the Ennis School District, lack thereof isn’t. School district mill increases allowed the annual budget to skyrocket from about $6 million in 2004 to close to $17 million this year.

It wasn’t how much money the district had accrued that lit the fire, but how it chose to use it.

After building up funds from mills raised over several years, the board transferred the money into a fund intended for building a new, and much needed, grade school, thus skirting a public vote.

The school used $4,225,819.10 from non-voted adult education and transportation funds, on top of which they transferred $2,050,000 into a flex fund that was used for the building as well.

4 March 23, 2012

“It looked as bad as it was,” Parman said. “They were raising over a million dollars and spending $25,000.

The question is why? Because they were saving up money to build a new school.”

Madison County Treasurer Shelly Burke is said to have called for attention on the issue years in advance of the new building. She wished to stay off the record in speaking with the Big Sky Weekly.

Superintendent Doug Walsh didn’t return requests for comment for the article.

In December 2011, Montana Attorney General Steve Bullock stepped in and released a preliminary opinion on the school’s use of funds for the new building.

Bullock ruled that the money transferred from adult education and transportation savings into an infrastructure account for the new building

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Those districts have contributed 74 percent of the Ennis School District budget since 2007.

owed has brought upon public scrutiny and has ended up in multiple court battles.

The first, from August 2010, was a yearlong suit filed by Ennis resident Dave Kelley against five trustees and Walsh. He alleged Walsh deceived the TRS, and also that the board violated open meetings laws, unlawfully used tax money and failed to provide public records for review. That case was dismissed about a year later by Judge Mike Salvagni.

Then there’s the other elephant in the room: Superintendent Doug Walsh collected more than $760,000 in retirement benefits while receiving contract salaries from Ennis.

There is an ongoing contested case that TRS executive director David Senn says will determine how the group will recoup money paid to Walsh over the span of a decade.

Senn said Walsh would owe the benefits he’s received since 2001 plus interest, and that the school district owes employee and employer contributions that would have been submitted, plus interest; a total of more than $760,000.

The Ennis board of trustees voted after press time whether it would heed the county commissioners’ request of conducting an independent audit of the funds allocated over the past seven years.

Senn couldn’t comment on that case as it is ongoing, but said it could stay in court if the two sides can’t come to a mutual agreement.

If the board doesn’t agree to the independent audit, the commissioners have said they would conduct an audit themselves, according to trustee Lisa Frye.

Just what’s next for Ennis has been a Rubik’s cube issue in a town whose rift is pitting its residents against each other on how best to move forward.

Regardless of either audit’s outcome, Parman with OPI says the findings will only provide hindsight into the murky issue, and any solution would come from the trustees’ future decisions. There are several ways the board could show the community it’s working toward remediation.

Walsh announced in early February that he would resign as School Superintendent effective June 30 of this year.

The trustees’ last meeting approved having an attorney draft a separation agreement with Walsh before his retirement.

For example, Parman said the board could choose to use any reserve funds to pay back taxpayers in the form of breaks from mills in future fiscal years.

Frye says there is a surplus that could be used, but it’s in adult education and other funds with restricted use. Regardless, she says, the taxpayers deserve a break.

“The taxpayers absolutely should see a reduction in school taxes this year because of the over taxation that has gone on. The adult education fund is not the only fund that has been over taxed,” Frye said.

The money some residents feel they’re

An audit will detail how and where the board slipped up in its use of funds, but it won’t lay out how to rectify its blunders.

The AG’s opinion won’t likely result in direct action against the board, but rather lay the ground rules for Montana schools to follow when transferring funds.

Now, Ennis school board meetings are well attended and tense, and the community is keeping more involved with the trustees on a daily basis.

The storm didn’t sneak up overnight, nor will it clear up quickly.

You can reach Taylor at taylor@theoutlawpartners.com

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Big Sky Weekly

Record fundraising for Ophir pie auction By emily stifler

big sky weekly managing editor

Big Sky—The Ophir School pie auction this year raised more than $60,000—that’s $20,000 more than last year. In its 32nd year, the auction drew about 200 attendees to Buck’s T-4 on the evening of March 10.

Creative prizes included an oversized, five-inch diameter sushi roll donated by the Yellowstone Club and a flower arrangement made to look like a cake from Big Sky Blooms.

The flower cake went into a fire bid that went up to $5,000, said Kimmi Warga, chair of the Pie Auction Committee. “Someone had their eyes set on it.”

Another highlight was ski furniture made by Mr. Neal’s fifth grade class, which in total sold for almost $7,000.

Warga attributes part of the success to new attendees, which she said brought great energy. Plus, she said, the quality of the auction items caused some of the bids to go for a lot.

Other big items included trips to Cabo San Lucas and the Yucatan, piano lessons with Klaudia Kosiak, and a year’s worth of property management from Hammond Properties.

Warga herself ended up with a 30-pound chicken potpie made by chefs at the Yellowstone Club.

“I couldn’t even put it in my oven,” she said. She expressed gratitude toward the YC, which also donated an extra-large cherry pie and helped bring club members to the auction.

“They were a huge part of our fundraising this year. They just went above and beyond.”

Laura Bell, pie auction publicist, said the $60,000 was gross revenue, and the group wasn’t sure yet of the amount netted.

Photos courtesy of Laura Bell

BSCC to host annual event at Community Park

By Jesse neal

Big Sky Community Corp.

Big Sky weekly wire services

Big Sky—This year the Big Sky Community Corp. will host its Parks and Trails fundraising Gala Dinner and Auction July 21 in the community park, which just last year finished the initial phase of construction. The money raised at the Gala will go toward expansion and completion of the community park, and toward putting people in place to develop future trails such as extending the Canyon to Mountain trail system up to the ski resorts. The goal this year is to raise $100,000.

Park improvements in the past two years have include the construction of two softball fields, a regulation soccer field, connecting trails, basketball court, resurfaced tennis courts and a paved parking lot. Climbing boulders are in the plans for this summer. The BSCC also manages the local network of trails including Ousel Falls Park.

Interested in donating an auction item or being a Gala sponsor? Contact BSCC Executive Director Jessie Neal at (406) 993-2112. Contributions for the annual event must be made by June 15.

Rotary Club of Big Sky offers $1,000 scholarship BIG SKY— The Rotary Club of Big Sky is offering a $1,000 scholarship to a Big Sky resident attending college or a vocational post-high school program.

The criteria for the scholarship will be based on financial need, community service and academic performance. A committee of three Rotarians will review each application, and a winner will be announced by May 31. The deadline for the application is April 30. The scholarship will be awarded directly to the student upon receipt of a tuition bill.

The Rotary Club of Big Sky’s seventh annual scholarship is another community project that the club is able to fund as a result of the Gold Raffle and Auction, held each January. Contact a Rotarian for an application or send an email to bigskyrotary@gmail.com for more information.

6 March 23, 2012

Northern Lights’ March Community Fund Grants go toward wilderness and trails

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BOZEMAN—The Northern Lights Community Fund awarded its March grants to the Greater Yellowstone Coalition and the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation. Both organizations will receive $500.

The GYC will put the grant money toward creating a solution for the 155,000-acre Hyalite-Porcupine-Buffalo Horn Wilderness Study Area, an area of contention among many recreational users in the region.

The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation will use the grant to fund trail projects within the 1.5 million acre wilderness. “The Bob,” as it’s often referred to, includes the Bob Marshall, Scapegoat and Great Bear wilderness areas, which currently have over 1,700 miles of trails, much of which are maintained by volunteers. The BMWF works alongside the Forest Service to coordinate crew leadership, work itineraries, food menus, tool and equipment needs and pack support.

“We're trying to take some of the money that goes into buying gear and invest it right back into the land and trails that our customers use,” said Mike Garcia, owner of Northern Lights Trading Company.

“It's good for our water, it's good for wildlife, it's good for our customers and it's great for the economy of our state to have such areas set aside for recreation.”

Northern Lights Trading Company established its Community Fund with the goal of clearly demonstrating the direct and positive effects of a consumer's local spending on the Bozeman community. The company has committed to donating $1,000 per month to a selection of conservation and human-interest organizations that help make Montana a great place to live and recreate. northernlightstrading.com

letters What ever happened to equality in skiing?

One thing I’ve always enjoyed about skiing is how we’re all equal on the ski hill. You might jump on the chairlift and find yourself sitting next to Ted Turner, or you could sit next to a youth benefiting from Big Sky Youth Empowerment.

Why up to 160 people are deserving of a “Fast Pass” for Lone Peak Tram is beyond me. Fast pass holders show up and walk to the front of the line, while 1,000 – 1,200 people a day must wait 15 minutes longer each time to enjoy a run off Lone Peak. I’ve never thought the line was that long of a wait, especially when you consider the possibilities of skiing off Lone Peak. You get to meet interesting guests from different walks of life, as well as connect with the locals. Big Sky has also succeeded

in making the line for the tram even longer for those who only ski on the weekends. The tram is not an amusement park ride. Why shouldn’t we all wait together?

The other point that makes me question the pass is employees are not eligible.

On March 4 it was explained to me by Big Sky management “that Big Sky is not run for employees but rather guests (such as myself).” When is an employee on his or her day off not a guest?

For a skier who has been a season pass holder for 35 seasons, with the last 17 at Big Sky, I look forward to getting back to the equality in skiing.

-Earl Bang, Bozeman

Big Sky’s youth enriched through hockey program If you drove by the ice rink in the Town Center on a Wednesday evening this winter, you probably saw a group of Big Sky kids in hockey gear rolling on the ice and slapping pucks. The clinic was offered for kids, ages six to 12, by the Big Sky Skating and Hockey Association (BSSHA). For many, including my son, it was their first introduction to hockey.

We want to extend our thanks to Griffin Kilby who organized and led the clinics. Anyone who can keep a group of young kids interested for an hour and a half has talent (and patience). Not to mention, he is one heck of a good hockey player. We hope this is the start of many more hockey clinics for Big Sky's youth.

If your organization provides a service for Ifthe community, apply for appropriation your organization provides a service for of resort tax funds. Act quickly because applications the community, apply for appropriation are due April 4, 2012. ofYou’ll resortfind tax the funds.

Act quickly because application online at www.bigskyresorttax.com. applications are due April 4, 2012. You'll Attend the community meetings in the find the application online at Big Sky Chapel May 9 and June 13 at 1:00 p.m.

www.bigskyresortax.com

Attend the community meetings in the Big Sky Chapel May 9 and June 13 at 1:00 p.m.

Sincerely, Suzy Samardich, Big Sky

NON-PROFITS: BIG SKY COMMUNITY LIBRARY, BIG SKY SKI EDUCATION FOUNDATION, WOMEN IN ACTION, BIG SKY COMMUNITY CORPORATION, MORNINGSTAR LEARNING CENTER - REGISTER YOUR NON-PROFIT TODAY AT LONE PEAK BREWERY explorebigsky.com

March 23, 2012 7

Big Sky Weekly

local news BSSEF ski races boost local economy

Local resorts’ season pass sales It’s that time of year again; time to start thinking about next year’s powder stashes, tram rides and Headwaters lines. Save big bucks by purchasing a season pass early, so come fall, first tracks will be your only worry.

Here are the two local deals, broken down:

Big Sky Resort Adult Gold Pass: $799 College Gold Pass: $599

GS Course on Ramshorn

By abbie digel

big sky weekly editor

BIG SKY—Big Sky and the Gallatin Valley were put on the national stage once again, thanks to a partnership between the Big Sky and Bridger Ski Education Foundations.

About 170 racers from across the West competed in a giant slalom race on Ramshorn at Big Sky Resort March 16. It was the Western J3 Regional Championships, and racers ages 12 – 13 traveled with their families from as far as Alaska to compete at Big Sky Resort and Bridger Bowl.

The race, which spanned the weekend with two days at Big Sky and two at Bridger, and planned in conjunction with the Bridger Ski Foundation, was just one of the many race weekends hosted in the area during the ski season.

Big Sky Ski Education Foundation president Eric Becker put together an economic impact survey for the Jan. 21-22 Youth Ski League race held at Big Sky Resort.

The only one of its kind since Becker began his term as president of BSSEF two years ago, the survey was given to parents of participants in order to look more deeply into the impact these races have on the community.

The survey results from this race were understated and don’t represent the overall economic benefit of the race, Becker said. That’s because expenses such as travel costs and athlete coaching fees were beyond the scope of the study. However, it does show an accurate snapshot of the micro benefit of hosting races.

For each racer in attendance, an average of two family members along, and most groups stayed at the Huntley Lodge at Big Sky Resort. The younger age groups, like the J3s who raced on March 16, bring in more revenue because parents and families still come to chaperone and watch.

The total estimated expenditures for the 180 racers in attendance at Big Sky Resort at the January races were approximately $65,121, or $362 per racer in attendance, the survey reported.

These numbers are important because they give Becker and the BSSEF board a better grasp as to where racing families spend their money in town, and which facets of the event work well.

8 March 23, 2012

“It’s important to us to put on a great event, especially because we work under the arm of the resort, and because the resort to also needs to know this information,” Becker said. “The [resorts] want to know how they can better market to the ski racers and their families.”

Junior Gold Pass (ages 11-17): $299 (with purchase of Adult Gold Pass)

The survey also included a comment area where most parents praised the resort and foundation for a job well done.

Silver Pass (midweek): $649

“This is why Big Sky is regularly selected to host the higher level races,” Becker said. “It’s both fun for us, and is a reflection of the good job [the hosts] do.”

This year, in tradition with past years, championship races for all age groups from youth to masters have been held in Big Sky and the Gallatin Valley.

Youth (Ages 6 – 10): $49 (with purchase of Adult Gold Pass)

Big Sky Resort’s early sale goes through April 30. Pay in full, and passes include free skiing for the last two weeks of April 2012, or buy with a payment plan for the Adult Gold Pass for $260.02 down (with tax). bigskyresort.com

Becker stressed that like other Big Sky nonprofits, BSSEF receives public money from foundations and donors.

Moonlight Basin

“The cool thing is when people support our organization, it helps us generate our own economy right back into the community.” And in significant amounts. In the case of the January YSL race, hundreds of thousands of dollars were generated, and that was just in Big Sky.

Senior (65+): $445

Local ski teams, both race and freestyle, have the highest participation numbers among all the sports at Ophir School and Lone Peak High School. So, Becker said, “by supporting the ski team, you are supporting the most local kids and families as you can through our organization. It’s good return on charitable giving.”

Junior (ages 11- 17): $299 (Kids 10 and under ski free)

As for the March J3 race, representatives from the U.S. national team were there scouting the young racers, as well as an estimated 43 coaches, and several ski, boot and binding manufacturers.

The racers that weekend were part of the main U.S. development pipeline, and will most likely move onto the national team, said Tony Nunnikhoven, Alpine program director for the Bridger Ski Foundation. “In terms of what it did for the Gallatin Valley, this race was very much on the national stage.” The only other two events of this caliber were held this year at Vail and Sugarloaf.

Nunnikhoven also said that with the press in ski racing publications, and the conversations the racers and their families will have following the race, “we put on a great show and all [who attended] left with a great impression of Montana skiing.”

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Adult: $499

Midweek: $350 College: $299

Moonlight Basin’s early sale goes through April 30, and passes are valid for the rest of this season, starting the day of purchase.

Moonlight is also offering a ‘pay in two’ plan, where the initial payment for adults is $250 and $99 down for junior and college passes.

Current season pass holders can receive a $50 renewal bonus, and Value Card holders can upgrade to a season pass and receive $49 towards the purchase. Also, Moonlight Basin is giving away signature t-shirts to those who purchase season passes in person, on a first come, first served basis. moonlightbasin.com

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local news

Big Sky Weekly

Blue Water Task Force announces restoration plan for Upper Gallatin River

Ophir School District approves sweeping changes

BLUE WATER TASK FORCE

By abbie digel

BIG SKY—The Upper Gallatin River is a waterway that extends from the headwaters at Gallatin Lake in Yellowstone National Park to the confluence with Spanish Creek, near the mouth of Gallatin Canyon. It’s used by many for recreation purposes, but also could be improved in the ways of water quality and habitat conditions.

