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Big Sky

Exploring life and land from the heart of the Yellowstone Region

photo by tyler busby

Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 Volume 3 // Issue #24

2013 state budget Housing shortage in Big Sky

Big Sky is open!

Moonlight opens Dec. 8

How to brew beer Academic All-State Athlete

What the Ennis School audit means to Big Sky Big Sky's locally owned and published newspaper

media@theoutlawpartners.com

Publisher of the big sky weekly

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On the cover: Brit Barnes tuning skis at the Big Sky Repair shop in the Mountain Mall

Photo by Tyler Busby

2011 big sky chamber of commerce

Business of the Year Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 Volume 3, Issue no. 24 PUBLISHER Eric Ladd

editorial MANAGING EDITOR Emily Stifler EDITOR Joseph T. O'Connor staff writer/distribution director Tyler Allen Editorial assistant Maria Wyllie

creative CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mike Martins VIDEO director Brian Niles GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kelsey Dzintars videographer/photographer Chris Davis WEB Developer/Designer Sean Weas Design Intern Taylor-Ann Smith

SALES and opeerations COO & SENIOR EDITOR Megan Paulson Operations director Katie Morrison

CONTRIBUTors

Jamie Balke, Evelyn Boswell, Amber Burch, Tyler Busby, Buscrat, Mike Coil, Renae Counter, Kelly Gorham, Sepp Jannotta, Pete Kamman, Griffin Kilby, Erik Morrison, Brandon Niles, Carol Schmidt, Matthew Sterbenz, Ryan Day Thompson

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.

Photo by Maria Wyllie

Back to Earth A Big Sky Weekly subscriber in Los Angeles recently gave us a shout-out via social media:

killer recreation, and the community that surrounds these things.

"Every Los Angelan/city dwellers in general ought to subscribe to a mountain newspaper. Takes ya back to Earth for a sec. #BigSkyWeekly"

“In Montana, people spend every waking moment outside of work enjoying where they live,” Marisa said. She also recalled reading about the Big Sky Ski Education Foundation Freeride team and the Ophir School Carnival.

Marisa, the author of this post, is an actress/bartender originally from South Dakota. She had just arrived home from work after a one-mile, one-hour commute, and was exhausted. She picked up her mail on the way into the house and with it, her copy of the Weekly.

“Reading about the imagery of people playing in the mountains puts me at ease,” she said during a followup phone interview. “There is a sense of community in that paper that puts you back in touch with humanity.

The big city can be kind of lonely.”

ADVERTISING DEADLINE For next issue: Dec. 7, 2012 CORRECTIONS

We’re still not sure how kissing a pig makes you more realistic… but heck yes, we do spend every possible moment enjoying this wonderful place.

Marisa, come on out and see us this winter!

For the Weekly staff, this was a good reminder to appreciate southwest’s Montana natural beauty and

- Emily Stifler

Big Sky Weekly distribution

BC

AK

• 6,000 issues distributed across Montana • Online at explorebigsky.com • 3,000 + rental properties • 2,500 + Big Sky taxi rides • Hotels and resorts throughout Southwest Montana • Subscriptions distributed to 32 states

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Three Forks Wisdom

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.

Submit to: media@theoutlawpartners.com

“Everyone was kissing a pig at the fair. I’m from the Midwest, so maybe it’s a sense of home and how people are more realistic-minded and have more realistic expectations out there.”

Big Timber

Livingston

Dillon

Big Sky Ennis Gardiner Virginia City

West Yellowstone

OUTLAW PARTNERS & THE BIG SKY WEEKLY P.O. Box 160250, Big Sky, MT 59716 explorebigsky.com (406) 995-2055 media@theoutlawpartners.com

The Big Sky Weekly runs corrections to errors we’ve printed.

Please report them to media@theoutlawpartners.com © 2012 The Big Sky Weekly Unauthorized reproduction prohibited

Table of Contents Community...4 Local News...6 Regional..8 Montana...10 Sports...17 Health...21 Business..22 Environment...26 Classifieds...27

Real Estate...28 Gallery...30 Outdoors...33 Gear...36 Events...37 Fun...38 Column...39 Back 40...40

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community

Big Sky Weekly

Turkey for a Ticket food drive Earn lift tickets by donating to the Gallatin Valley Food Bank By maria wyllie

big sky weekly editorial assistant

BIG SKY –When you donate at Moonlight Basin’s upcoming food drive, you can help support the community and ski for free.

During the sixth annual Turkey for a Ticket food drive, individuals, businesses and season pass holders can earn free lift tickets by donating a frozen turkey or 20 cans of food. The drive will be held Friday, Dec. 14, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Madison Village base area.

In one day, Turkey for a Ticket generates more donations than any other single event for the Gallatin Valley Food Bank.

Last year it raised more than 18,000 pounds of food, and organizers hope to raise at least 20,000 pounds this year.

Since the inaugural year in 2007, Turkey for a Ticket has collected a cumulative total of 77,893 pounds for the food bank, which serves the greater Gallatin Valley.

Photo by Erik Morrison

This year’s donations will be shared with the new Big Sky Community Food Bank, a satellite office of the GVFB, making it easier to serve the needs of Big Sky locals, according to Tim Trzinski, program director for GVFB. Everyone who donates will receive a discount at the Moonlight Mercantile on the day of the event and will also be eligible to win a 2012-13 Moonlight Basin midweek season pass.

The drawing will be held at Headwaters Grille at 1:30 p.m. the day of the food drive.

Non-pass holders making donations will receive a free lift ticket valid on Dec. 14 only.

Moonlight Basin or Biggest Skiing in America pass holders will receive a transferable voucher redeemable for a full-day adult lift ticket valid through Jan. 31, 2013. Holiday blackout dates apply.

Moonlight and GVFB encourage employees to make donations on behalf of their workplace.

Transferable vouchers will be given for every turkey or 20 pounds of food donated. Businesses must make one-time bulk donations equaling no less than 80 pounds and no more than 800 pounds to receive vouchers.