The Blue Water Task Force, a local nonprofit, will release a restoration plan for the river in April 2012. The plan is a draft blueprint that was built from data collected as part of a Montana Department of Environmental Quality's review mandated by the Clean Water Act. The restoration plan has a scope of three to five years and will focus efforts on the West Fork watershed because of its failure to meet water quality standards set by the MTDEQ for nitrogen, E. coli and sediment.

Specific strategies include developing and implementing a plan to reduce sources of nitrogen in that watershed, working with the Montana Department of Transportation to reduce impacts of winter maintenance activities on rivers and streams, and assessing and prioritizing culvert replacement projects to reduce sediment loading and improve fish passage.

BWTF and interested watershed stakeholders will review and update the plan within the next three to five years. BWTF encourages public comment on the plan. An electronic copy is available online at bluewatertaskforce. org/documents/WFWRPDraft031512_247.pdf, and a hard copy can be obtained from the BWTF office at 50 Meadow Village Drive suite #201, which is across from the front door of the Big Sky Post Office.

big sky weekly editor

BIG SKY—The Ophir School Board voted unanimously for the district's name to be changed from Ophir School District to Big Sky School District No. 72 at a March 15 meeting.

The decision followed three public meetings and a board meeting where community members and parents voiced opinions about proposed changes to the district by Superintendent Jerry House. The district’s new name will take effect July 1.

Ophir School District has been in operation for 99 years, and the name change is a branding move that will capitalize on recognition of Big Sky, House and the board said.

The board also approved changing high school graduation requirements amid some skepticism.

Although the new, more stringent requirements passed, one parent expressed concern about how children who weren't in honors classes would perform with the higher amount of credits, which will increase to 27 from 22 next school year.

Loren Bough, chairman of the board, said that with the variety and latitude of courses offered, students should be able to meet the new requirements.

"This system allows for the students to choose a variety of paths," Bough said.

Parents are invited to join teachers in a meeting on March 28 to discuss the kindergarten through eighth grade math curriculum, and whether it meets the needs of the students.

Integrity.

Vision.

Craft.

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March 23, 2012 9

regional

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Southwest Montana snowpack report

Spring and summer Art Classes at the Emerson

Southwest Montana River Basins: Percentage of 30 Year Average March 21st, 2012

100%

Snow Water Equivalent (SWE): Percentage of 30 year Average

**This graphic is based on SNOTEL data**

90% 80%

The Emerson Cultural Center is hosting spring and summer art classes for all ages, many of which relate to exhibits currently on display in the Emerson's galleries.

70% 60%

For children, the Emerson offers classes for early release days, after school "art sampler," after school pottery, and upcoming summer ArtCamps for children of all ages. Scholarships are available for all children's classes.

For teens and adults there will be an "Art Sampler," a series of one-time multi-cultural art classes for beginners.

50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

Big Sky Weekly

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Jefferson

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Madison

64%

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Gallatin

67%

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81%

85%

83%

95%

The mountains and river basins around Southwest Montana have seen an abundance of moisture since mid-January, and this has helped the local snowpack recover from the below average conditions that we experienced earlier in the winter. SNOTEL sites are now indicating near average Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) values for our local basins.

New this session are printmaking workshops with Shaila Sorenson. The pottery programs continue with Tuesday night independent study with Ryan Mitchell, Wednesday morning pottery with Shaila Sorenson, and Wednesday night pottery with Vanessa Rogers. The pottery studio is available to students during open hours. Emerson teachers are trained educators with years of experience.

3/21/2012

During the last month we have seen a substantial improvement in our mountain snow pack, specifically in the Gallatin River Basin where storms have finally started to drop snow in the Bridger Range. The recent storms have helped to improve the local skiing, and more importantly, our streamflow prospects as we approach the spring runoff season.

For more information, visit theemerson.org or email valerie@theemerson.org.

- Lucas Zukiewicz, USDA-NRCS Montana Snow Survey

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Aerial view of the northern Shields Valley with the Crazy Mountains in the background.

Big Sky Weekly

Photo by Emily Stifler

Park County group prepares for possible natural gas drilling

By Christine Rogel

big sky weekly contributor

SHIELDS VALLEY—The wells are inactive, but the possibility of hydraulic fracturing, also known as “fracking,” for natural gas in Park County has motivated one organization to take action.

Hydraulic fracturing involves pumping pressurized water, sand and chemicals into the ground to break up rock, typically shale, which then releases natural gas or oil. It's a process that's grown since 1976, when the Department of Energy launched the Eastern Gas Shales Project, which researched "unconventional" natural gas resources, according to ProPublica.org, an investigative nonprofit.

The practice has become controversial in recent years as some landowners report groundwater contamination near drill sites, yet industry officials maintain there's no verifiable scientific evidence to support these claims.

Amid the debate, a newly established Gas Committee in Park County decided to educate the community and establish environmental data about its water supply.

The U.S. is undergoing a natural gas boom largely in part to hydraulic fracturing. President Obama has championed the potential of natural gas drilling with tighter regulation, saying it could create more than 600,000 jobs by the end of the decade, reports Bloomberg News. In addition, petroleum consulting firm Spears and Associates Inc. projects the global market for hydraulic fracturing could grow 19 percent in 2012 to a record $37 billion.

tion, which reaches into eastern Montana and is expected to recover 200 million barrels of oil, according to a 2009 article by the Oil and Gas Journal.

“We've never had any instance of contamination of ground water [in Montana] with hydraulic fracturing,” Richmond said.

But other areas of the country haven't been so lucky.

A May 2011 study by the National Academy of Sciences found private water wells near fractured gas wells in Pennsylvania were 17 times more likely to be contaminated with methane gas. And in January 2012, the Environmental Protection Agency began supplying tanks of drinking water to residents in Dimock, Penn., after tests showed dangerous levels of arsenic, glycols and barium were present in at least four wells, ProPublica reported.

Tap water bursting into flames because of methane levels was documented on "Gasland," a 2010 documentary on hydraulic fracturing.

Officials also declared that a string of Ohio earthquakes last year were caused by hydraulic fracturing in that state.

But supporters contest these results, saying these instances are related to the geography of those regions or other specific factors, and that more research is needed.

Here in the Treasure State, “about half of Montana's gas and oil comes from wells that have been hydraulically fractured,” said Tom Richmond, administrator for the Montana Board of Oil and Gas, which regulates the state's oil and gas industry.

In Park County, the Gas Committee, spearheaded by the county's Environmental Council and composed of five members, has formed to educate the public about the practice and establish regulations so that "when and if" hydraulic fracturing takes place, the county will understand the potential impacts, said Kerry Fee, the Park County Environmental Council executive director and founder of the Gas Committee.

The process has been used in the state since the 1950s, and sites in Phillips, Hill, Blaine and Fallon counties all use fracturing to stimulate wells.

"The main thing is to protect landowners and protect the state of Montana's public natural resources―our water," Fee said.

Hydraulic fracturing has also been used in the Elm Coulee Field in Williston, N.D., since 2000.

The field is part of the Bakken Shale Forma-

Since 2008, five gas wells have been drilled in Park County, two owned by Devon Energy Production Co. and three by the Bill Barrett Corp.

All are now inactive, according to the Montana Board of Oil and Gas Conservation's database.

Three have expired permits and one was abandoned. The fifth, owned by Devon, became ready for production in 2009.

The wells weren’t profitable enough, said Chip Minty, a spokesman for Devon Energy.

"We did some preliminary drilling, but have since decided they didn't offer the promise [we] had hoped, and we've set it aside,” Minty said. “I don't believe we have any plans to continue development and exploration of that shale."

The Bill Barrett Corp. could not be reached for comment, but Tom Richmond, with the Montana Board of Oil and Gas, said that the company likely isn't interested in drilling in Park County either.

For either company to reinstate permits, a process that takes more than a month, there would need to be less natural gas on the market and it would need to be sold at a higher price, Richmond said. Currently, the cost of natural gas stands at around $2.50 per thousand cubic feet, he said.

Nationwide, domestic natural gas reserves increased by 11 percent in 2009 to the highest level since 1971 at 284 trillion cubic feet, according to a November 2010 report by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

But the low price of natural gas could be the delay the Gas Committee needs to educate the public and establish regulations over the next few years, Fee said.

The committee is in the process of acquiring grant money to pay for an extended four- or five-year water monitoring project that will test water in the Shields Valley and establish a set of baseline data so if drilling began, the group would have a before and after picture of the water supply and quality. The project is expected to cost around $300,000.

"It's a proactive approach. Usually it's a retroactive thing with gas drilling," Fee said. "And we are very much hoping it turns out to be successful and other communities could use our model.”

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March 23, 2012 11

regional

Big Sky Weekly

Grizzlies leaving Yellowstone dens Yellowstone national park

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Bears are emerging from hibernation in the Greater Yellowstone Area, so hikers, skiers and snowshoers are advised to stay in groups of three or more, make noise on the trail and carry bear spray.

On March 12, Yellowstone National Park employees observed a grizzly bear in the north central portion of the park.

Fresh tracks were also spotted during the same time frame in the Old Faithful area. There were several reports of grizzly bear activity in the Shoshone National Forest east of the park’s boundary during the previous week.

Bears begin looking for food soon after they emerge from their dens. They are attracted to elk and bison that have died during the winter. Carcasses are an important enough food source that bears will sometimes react aggressively when surprised while feeding on them.

Yellowstone regulations require visitors to stay 100 yards from black and grizzly bears at all times. The best defense is to stay a safe distance from bears and use binoculars, a telescope or telephoto lens to get a closer look. Bear spray has proven to be a good last line of defense, if kept handy and used according to directions when a bear is approaching within 30 to 40 feet.

While firearms are allowed in the park, the discharge of a firearm is a violation of park regulations. Even the park’s law enforcement rangers who carry firearms on duty rely on bear spray, rather than their weapons, as the most effective means to deal with a bear encounter.

Visitors are also reminded to keep food, garbage, barbecue grills and other attractants stored in hard-sided vehicles or bear-proof food storage boxes.

This helps keep bears from becoming conditioned to human foods, and helps keep park visitors and their property safe. Bear sightings should be reported to the nearest visitor center or ranger station.

Updated bear safety information is available on the Yellowstone bear safety Web page and in the park newspaper, which is distributed at all park entrances. Yellowstone also recently produced a video on proper use of bear spray, which will soon be available to view on the park website. Interpretive park rangers will be conducting bear spray demonstrations this summer.

The park also implements seasonal bear management areas closures to reduce encounters between bears and humans in areas where elk and bison carcasses are in high density. nps.gov/yell

Spring hunting; upland game bird proposed rule changes; new peregrine take rules Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

Montana's spring male turkey hunting season begins April 14 this year.

Spring black bear hunting season opens April 15. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has expanded some general turkey hunting areas in western Montana.

FWP seeks public comment on proposed rule revisions that guide Montana's Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program. The proposed revisions attempt to implement the new UGBE Program strategic plan endorsed by the FWP Commission in 2011.

ycsales@yellowstoneclub.com

12 March 23, 2012

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The public can review the proposed rule changes on the FWP website under "Submit Public Comments."

Eight public meetings are set to discuss the proposed rules, including one in Bozeman, on April 4 at 6 p.m. at the FWP Region 3 Office.

FWP will also take written comments through April 13.

FWP also approved new peregrine falcon rules in early March for the 2012 and 2013 seasons. The new rules limit participation to residents

and nonresidents who have general and master falconer classifications.

Properly licensed falconers annually have a limited opportunity to take wild peregrine falcons for falconry purposes. Falconers may take a limited number of nestling or fledged birds of prey from the wild to train for the hunting of small game like grouse, pheasants and ducks.

Under the new quota system for residents, falconers no longer need a permit and can take up to a total of five nestling or fledged peregrines in 2012 and five in 2013. The quota in 2013, however, will be reduced if more than five birds are taken in 2012. Any over-harvest during the total two-year take period will be considered in the subsequent year’s regulations process.

The take season will run June through August and limit take to one peregrine per year per falconer.

Falconers who take a peregrine are required to wait two years before attempting to take another. Montana’s rules also prohibit the sale, barter or exchange of birds from the wild.

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Big Sky Weekly

TEDx Bozeman brings together Montana thinkers

By Christine Rogel

big sky weekly Contributor

BOZEMAN—When people see Kevin Connolly they often stare. Some will ask him if he was a victim of a shark attack or a car accident, or if he was injured in the war in Iraq.

or disfigured came to be as they are,” said Connolly in his artist's statement. “Everyone does it. It's natural. It's curiosity. But before any of us can ponder or speculate, we react. We stare."

The theme of TEDxBozeman was "Big Sky, Big Minds,” and during the event, select speakers explained forward-thinking ideas and passions in 18 minutes or less.

Catching this moment of "unabashed curiosity" was his intention as a photographer. And he succeeded.

"Big Sky, Big Minds" was an independent event licensed by TED, a nonprofit based in New York with the purpose of spreading innovative ideas from modern-day thinkers. The organization began in 1984 as a four-day conference that brought together people in the fields of technology, entertainment and design. Since then, Bill Gates, Jane Goodall, Elizabeth Gilbert and Sir Richard Branson are just a few speakers who've contributed to TED's mission.

He discovered that when people watched him roll by on a skateboard, they wanted to make up a story for him. But Connolly's story is not one an imagination can easily conjure.

By age 23, Connolly had photographic exhibitions at both the Kennedy Center and the Smithsonian Institute. By 24, he'd published his first book, "Double Take," which has sold “The idea behind it is to more than 20,000 copies shed light on the fact that and is being developed into a film by Groundwe have several brilliant swell Productions.

Connolly was born in Helena in 1985 with a sporadic birth defect that citizens of Montana left him without legs.

Now at age 26, ConIn 2006, while skating who can help lay the nolly lives in Bozeman. down a backstreet in foundation for educating He was just one of many Vienna, he took his first inspiring speakers who photo for what was to the future.” presented during the debut become “The Rolling of TEDxBozeman, an event Exhibition,” a photogthat featured local and national figures presenting on raphy project that now spans more than 32,000 Montana-based initiatives and ideas.

He presented on images and took him to 15 countries. The exhibiadaptive technology and prosthetic limbs. tion documents the reactions to his skateboarding from people around the world.

“The basic idea is to question why we try, when we build a prosthesis, (to) make people look like everyone "For the same reason we want to know how a else,”Connolly said. magic trick works or how a mystery novel ends, we want to know how someone different, strange

Attendees of the Bozeman-based event heard from a variety of individuals, including Florence Dunkel, a leading entomologist from MSU who suggests that eating insects may help fight world hunger; and Benjamin Ferencz, who had a hand in designing graphics for brands like MoMA, MTV and Gucci.

“The idea behind it is to shed light on the fact that we have several brilliant citizens of Montana who can help lay the foundation for educating the future,” said Danny Schotthoefer, co-founder and spokesperson for TEDxBozeman. “There is no reason that Bozeman should not be on the forefront of a progressive culture.” tedxbozeman.com

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March 23, 2012 13

montana

Big Sky Weekly

Montana's unemployment rate drops for sixth straight month HELENA—Montana’s unemployment rate again dropped by 0.1 percent to 6.5 percent in January, marking six straight months of decreases. U.S. unemployment has also been receding since August, decreasing 0.2 percent to 8.3 percent in January.

Payroll employment estimates indicated small job growth of about 500 jobs over last quarter’s average. Total employment estimates, which include payroll, self-employed, and agricultural workers, indicated slightly more job growth, adding about 800 jobs over last quarter’s average.

The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers increased 0.2 points in January, with the price increases widespread across all goods. The index for all items less food and energy (also called core inflation) increased by 0.2 percent.

Each February, the Montana Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) recalculate the employment estimates for the prior year in a process called benchmarking. The benchmarking process makes employment estimates more accurate, in addition to smoothing the data series.

The benchmarked employment numbers for 2010 and 2011 will be released March 30.

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$150,000 goes to Montana schools for Graduation Matters Office of Public Instruction

HELENA—Nearly two-dozen Montana schools received a total of $150,000 in grant support from the Montana Office of Public Instruction this March to support Graduation Matters initiatives statewide.

The money will go to increase the number of students who graduate from high school prepared for college and careers, and comes from a $450,000 award from the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation to support these community-based initiatives.

"Schools are setting high goals to improve their graduation rates and engage their entire communities in supporting student success,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Denise Juneau. “If these communities are successful in reaching their goals, we will be able to cut the statewide dropout rate in half by 2014."

In 2007, Montana established IDs for all students and implemented a system for tracking them and as they move between programs, schools and districts in the state. As of 2011, Montana has four years of enrollment in this information system.

Montana's graduation rate has improved from 80.2 percent in 2010 to 82.1 percent in 2011. The dropout rate remained at 4.3 percent.

Many of involved schools spent the last year bringing together community partners, analyzing data and putting plans in place, Juneau said. “Now we can help jumpstart their efforts with the Graduation Matters Challenge Fund.

The next two years will be critical for the economic future of individuals and our state by graduating students with the skills they need to find a good job."

Graduation matters challenge fund awards will go to 22 schools across Montana. This includes $10,000 to the greater Gallatin region.

Montana homeless programs receive $300,000 in grants big sky weekly wire services

WASHINGTON—U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan in early March awarded $308,201 to support five new local homeless programs in Montana. This funding provides emergency shelter, transitional housing and permanent support for individuals and families.

The funding will help support shelters in Bozeman, Missoula, Ronan, Helena and Billings. It’s part of $15.7 million in HUD grants that will go toward supporting 103 new housing and service programs in rural communities

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montana 9th Circuit Court upholds Congressional wolf delisting Big sky weekly staff writer

BILLINGS—The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals on March 14 ruled that Congress’s 2011 decision to remove gray wolves in Montana and Idaho from the federal endangered species list did not violate the Constitution.

Backed by Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont) and by Rep. Mike Simpson, (R-Idaho), the amendment marked the first time Congress, rather than a science-based federal agency, directly interfered with endangered species protection.

Under the new law, wolves in the two states have been managed by state wildlife agencies. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks used this leverage to allow a wolf hunt this year, which may also help the agency manage other wildlife like elk and deer.

In a unanimous decision, the democratically appointed 9th Circuit three-judge panel found that because Congress’s decision was passed as an amendment, it did not violate the Constitutional separation of powers law.

The panel rejected the arguments of environmental groups claiming wolves had lost protection before their populations recovered.

Environmental and conservation groups are concerned that this may set a precedent for future de-listing of animals. Hunting groups lauded the decision.

The plaintiffs may appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Big Sky Weekly

Conservation Corps helps vets get back to work Montana Conservation Corps’ Veterans Green Corps is a summer job skills training program that combines public land conservation, technical training and education. Participants gain leadership and teamwork skills aimed at careers in wildfire and forestry management on public lands.

M. Russell Wildlife Refuge and the Bridger Teton National Forest in Montana, and the Medicine BowRoutt National Forest in southern Wyoming and northern Colorado. The project is focused on fuels reduction, so an interest in using chainsaws and crosscut saws is essential.

2011 participant Steve Kokal highly recommended the MCC for new veterans, especially those recently returned from AOR deployments. “The mix of remote living in a stateside setting provides an excellent re-integration into civilian life," Kokal said.

Participants receive an AmeriCorps living stipend and upon completion of the program, an AmeriCorps education award to pursue education opportunities and technical training.

Contact Tauzha Grantham at (406) 651-1311 or tauzha@mtcorps.org for more information. mtcorps.org

Veterans Green Corps will be based out of Billings and Helena, with project work on the Charles

Nominate a Montana bachelor

Cosmopolitan magazine searches for sexiest single men in the U.S., bachelors to be featured in November issue

By Carey Corrigan Cosmopolitan

Cosmo is on the hunt for 2012’s hottest single men from across the country—one from every state—and the magazine needs help finding them.

Besides having a photo and interview featured in the magazine, one guy will be crowned ‘bachelor of the year’ and win $10,000. According to the magazine, all 51 men also have a shot at finding love. Cosmo readers can contact their favorite bachelors through an exclusive

email address featured in each magazine profile (several former Cosmo bachelors have met their wives this way).

Past winners have gone on to score national modeling campaigns for brands like Abercrombie and Fitch and Hollister, as well as starring roles on reality television shows like ABC’s The Bachelor and The Bachelorette, VH1‘s Tough Love, and CBS’s Survivor.

To nominate a Montanan, go to cosmopolitan. com/bachelor-nominate. Deadline is April 8.

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March 23, 2012 15

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Section 2:

business, health & real estate + Ophir School news

Big Sky Weekly

March 23, 2012 Volume 3 // Issue #6

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Guns, Indians and the first international rock star Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody integrates Western heritage, natural science and the arts story and photos by emily stifler big sky weekly managing editor

CODY, Wyo.—Hundreds of rifles are lined up in glass cases in the Cody Firearms Museum, and to the untrained eye it’s hard to tell them apart. But Bruce Eldredge knows each one has a story.

“You see there’s an engraving on this one,” he says, pointing. “It was given to a particular person who carried it in the Civil War and was killed in the battle of Atlanta.”

That kind of story, the museum CEO and director says, can help illuminate the firearms experience in this country and give us a greater understanding of both the American West and the national character.

This museum is the largest of its kind and has the most comprehensive assembly of American firearms in the world.

“If you ever wanted it as a rifle, it’s here,” Eldredge said. That includes the entire Winchester arms collection, and pieces from almost every major manufacturer.

This is one of five museums in the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, alongside the Buffalo Bill Museum, the Whitney Gallery of Western Art, the Plains Indians Museum and the Draper Museum of Natural History. The facility has more than

100,000 collections, and one of the largest non-university funded research libraries in the West.

Eldredge came to the historical center five years ago from Spokane, Wash., where he was director of the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture. He’s been directing museums for 35 years and this, he says, is his dream job.

“The NRA will tell you firearms are in our second amendment,” he says, gesturing with his glasses in the air as he talks. “But what are firearms really all about? Putting food on the table. Hunting was an important way of life in this country until 100 years ago. When it ceased to be important was when we were producing more food for commercial purposes.”

He points out Teddy Roosevelt’s shotgun and rifle, which are paired with several books authored by the former president.

“The history of conservation in the U.S. goes back to hunting,” Eldredge says. “Without conservation, there wouldn’t be hunting.”

This, he says, provides a platform to discuss the interplay between art, history and science—connecting the five museums.

The Cody Firearms Museum has the largest collection of American firearms in the world.

While there are an increasing number of museum districts in places like Dallas, San Diego, Chicago and New York, the way the Buffalo Bill center combines Western art and history with natural science is distinct, says Dewey Blanton, from the American Association of Museums.

Set near the east gate of Yellowstone National Park, the museum was founded in 1917 as a memorial for Buffalo Bill a few months after his death. With the 1959 opening of the Gallery of Western Art, it became a modern museum and today is “a mecca,” Eldredge says.

It’s also a commerce hub for Wyoming’s Bighorn Basin, according to Scott Balyo, executive director of the Cody Chamber of Commerce.

“The museum has a huge affect on the town,” Balyo said. “From the number of people it employs (ap-

Photos byGallery Erik Morrison Whitney of Western Art. About half of the 400,000 annual visitors to Yellowstone stop in at the historical center in Cody.

proximately 130) to the fact that there are five world class museums. It’s a huge draw nationwide, and it sets Cody apart in terms of Western heritage.”

Out of 1.2 million total annual visitors that pass to Yellowstone, 400,000 go through the east gate by Cody. 167,000 of those stop at the historical center.

That’s a 14-18 percent penetration rate in market, one of highest of any tourism rates in the U.S. But still, Eldredge says, it’s not enough.

155,000 of those are during the summer, and then during winter, when the facility is only open four days a week, they see about 1,000 visitors a month, half of which are local or regional.

Eldredge, who wears a sport coat and button down shirt, is in working on a day off. His frustration and passion are noticeable when he discusses the museum’s economics.

Continued on p. 18

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March 23, 2012 17

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Big Sky Weekly

Advice from the experts Big Sky’s interest in the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Center grabbed Bruce Eldredge’s attention. The director and CEO of the Buffalo Bill Historic Center had a message for the community: “Do it, but it isn’t a magic bullet, it’s an arrow in a quiver.”

He recommended developing an interactive center. The museum in Cody offers a raptor experience, rodeo and shooting demonstrations, and a chuckwagon with coffee and beans.

“Fifty years ago, collections drove museums,” he explained. “Now, experiences drive museums.” This is because they encourage visitors to stay longer, and they’re much less costly than collections.

Dewey Blanton with the American Association of Museums agrees.

“Collections are obviously the tent pole, but the whole visitor experience is so much more important to the museum being able to attract new and repeat audiences and keeping things thriving.”

Museums nationwide have had a tough time during the recession, Blanton said, and the Buffalo Bill center is not the only one that had to lay off employees.

“I think where most museums fail is they have unrealistic expectations about visitors through the door and what they’ll generate,” Eldredge said.

Regardless, museums are proven economic engines, Blanton said.

He cited a study done by the U.S. Conference of Mayors that found for every dollar a city or county invested in cultural organizations like museums or the arts, it returned seven dollars in tax revenue.

For a resort town like Big Sky, a Western heritage museum would cap off an already strong array of tourist activities, Blanton said.

“You’ve got an added advantage from the beginning—you’ve got people going to visit you anyway.

This could be the icing on the cake to attract more visitors, so long as the exhibits and the programs are fresh and keep people coming back.”

“Western heritage never goes out of favor with the American public.

The myths and facts of the West never go out of style.”

Continued from p. 17 In the past, museums were mostly supported by boards of trustees, but now, Eldredge spends most of his time fundraising. The historical center reduced its budget by $1.5 million in the last four years and has 25 fewer staff.

For every dollar a city or county invested in cultural organizations like museums or the arts, it returned seven dollars in tax revenue.

Plus, he says, the historical center is an anomaly in that it’s an internationally recognized museum in a very small town. A recent economic study showed no benchmark institution in the country.

“We should be in a community of three to five million,” he said.

But in spite of these challenges, the historical center is thriving, and just spent $2.75 million to restore the wing that hosts the Buffalo Bill museum. This is in large part because of its location next to Yellowstone, but also because the museum has broad appeal.

“Our friend Buffalo Bill was the first international rock star, the first person to have an international reputation as an entertainer,” Eldredge says.

“So how did that shape America’s character? Europeans today still think of Buffalo Bill as a representation of the American West.”

As he walks through the Plains Indian museum, Eldredge’s voice calms. This, along with the Whitney Gallery, is perhaps the most poignant expression of emotions and feeling in the historical center, he says.

The museum recently acquired 2,200 Plains Indian pieces from the pre-reservation era and has been unpacking and cataloguing it, planning for a special exhibition. The museum also keeps ceremonial objects that will never be on exhibition, that are used by both Indian elders and education programs for Indian schools.

On his way to the Draper Museum of Natural Science, Eldredge ruminates on his job.

“I learn something new every day, from the objects that I see every day.”

18 March 23, 2012

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In this, the newest of the historical center’s five wings, he seems most at ease. Created in 2001, the exhibit is a representation of the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem from a natural science perspective, offering an interactive way to think about the issues that face the region.

Bird sounds and other animal noises resonate throughout its multiple levels, creating a sort of multimedia nature walk. A taxidermy grizzly bear rears above a video about camping in bear country. Another display asks, “What solution do you think would work best with the wolves?”

“We’re a natural forum for [some] difficult controversial discussions, but we don’t take a side,” Eldredge says. “We just try to present what the science is saying.”

While the historical center’s rural location presents challenges, it also allows it to form valuable partnerships and get special permits that benefit its collections. The taxidermy bears in the Draper Museum, for example, were killed in Yellowstone. Because the museum’s senior curator Dr. Charles Preston has connections with the park, Fish Wildlife and Parks and the Forest Service, he knows when a bear has been killed and can make the proper requests get to it quickly for use in the museum.

“Those partnerships are key to what we do here,” Eldredge says. “They’re partnerships we have because of where we are, not just because of who we are. It would be very hard to have them if we were in New York City.”

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Big Sky Weekly

Creighton Block

Rob Akey Greg Alexander Jim Barrett Diana Brady Lynn Cain Todd Connor

John DeMott Jerral Derr yberr y Flavia Eckholm Edd Enders Thomas English

Mark Gibson Don Grant Mimi Grant Ott Jones David Lemon

Asha MacDonald Mike Patterson Paula Pearl Jacqueline Rieder Hud Gar y Lynn Rober ts

Daniel San Souci Deb Schmit Laurie Stevens Dave Swanson Shirle Wempner

A RTIS T PROF ILE Jerral Derr yberr y grew up in small towns in Texas, Colorado and West Virginia. His formal education was in architecture, having earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree from University of Texas at Austin.

The training he received in architectural illustration techniques, casein, gauche and watercolor gave him the means to work his way through college and also were the first steps toward his future as a fine ar tist. In the 80’s through the late 90’s, he relocated to Taos and Santa Fe New Mexico, where he concentrated his effor ts on studying the oil painting techniques of the great New Mexico impressionist masters. It was during this period that he began painting primarily plein air subjects

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health & wellness Twins to discuss cystic fibrosis, lung transplants at March 29 Café Scientifique

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Big Sky Weekly

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Msu news service

BOZEMAN—“From Sickness to Health: A Personal Story of Cystic Fibrosis and Lung Transplantation” is the subject of the next Café Scientifique to be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 29, at the Baxter Ballroom in downtown Bozeman.

Isabel and Anabel Stenzel—twins, authors, patient advocates and healthcare providers—will provide a personal and professional overview of living with cystic fibrosis, the most common lifethreatening genetic disorder in Caucasians. They will discuss clinical aspects of the disease, including the genetics, pathophysiology and current management of the disease, showing how medical advancements have increased life expectancy and quality of life.

The Stenzel twins will also discuss the psychosocial aspects of living with cystic fibrosis, including coping with chronic illness, the impact of illness on relationships, the gift of a support network, and the wisdom learned from illness. The speakers will address one of the most transformative modern medical miracles—organ donation and lung transplantation for cystic fibrosis.

They will discuss their global advocacy

work to increase awareness about cystic fibrosis and organ donation, inspired by their memoir and documentary film.

Isabel Stenzel Byrnes and Anabel Stenzel, 40, have worked with families affected by cystic fibrosis for 20 years.

Anabel serves as a board member of Cystic Fibrosis Research, Inc., and Isabel serves on the ethics committee for the United Network of Organ Sharing.

After a lifetime of challenges from cystic fibrosis, Anabel received two double lung transplants, at the age of 28 and 35; Isabel received a double lung transplant at the age of 34. They published a memoir, The Power of Two: A Twin Triumph over Cystic Fibrosis, in 2007. The twins’ work has inspired a documentary film also called "The Power of Two," which examines the cystic fibrosis and transplant experience in the U.S. and Japan.

"The Power of Two" will be shown from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on March 30, at the Ellen Theater, 17 West Main, Bozeman. The screening is a benefit for The Cody Dieruf Benefit Foundation.

Tickets may be purchased at theellentheatre.com or breathinisbelievin. org.

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business MSU business school names new dean msu news service

BOZEMAN— Kregg Aytes, the interim dean of Idaho State University’s College of Business, has been selected as dean of Montana State University’s College of Business after a national search. Aytes will start July 1.

Aytes has been a member of the College of Business faculty at Idaho State University since 1993. He completed his doctorate in management information systems at the University of Arizona Eller College Of Management that same year.

Prior to his doctoral education, he worked as a systems engineer at IBM in Phoenix for five years after receiving his bachelor's degree from the University of Arizona.

During his time at ISU, Aytes has served as chair of the Computer Information Systems Department, associate dean, and in his current position as interim dean. He has taught a wide variety of courses, including subjects ranging from programming to strategy and small business consulting. He was named one of five master teachers at ISU in 2006.He has also twice received the outstanding service award for the College of Business at ISU. Aytes' research interests revolve around the management of IT, the use of technology to support group work, and more recently, the use of social media by entrepreneurs. He enjoys interacting with industry, through consulting and service on boards of various economic development organizations.

Over the years, Aytes has visited Bozeman many times, as his daughter attended MSU and she and his son currently live and work in Bozeman.