Pass holders and businesses can also donate to the food drive at Albertsons in Bozeman, from 7 to 11 a.m. on Dec. 14.

Nominate an outstanding volunteer HELENA – The Governor’s Office of Community Service and the Montana Commission on Community Service are accepting nominations for the 2013 ServeMontana Awards and ReadyMontana Awards, which recognize outstanding Montana individuals, organizations and national service members committed to community and volunteer service.

The ServeMontana Awards are given for service and volunteer work in the areas of education, healthy futures, environmental stewardship, veterans and military families, and economic opportunity. The ReadyMontana Awards are given for service specifically relating to disaster services, emergency preparedness and emergency response.

“Montanans truly are making a difference in their hometowns by volunteering their time and skills,” said Kim Miske, Chair of the Montana Commission on Community Service.

This is a chance for the public to share their stories and help recognize inspiring volunteers.

The Montana Commission on Community Service, a Governor-appointed body dedicated to promoting service in Montana, will select the winners and present multiple awards in each category during the fourth annual ServeMontana Symposium on Feb. 28, 2013, in Helena. The deadline for nominations is Dec. 18.

Sixth annual Pancakes with Santa Big Sky Town Center and the Big Sky Fire Department are teaming up this year, Saturday, Dec. 14 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. for Pancakes with Santa and the elves.

www.themintmt.com

Kids and families are invited the Big Sky Fire Department for a hearty breakfast.

The little ones will have time to tell Santa what they want for Christmas and get their photos taken.

Town Center Owners Association, Big Sky Fire Department and other local businesses sponsor the event.

4 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

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community

Big Sky Weekly

Big Sky Christmas Stroll BIG SKY – On Saturday, Dec. 15, the Big Sky Meadow will come alive with holiday events, entertainment and open houses in the Meadow Village Center, Big Sky Town Center and Westfork Meadows.

olers, sleigh rides with Lone Mountain Ranch and Jake’s Horses, a bonfire and s’mores. For the kids, there is a chance to visit with Santa, decorate cookies and watch a magic show. Fireworks will cap off the event at the Town Center.

Visit businesses in Big Sky for food and refreshments, open house specials, raffles and artist vendors. There will be car-

Area lodging partners offer stay and play packages. For more information visit bigskytowncenter.com.

Town Center

Meadow Village Center

Big Sky Western Bank – open house/ scavenger hunt Town Center Office (second floor of Marketplace Building) – open house/ artist market Hungry Moose Market and Deli – open house / scavenger hunt Grizzly Outfitters – open house /sale/ scavenger hunt The Cave Spirits and Gifts – open house Big Horn Boutique – open house / scavenger hunt MT Living Big Sky Real Estate – open house The Gourmet Gals – open house Sotheby’s Real Estate – open house Pure West Properties – open house / beer, wine, hot cider and snacks Creighton Block Gallery – open house Charsam Room – open house / book signing for Jeff Strickler and Anne Marie Mistretta’s new Big Sky history book Lone Peak Cinema – open house / scavenger hunt Choppers Grub and Pub – live music starting at 9 p.m.

Winter Co. Real Estate: open house Outlaw Partners – open house / cookie decorating Gallatin River Gallery – open house

Horse of A Different Color – open house / scavenger hunt Country Market – open house / scavenger hunt Willow – open house / scavenger hunt Bozeman Pharmacy – open house / scavenger hunt Blue Ribbon Builders– lighting of the tree / open house / scavenger hunt Olive B’s – open house Hammond – open house Made in Big Sky – open house First Place Pub – open house Big Sky Furniture – open house Big Sky Owners Association – open house Black Tie Ski Rental – open house / scavenger hunt Lone Peak Brewery – scavenger hunt American Land Title – open house First West Insurance – open house Big Sky Sotheby’s International Realty

Westfork Big Sky Shirt Company – open house Eye in the Sky Photography – open house

By Word of Mouth – open house Wrap Shack – open house Santosha Wellness Center – open house

Ongoing 5:30 – Santa arrives in Meadow Village Center on fire truck; lighting of the tree and carolers in front of Blue Ribbon Builders Artist Market (second level Market Place Building – TC Office and Meadow Village – Blue Ribbon Builders and OZssage) Bonfire and Smores at Fire Pit Park Sleigh Rides with Jakes Horses and Lone Mountain Ranch – Meadow and TC Ice Skating at BSSHA Ice Rink at Town Center Park (weather permitting) Fireworks – 8:15p.m.

Photos with Santa – Meadow Village – Highline Partners (formerly Outlaw Partners space) 5:30-6:45 Magic Show at First Security Bank – 6:30 Beer Stroll – contact Vicky at Brewery for locations - Black Tie, ERA, FSB, Lone Peak Cinema, BS T-shirt Co, Grizzly Shuttle between Meadow and TC

Outlaw elves with Santa at last year's Christmas Stroll

Harvest your own holiday tree

By JOSEPH T. O'CONNOR big sky weekly editor

You could take the family van and grab a Christmas tree from a Lowe’s parking lot. But if you prefer to “head out into the country in the old frontwheel-drive sleigh to select that most important of Christmas symbols,” Griswold-esque, the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service can help.

The USFS and BLM are offering permits to those wishing to cut down their own Christmas tree this year.

Permits are $5, with a limit of three per family, and are available for trees in the Gallatin National Forest at district offices in Bozeman, West Yellowstone, Livingston, Gardiner and Big Timber.

“Cutting a Christmas tree is a great way to spend time outdoors with those close to you,” said Mariah Leuschen, public affairs specialist with the Gallatin National Forest.

Local businesses are also selling permits, including the Conoco gas stations in Big Sky and West Yellowstone, Owenhouse Ace Hardware and Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply in Bozeman, Ace Hardware in Livingston and in Belgrade at True Value Hardware and Lee and Dad’s IGA. Permits are available now through Christmas.

For more information, call the Bozeman Ranger District at (406) 5222520 or visit fs.usda.gov/gallatin.