The dean position came open last spring, when Dan Moshavi left the position to become dean of the School of Business and Leadership at Dominican University of California

in San Rafael. Susan Dana, who did not apply for the permanent position, has been serving as interim dean.

With roughly 1,200 students, the MSU College of Business offers undergraduate programs in accounting, finance, management, and marketing as well as minors in accounting, business administration, entrepreneurship and small business management, international business, and the management of information technology. The college also offers a master's of professional accountancy degree, designed to prepare student for professional careers in the field of accounting.

The college is home to the Alderson Program in Entrepreneurship, which has been twice recognized by Entrepreneur magazine, and the Gary K. Bracken Center for Excellence in Undergraduate Education, which was funded by a $3 million gift from the friends and family of college of business graduate Gary Bracken ('61). Scholarships, travel abroad fellowships and internships, career counseling services, mentoring programs, executives-in-residence, small classes and curriculum development are supported through The Bracken Center.

Big Sky Weekly

Workshop teaches operating a leaner, more profitable business Big Sky Chamber of Commerce

The Big Sky Chamber of Commerce is hosting a lunchtime workshop on strategies for sustainable and cost-effective business operation on March 29. The workshop will make the case for business sustainability, offer tools for reducing time and waste through areas such as energy efficiency and purchasing modifications, and help businesses plan for sustainability policy implementation.

gion. The group is partnering with Chambers throughout the region to offer these workshops.

The Big Sky workshop will be on Thursday March 29, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Outlaw Partners conference room in the Meadow Village Center Clock Tower Building. For more information and to RSVP, visit bigskychamber.com or call (406) 995-3000.

Space is limited and RSVP is required. Presenter Wendy Weaver will share ideas on how to minimize wasted time, products and resources in order to help operate a more profitable business. Weaver has over 15 years of civil engineering experience.

The Chamber is hosting the event in collaboration with the Yellowstone Business Partnership. YPB is a nonprofit organization that creates regional partnerships and programs to enhance the environmental, social and economic wellbeing of the Greater Yellowstone re-

In 2010, MSU alumnus Jake Jabs gave the college $3 million to establish the Jake Jabs Center for Entrepreneurship for the New West. Jabs followed up with a $25 million gift in 2011 that will allow the college to construct a new building to house its programs. Ground is expected to be broken in 2013 with completion in 2015.

MSU College of Business graduating seniors have taken the Major Field Test-Business since the summer of 2005, and the mean has consistently been at the 90th percentile of the national norms reported by the Educational Testing Service, the world's largest, private, nonprofit educational testing and assessment organization.

Bozeman financial advisor recognized among top in Montana Scott Brown on Barron’s “America’s Top 1,000 Advisors: State-by-State” BOZEMAN—Financial advisor Scott Brown was recognized among the top advisors in Montana by Barron’s magazine in its annual “America's Top 1,000 Advisors: State-by-State” list, published on Feb. 20, based on 2011 information.

Brown has residences in Big Sky and Bozeman and has been with Merrill Lynch more than five years.

Advisors considered for the ranking have a minimum of seven years financial services experience and have been employed at their current firm for at least one year. Quantitative and qualitative measures used to determine the rankings include client assets, return on assets, client satisfaction/retention, compliance records and community involvement.

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March 23, 2012 23

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R a re

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business profile

Big Sky Weekly

Longtime local outfitter and wife are new owners of Gallatin River Guides

By Taylor Anderson

big sky weekly assistant editor

BIG SKY—Mark another community-oriented business, Big Sky. After 28 years, Betsey French has stepped away from operating Gallatin River Guides in Gallatin Canyon, and Pat Straub and his wife, Brandy, have filled the gap.

Straub, an outfitter based out of Bozeman for the last 17 years, said he’s hoping to maintain the friendly, local feel that was put in place before him.

What better way to honor his friend Betsey?

The shop will still focus on what’s offered in its backyard, the Gallatin and Yellowstone rivers, as well as the Madison River.

It’s been a busy year for Pat and Brandy, who alternate taking care of their 10-month-old Adela and working.

“I’ve got a new business and new baby in the same year, nothin’ like diving in head first,” Straub said, smiling. “It’s exciting, I’m very excited.”

As for building on the legacy the Frenches left behind, Straub hopes to rely on the local base,

while also offering gear, services and advice to the visitors who help this town tick.

The work and reputation built by the family “was essential to putting fly fishing in Big Sky on the map.”

Pat said he’s trying to integrate local artists throughout the shop, and create community buzz by hosting planned and sporadic events throughout the year.

“If you’re driving by in the canyon and you see cars and a barbeque, we want you to feel welcome to stop in and join.”

Pat and Brandy Straub will now work to transition into owning Gallatin River Guides on Highway 191. Photo by Taylor Anderson

The author-angler-husband-father won’t have to miss out on fishing once the hectic trials of starting a business are through. He plans to keep 10-year GRG employee Jimmy Armijo on board as manager, and will employ guides used by the former owners as well.

As an outfitter Straub said he felt the impact of the recession, a dip he says didn’t miss the fishing industry.

But he feels confident we’ve turned a corner, and GRG

has already seen a busy March with six or seven guided fishing trips each week.

Straub spent a busy week in March alternating between spending time with Adela and settling into the shop, one month into ownership. Now, he says, he’s ready to start introducing himself to Big Sky. “I enjoy creating relationships with people with fishing as the connector,” he said. “Clients that come in (often) end up as friends.”

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Big Sky Weekly

Ophir School Newspaper The Ophir School Newspaper is a joint production of Outlaw Partners and the aspiring MiddleSchool Journalists of Ophir School, who are self-assigning the content and reporting and photographing the stories you see here. The Ophir School Newspaper will appear on two pages of the Big Sky Weekly throughout the school year. - Barbara Rowley, Ophir School Newspaper advisor

Weight (s) right here!

By Chloee Beardsley A number of new activities have come to Lone Peak High School and Ophir School this year that have been useful for many people, and one of the newest is the weight room and regular weight training after school.

“Weight training is something that will prevent injuries in our athletes,” said Health Enhancement teacher, Tony Beardsley.

Mr. Beardsley has put together a program for grades six through 12 in the weight room. “We need all our athletes to develop power, strength, and speed so we can be competitive,” he said. Weight training occurs during health enhancement classes during the day, but for eighth through 12th graders it is also available after school from 3:45 – 4:45, Monday through Thursday in the Bough-Dolan Fitness and Strength Center.

“The diversity with all the athletes in our school including ski team, soccer players and our school sponsored sports as well, need weight training.

Strength training improves the children’s self-esteem and is one of the main fitness components,” said Beardsley, who is also the head football coach at LPHS.

photo by chloee beardsley

Hardworking student athlete Grayson Bell says he likes weight training because it helps him get in better shape, keeps him active, and helps improve his athletic performance.

“Coach Beardsley and Coach Adam Olsen support me throughout this experience and my father gives me every ounce of support I need,” Bell said. “I found how hard I can push myself and what my limitations are so I can achieve them and set them higher every time.”

Jacob Cruz also enjoys weight training after school, he says, “because I achieve better in sports and it makes me better, faster, and stronger.”

Coach Beardsley hopes to find a good time for the public to work out, also.

The weight room is not just for the students but also for the staff, faculty and public.

A ‘club’ sport

New golf team for LPHS

By Chloee Beardsley LPHS is swinging into action with a new golf team. The head coach, Lori Savoy will be the one to make the big step forward in teaching ninth through 12 graders how to golf.

“I enjoy golf because it is a sport that is mostly individual and you have to use your mental toughness,” said Trevor House, one of the players on the new team. “Also it is just a fun game.” Trevor has been golfing since he five years old.

Trevor’s brother Quinn has also been golfing since he was very young. “I enjoy golf because of the individuality, and it is also lots of fun when you actually make it into the hole,” said the Mighty Quinn.

Depending on the weather, the golf team will practice in the gym and at Tate Tatom’s barn, where he has a golfing setup. They will also venture into the Gallatin Valley to practice at Black Bull golf course.

Why do we have a golf team?

“Well it’s a good fit,” said athletic director Tony Beardsley. “During the spring we have no other team sports taking place. There are also a lot of class B and C high school teams in our area that sponsor golf.”

The team will play tournaments in Three Forks, Manhattan and Townsend. State will be in Ennis, May 14 – 16.

26 March 23, 2012

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photo by austin trayser

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Big Sky Weekly

Big Sky has talent: See it for yourself on Sunday, March 25

By Katie Pearl Hoffman Do you love Broadway? Do you ever feel the urge to belt out “Somewhere Over the Rainbow?”

Here’s your chance to show off your stuff or watch others show off theirs. The first annual Big Sky Broadway talent show is coming to Big Sky on March 25 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the big theater in the Lone Peak Cinema. In addition to a talent show, this fundraiser for Big Sky Broadway is also a costume party, so come dressed as your favorite Broadway character or star.

All proceeds from the show go toward Big Sky Broadway, Big Sky's first and only summer musical theater camp to showcase young kids from the community and their talents. The fundraising is very helpful, according to producer Barbara Rowley. Last year the licensing for the play cost $700 alone. Fundraising events like the talent show also help pay for professional musicians, a vocal coach and a choreographer.

Big Sky Broadway has been putting on shows for the community for two summers. Future cast members anxious to know the name of the show that they will be performing June 23 and 24 at Big Sky Resort will be satisfied on Sunday, when it’s announced at the talent show. Plans are also in the works to show a movie of the play in the theater following the talent show while the adults head over for a wine-tasting event at By Word of Mouth.

Future cast members in attendance will also be able to sign up for an audition spot during the talent show event, as well as register for Big Sky Broadway. The cast will be limited to 30 kids this year; the age limit for Big Sky Broadway is fourth through eighth graders.

So far a number of Ophir kids have signed up to perform in the talent show: Ava King, Solae Swenson, Elise Russell, Dounia Shultz, Carly Wil-

The Big Sky talent show starts at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, March 25.

son, Greta McClain, Seylor Tatum, Teyha Braun, and Emma and Libby Flach. There will be three celebrity judges and they will also have great prizes.

There are only 25 tickets left, so get yours soon!

"If it were up to me, we would be showcasing the amazing talent that this town has every weekend of the year,” said Director John Zirkle, also the director of Big Sky Broadway. “I can't wait to see what everybody has come up with."

The students’ adult mentors Patty Dickerson and Katie Scherfig will also be performing. All of the performers thought the talent show was an awesome idea.

"I was in Big Sky Broadway last year and loved it, so I think it’s great that there is a fun fundraiser,” said Emma Flach. Elise Russell agreed, saying, "I think that it is fun to perform, especially with friends."

This is a show you won’t want to miss, so come on down to the Lone Peak Cinema March 25. Don’t forget to dress up! If you’re interested in performing, or if you can't attend the talent show but want a spot in Big Sky Broadway this summer, e-mail Barbara Rowley at browley@3rivers.net.

Egg shattering news

A sad Easter for the seventh grade By elizabeth quackenbush

Donkey

B a s k e t B a l l Don’t Miss the action!

Friday, april 6th 7pm • Lone Peak Gym Limited Seating Tickets @ School Office Conoco & Hungry Moose Big Horn Booster Fundraiser Family Fun • Entertainment Thrills & Spills! • Lots of Laughs

For at least seven years, teacher Ms. Barton has been hatching chicks for her seventh grade class. Every year since Ms. Barton began the project, most of the chicks have successfully hatched. But this year something a little different happened.

The poor little chicks were just sitting in their little incubator home, when suddenly an anonymous figure entered Ms. Barton’s room and switched the temperature to 110 degrees. The regular temperature should be a nice 99.5 degrees. So when this trouble maker snuck in and turned up the heat, they made it likely that there is a good chance that none of them will survive “I really hope that this doesn’t happen to us next year,” says Kuka Holder sixth grader.

“I have been waiting to hatch the eggs since kindergarten! I hope that some of them will still survive (hopefully my two),” said seventh grader Dasha Bough.

“I have been really looking forward to seeing the chicks hatch. It’s just such a disappointment that they all might be dead," agrees Sayler Tatum, sadly.

The students in the seventh grade class are all praying for the little chicks. Let’s hope for the best.

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real estate

Big Sky Weekly

A look at Big Sky real estate There are a few certainties in life… death… taxes… the bottom of the real estate market has already happened (hopefully).

We’ve witnessed one of the largest corrections in the real estate market in history. In the past decade, Big Sky real estate values went through a massive cycle bringing some properties back to pre-1998 pricing (pre-boom).

Buyers and sellers are constantly asking if it’s the right time to buy or sell. There is no crystal ball, but if I were a betting man I’d say now is the right time to buy. 2007 was arguably the peak of the Big Sky market, with over 200 properties sold that fiscal year. In 2012, the market has seen 35 contracts placed on properties, thus far.

Right now “fence sitters” are dominating the market.

When they act, the market will pass us all by quickly.

If you want to test this theory, go look at Bend, Ore., where quality homes listed on the market see 10 to 20 offers a day.

Rarely in our lifetime will any of us see this perfect storm of fair market pricing paired with such strong listings. To me, this is the most defining thing about the market today. Here, we’ve compiled some the highest quality and most interesting listings available.

My grandfather and father are the second and third generation of my family to work in real estate development. Years ago, they gave me advice that has always stuck with me:

“There is only so much waterfront property or ski-in ski-out property in the world. When it’s gone, it’s gone.”

I think this comment can be broadened to “quality real estate.”

So, has the real estate market bottomed? Most likely yes. Is now the right time to buy? If you find your dream property, you bet. Is the quality of listings some of the best Big Sky has ever seen? No doubt.

Will we look back at 2012 as an amazing time to have bought real estate? Odd makers are saying, ‘place the bet’. -Eric Ladd

Chimney Rock Ranch

14 Swift Bear, Cascade Highlands

Set beneath the Absaroka Mountains, these 10,605 deeded acres and 1,465 leased acres sweep over five miles of private fishery, mountain peaks, rolling hills, plateaus and grassy meadows. This all-inclusive retreat is 15 miles from Big Timber and 90 minutes from Bozeman.

From the owner: This home was not designed merely as a vacation home but as our permanent residence. We incorporated the latest construction techniques to provide low maintenance and to accommodate a comfortable mountain lifestyle, and we looked to the future with the primarily one-level living design that could adapt to our family’s needs.

The ranch features an equestrian center with a spacious indoor arena, stables and related facilities. There are approximately 30 miles of trails and access to endless miles of bordering Forest Service and wilderness land. The absolute tranquility, majestic landscapes and recreational pleasures will refresh your mind and spirits.

Onsite Lower Deer Creek delivers a first-class private fishing experience for brown, rainbow, cutthroat and cutbow trout. Small stream + dry flies + big wild trout + solitude = perfect! Nearby Boulder and Yellowstone rivers as well as the fishing waters in Yellowstone National Park to the south make this a fishing paradise.

Wildlife is abundant due to the outstanding habitat and the minimal pressure in recent years, and the ranch is a peaceful sanctuary for all kinds of fauna including elk, deer, upland bird, various raptor and songbirds.

We wanted a house that would take advantage of beautiful mountain views and natural surroundings. This is a home situated in the mountains with a modern Frank Lloyd Wright flair. In this tradition, the house is nestled into the site naturally, and the indoors and outdoors meld together with ease where our outdoor patio transitions into a tranquil rock pond and stream.

Not only do we enjoy stunning views 365 days a year, but throughout warmer months moose, bear, fox, deer and elk become welcome neighbors. We are at the base of Big Sky, and the access is so easy that we never hesitate to go skiing, even if we only have only a couple hours. Ski trails also provide more interesting walking than roads. This is a very special place here in Big Sky that we call home. $1,477,000 Shawna Winter | Winter and Company Real Estate (406) 581-2033 | mtwinter.com

$22,500,000 Ryan Flair | Fay Ranches (800) 238-8616 | fayranches.com

Powder Ridge 18 The slope side location and access to the White Otter Lift of Powder Ridge 18 is so convenient that you can literally go from slippers to the slopes in seconds. Après ski, sledding opportunities for family and friends are right off of the front porch.

Beautifully furnished and thoughtfully upgraded, this unit is well priced, well located and well kept.

Eric Ossorio | Prudential Montana Real Estate (406) 539-9553 | prumt.com

28 March 23, 2012

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real estate

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Big Sky Weekly

Duck Pond

5 Hackamore | Diamond Hitch

Duck's Pond Estate is the perfect Montana retreat. Not too big, not too small—just right. This 3,100-square-foot, handcrafted, square timber beam home is fully furnished with mountain décor and located on 20 acres. The southeast deck off the living room looks directly over the private pond and into Yellowstone National Park.

The home has four bedrooms, of which three are master suites with their own private bathrooms and a fourth bedroom, which has a custom built double bunkroom.

With dramatic views and exceptional ski access, this residence is the lowest priced home in Moonlight Basin and is quite possibly Big Sky's best buy. Situated near the base of the Challenger Lift and with direct access to the "Bozeman Trail" ski run, this custom home provides top-notch trail access from both Big Sky and Moonlight Basin, making the trek to early morning ski lessons an effortless one.

Viking appliances and custom barn wood and handmade custom kitchen cabinets are top of the line and the wet bar, TV/game room and office, plus two fireplaces give this timber home all the amenities one could want in a Big Sky home. The gourmet kitchen is perfect for gatherings of family and friends.

There is an abundance of wildlife as the property is part of an important migration corridor from Yellowstone Park and Gallatin National Forest. The building envelope includes an area where a garage and a guesthouse can be built. Private and gated, yet minutes to world class blue ribbon fly fishing and the Big Sky Town Center for dining, shopping and concerts. $1,725,000 Martha Johnson | Rivers To Peaks ~ Big Sky Real Estate (406) 580-5891 | riverstopeaks.com

Luxury Suite 6B More than 4,100 square feet of pure ski-in/ski-out luxury living at Moonlight Basin.

By the numbers: two master suites, two junior suites, two living areas, three fireplaces, 11 foot ceilings on two levels, accessed via a 753-foot skier bridge, one of only three similar properties. Includes a pool table, hot tub on covered deck, fabulous furnishings and fixtures, fully integrated sound and security systems, ski room and heated garage, TVs in every bedroom, hardwood floors, granite in kitchen and all bathrooms. Did we mention the views? Take a tour at bigskysir.com/video/luxurysuite6b.html.

Nestled amidst pines for added privacy, the home boasts five bedrooms, two living areas and an open floor plan ideal for gathering with family and friends, while the setting is nothing short of spectacular. This southern-facing, mountain retreat sits on nearly 1.5 gently rolling acres and is located on a quiet cul-de-sac overlooking the surrounding peaks and nearby ski ways.

Perhaps most impressive is the opportunity to add value to this home which is surrounded by multi-million dollar residences. It’s most certainly the "baby on the block" with limitless possibilities and priced to sell this ski season. $1,295,000 Ania Bulis | Christie's International Real Estate | Pure West (406) 580-6852 | purewestproperties.com

The Powerhouse | historic building turned single family home This historic structure in Ennis used to be the old hydroelectric plant for the Madison Valley and has since been converted in a gorgeous single family home with pond, creek and amazing views. $2,995,000 Tallie Jamison and Cathy Gorman | Sotheby’s (406) 995-2244 | bigskysir.com

$1,769,000 Jeff Helms, Ryan Kulesza and Tallie Jamison | Sotheby’s (406) 995-2244 | bigskysir.com

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March 23, 2012 29

Classifieds

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Big Sky Weekly

for rent RENTALS Snowmobiles, Side by Side/Trax, Snowshoes, Baby Gear bigboystoysrentals.com 406.587.4747 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Office Space - Executive Office suites available in amazing building in Meadow Village, Big Sky - $300 to $500/mth depending on terms and office size.

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Terms Negotiable. Call Eric 570-0639 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------900 sq ft shop space with zoning to allow for numerous business and usage options on 191. Includes radiant in-floor heat, bathroom, hot and cold water service, a finished office space, storage loft, ample outside parking and trash/ recycling service. Unlike other warehouse options in Big Sky, this building allows for actual employees or workers to use the facility, and is not limited to “cold storage." Main door and 10x10 Shop door. $950 per month Please call for details and questions. 406-580-7220 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2650 s.f. Restaurant space. BEST location. Tastefully finished.

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services Victoria Bentley is the Owner and Director of Bentley Bodies, a premiere mind-body-wellness boutique committed to healthy lifestyle choices.

Locations are in Big Sky and Bozeman. bentleybodies.net

Home of tHe Email classifieds and/or advertising requests to media@theoutlawpartners.com

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Email classifieds and/or advertising requests to: media@theoutlawpartners.com

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30 March 23, 2012

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Section 3:

March 23, 2012 Volume 3 // Issue #6

life // land //culture food & dining

certified organic produce in a carbon-negative operation.

Outlaw and Bar 3 send their compostable material to Alpine Organics and contract with the farm for cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes, herbs and other produce for the brewery and restaurant. Things like the outer-leaves of cabbage left over from making coleslaw, spent grains from the beer making process, carrot peels, tomato peels, egg shells, coffee grounds, tea leaves and pulpy paper goods are all items that head to the organic farm. The result of this effort is not only delicious beer and produce, but also a drastic reduction in waste that goes to the local landfill.

“Literally, we’ve reduced what we take to the landfill by 75 percent by composting and doing some other things, like a full recycling program,” Lacey said.

Outlaw Brewing

Enriching culture and community through beer story and photos by Jimmy lewis big sky weekly contributor

BELGRADE—Ben Franklin once said, “Beer is evidence that God loves us and wants us to be happy.”

Outlaw Brewing, Montana’s newest craft beer maker, located at 100 S. Broadway inside of Bar 3 Bar-B-Q in Belgrade, is taking that notion to a whole new level.

Todd Hough, the brew master behind Outlaw, has put his genius into the extensive variety of beers now on tap beside the railroad tracks in Belgrade.

Lacey describes Outlaw as a “nanobrewery,” the concept of which, he says, is to make smaller, more experimental craft beers.

“Neither Todd nor I are really all that interested in bottling and distribution at this time. Margins are really small and you have to do huge amounts—not really what Outlaw is about.”

There is so much excitement brewing at Outlaw that it’s hard not to inquire about future ideas. At the top of the list is the possibility of serving up a unique, gourmet culinary offering appropriately paired with a particular beer on a monthly basis.

Meanwhile, head down to Outlaw and Bar 3 and expect to experience creatively inspired beer and savory southern style barbecue, open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day.

The goal is to eventually have “five-ish” house beers and five or so seasonal rotators and gourmet beers that offer a truly unique

“Todd’s an extremely creative brewer,” says Hunter Lacey, owner of Bar-3 Barbecue. Lacey, who has worked in the restaurant business since he was 14 and attended culinary school in college, has an extensive background in the culinary arts and is passionate about bringing ideas to brewing based upon the pairing of flavors he knows have worked well with food.

The taps at Outlaw Brewing first began flowing on Jan. 12, and Lacey says the response has been terrific.

“It’s been busy,” he says, adding that demand has something to do with local pride as well as an interest in good beer. “If there’s anything our community—or any community—could support, it is local producers.”

With nine beers now on tap and more to come, Outlaw is likely to continue receiving the support of local beer drinkers. Lacey and I enjoyed a Chocolate Porter during our conversation, and recently I had a chance to sample a flight featuring a unique and delicious Irish cream ale, a very smooth dark brown ale and a citrusy and refreshing Imperial I.P.A. (“Hangman’s”). Next time, I’m looking forward to trying the hoppy American amber and the session (light) pale ale, along with the Belgian speci-ale and the Russian (nitro) stout.

beer drinking experience, Lacey says. Using a two-barrel kettle (Brew House) as opposed to the customary, seven-barrel brew house common to most microbreweries is the cornerstone of nanobrewing and what allows for this kind of artistic, experimental brewing.

But Outlaw is about more than beer; it’s about culture as well, and Lacey was eager to share how Bar 3 and Outlaw are working with the community to both employ local producers and also to reduce waste heading to the county’s landfills. For example, Lacey and Hough have set up an arrangement with a start-up farm not far from Belgrade called Alpine Organics, whose mission statement emphasizes producing USDA

Wednesday night is rib night, and Hunter has yet to see anyone finish an entire slab of ribs alone.

So, grab a friend, head down to Outlaw Brewery in Belgrade, and order a rack to share. Then order a flight or a pint or two of your favorite type of beer and get acquainted with Montana’s newest and possibly most creative brewery. *Editor’s note: Outlaw Brewing is not associated with the Outlaw Partners, LLC.

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Big Sky Weekly

NORTH FORK RD, TRACT 8

PINEWOOD HILLS ESTATE CRAIL RANCH TOWNHOME

POWDER RIDGE CABIN

• • • •

• • • •

• • • •

$1,100,000 • #180527 • Call Stacy

20 acres Triple Triangle Ranch hiking and ski trails to lot desirable, private enclave contiguous to tract 2 to create 40 acres

$1,075,000 • #175582 • Call George

3 bd, 5 ba, 4,500 +/- sf home 8 +/- acres (2 contiguous lots), pond beautiful natural landscaping, mature trees fabulous mountain views

CASCADE LOT 71A

LOST TRAILS LOT #6 • • • •

$775,000 • #179325 • Call Stacy

20 +/- acres, 8 lot subdivision 3 miles to Big Sky Ski and Summer resort 3 miles to Meadow area for groceries/services fabulous location with outstanding views

• • • •

355 LOW DOG ROAD • • • •

$759,000 • #180986 • Call Marc

4 bd, 3.5 ba, 3136 +/- sf, 1+ acre lot hot tub, wood flooring, fresh paint at the base of Wardance ski run nestled in the trees at Mountain Village

• • • •

• • • •

• • • •

20 +/- acres, spectacular views located on gentle slope, private driveway ideal for a new home, well is drilled convenient to all of Big Sky

$299,000 • #174621 • Call Stacy or Eric .86 premier mountain enclave Spanish Peak views close to Thunder Wolf lift Big Sky sewer and water

• • • •

• • • •

$249,000 • #161824 • Call Don

.35 +/- acre lot, Lone Mtn. views exceptional building site, southern exposure community water system between Mountain and Meadow Villages

GALLATIN HIGHLANDS

$614,000 • #181216 • Call Tim

condo unit #1659, 3 bd, 4 ba, 1,950 +/- sf ski/in, ski/out, upgraded free standing condo great furniture package, indoor hot tub Spanish Peak views, agent owned

$795,000 • #176798 • Call Stacy

4 bd, 3 ba, 2,577 +/- sf, furnished ski-in/ski-out to White Otter lift numerous upgrades, river rock fireplace entertaining deck off of kitchen, hot tub

ANTLER RIDGE, LOT 149

ARROWHEAD CONDO

BEAVER CREEK W, LOT 13 $695,000 • #176399 • Call Don

4 bd, 4 ba, 3,500 +/- sf furnished with over $124,000 furniture next to flowing creek with outstanding views heated 2 car attached garage

LOST TRAIL

$299,000 • #173281 • Call Stacy or Eric 1.3 +/- acre Knob lot, ski-in/ski-out adjacent to Thunderwolf lift breathtaking Lone Mountain views agent owned

$990,000 • #180839 • Call George

• • • •

$575,000 • #180951 • Call Stacy

20 +/- acres, meadows, old growth fir trees fabulous Gallatin Range views south facing, includes Locati house plans minutes from Big Sky Town Center

NEW LISTING

RAINBOW TROUT RUN • • • •

$439,000 • #176526 • Call Stacy

3 bd, 2.5 ba, 2365+/- sf, custom finishes bonus room above 2 car attached garage massive wood burning stone fireplace hot tub, flagstone patio with fire pit

ALPENGLOW CONDO 18C

LOOKING GLASS RD LOT 63

• • • •

• • • •

$368,000 • #174888 • Call Eric or Stacy 3 bd, 3 ba, 2,054 +/- sf gourmet kitchen, knotty alder cabinets gas rock fireplace, furnishings negotiable deck, 1 car attached garage

$225,000 • #181151 • Call Stacy

.25 +/- acre level building lot overlooks golf course great views of the surrounding mountains municipal water, sewer, utilities are adjacent

288 FIRELIGHT DRIVE • • • •

$153,500 • #182229 • Call Mark

3 bd, 3 ba, 2,139 +/- sf vaulted celings, wood stove located close to town center 1 car attached garage

PENDING

RAMSHORN, LOT 4

MADISON COURT # 17 • • • •

$199,000 • #165108 • Call Eric

2 bd, 2 ba, 1,207 +/- sf furnished condo corner unit, spacious kitchen 1 car attached garage close to Big Sky Town Center

• • • •

$189,500 • #180395 • Call Don

nice level building lot all season easy access great views of Porcupine Creek electricity and phone to lot

ANTLER RIDGE LOTS

$105,000 • #156549/#156551 • Call George

• • • •

.46 +/- acres lots wonderful building sites, gorgeous views water & sewer (septic) metered purchase 1 lot or make an offer on both

1350 HILL CONDO • • • •

$36,000 • #179795 • Call Eric

1 bd, 1 ba, 440 +/- sf top floor unit overlooks creek wood floors, appliances convey nice upgrades, priced to sell, short sale

Stuart Koch, Sales Associate, 406.581.1225

34 March 23, 2012

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sports

explorebigsky.com

Big Sky Weekly

Dwight Howard still in Orlando However, the trade deadline has now come and gone, and Howard is still in Orlando. Even more surprising, Howard seemed to have had a change of heart at the last moment, even signing a contract that disabled his ability to opt out of his current deal, ensuring he’ll remain with the Magic at least through the 2012-2013 season.

Orlando must be thrilled to retain its franchise star, and Howard has expressed regret at his previous requests to play elsewhere.

By Brandon Niles

Big Sky Weekly Sports Writer

For those of us who remember Lebron James deciding to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers following the 2009-2010 season, there’s something all too familiar about the current status of Orlando Magic star Dwight Howard.

James spent the entire season ambiguously stating that he was uncertain about whether or not he would remain in Cleveland when his contract expired at the end of the year. Sure enough, after the season finished he signed with the Miami Heat. Two years later, James is widely viewed as a villain for leaving

Cleveland, and I fear that a similar situation may play out with Howard.

Dwight Howard has spent most of this season going back and forth with the press about his desire to play elsewhere. There were statements about where he’d like to be traded to, along with expressions of love for the city of Orlando. Generally, he was ambiguous. Most assumed as the trade deadline approached on March 15, Howard would be traded to another team so the Magic wouldn’t lose him in free agency without any compensation.

James Ramirez, seventh grader at Ophir Middle School and rodeo athlete, and eight-time world champion cowboy Joe Beaver, at the Joe Beaver Roping School and Clinic in Livingston on March 12. Ramirez and his younger brother Luke participate in rodeo events across the state year round.

This is James's first year calf roping. Photo by Anna Middleton

Moonlight Freeride team results Moonlight Freeride shared its home turf at the annual Huck-a-Berry slopestyle competition at Moonlight Basin on March 10. The skies were clear and the park was perfect as the team's athletes competed in every division. From rails to airs, bonks and spins, everyone

had a chance to showcase the skills they've been honing all season.

15 and under Ski Jacob Lathrop 7th Sammy Lathrop 9th Bo Kelley 10th

Girls Ana Schell 2nd Reilly Germain 3rd

15 and under Snowboard Liam Germain 2nd Chris Funston 3rd Austin Hughes 5th

This crew doesn't just shred the park though, watch the Moonlight Freeride Team back in action March 31st at the Headwaters Spring runoff.

Open Ski Wyatt Raich 8th

While this is supposed to be the end of the story, I worry the Magic have delayed the inevitable. Meanwhile, the circus surrounding Howard’s trade status will continue for another year, causing a distraction during the playoffs and into next season. The only way to avoid this is for Howard to sign a lucrative contract extension and show a long-term commitment to the team. The current situation feels more like a band-aid.

From a basketball perspective, no team wants to lose its best player, especially when that player is one of the faces of the league. It makes sense the Magic would seek to retain Howard for as long as they can. Also, Howard remaining until the end of the season

keeps the team in a position to make a strong push in the playoffs, which will keep the fans happy.