Know the rules: •

No tree cutting is allowed within 100 feet of any stream, lake or wetland.

•

Only trees 12 feet tall or less may be cut.

•

Cut your tree as close to the ground as possible and below the lowest live limb.

•

A remaining stump height of six inches or less is ideal.

•

After cutting your tree, attach the purchased permit to a lower limb near the trunk for transporting home.

•

"Topping" trees, or cutting the top off, deforms any future growth and leaves a visual eyesore. Take the entire tree or choose another one.

•

Trees help protect watersheds, provide habitat for wildlife, and contribute to beautiful scenery. Keep these values in mind when selecting a tree.

•

explorebigsky.com Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 5

local news

explorebigsky.com

Big Sky Weekly

Tucker Shea: Student athlete knows graduation matters By tyler allen

big sky weekly staff writer

BIG SKY – Tucker Shea knows there’s an important connection between sports and academics.

Shea, an 18-year-old senior at Lone Peak High School, is one of the first to attend every year of school in Big Sky and was a standout running back and kicker for the Big Horns football team.

He was honored this November for his academic and athletic accomplishments.

Shea was awarded with a Football Academic All-State Selection thanks to his 4.08 GPA; an All-Conference Player Selection along with Jake Cruse and Haven Morris; and was one of two statewide finalists for the All-State Player Selection, according to Big Horns coach Tony Beardsley. Shea was also chosen to play in the Class “C” 6-man Senior All-Star Football Game in June, 2013. But his accomplishments don’t stop there.

In October, Shea represented LPHS in the Graduation Matters Montana Student Advisory Board. Nominated for the position by Big Sky School District Superintendent Jerry House, Shea is part of a 40-student board from 36 schools that aims to increase the number of kids graduating from Montana high schools.

House nominated Shea because, “Tucker’s very bright, sociable, polite and knows the difference between right and wrong,” House said. “He’s comfortable in his own skin.”

Shea agreed to participate, he said, “Because I know kids, good friends, [whom] have dropped out of LPHS. And I have a basic knowledge of what dropping out can do to you in the long run.”

“These kids that dropped out aren’t dumb by any standard, but decided they should go out to the workforce earlier… Maybe it works in the shortterm, but in the long-term it’s much more effective to get a high school diploma.” Career, income and living conditions are much improved for high school graduates, Shea said.

Most of the other students at the conference in Helena came from schools much larger than LPHS. “It was interesting when I went [to Helena],” Shea said, “because many students felt as if their teachers didn’t care, that they were just a number.

That’s the total opposite of our school.

Teachers care about the students in my small school, and it gives the teachers and students a stronger connection. I think that if a student feels a connection to the school, sports, a teacher, a friend group… they’ll have a lot harder time walking away.”

Athletics have pushed Shea to do his best on the playing field, something he says transfers over to academics.

“Sports have really helped by giving me the mindset I should always try my hardest and do my best.” It’s also a good stress reliever, he said.

6 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

Lone Peak High School senior Tucker Shea received several academic and athletic awards this year. Photo by Tyler Allen

Shea plans to apply to colleges across the country and hopes to continue his sports career. “I’m definitely going to try to play [football] in college, as just a kicker or a running back. I would love to play any position. I just want to play football.”

Kelly Shea, Tucker’s mother, says there are challenges to raising kids in a small community like Big Sky but it's worth the effort.

“To be involved in sports [here] you have to travel quite a bit,” she said. “To be involved in the things you want to be involved in, resources can be limited in a small town. But I wouldn’t change it for anything. I would much rather be raising my boys here in a small com-

munity than in a large town or big city.

Everybody watches out for your kids.”

Shea plans to do a Graduation Matters event at LPHS sometime after Christmas or this spring. He will also meet with the Student Advisory Board again in June, bringing his unique Big Sky perspective to Helena with him.

Find out more about Graduation Matters Montana at graduationmatters.mt.gov/index. php?pg=2&sub=1&subset=3.

See the full list of LPHS 2012 Fall Athletic Teams Academic and Athletic Accomplishments at ophirschooldistrict.org

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local news

Big Sky Weekly

Workers struggle to find affordable housing in Big Sky By maria wyllie

big sky weekly editorial assistant

BIG SKY – It’s easier to find a job in Big Sky than a place to live.

All rentals managed by local property management companies are at full occupancy, and firms such as Alpine Property Management and Elevated Property Management are advising people seeking housing to post housing and roommate requests on community bulletin boards and on Craigslist.

However, even these resources are of little help. If you go on Craigslist, you’ll find ads from people looking for housing in Big Sky, but posts advertising available rentals are rare. If a new listing is posted, interested renters must act quickly, as it will most likely be gone within a day. If you have a pet, you’ll have an even harder time.

In an attempt to help incoming workers with housing, Big Sky Resort bought the Mountain Lodge in 1993 and the Golden Eagle Lodge in 2007, designating them as employee housing. Rent costs $7.50 a day, making this an affordable and convenient option for the resort’s workers who want to stay in Big Sky for the winter season only.

With 130 units available, employees on the waiting list are placed in hotel rooms until a room opens up at one of the two lodgings.

if a greater need becomes apparent, said Dax Schieffer, Director of Human Resources at Big Sky Resort.

Although seasonal workers make up a large percentage of people moving to Big Sky, the lack of affordable housing is a problem encountered by a wide range of those looking to move here year round.

Kitty Clemens, Executive Director of the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce, was forced to wait through the winter to find housing. “The first time I tried to move here, in November of 2011, I gave up and did something else because there was no housing available,” she said.

Clemens emphasized Big Sky’s need to rebuild the local economy, which she said is still weak. Fewer summer residents and tourists mean fewer employees and less money for businesses in the commercial district.

Having more affordable rental housing would help attract potential year-round residents who can reduce commercial vacancies by keeping businesses staffed and by bringing more revenue into Big Sky, Clemens added.