Next year though, that ominous feeling will return. That same feeling we all had about Lebron during his final year in Cleveland will come back. Ultimately, unless the Magic can secure Howard’s services in the long run, they’ll wish they’d traded him and acquired some early draft picks in the 2012 draft. If he’s traded next year, they may have missed out on one of the deepest draft classes in recent memory. If he isn’t traded, they may be in the same position Cleveland was in last year at this time, with no star player and no young prospects obtained from a deal. The Magic should’ve gotten what they could now and started the rebuilding process early.

Brandon Niles has done online freelance writing about professional sports since 2007. His articles range from NFL news to team-specific 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.

When the ride down isn’t as smooth as the ride up WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

Sometimes life doesn’t go as planned—even on vacation.

That’s why Bozeman Deaconess Pharmacy at Big Sky is here for you.

We offer a full range of pharmaceutical items including bandages and OTC medicines and creams for aches and pains. And,

should you have forgotten your medications, we’re happy to assist you in getting what you need to fully enjoy life under the Big Sky. Whether you’re here for the week or a lifetime, we want to help you enjoy a smooth ride— on and off the mountain.

Open Snowboard Justin Jones 9th

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March 23, 2012 35

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Gear review Powderhorn Cosmic jacket By katie morrison

big sky weekly contributor

Fashion or function? With the Powderhorn Cosmic jacket both are included.

This waterproof breathable stretch softshell seems designed specifically for Southwest Montana’s finicky weather patterns. The cut remains flattering even with numerous layers underneath (“You’re wearing that many layers? It doesn’t even look fat!”), and continues to be comfortable when worn on its own thanks to a light, brushed flannel lining.

The jacket is at its best on a powder day when it can show off all the little details like the powder skirt with grip elastic that doesn’t slide up, the goggle wipe

attached in the pocket, the subtle visor in the hood that keeps the snow out of your face, and the cuffs that can easily be adjusted, even while wearing mittens.

Take it for a lap in the Headwaters— the stretchy breathable fabric will move with you on the hike, and then again as you milk turns on the way down.

As the weather warms up this spring, the Cosmic remains the perfect all-mountain jacket. Zip off the removable powder skirt and unzip the vents for spring cruisers or aprés afternoons in the base area.

Katie Morrison enjoying the first day of spring skiing in the Headwaters wearing her Powderhorn Cosmic Jacket. Photo by Mike Martins

36 March 23, 2012

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Big Sky Weekly

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book review

Big Sky Weekly

The Bozeman and Big Sky Backcountry Ski Guide, by Ben Werner

By Jimmy Lewis

big sky weekly contributor

Just before Christmas I sauntered into Northern Lights, my favorite backcountry ski shop in Bozeman, to see what new goodies adorned the racks and walls. When it was time to pay for my daughter’s present, below the glass at the checkout counter I noticed The Bozeman and Big Sky Backcountry Ski Guide by Ben Werner (2011 WS Publishing).

Immediately I was ready to buy a Christmas present for myself.

Because the gift-giving season was in full swing, I held off and hoped for a surprise in my stocking. It never came. A day later, I was back in NL looking to buy the book, only to find it had sold out.

Now in its second printing, The Bozeman and Big Sky Backcountry Ski Guide has been a hit among locals wishing to learn more about how to access the myriad backcountry ski options in the area— and with good reason. I’ve been unable to put my copy down, and every free minute during the workday has been spent reading up on potential ski tours around the region.

As someone relatively new to backcountry skiing, Werner’s book has helped me realize how many exciting backcountry ski tours there are in the vicinity of Big Sky and Bozeman to explore.

Werner includes 25 routes in six local mountain ranges: the Greater Gallatins, Hyalite Canyon, the Madison Range, the Bridger Range, the Absaroka Range and the Beartooth Mountains. This handy little guidebook covers the spectrum, from epic, full-scale ski mountaineering tours like the Sphinx, to easily accessed, mellow terrain in Hyalite.

The format is simple and accessible. For each tour described, there’s an overview of the route; vital avalanche information; driving directions; statistics concerning elevation, vertical descent and length of approach; and GPS waypoints to assist in navigating the tour. Couple this information with a detailed aerial photograph of the area to be skied and a delineated map of the skin and ski route, and you have a guidebook that’s so easy to use even a caveman could do it.

At $39.95, the knowledge acquired from The Bozeman and Big Sky Backcountry Ski Guide doesn’t come cheaply, and I have to admit to some stickershock. However, when I thought of what else might cause me to spend $40.00—a dinner out, tank of gas, a single-day’s lift ticket—I realized I was OK with having shelled out a few bucks for the kind of information that can lead to so many fulfilling adventures, and am grateful to have a copy sitting in my console.

APR financing through Toyota Financial Services with approved credit. Tier I+, I, II and III only. 0% APR financing for 36 months with $27.78 per $1,000 borrowed. Cash back from manufacturer. Must take retail delivery from dealer stock by 4/2/2012.

APR financing through Toyota Financial Services with approved credit. Tier I+, I, II and III only. 0% APR financing for 60 months with $16.67 per $1,000 borrowed.

Cash back from manufacturer. Subvention cash from manufacturer, not applicable for cash back offers and must qualify for cash through TFS. Must take retail delivery from dealer stock by 4/2/2012.

APR financing through Toyota Financial Services with approved credit. Tier I+, I, II and III only. 0% APR financing for 36 months with $27.78 per $1,000 borrowed. Cash back from manufacturer. Must take retail delivery from dealer stock by 4/2/2012.

Bozeman INSERT Toyota DEALERof LOGO AND ADDRESS. 877-221-8432 AD RUNS THROUGH 4/2/2012. explorebigsky.com

For WA, OR, ID, MT state dealerships, a negotiable documentary service fee in an amount up to $350.00 may be added to vehicle price. Oregon state dealerships not using an electronic vehicle registration system may only apply fees up to $75 to vehicle price. Does not include taxes, license, title, processing fees, insurance and dealer charges. Offers good in MT, WA, ID, and OR. See your local participating Toyota dealer for details.

March 23, 2012 37

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Big Sky Weekly

APRÉS SKI

S R E T R A U Q HEAD Now offering

Sat. 3/24

Jeremy Mor ton 5-7 p.m.

Bottom of the Barrel 9 p.m.

Fri. 3/30

DJ Bones 9 p.m.

Sat. 3/31

Michael Harring 5-7 p.m.

Fri. 4/6

The Shamrockers 9 p.m.

Sat. 4/7

Jeff Belino 5-7 p.m.

Fri. 4/13

The Bottom of the Barrel 9 p.m

Fri. 4/14

Mathias 5-7 p.m.

Sun. 4/15

NACHOS & QUESADILLAS!

.

VOTED BIG SKY’S BEST BURGER

2011 BEST OF BIG SKY

Eric Wink 5-7 p.m.

HAPPY HOUR MONDAY-FRIDAY 4-6 P.M. $1 off any beer, wine or mixed drink

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK AT 11:30 A.M. LUNCH & DINNER

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

EVENTS big sky

Cardio, Core and More Big Sky Resort Wellness Studio Wednesdays, 7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

Sunset Saturdays Big Sky Resort Ramcharger spins until 5 p.m.

Vinyasa Flow Yoga Yellow Mountain Center for the Arts Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8 p.m.

Contemplative Prayer Group practice Studio in Ozzsage/Lone Peak Physical Therapy building Sundays thru April 15, 5 – 6 p.m.

Sunday brunch Lone Mountain Ranch Sundays thru March 31 Sunday brunch Olive B’s 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Yoga with Anna Mondays 6:30 – 8 p.m., Tuesdays 8:30 – 10 a.m., Fridays 6 – 7 a.m.

Call 600-7565 to register Prime Rib Monday 320 Ranch Steakhouse and Saloon Mondays thru March 31 Choppers open Mic Night Tuesdays thru April 15

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Planning an event? Let us know! Email abbie@theoutlawpartners.com and we’ll spread the word.

Russian Pianist Pavlov Egorov Talus Room at the Summit Hotel March 24, 8 p.m.

Big Sky Community Corp. skate park fundraiser

Big Sky Broadway Talent Show Lone Peak Cinema March 25, 3:30 – 5 p.m.

This summer the BSCC is hoping to build a skate park and climbing boulders, install landscaping, and purchase assets to draw more people to the park and help with maintenance.

Wine tasting & hors d' nerves at By Word of Mouth Sponsored by Intermountain Distributing March 25, 5 – 6:30 p.m.

The skate park committee is in active fundraising mode and hopes to build the park this summer. In partnership with the Lone Peak High School art students, the committee has planned a fundraising event. Artwork out of skate decks will be auctioned on April 6 at Eye in the Sky Gallery in West Fork. The event will run from 5:30 – 8:30 and will feature a silent auction of skate decks, appetizers and drinks.

Girl Scout Sponsored Food Drive March 27 – April 2 Natalie’s Estate Winery Jack Creek Grille at Moonlight Lodge Wine by Boyd Teegarden March 29, 5 – 7 p.m.

Rotary Club Bingo Night Buck’s T-4 April 4, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Yellowstone Business Partnership Sustainability Workshop Outlaw Partners’ conference room March 29, 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Buck’s T-4 Culinary Competition April 5, 6 p.m.

One Leaf Clover Whiskey Jack’s March 30, 9:30 p.m.

DJ Bones Choppers March 30, 9 p.m.

Shuffleboard night Lone Peak Brewery Wednesdays thru April 15 Yoga with Callie Yellow Mountain Center for the Arts Wednesdays thru April 30, 6:30 – 8 p.m.

Headwaters Spring Runoff Moonlight Basin March 31

On mountain Sunday Service Big Sky Resort Chapel area cross by the Triple Chair Sundays, 1:30 p.m.

Buck’s T-4 March 31, 7 p.m.

Subaru Freeskiing World Tour Moonlight Basin March 22 – 25 Let’s Paint Pottery Children’s Class Jill Ziedler Clay Studio Fridays, March 23 – 30, 3 – 5 p.m.

Bottom of the Barrel Choppers March 24, 9 p.m.

According to LPHS art teacher Jolene Swanke, as the students were about to dip in the paint, two of them looked at each other. “I am so excited,” one said. “I can't believe we get to paint on this!”

Ophir 8th Grade Tips for Trips The First Place Pub March 29, 5 – 8 p.m.

Mountain March Madness 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament Lone Peak High School March 30 - 31

Apres Ski Music Moonlight Basin Every Saturday, 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Big Sky Weekly

All Saints in Big Sky services for Holy Week Palm Sunday service April 1, 9:30 a.m.

Maundy Thursday Holy Communion, commemorating the Last Supper April 5, 7 p.m.

Good Friday service April 6, 7 p.m.

Holy Communion service with festive music. Refreshments to follow. Easter Sunday, April 8, 9:30 a.m.

Donkey Basketball Lone Peak High School April 6, 7 p.m.

Skate Deck Art Auction Eye in the Sky Gallery April 6 , 5:30-8:30

Bozeman Eagle Mount Winter Festival The Emerson March 24, 5:30 p.m.

Friends of local foods chili off and seed exchange Senior center March 24, 6 p.m.

Writing and illustrating books for children Health Works Institute March 25, 9 a.m.

Gallatin Roller Girlz Fresh Meat Practice Gallatin County Fairgrounds March 26 , 7 p.m.

A Celebration of Women in Music Reynolds Recital Hall March 27, 6:30 p.m.

Tango class and practice Emerson Ballroom Sundays @ 8:15 p.m.

College prep panel discussion Bozeman Public Library March 28, 7 p.m.

“Art in the Age of Terrorism” Free slide presentation The Emerson April 3 Echoes of the Earth: Indigenous Perspectives on Art and Climate Change conference Emerson Cultural Center April 5 – 6 Bozeman Community Passover Seder Riverside Country Club April 7 4 p.m.

west yellowstone Equinox Ski Challenge March 24 – 25 Yellowstone Cycle Days April 1 - 20

paradise valley Bluejack…7 Chico Hot Springs March 24, 7 p.m.

Betsy Wise/Britt Smith Norris Hot Springs March 24, 7 p.m.

Livingston BBBS Bowl for Kids Sake Treasure Lanes March 24, 8 a.m – 8 p.m AAUW “New To You-Art & Antiques Sale” Depot 22nd March 23 - 24, 10:30-6 p.m., 5 to 8 p.m.

Bozeman Public Library used book sale March 30 – April 1

Tom Murphy with special guest Thermal Grass Norris Hot Springs March 25, 7 p.m.

Free Friday Night Bozeman Children’s Museum March 30

Tom Catmull and the Clerics Chico Hot Springs March 30, 7 p.m.

Winter Farmers’ Market The Emerson March 31, 9 a.m.

Big Timber 3rd Annual Sweetgrass Art & Crafts Spring Fling Civic Center March 31, 9 a.-m. - 4 p.mm

Friends of KGLT All Fools’ Day Bash The Emerson March 31

Julie Elkins/John Lowell Norris Hot Springs April 1, 7 p.m.

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Contact Jessie Neal for more information 993.2112 jessie@bsccmt.org 40 March 23, 2012

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entertainment

Big Sky Weekly

Catching up with Montana writer Laura Munson By abbie digel

big sky weekly editor

Laura Munson created a firestorm from her farmhouse outside of Whitefish in 2009 with her brutal but true piece in the New York Times’ Modern Love column. One year later, she published This is Not the Story You Think It Is: A Season of Unlikely Happiness, a memoir that pulled at the heartstrings of readers worldwide.

A city girl who moved to Montana 19 years ago with her husband, Munson’s book is now published in nine countries. She is published regularly in magazines, and blogs for the Huffington Post, as well as at her own blog, These Here Hills. Munson shares an editor with Kathryn Stockett, author of The Help, and her book is a New York Times bestseller.

The Weekly recently chatted with Ms. Munson about life, land, and the human condition, but mostly about the state we share and love.

AD: As a writer, how do you stay motivated, especially in this beautiful country with so much to offer?

LM: The currency is different here.

It’s all about the work, and you hope that someday, somehow you get paid for it.

way to balance the introspective writing life.

AD: How has life changed since you’ve been published?

LM: If I hadn’t spent so many years writing, I might have had a minor meltdown. Now suddenly I have this bestseller, and thank god it happened when it did. I know who I am as a woman and as a writer. I am a prose architect. I trust myself, and a lot of that has to do with Montana.

Now things have finally steadied with speaking engagements and writing gigs. I’m able to get back to what I know, but if I hadn’t built a strong writing practice I would be staring at the ceiling in shock. It’s all about getting back to work with authenticity and integrity. I even turned down Oprah because, as much as I love her great work, the theme of the show didn’t feel right for the message of my book. If I had stayed in the city, I don’t know… would I have been more tempted to be on her show?

AD: Does your previous life growing up the in posh suburbs of Chicago stay with you? How have you changed, and have you gotten used to such a different lifestyle?

LM: I grew up in a place where the homes, archiAfter my book tecture, towns, was published, and institutions I started hostwere welling writing established. retreats, teachI write a lot ing writing about those workshops in institutions and Montana and the “safety” internationthey promise. ally. In SepYou soon begin tember, I’m to realize that hosting one pain is everyin Whitefish. where. But pain The workis only relative shops also to the person include equine who is feeling therapy, yoga, it. While those and exercises institutions and to help people privilege might get out of their make you feel own way on like there is the page. If a security, they Munson's bestselling memoir, This is writer is more Not the Story You Think It Is: A Season can’t protect honest on the of Unlikely Happiness you from page, they are emotional pain, more honest in illness and loss. life and I want to help inspire that kind of writing and living.

For me, working here has shifted the paradigm of the tortured writer.

Montana calls us out into it—to not just sit holed up in our writing rooms, but to be physical and get outside. That is such an important

Montana has taught me a lot about what really matters; it is a great equalizer. Living here is all about accountability. You can’t live in a climatecontrolled life where back and forth you go, not knowing what the weather is like. That’s what keeps me here. The

Photo courtesy of Laura Munson

land is a powerful teacher.

Also, my kids are comfortable in their own skin, and Montana has everything to do with that. If you’ve got that foundation, and are grounded in the natural world, you can take that anywhere.