Photo by Maria wylie

The Gallatin County Department of Planning and Community Development has confirmed that zoning for multi-family rental housing exists in Big Sky. However, the county is unaware of any projects in the works.

The shortage of rental housing in Big Sky, especially for those with pets, has been touched on in recent Chamber of Commerce and marketing meetings in Big Sky, according to Ryan Hamilton, Town Center Project Manager.

In regards to Town Center, “we will be taking a look at our project and the market to see what we can do to incentivize or encourage the construction of more rental condos or townhomes in Big Sky, which should in turn help make employees easier to attract and keep,” Hamilton said in an email.

It’s now a question of whether investing in new developments is worth the risk. Due to high demand and limited supply of affordable rental housing, it looks promising.

People who make their paychecks in Big Sky need to be spending them in Big Sky, Clemens said, not in Bozeman, like many workers do.

“We guarantee that people will have a place to stay when they arrive,” said Brandon Marr, Housing Coordinator for the resort. “We will not leave them high and dry.”

Having lived in Big Sky for 13 years, Kevin Butler, a broker at Montana Living - Big Sky Real Estate, has witnessed changes in the housing market in both a social and professional sense. He thinks more people are finally willing to step up and do something.

Big Sky Resort does not see a need for more employee-designated housing at this time, but the company will continue to watch and see

“There is a giant pile of people waiting to move into Big Sky,” Butler said.

“We’ve reached a critical point, and the reward is finally out-pacing the risk.”

ThankYou! ThankYou! ThankYou! For all the support from the voters of Montana House District 70 in electing me as your Representative.

I am honored by the privilege of representing you and serving Montana. I invite folks to contact me anytime with your concerns and issues.

Sincerely, Kerry White, Representative HD 70 explorebigsky.com Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 7

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regional

Big Sky Weekly

Audit confirms Ennis incorrectly spent $7 million on new school Big Sky, Ennis consider options By emily stifler

big sky weekly managing editor

MADISON COUNTY – The Ennis School District misappropriated more than $7 million in property tax dollars between 2007 and 2012, $5.25 million of which came from Big Sky taxpayers.

An audit of the school district’s finances, released Oct. 29 and conducted by the Kalispell-based accounting firm Denning, Downey and Associates, confirmed the district acted illegally when it transferred property taxes levied for the adult education and transportation funds to its school flexibility fund and used most of that money to construct a new K-8 school – not the purpose for which it was collected.

The audit, a follow up to a Feb. 3, 2012 opinion issued by Montana Attorney General Steve Bullock stating the money was improperly spent, also issued recommendations for resolving several other issues with the district’s budgeting.

Property taxes from the section of Big Sky within Madison County – which includes Big Sky and Moonlight Basin resorts, the Yellowstone Club and the Club at Spanish Peaks – have accounted for about 75 percent of the Ennis School District budget since 2004, and about 50 percent of Madison County’s total collected taxes since 2007.

In return, Big Sky gets funding for its road plowing and maintenance, its law enforcement and bus service, as well as tuition for each student who lives in Madison County but attends school in Big Sky. The Ennis School District, too, reaches into Big Sky, but its students cannot attend the new school in Ennis 20 miles away, because the two towns are separated by 10 miles of Lee Metcalf Wilderness and the private Jack Creek Road. The school district borders were likely drawn with the county lines more than a century ago – long before Big Sky was the thriving community it is today, with 243 students attending its growing school.

After the audit, “the biggest impact now is taxes will decrease in Big Sky,” said Interim Ennis School Superintendant John Overstreet. “With this coming up, we cut our mills almost in half, [and they’re] now $1.45 million less than last year… We knew there were some concerns, so wanted to give taxpayers some relief.”

The original decision to build the school was based on advice from the Montana Office of Public Instruction and others that would have allowed the Ennis School District to transfer the transportation and adult education monies into the flex fund – assuming it would indeed be spent on adult ed and transportation.

The Madison County Commission requested the AG opinion last April at the behest of residents upset the school was built without a public vote on a bond issue.

A mill levy, with residents agreeing to tax themselves, could recover the funds – a process that would likely be sparked by a taxpayer suing the district, according to the Montana Office of Political Practice.

Ennis School Board member Jim McNally says a mill levy wouldn’t make sense. “I don't feel that it would be good for the taxpayers to pay twice for the same project – Ennis or Big Sky.” Plus, the money would go straight back into Ennis’s education and transportation funds. With Ennis’s adult education expenditures declining – from $30,528 in 2005 to $24,697 in 2009 – some question the point.

Overstreet suggested the two school boards meet once or twice a year “to compare notes,” and

“There was no ques- “Bottom line, the school’s been built, it’s a beautition they needed a new school, but ful building… Now the dilemma is – if there is one – how it was done how do we proceed?” -Madison County Commissioner Jim Hart was probably the biggest issue,” said Overstreet, who replaced previous Ennis Superintendent Doug having representatives from the Big Sky School Walsh last year, when Walsh resigned after collectDistrict attend the countywide combined school ing benefits from the Teachers’ Retirement System board meeting with Harrison, Sheridan, Twin while receiving salary from the school. Overstreet Bridges and Ennis, which is held annually in was superintendent before Walsh and retired from early spring.

Three Forks to act as interim for Ennis.

Big Sky Superintendent Jerry House said he’d be “Contrary to the information, [the district] open to working with the Ennis School District in couldn't spend [the money] the way [they] the future – in hopes of finding a solution that’s thought,” said Madison County Commissioner Jim more beneficial for Big Sky – but that right now Hart. “Bottom line, the school’s been built, it’s a Ennis needs time. “The auditors, the commissionbeautiful building… Now the dilemma is – if there ers, the school board – they've got some things to is one – how do we proceed?” work through.”

Hart emphasized staying positive. “We’re going to move on,” he said, adding that the district would address the auditor’s recommendations.

But many in Big Sky want to know if the money is gone for good.

The audit confirmed the district was paying Walsh as an independent contractor, instead of as a regular employee, the subject of a TRS investigation that determined last year Walsh and the district owe more than $750,000 in retirement benefits.