Here, I’m not worried about getting mugged on the subway. I’m humbled, being a member of the food chain. I’m more worried about my icy driveway than grizzly bears and mountain lions.

I think that the education you get roaming around in the wild is more important than any other education you can get.

AD: What other Montana artists have you connected with?

LM: I knew very little about Montana before I lived here. My husband and I moved from Seattle, where there was a lot of writing support. Because it's a city, there were lots of artists inventing their lives. Moving here was a shock.

I’ve always had a total obsession with Jim Harrison. When I read Dalva, that's when I knew I was writer. I related profoundly with how Harrison stitches it all together—the poetry—the hard edges—the land. It’s because of Montana that I am proud to call Jim a friend now. His poetry serves as bookends to my memoir. What an honor.

I read all of the Montana writers, and really respect them—sometimes to the point of putting them on a pedestal, and in the early years, sometimes to the point of minor stalking-- driving around hoping to see them in person. Once I was sitting at the Chatham Bar and Grill in Livingston and there was Russell Chatham—I was star struck. I said to the server, “I’ll have what he’s having.” It was a glass of Domaine Tempier Rosé. It’s now my favorite glass of wine because of that day. Montana is full of surprises!

I also quickly learned about the writing community in Missoula. The University of Montana MFA creative writing program is highly renowned, and after years of reading the writers from down there and hearing them speak, it was so full circle to present at the Festival of the Book last year. Montana has turned out to be an incredible community of writers for me.

AD: What other western writers do you admire?

LM: When I moved here, I wanted to understand the West. I started reading masculine writers like Wallace Stegner, Cormac McCarthy, David James Duncan and Rick Bass who have become dear friends, Sherman Alexie, Doug Peacock, James Welch, Richard Ford…

Continued on p. 42

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Big Sky Weekly

Continued from p. 41 AD: Any females?

LM: So many of them are men, and I’d like that to change. Pam Houston was the first person in my generation that I know of to move from a city and write about the West from a woman’s point of view, and hit the mainstream. She writes in a language that people living in urban and suburban zones can relate with. But there are many other women writing about the West—Mary Clearman Blew, Maile Meloy, Glen Chamberlain who teaches at Bozeman, Dee McNamer, and of course Terry Tempest Wiliams who is one of my mentors.

moved to Siberia culturally. Whatever kind of artist you are, it’s a great place to truly find your voice. Montana has called me out of my head and into my body. I would never take back my years here. I was a city girl, and now home is inside me no matter what the future brings in the way of geography. What greater lesson is there than that? I have Montana to thank for it.

tain responsibility to be accountable for the land and to me that means helping to preserve wandering rights and open spaces for all of us, animal and human.

I try to do my part, but the best work I do is on the page.

AD: What do you love most about your lifestyle?

LM: I like to write about the stuff people do to each other. I’m less interested in plot and more interested in my characters and how they think and feel. I like having land as a character in my books and I like the woman’s perspective of how land works in you.

It would be interesting to gather a panel of western women writers and talk about the influence of land in their books.

LM: I love how we live by the seasons.

In summer we are so active, hiking in Glacier National Park and swimming in the pristine lakes around here. But during winters here, the land goes dormant, and that’s when I work best.

Sometimes my kids complain about there not being enough to do here. But I remind them that if they were in the suburbs in Chicago, they would be saying the same thing. I ask them: Do you know how many kids would die to live in a ski town? And they smile knowing that they have it pretty darn good!

AD: Tell me how you got noticed, then published, while you were out in Montana.

LM: I published a memoir, but I am a novelist at heart, and I didn't have a platform. I often wondered if I missed the boat by moving to Montana. Sometimes I feel there is a party out there where all the movers and shakers of the publishing industry are invited, and I’m out here walking in the woods with my dogs missing all those opportunities for networking. But the truth is, success and failure are both illusions.

It’s about doing the work, and there’s no better way for me to do that than inside my house in Montana. Moving to Montana doesn't mean that you've

AD: In your book, you talk about your work to help prevent a subdivision from going up. Do you still do extracurricular work?

LM: There are very few places like Montana left. Living here, there’s a cer-

AD: What do you like to write about?

AD: I like drawing connections between Big Sky and other small resort communities in Montana.

Can you tell me more about Whitefish?

LM: Whitefish is still figuring itself out. My father used to come here in the ‘40s because he was in the railroad business. When I moved here, he asked if Whitefish had morphed into a ski town. But 19 years ago when I came

were still trappers, renegades… in many ways it is still sort of the same way.

Plenty of people here have never skied down a mountain. There are ranchers, and there’s a logging community. And there are also plenty of people who have moved here with deep pockets.

All of us are living here together in a very Us/Us way. I love it for its diversity this way.

I am particularly proud of our new Whitefish Trail which has 100 miles of non-motorized trails where we ride horses, mountain bikes, cross country ski. This has been a huge endeavor, and it helps inform the future of development, because it’s not going to end. We just have to help inspire people to be responsible about it.

In the past, Whitefish hasn't really been a destination ski resort, but that’s changing. We get less than 75 days of sunshine per year and there’s a lot of fog on the Big Mountain. When I travel and say I’m from Montana, people usually refer to Bozeman and Big Sky as the place on their radar.

This area is definitely changing, but I still think of it as the underdog in the way of development, and while we need the economical boost…I admit that I’ve liked that. blog.lauramunson.com

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Spotlight on the arts

Big Sky Weekly

Busking

By John Zirkle

Warren Miller Performing Arts Center

In spring of 2007, Joshua Bell, considered by many to be one of the greatest violinists in the world, stood at the entrance of a metro station in D.C. and played for 45 minutes to passersby on their way to work. The performance was part of an experiment thought up by Gene Weingarten at the Washington Post to see how Americans respond to great artistry in unexpected venues.

A few weeks earlier, Bell played to sold-out crowds in Boston with a minimum ticket price of $100. After his performance in the metro station, Bell accumulated a whopping $32.17 in the case of his $3.5 million dollar Stradivarius violin, and out of the thousands of people that passed by that day, only a handful stopped to listen.

As it turns out, thousands of performers around the world make a living by doing exactly this. It’s called busking. There are countless ways to busk; all you need is a performance medium and a public space to perform. A percussionist can pay the rent by beating on empty buckets outside of Cubs games in Chicago.

Mimes collect euros by posing as living statues on the central walking avenues in Europe, and snake charmers try to fill their baskets with rupees on the Ghats of India.

When I was living in Croatia last year, I befriended with a busker who played guitar on a street corner for a couple hours each day near the main square in

Zagreb. As I got to know him, I realized we were very similar in our approaches to art and performance. The only difference was that I was accustomed to performing on a stage with a paying audience, while Kris, the guitarist, sat on the ground and played for preoccupied pedestrians.

This comparison begs the question: What role does venue play in a performance? What happens when a Satanist metal band rocks out at an elementary Christian school assembly? What about a solo classical flautist playing a Bach Concerto at an L.A. Nightclub on a Friday night? Surely context matters.

There is something liberating about busking. It’s one thing to walk out on stage to an adoring audience, but

it’s entirely different to put yourself out there on the street in front of a crowd who may not want to hear what you have to say, even if you are in fact the world’s greatest violinist.

Spotlight on the Arts is a reflection on the world of performing arts in both historic and contemporary contexts.

To find examples of busking, keep an ear out next time you’re walking around a public place. To read the full Washington Post story on Joshua Bell, go to washingtonpost.com and search “Pearls Before Breakfast.”

The Warren Miller Performing Arts Center is scheduled to be completed by December of this year, and will feature many acts that challenge the way we see and think about performance.

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Community radio’s got soul By emily stifler

big sky weekly managing editor

BOZEMAN—Ron Sanchez is part of radio history.

He moved to Bozeman from San Francisco in 1980 knowing he could get on KGLT as a DJ, and he brought modern underground radio with him.

Two friends from the Bay Area music scene followed him soon after and both become influential in Bozeman radio.

The now veteran disk jockey played Wilco, Jimi Hendrix and some 1970s Fleetwood Mac on a recent Friday afternoon radio show, thumbing through his expansive collection of CDs and records and chatting with the audience.

Sanchez spent all morning prepping for the three-hour show. A volunteer job, DJing at KGLT takes up eight to nine hours, every other week, he says.

That’s on top of owning and operating Career Records, a recording studio in Bozeman, and working a regular job at the Co-op.

“I can play anything I want and the audience is very accepting,” he said, off the air. “With commercial radio, you couldn’t do this. You have to play off a list. Here, my only list is in my mind.”

Sanchez has visions of tradesmen listening to his show while cleaning up the jobsite for the week, and of housewives tuning in while ironing, picking the kids up from school, and dancing around in the kitchen with a welldeserved glass of wine.

“I’m trying to create a mood,” he said.

KGLT is a 44-year-old community supported, alternative public radio station that hosts more than 80 different DJs. It broadcasts from the MSU campus at 91.9 and 97.1 fm in Bozeman, 89.5 fm in Livingston and 98.1 fm in Helena, and streams online.

Sanchez gets emails from regular online listeners in England, Wales, New Zealand, Tasmania, Australia, California and New York.

The station is part of a shrinking network of non-commercial radio nationwide, said KGLT’s marketing director Ron Craighead, also a DJ. “There are fewer and fewer stations like this around the country. It’s becoming kind of an endangered species as licenses get sold. We’re still here because of support from the community, listeners and the university.”

DJ Ron Sanchez picks out some tunes for his Friday afternoon radio show on KGLT. Photo by Emily Stifler

Like Sanchez, many DJs have been with the station for years.

“People become connected to the station in a very special way, and all their friends and families—they share the connection, too,” Craighead said. “It becomes a family in a very real sense.”

“It’s all about keeping the station going,” he said. “It’s a pretty bare bones operation, and it’s a lot of fun. I’ve been a listener since I moved here in ‘88.”

Craighead’s Tuesday afternoon show is an eclectic mix of contemporary acoustic rock and lost vintage gems from the late ‘60s early ‘70s.

Community radio isn’t maintenancefree. “You have to get involved,” Sanchez said, suggesting listeners get a schedule and get to know their favorite shows.

“It’s just a big musical experiment every day,” Craighead said.

Montana’s music outlaws The KGLT fund drive is March 25 – April 7 KGLT is like a big Pandora that just won’t quit, said marketing director Ron Craighead. “Every three hours there’s a whole different flavor. That keeps it fresh.” And there are never commercials.

The station is largely listener-supported, making its annual fund drive a major source of operating revenue. This year, the fundraiser will be March 25 through April 7. Last year’s drive showed record support.

“I know many DJs around the world,” said longtime DJ Ron Sanchez. “None have the total freedom, and incredible listener support we enjoy at KGLT. We only have one [a year], unlike others [that] have three or four... That says a lot about our audience.”

The theme this year is ‘Montana’s music outlaws’, and fund drive giveaways include gift certificates, ski tickets and collectable KGLT t-shirts.

“We make a party out of it, and make it fun and engaging,” Craighead said. “We collect gifts from all the communities that we serve, and everybody comes together and becomes a part of this event.”

Log on to kglt.net for live streaming and a complete show schedule. During the fund drive, you can phone in a pledge at (406) 9944492, or (800) 254-5458.

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Big Sky Weekly

Jerry Joseph and the Jackmormons coming to Big Sky For more than 30 years, Jerry Joseph has been strapping on a guitar and chasing down truth, understanding and soul with tenacity and resonant skill.

Produced by Little Women band mate Gregg Williams, the band’s new album Happy Book is an emotional and sonic wallop fueled by the tightest, tastiest playing the Jackmormons have ever captured in the studio.

The band will play Friday and Saturday, March 23 – March 24, at Whiskey Jack's in Big Sky. jerryjoseph.com

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

Big Sky Weekly

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, how-to pieces for traditional or outdoor skills, and science.

How to ski switch

How to ski switch in three easy steps.

1

Turning backwards (the return to pizza)

Quick, look behind you. Good, now which shoulder did you look over? That is your dominant shoulder. This is the shoulder you will look over while learning switch. The majority of adults look over their right shoulder (I think it’s from backing up cars), and kids can be a grab bag. Just choose the one that’s most comfortable.

When skiing switch and looking over one shoulder, you’ll have a blind spot just behind and opposite the shoulder you’re looking over. Be aware of your surroundings and consciously check your blind spot as you move.

Photos courtesy of pat gannon

By pat Gannon

big sky weekly contributor

Twin tips changed skiing, maybe saved it.

Sure, sidecut was probably the biggest innovation of the past few decades, and rocker/reverse camber technology is definitely an up and coming game changer. But the twin tip ski kept a defecting youth in the sport and opened up a new way of skiing a mountain that was never explored before: backwards.

I grew up skiing long days on icy race courses in New Hampshire. At the time, it was the only organized ski team, and it allowed me to get out of school and travel to ski areas around the state.

Good deal. But, by the mid-‘90s the explosive coolness of snowboarding was all over the country, and the once obscure terrain parks were popping up at every local hill. Something new and rebellious was going on, and as a teenager weary of running gates I couldn’t wait to get in on it.

The art of switch skiing has risen to incredible levels: Skiers are dropping Alaskan faces, jumping 100-foot gaps, and landing huge cliff drops, all switch.

But skiing backwards isn’t just for the insane pros in the movies. Anybody can ski switch—even you. Switch skiing is a great exercise for developing good balance over your skis, and it also opens up a new perspective of our sport and the way we experience the mountain.

So, next time you’re out on the slopes, turn around and try it out. Maybe you’ll cruise by your buddy and wave for a good laugh. Maybe you’ll land a 180. Maybe you’ll find yourself clicking in atop the Headwaters and, just to see if you can, drop in, backwards. I did.

Pat Gannon learned to ski in New Hampshire and now spends every waking moment at Moonlight Basin. Follow him at kurulife.com.

Olin had a twin tip as far back as 1974, but it wasn't until 1997 after snowboarding had truly exploded, that Salomon came out with the 1080 full twin tip ski. Many of us had made our own in the back tune rooms of local shops or in basements littered with clamps and epoxy, but when Salomon and shortly thereafter K2 started mass producing twin tips, everybody had access to this new way of skiing.

I went straight to my local shop and traded in my 202 cm Rossignol GS skis for a pair of the experimental K2 Enemys.

That was 14 years ago. Look around next time you’re on the mountain, and you’ll see that almost every pair of skis now sports some sort of upturned tail.

The art and techniques of switch skiing have grown alongside the technology.

As skiers experimented with backwards takeoffs, landings and turns, ski designers evolved symmetrical sidecut and bidirectional flex patterns. Many of today’s skis perform just as well backwards as they do forwards.

48 March 23, 2012

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It’s as easy as turning around and as hard as catching an edge and slamming on the snow. The keys are to unweight the ski and rotate on a flat base. To learn this skill, come to a slow hockey stop on a slope, but instead of stopping completely let your tails continue to slide downhill and allow your body to rotate uphill. This is a good time to start looking over your dominant shoulder.

Back to pizza. Push your tips outward and control your downhill speed with bigger and smaller wedges as you get comfortable with balancing over your skis while traveling downhill backwards.

Now you're skiing backwards!

2

Turning like a hockey player

Now that you're flying tails first down the mountain in a controlled wedge, it’s a good time to learn about turning. Learning to turn switch is simply a matter of pushing on the opposite leg of the way you wish to go.

So, as you ski backwards, if you want to turn in the direction of your right shoulder, push on your left ski.

Rather than pushing through the front of your boot, push downward through the entire bottom of your foot. That little extra pressure will turn you across the slope. Now try going the other way by pushing on the right leg.

Practice traveling back and forth across the slope, feeling how pushing down through the bottom of your boot swings your now masterful reverse wedge across the trail.

3

Time to parallel like a pro

Nobody wants to ski in a wedge forever. It’s exhausting and slow. Don't worry, switch is just like regular parallel skiing, only backwards.

Now that you’ve made a few turns in a wedge, try sliding your feet into a parallel position as you move across the slope. Stand up tall on your skis and feel the balance over the tails. Don't be afraid to return to a wedge to make a turn, as long as you return to a parallel stance when you’re moving across the slope.