Happy Holidays from 3 Rivers!

As a thank you to all of our subscribers, we are throwing everyone’s name in a drawing for one of five $50 gift cards from the QVC shopping channel—just in time for the holidays!

If you’re a current subscriber to 3 Rivers local telephone, High Speed Internet or 3RTV Digital Video or Cable TV as of November 1, 2012, you’re automatically entered!

No purchase or sign up necessary!

We’ll pick one name each Friday beginning Friday, November 9, and will announce the winner on Facebook (facebook.com/3RComm). A complete list of winners will be available after December 7, 2012.

1.800.796.4567 ● 467.2535 Winning subscribers’ 3 Rivers account(s) must be up to date and in good standing to claim gift card. You must have a QVC customer number to redeem the gift card. If you don’t have a QVC number, you need to contact QVC at 800-345-1515 or go to QVC.com to get one. 3 Rivers cannot set up a QVC number for you.

8 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

explorebigsky.com

regional Saunders appeals ruling against illumination of Gallatin Canyon billboard Public hearing is Dec. 18

Big Sky Weekly

Bozeman advances in Powder mag’s ‘Ski Town Throwdown’

By emily stifler

big sky weekly managing editor

BECKMAN FLATS – The billboard in the north end of the Gallatin Canyon has been a source of contention since Saunders Outdoor Advertising installed it in April 2009.

Bozeman and its three ski areas have advanced through two rounds of powder.com’s “Ski Town Throwdown,” beating Marquette, Mich. on Oct. 30 and Taos/Santa Fe, N.M. on Nov. 27 in the online contest.

The Ogden, Utah-based company is now appealing a decision by the county that prevents it from lighting the sign, located in the Beckman Flats area at Mile Marker 64 along U.S. Highway 191.

Set up with brackets á la March Madness, the Throwdown allows readers to vote for their favorite ski town on Powder’s Facebook page.

Bozeman is now slated for the final four, Dec. 10 – 11.

The Gallatin County Compliance Office ruled Aug. 29 that Saunders lost its “grandfathered” right to illuminate the billboard, a response to citizen complaints requesting an enforcement action to have the lights turned off.

The North Gallatin Canyon Zoning Regulations has a “use it or lose it” clause that applies to outdoor advertising signs, and since Saunders didn’t light the sign from mid-2010 to February 2012, it lost that right.

“Let’s let the readers decide the best ski town in North America,” said Powder editor John Stifter, who told the Weekly his bet is on Bozeman in their office pool. The final round will be Dec. 19 – 20.

tin Canyon resident Thomas Riegelman, an outspoken opponent of the billboard.

“I think everybody hopes he would take the sign and… put it in a more appropriate place,” said part-time Galla-

Weston Saunders, one of the owners, declined to comment for the story.

explorebigsky.com/bestof

OF BIG S ST

KY

Vote today!

BE

There will be a public hearing on Dec. 18 at the County Courthouse in Bozeman.

“We’re trying to mobilize people from the community to attend the hearing and continue to support the position of the county in their interpretation of the zoning regulations.”

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montana

Big Sky Weekly

Report: Out-of-state corps’ property tax reduction would increase small business taxes montana department of revenue

HELENA – A new report by the Montana Department of Revenue estimates Montanans and Main Street businesses would pay tens of millions of dollars a year more in property taxes if a handful of out-of-state corporations succeed in reducing their corporate property taxes.

The analysis gives a county-by-county breakdown of how proposed changes in the way certain corporations are valued, or assessed, would cause tax shifts that increase property taxes for individual homeowners, small businesses, farmers and ranchers.

"The key issue is about fairness in property taxation to ensure that everyone pays taxes equally based on actual market values,” said Dan Bucks, director of Montana’s Department of Revenue. “If this tax shift goes through, homeowners, Montana businesses, and farmers and ranchers will be unfairly taxed, and a few large corporations not even headquartered here will get an unjustified tax break."

These developments may lead to legislation that would overturn 80 years of precedent upheld by the Montana Supreme Court in the way centrally assessed companies are valued. The result will be that large corporate properties would be valued below market value, with everyone else's properties staying at full value.

Estimated statewide impact of corporation shift $30,000,000 $25,000,000 $20,000,000

$27,558,986 home owners

$15,000,000

$15,705,741 business owners

$10,000,000 $5,000,000 $0

$5,032,450 Farmers/ Ranchers

Data from Montana Department of Revenue

About 85 companies in Montana would be assured lower taxes – nearly $100 million annually.

another $15.7 million. Farmers and ranchers would pay an extra $5 million.

Meanwhile, Montana's 45,000 small businesses would pay higher annual taxes – upwards of thousands of dollars. All 350,000 Montana homeowners would pay up to hundreds more annually, or more.

These increases would be permanent.

Starting in 1887, Montana enacted unit valuation laws to ensure a fair and equitable tax system. The Montana Supreme Court in 1932 and extending through recent decisions has found that unit valuation methods the Revenue Department has applied for 80 years are fair and equitable, and comply with Montana law in valuing property at market value.

The analysis lists the top 50 businesses statewide negatively affected by the tax shift. It also lists the top 20 affected in each county. Collectively, homeowners in Montana would pay an additional $27.5 million. Main Street business owners would pay

This is how Big Sky gets into hot water.

To access the department's analysis, visit revenue.mt.gov.

After state canvass, race for Supt. of Public Instruction still qualifies for recount Montana general election formally closed HELENA – The State Board of Canvassers on Nov. 27 completed the canvass of the 2012 General Election results. The Board must canvass the statewide results within 27 days following a federal election by comparing the state canvass with each of the 56 county canvasses.

The state canvass is a certification of results for the General Election, Montana Secretary of State Linda McCulloch explained.

Everything checked out, and all election results stayed the same.

The State Board of Canvassers includes the State Auditor, State Superintendent of Public Instruction and Attorney General. (Each sent a representative to attend.) The Secretary of State serves as the Secretary to the Board.

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"The election is officially over with one statewide race qualifying for a potential recount," McCulloch said.

The final vote tally for the Superintendent of Public Instruction race verified a .476 percent vote difference, which qualifies the race for a recount in accordance with Montana laws. County Election Administrators estimate a recount could take as long as one week and cost the defeated candidate nearly $114,800. In order for a recount to take place, the defeated candidate must file a petition requesting the recount within five days of the official state canvass.

Final vote tally Denise Juneau (D) 235,397 Sandy Welch (R) 233,166 Vote difference 2,231 Percent difference 0.476

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Big Sky Weekly

White House appoints Cruzado to “key” post MSU NEWS SERVICE

BOZEMAN – President Barack Obama has announced his intent to appoint Montana State University President Waded Cruzado to the Board for International Food and Agricultural Development.

Cruzado is among seven individuals appointed to what the White House described as “key Administration posts,” in a Nov. 28 press release. Brady J. Deaton and Harold L. Martin, Sr. were also appointed to the Board for International Food and Agricultural Development, with Deaton as Chairman.

"The extraordinary dedication these individuals bring to their new roles will greatly serve the American people,” President Obama said in the release.

The Board for International Food and Agricultural Development, BIFAD, advises USAID on agriculture and higher education issues pertinent to food insecurity in developing countries.

Its members, appointed by the President, primarily represent the academic community.

MSU President Waded Cruzado has been appointed to the Board of International Food and Agricultural Development

by President Obama. MSU photo by Kelly Gorham.

The Board recognizes the critical role of U.S. land-grant institutions in agricultural development, domestically and abroad, and support their representation in USAID development programs, according to the BIFAD's website.

“Through this appointment, I look forward to helping advise the U.S. Agency for International Development on nutrition and global agricultural issues and Projects," Cruzado said.

Montana senators Max Baucus and Jon Tester offered congratulations to Cruzado on her appointment.

"Waded is a tremendous educator and a talented leader,” Sen. Tester said. “During her tenure, Montana State has grown as a leader in agriculture research and strengthened our number one industry. Her talent and hard work will help solve one of the world's greatest problems – global hunger.”

Cruzado took office as MSU's 12th president on Jan. 4, 2010. She is a champion of the landgrant universities' mission of education, research and public outreach, and also the role of higher education in the development of individuals and national prosperity.

Previously, Cruzado served as Executive Vice President and Provost of New Mexico State University, and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Prior to that, she held faculty and administrative positions at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez, including Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Cruzado received a B.A. from the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez and an M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Texas, Arlington.

Spion Kop Wind Project begins operation By emily stifler

big sky weekly managing editor

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GEYSER – NorthWestern Energy just bought its first large-scale wind farm in Montana, the 40-megawatt Spion Kop Wind Project near the town of Geyser.

The project, which began commercial operation in November, has 25 turbans – about half the size of Montana’s other big utility-grade wind farms in terms of number of turbans and electrical output, said NorthWestern Energy spokesman Butch Larcombe.

A Spanish company, NatureEner, owns two of the largest – the 210 MW Glacier Wind Farm near Shelby and the 189 MW Rim Rock farm near Cut Bank. Invenergy, an international player in renewable energy based in Chicago, owns the 135-MW Judith Gap Wind Farm.

Spion Kop, built by the Colorado-based Compass Wind, enables NorthWestern Energy to meet its renewable portfolio standards obligation, under which 15 percent of its energy portfolio must be produced from renewable power by 2015. The wind farm will also help the utility maintain “a balanced resources mix that contributes to long-term rate stability,” said Bob Rowe, NorthWestern Energy President and CEO.

12 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

Costs from the $86.1 million project will be dispersed into NorthWestern

Energy’s regulated rate base starting in December.

That “doesn't necessarily mean an increase [for ratepayers],” Larcombe said. That, he says, is because “it may be replacing more expensive [electricity] sources.”

Construction of Spion Kop costs approximately $8 million, and NorthWestern estimates the project will generate an additional $566,000 in property taxes and fees locally during its first year of operation. These costs are now subject to a review by the Montana Public Service Commission.

In other development, NorthWestern Energy has received approximately 30 proposals for community-based renewable energy projects in Montana.

“These would be developed by small, community-based producers, and we’d agree to buy the electricity from them,” Larcombe said. “These people would maybe put up a wind farm and generate electricity, but [otherwise] have no way to connect to grid or distribute it.”

The community-based projects are not related to the 2015 renewable portfolio standards obligation, Larcombe said.

“This is just looking down the road.”

He also expects other large, utilityscale wind farms will be developed in Montana.

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Big Sky Weekly

Montana’s 2015 biennium budget

By JOSEPH T. O'CONNOR big sky weekly editor

HELENA – Brian Schweitzer released his 2015 biennial state budget, the last one in his eight years as Montana’s governor, on Nov. 15, summing up the proposal in three words: “Educate, medicate, incarcerate.”

These categories comprised 87.5 percent of the governor’s final blueprint, which, if approved by incoming Governor-Elect Steve Bullock and the state Legislature, will leave Montana with a budget surplus of more than $410 million.

But that doesn’t seem likely, according to Sen. Jim Shockley, R-Mont, who says the termlimited governor’s budget proposal is merely an outgoing political statement.

“Schweitzer’s budget has no meaning,” Shockley said in an email. “The new governor will have his own budget driven by his political agenda. Until we know what that budget is, and it is getting late, the legislature will not know how to react.”

His final act as governor calls for expenditures in 2014 and 2015 to increase from the last budget by 2.94 percent and 2.62 percent, and revenues to grow by 3.93 and 3.04 percent, respectively.

“All eight of the budgets I’ve proposed have contained the largest surpluses in history,” said Schweitzer, who is leaving office on Jan. 6, due to state-imposed term limits. “We continue to propose a $410 million ending fund balance, which is about 10 times greater than [those] during the previous 20 years before I was elected governor.”