As you gain confidence in your balance while traveling backwards, try making a smaller and smaller wedge in the turn. Eventually, banish the wedge altogether and feel the rush of a switch carve. This feeling is similar ice skating backwards, like a hockey player on defense.

Experiment with skiing switch in different situations and on different terrain. These days, just about anything that can be done forwards on skis can also be done switch.

Section 4:

March 23, 2012 Volume 3 // Issue #6

ski area news

The Headwaters hosts two freeskiing competitions By emily stifler

It’s been dumping snow, and just in time for two freeskiing competitions in Moonlight Basin’s Headwaters terrain: The Subaru Freesking World Tour qualifier (March 23 – 24) and the seventh annual Headwaters Runoff competition (March 31).

Herberger has competed on the national and world tours since 1998, and has judged the Runoff since its inception. Last year, after he showed FWT head judge Jim Jack around Moonlight and Big Sky, Moonlight was added to the tour.

Jim Jack, a major influence in the sport of freeskiing, was killed this winter in an avalanche in the Stevens Pass backcountry, in Washington. The event at Moonlight will include a ceremony in his honor.

The Headwaters are a true big mountain venue, said FWT judge Paul Herberger.

“It’s rocky, there aren’t many trees, it’s got big vertical and it’s fairly steep from top to bottom.”

“I think [FWT] competitors are going to be really excited once they look up at the mountain and the venue,” Herberger said. And having such a big event here will make the Runoff even cooler.

big sky weekly managing editor

ZONE 3 ZONE 2

ZONE 1

The Headwaters on March 20. Photo by Colter Miller

The Headwaters ZONE 1

For the FWT, specific venue boundaries will be announced to athletes the day prior to the competition.

For the Runoff, competitors can use all the terrain between Alder Gulch and the top of 6th Class. These descriptions highlight the Headwaters’ main runs.

ZONE 2

ZONE 3

RIDGETOP elevations

Top elevation: 10,240 feet Slope angle: 40 – 52 degrees Vertical: 1,320 – 1,500 feet Characteristics: Multiple steep start zones followed by planar slopes into constrictions. This area catches a lot of snow and is variable and complex.

Firehole

9,990'

Hellroaring

10,025'

Rock Creek

10,077'

Whitewaters

10,160'

1st Fork

10,150'

2nd Fork left

10,145'

3rd Fork

10,070'

Dead Goat

9,710'

DTM/Bermuda Triangle

9,400'

Obsidian

9,400'

Top elevation: 10,025 feet Slope angle: 37 – 44 degrees Vertical: 1,050 feet to Stillwater Traverse Characteristics: Multiple start zones. Many fingers, rock outcroppings, convex rollovers and terrain variations until below buttress-level, where both chutes constrict to narrow, steep gullies that then fan out on the apron.

Top elevation: 10,150 feet Slope angle: 38 – 50 degrees Vertical: 1,200 – 1,400 feet Characteristics: Steep, exposed, complex terrain with multiple start zones and features.

The most obvious chute down the center of the cirque: Everybody loves Jack. Tons of interesting features. Show us some style.

Whitetail

Firehole

Rock Creek

1st Fork to Direct

Intricate terrain and lots of exposure. Be creative—and careful. This one’s a knockout. Looking for air?

Don’t miss the Toad and the Lilly Pad.

There’s so much love in the world, and this line proves it. Perfect pitch down to the confluence, open ‘er up for a few turns, then drop into the ever-steepening sluice through Direct.

The Whitewaters

2nd Fork to the Elbow Room

Direct fall line, starts gentle and rolls over until it reaches maximum pitch in the constriction. Room for creativity and linking into both neighboring chutes.

Hellroaring

The wide open football field at the top is called the Dance Floor. It opens up into a medley of options through the buttress, including a gutsy huck into Hell’s Half Acre.

Hell’s Half Acre

Enter from Hellroaring or Jack Creek. Two mandatory airs.

Jack Creek

High consequence skiing. Named for whitewater river grades, 6th Class is looker’s left, and has the largest cliff at the bottom, 5th Class is in the middle, and 4th Class is furthest looker’s right, with the smallest drop. The upper pitch is pure pleasure, the constrictions are techy, and the cliff drops are serious. If you’re going to hit them, get some speed and boost out— there’s some ground to clear.

Oh, whimsical Whitetail. If you can get it from the top, do it. Can be accessed from both 4th Class and 1st Fork.

This is in the running for best in-bounds line in Montana. A classic.

3rd Fork, Dead Goat, Don't Tell Mama, Obsidian

Choose your own adventure; that’s a lot of terrain to cover. In fact, it’s at least 10 acres of complex fall lines through corniced ridgelines, steep chutes, a handful of trees, and gnarly cliffs. There are some things that haven’t been done here. Step it up.

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word from the resorts Moonlight Basin Big Sky When I came here I didn’t know anyone, I didn’t have a job, and I didn’t have a place to live. I trusted I was supposed to challenge myself and step out from what I already knew and find a different perspective. Thankfully, I found employment as a snow reporter at Moonlight, I met some of you who call Big Sky home, and I found a place to live.

When I first saw the Headwaters I knew I’d found something unique, challenging and attainable. I made a goal to hike the whole ridge out to Three Forks, challenging my fear of heights, and do my best to rip from top to bottom. Then, I tore my MCL the first week in February, and for a while I thought it had completely derailed my goal.

But then March came along. With nearly five feet of new snow, things have really turned this month. So I made up my mind on Monday night that Tuesday, the first day of spring would be my day to conquer the ridge. I readied my pack and went to bed.

As soon as I’d completed my snow reporting duties I called my guide and good friend and we were on our way. The wind was persistent above the ridge, but with patience and perseverance I overcame my fear of heights, and after 35 minutes we found ourselves atop Three Forks looking down upon 1,200 feet of creamy excellence.

Big Sky Resort Big Sky

Snow: Powder and spring skiing! Comfortable temperatures have been dominating conditions at Big Sky Resort. But just when we thought the spring skiing was here to stay, Old Man Winter came back with a big fluffy powder day and temperatures back in the 20s. And as much as we like sunshine, we’ll take it!

More snow and winter temperatures are in the forecast. Follow Big Sky Resort on Facebook and Twitter for condition updates throughout the ski day. For more in-depth updates, check out The Ski Skinny, a weekly conditions report on Big Sky Resort’s blog, The Way I Ski It.

Big Sky Weekly

Events: Montana College Student Day is on April 10, where college students can ski for a discount when they buy in advance online. Then comes another discounted day on April 11—again, tickets must be purchased in advance online. Sunset Saturdays each week through April 14 let skiers and riders enjoy the slopes an extra hour when Ramcharger lift spins until 5 p.m. Then comes the culmination of the ski season with the annual Pond Skim on April 14. For more information, visit bigskyresort.com/events.

What’s New: The Lone Peak Tram will be open for adventures this summer on the Lone Peak Expedition, a guided experience up the mountain via lift, safari vehicle and the iconic Lone Peak Tram starting July 2012. For more information, visit bigskyresort.com/ tram. - Greer Schott

I’ve had runs of knee waist deep powder, ridden terrain parks for years (icy East at its best), and had my fair share of waves at Malibu surfrider, but that run down the forks ranks as one of the most fun rides of my life. I may still get the jitters when I hike the open sections on the ridge, but I know at the end waits something worth working for. -Colter Miller moonlightbasin.com

Danielle McClain and Pam Flach get in the spirit at the Big Sky Dirtbag Ball. Photo by Abbie Digel

Lone Mountain Ranch Big Sky After the first taste of spring it was nice to see a return to more winter-like conditions. The ski trails have received over a foot of snow and with a few days of colder temperatures, conditions have been excellent. We recorded a 54-inch base on the upper trails on Tuesday, March 20. Although we’re nearing the end of another great ski season, we do have a couple more weeks to enjoy the trails, women’s clinics and sleigh ride dinner.

Remember, sleigh rides are discounted off until the end of the season.

The Dining Room and Saloon’s last day for the season will be Saturday, March 24.

The Nordic Ski Trails will be groomed until Saturday, March 31.

The Sleigh Ride Dinner’s last day will be Saturday, March 31.

We would like to thank the community and our fellow local businesses for a great season! The Ranch will reopen for the summer season on June 17.

-Mark Parlett lonemountainranch.com

Maverick Mountain Polaris March means snow at Maverick. Hopefully April does, too. With a 97-inch base and a foot of new snow in the recent storm cycle, things are looking good. Don’t forget, however, that Mav is only open on weekends now. E.S. skimaverick.com

50 March 23, 2012

explorebigsky.com

Word from the Resorts continued on p. 52

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March 23, 2012 51

word from the resorts Continued from p. 50

Rendezvous Ski Trails West Yellowstone

Bridger Bowl Bozeman

The Bridger Bowl Cloud has entered the room. On a certain Monday in March, the BBC in fact left 18 inches of snow on the Ridge. However, the sensor was acting funny, so Bridger’s website only read eight inches.

“The data logger definitely freaked out at one point, and the snow reporter had to get manual data from the patrol and groomers to get the correct numbers,” said Michael Gill, Bridger’s assistant director of marketing.

After a long and successful season, the Rendezvous Ski Trails has begun to wind down its winter trail system.

On the weekend of March 17-18, it hosted the biathlon nationals and the first-ever adaptive nationals with 11 athletes competing in sit-skis.

But don’t hang up your cross-country skis just yet.

Rendezvous has one final event to send the 2012 winter season into the books. What was formerly known as the Equinox Ski Challenge, and now called the Snow Challenge, is this weekend and has several events slated that will set it apart from other years.

explorebigsky.com

Big Sky Weekly

The same three, six, 12 and 24-hour divisions will take place, and the addition now comes from new sports at the event, including a snow bike division. Trails director Dan Cantrell said that of the 100 or so people signed up for the challenge, nearly a quarter of them will compete in the 24-hour race.

The trails have held up really well after mid-March’s spring showers, Cantrell said, and Rendezvous received new snow and is beginning to look like winter skiing again.

The trails officially close March 31, but the West Yellowstone Ski Education Foundation dips into grant money and volunteers to groom trails as long as there is snow on the ground and people willing to ski on it. Last year the trails stayed open into May. rendezvoustrails.com T.A.

Oh, the lucky ones who played hooky that epic day.

Upcoming events include the Point and Chute video competition (March 24), the alpine community race series dual GS (March 25), and the Bridger Dirt Bag Ball (didn’t get enough in Big Sky? Head to the Molly Brown on March 31). On snow competitions coming up: a snowboard terrain park jam (March 31) and a ski terrain park jam (April 1), and the Bridger Gully Freeride (April 7).

Bridger’s projected closing is April 8, but that may be extended, depending on conditions. bridgerbowl.com E.S.

Discovery Ski Area Phillipsburg

and on Easter Sunday, Disco will host an Easter egg hunt for kids. Prizes include chocolate (of course), cookies from the cafeteria and lift tickets for next winter.

All that’s been going on at lately is really good skiing, said Ciche Pitcher, Discovery Vice president and operations manager. More than 20 inches od new snow has made the backside a powder cat’s dream.

Projected last day is Easter Sunday, April 8. Discovery has never extended its season before, but is considering it for weekends this year, depending on conditions and skier visits.

Saturday March 24 is a banked slalom, open to snowboarders, alpine skiers and telemarkers—sorry, no sledders or inner tubers allowed. The week of April 2-8 will be discounted for anyone with a college ID,

“I have a feeling the snow is going to be pretty good.

Sometimes these springs are like that,” Pitcher said.

-Emily Stifler skidiscovery.com

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road trip

Teton Range

Big Sky Weekly

PHOTOS BY KELSEY DZINTARS

Big Sky to Jackson, Yellowstone sister cities

By Emily stifler and Taylor Anderson big sky weekly editors

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is an icon among North American ski areas.

Luckily, it’s just a few hours south, so we can go visit almost any time.

Moonlight Basin Big Sky Resort Big Sky, MT

That’s why, when provided the opportunity, the Big Sky Weekly staff has taken trips this season to visit our “southern sister city” of Jackson, Wyo. for some skiing and shenanigans.

Gallatin National Forest

MONTANA

Managing editor Emily Stifler headed down during a lucky week of nonstop fresh snow to take a closer look at the mountain town and study up on next year’s hot skis during Powder magazine’s ski test.

Continued on next page

WYOMING West Yellowstone Yellowstone National Park Fountain Paint Pots Old Faithful Geyser

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Teton National Forest

A glimpse of bison testosterone. Place your bets.

Driggs, ID

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Jackson, WY Snow King Resort

Yellowstone Tour Guides provide snowcoach rides through the park in the winter, an excellent time for viewing elk, bison, coyotes, bald eagles and swans.

54 March 23, 2012

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An easy weekend getaway: a tour through Yellowstone National Park, skiing at Snow King and Jackson Hole Resorts and a fabulous Teton Thai dinner in Driggs, Idaho on the way home.

explorebigsky.com

road trip

Big Sky Weekly

The following week, four Weekly employees seized a 12-hour notice for a guided snow coach tour through Yellowstone National Park hosted by the Yellowstone Tour Guides, and a day of shredding at JHMR. Whether alone in the park hiding from the millions of tourists that flock during peak summer months or riding the tram up at Jackson, it’s a remarkable trip. Hit the resort on a sunny day, and the views aren’t half bad. Hit it on a storm cycle, and you’ll never be quite the same.

Known for its expansive terrain and leg burning 4,000 feet of vertical, Big Sky locals will want to hammer out tram and gondola laps, and head out of bounds when the backcountry is safe.

The resort also has absurdly good groomers and is working to expand its intermediate terrain in effort to broaden its appeal. Looking to cruise?

Check out Aprés Vous and Casper. Coming for 2012/13, JHMR will replace the Casper triple with a new high-speed quad and widen several of the intermediate trails there.

Weekly staffers soaking up the sun on the slopes at Jackson Hole

Finally, don’t miss the Village Café for an Americano in the morning, or PBRs after a great day. When the scene gets too intense, you can sneak out the back door any time, zip over Teton Pass and head home. No one will ever know you left. yellowstonetourguides.com jacksonhole.com A live band entertaining guests in the gondola line

Après with Snake River brews and forehead tans

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March 23, 2012 55

BIG SKY AUCTION AUCTION MARCH 28

Two Sold. Another Up for Grabs!

6 DAyS UnTil AUcTion!

Welcome to the Best of Big Sky, Montana.

A Premier Mountain Residence Selling at Auction March 28th.

A seamless blend of proximity, views and outdoor activities. Live an active Mountain lifestyle among one of the most exclusive retreats — Spanish Peaks.

SPANISH PEAKS LUXURY CABIN New-construction | 3,517 square feet | 5 bedrooms Originally $2.775M. Starting Bid $750K. Buy It Now for $1.32M. Open Sat & Sun 1-4 & by Appointment | Brokers Fully Protected

866.649.8614 BigSkyAuction.com This property is listed for sale by Rivers To Peaks Real Estate (P.O. Box 160730, Big Sky, Montana 59716, T: 406- 995-2022). Concierge Auctions, LLC is the provider of auction marketing services, is not a brokerage, and is not directly involved in selling real property. The services referred to herein are not available to residents of any state where prohibited by applicable state law. Concierge Auctions, LLC, its agents and affiliates, broker partners, Auctioneer, and the Sellers do not warrant or guaranty the accuracy or completeness of any information and shall have no liability for errors or omissions or inaccuracies under any circumstances in this or any other property listings or advertising, promotional or publicity statements and materials. This is not meant as a solicitation for listings. Brokers are protected and encouraged to participate. All information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Buyer recommended to perform an independent investigation. All dimensions, square footages and acreages are approximate. Rivers To Peaks ~ Big Sky Real Estate, Martha Johnson, listing broker. Bankruptcy proceedings are currently pending against The Club at Spanish Peaks. Any amenities provided by The Club at Spanish Peaks are not currently available and Concierge, Seller, and Seller’s Agents make no commitment as to when any such amenities might be made available. The property owner’s association dues, condominium association dues, and all other obligations set forth in recorded covenants and declarations remain as obligations. In the future, membership to The Club at Spanish Peaks may be required for all homeowners. See Auction Terms & Conditions for full details.