Kevin O’Brien, Bullock’s spokesman, said Schweitzer’s budget has merit, but ultimately the governor-elect will make the call, presenting his budget to the state Legislature by the day he takes office on Jan. 7.

Two of the governor-elect’s proposals, introduced during his election campaign, were written into Schweitzer’s budget. These included a $400 tax rebate for

“What’s clear is that Montana has maintained fiscal strength through the Great Recession. Schweitzer’s fiscal leadership has left [the state] in a strong position.”

all Montana homeowners, and eliminating an equipment tax for 11,000 small businesses in the state.

“What’s clear,” O’Brien said, “is that Montana has maintained fiscal strength through the Great Recession. Schweitzer’s fiscal leadership has left [the state] in a strong position.”

Two other key issues on Bullock’s agenda – education and job creation – are also contained in Schweitzer’s budget proposal.

“It doesn’t matter if a proposal has an ‘R’ or a ‘D’ behind it,” O’Brien said. “They’ll have a partner in [Bullock], if they [boost] jobs and education.”

Of Schweitzer’s total proposal, education comprises 51.6 percent, giving nearly $2 billion to state programs. Schweitzer said this investment ultimately saves Montanans money, explaining that when state education funding decreases, taxes increase for homeowners and small businesses.

When past governors pulled funding from schools, “every school district turned to their voters and said ‘we’re raising your mill levies,’” Schweitzer said. “They raised taxes locally because the state of Montana spent less money.”

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imburse high school teachers that graduated from Montana colleges up to $12,000 of their tuition.

About $34 million of state funds would go toward the governor’s proposed tuition freeze, which would block college tuition increases for two years.

“We made deals with the Board of Regents,” Schweitzer said, “and they promised that if we put that money in, they wouldn’t raise tuition.”

The proposal allots $67 million to K-12 education, as well.

Schweitzer also proposed a bonding bill in the budget, which he says would create about 2,100 jobs and cost $87 million.

Of this, $20 million will be spent on upgrades to buildings at Montana State University and the diesel technology center in Havre, where Schweitzer said there’s a “huge demand for people that are trained as diesel mechanics in not just the oil fields, but all across Montana. Instead of importing [trained mechanics], we want to train Montanans to have those skills.”

Big Sky Weekly

In 2013 there could again be significant disagreement over the budgeting details.

The 2013 Republican-controlled Legislature may not go along with either Schweitzer or Bullock’s budget proposal.

Additionally, the legislative committee responsible for passing an official revenue estimate, the Revenue and Transportation Interim Committee, is currently gridlocked over the state budget’s revenue estimate.

The revenue estimate is decided on by the committee, which looks at both Schweitzer’s budget and the Legislative’s budget. The committee then passes a revenue estimate. The committee is legally required to pass it before the first business day in December.

The “medicate” portion of the governor’s plan, which accounts for more than 25 percent of the total budget, includes giving $1.5 million to programs that aid the elderly, and subsidizing child protective services with $929,000. It also provides 80,000 additional Montanans with medical insurance through the Affordable Care Act, something the governor says is imperative for insured Montanans to support.

To pay for the bonding bill, he says, “We have money in the bank. We can pay cash, or we could borrow money at the lowest rates in the last 75 years,” allowing the state to borrow at interest rates “in the low 2s.”

The budget proposal doesn’t include tax or fee increases, although most of the state’s revenue comes from income and property taxes.

As of press time, committee legislators hoped to schedule a shotgun meeting on Dec. 3 to iron out their differences, but it was unclear whether this would happen.

“What happens if we don’t cover these folks?”

Schweitzer asked. “They’re still getting their health care. It’s just that they’re not paying for it.

They go to the hospital in your community [which has to] keep its doors open, so they ship the cost to those of us who do have insurance. We’re actually saving money by joining this Medicaid program.”

Of the 79 bills Schweitzer vetoed in 2011, some were related to Republican-proposed tax increases on homeowners and small businesses, he said.

“In the last Legislative session, they tried to claim that we had a $400 million deficit. And of course I said, ‘We have a $400 million surplus. You guys have been smoking your belly button lint.’”

“That is a very bad sign,” Shockley said. “Normally the bi-partisan committee can work it out.”

Providing: • • • • •

Results Leveraged exposure Innovation Custom marketing International impact

Schweitzer, for his part, has done his job, he says, by completing his final budget proposal on time, and by keeping what he calls “grain in the bin.”

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Section 2:

Big Sky Weekly

Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 Volume 3 // Issue No. 24

business, health and environment

sports

Cats tame Griz story and photos by mike coil big sky weekly contributor

Bozeman - Montana State University is a force this season.

The Bobcats (7-1, 10-1) rolled into Missoula on Saturday, Nov. 17 like a juggernaut, defeating rival University of Montana Grizzlies, 16-7.

In what’s known as the Brawl of the Wild, the Griz (3-5, 5-6) scored their only points on the third drive of the game, with a 47yard touchdown run by running back Peter Nguyen. They piled up 108 rushing yards in the first quarter, but then it was all Cats. The MSU defense took over in the second quarter, holding Montana’s offense to 60 rushing yards the rest of the game.

DeNarus McGhee breaks a tackle

The Bobcats scored their only touchdown in the first quarter, on a 16-yard pass from DeNarius McGhee to Brian Flotkoetter. MSU place kicker Rory Perez made three field goals to lead all scorers.

With the win, the Bobcats secured a tie with Eastern Washington and California Polytechnic State University for the Big Sky conference title, and have earned a bye during the first round of the tournament.

Their first game will be Dec. 1 against the winner of the Villanova/Stony Brook game.

Kickoff is at 5 p.m. at Bobcat stadium.

This is the third straight season the Bobcats have gone to the playoffs.

Jubilant Cats celebrate with Great Divide trophy

Shoe string tackle by Leks Grosulak

Team introduction with Griz band

explorebigsky.com Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 17

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sports

Big Sky Weekly

LPHS names all-stars, praises student athletes for academic achievements LPHS Varsity Volleyball Academic All-State Tehya Braun Johanna Fischer Gabrielle Gasser Soby Haarman Zoe Ross Kaela Schommer

Photo by Mike Coil

By JOSEPH T. O'CONNOR big sky weekly editor

BIG SKY – Lone Peak High School’s athletic program is relatively new. Varsity football and volleyball are in their second years. Yet players for both teams are being recognized as some of the best in the state, for athletics as well as academics.

The varsity volleyball team led the honors by achieving a team cumulative GPA of 3.2,

an impressive accomplishment, said Tony Beardsley, LPHS’ activities director. The team had six Academic All-State selections, meaning players receiving a varsity letter who also achieved a 3.5 GPA or better.

Varsity football was close behind, with a 3.0 cumulative team GPA and nine players chosen for Academic All-State awards.

by griffin kilby and pete kamman

game, was proud of his team’s performance.

BIG SKY – With the anticipated start of a new season at the Big Sky Skating & Hockey Association rink at an all-time high, a few local players couldn’t wait for freezing temperatures to get their hockey fix.

"Our scoring touch and aggressive play made up for our inability to stop,” he said. “It's a similar game to what our ice [hockey] players are used to but the stopping technique and slower pace make a huge difference. All things considered, the boys did a great job!"

bssha

In the club’s inaugural match, Big Sky was on the winning side of a 10-4 decision versus a Salt Lake City club.

Following a string of victories, including a thrilling overtime win against a strong Pocatello team, the boys from Big Sky made it to the finals.

The offensive style of play was an advantage for experienced ice hockey players Pete Kamman, Patrick Kamman, Ben Almy, Ryan Blechta, and Griffin Kilby, while goaltender Chris Kamman played strong for the Big Sky club.

Pete, a veteran roller hockey player and coach who spent time in Namibia, Africa, teaching players of all ages the

Football All-State Player Selections: Tucker Shea Selected to Class “C” Senior All-Star Football Game in June: Tucker Shea Jake Cruse Haven Morris Grayson Bell (Alternate) Dan Klein (Alternate)

Football All-Conference Player Selections: Tucker Shea Jake Cruse Haven Morris

“These [accolades] show LPHS is on the move,” Beardsley said.

Big Sky’s first inline hockey club makes history this fall

The group made history this fall by placing second in the Pocatello, Idaho "Hocktoberfest Inline Hockey Tournament."

Ten athletes, mostly with minimal roller hockey experience, laced up the blades to face off against teams from Salt Lake City, Utah, Boise, and Pocatello.

LPHS Varsity Football Academic All-State Justin McKillop Ben Michel Micah Robin Chase Samuels Tucker Shea Tate Tatom Winter Madden-Pattison Jake Cruse Cooper Shea

Football Honorable Mention All-Conference Player Selections: Tanner Burton Tate Tatom

The team looks forward to next season and hopes to find a place to practice in the spring.

Kilby, a board member with BSSHA, has high hopes for inline hockey in Big Sky. "As interest in all brands of hockey grows, the BSSHA's goal of having a covered facility for winter could mean great things for inline sports in the summer months,” he said. “There isn't an inline rink in our state. If Big Sky became the first, it would be a great way to draw people to our community."

Check out Big Sky Inline Hockey on Facebook to see photos and learn more about the sport.

Griffin Kilby is the BSSHA Rink Manager and Pete Kamman is a Big Sky Inline player and coach.

18 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

Lone Peak High School Boys and Girls Basketball Schedule 2012-13 Two games played per date: Game No. 1 – LPHS Girls’ Game No. 2 – LPHS Boys’ Practice Begins- Monday, November 19, 2012 Parent Informational Night – Tuesday, November 20, 2012 6:30pm Dec. 7 & 8 Away

Girls’ @ St. Regis Tournament

TBD

Dec. 7 & 8 Away

Boys’ @ St. Regis Tournament

TBD

Dec. 14

Home

vs Harrison/Willow Creek

5:30 p.m./7 p.m.

Dec. 15

Home

vs Ennis

4 p.m./5:30 p.m.

Dec. 18

Away

@ Shields Valley

4:30 p.m./6 p.m.

Jan. 4

Home

vs Gardiner

5:30 p.m./7 p.m.

Jan. 5

Away

@ Twin Bridges

5:30 p.m./7 p.m.

Jan. 10

Home

vs Sheridan

5:30 p.m./7 p.m.

Jan. 11

Away

@ West Yellowstone

5:30 p.m./7 p.m.

Jan. 12

Home

vs Lima

3 p.m./4:30 p.m.

Jan. 17

Away

@ Ennis

6 p.m./7:30 p.m.

Jan. 19

Away

@Harrison/Willow Creek

5:30 p.m./7 p.m.

Jan. 25

Away

@ Gardiner

5:30 p.m./7 p.m.

Jan. 26

Home

vs Shields Valley

2 p.m./3:30 p.m.

Feb. 1

Away

@ White Sulphur Springs

5:30 p.m./7 p.m.

Feb. 2

Home

vs Manhattan Christian

4 p.m./5:30 p.m.

Feb. 7

Home

vs West Yellowstone

5:30 p.m./7 p.m.

Feb. 9

Away

@ Lima (BOYS’ PLAY FIRST)

5:30 p.m./7 p.m.

Basketball District Tournament MAC Center, Butte, MT, February 13-16, 2013 Basketball Divisional Tournament, Hamilton, MT, February 20-23, 2013 Basketball State Tournament Girls’ –Belgrade, MT, February 28-March 2, 2013 Basketball State Tournament Boys’ – MSU-Bozeman, MT, March 7-9, 2013 Basketball Awards Banquet – week of March 11-15 – day & time TBD

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Big Sky Weekly

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More Fine Ranch & Recreational Offerings: Mike D'Antoni (Wikimedia CC)

Lakers Hire D’Antoni After the firing, the assumption was that Phil Jackson would return, but the Lakers surprised everyone and hired Mike D’Antoni.

D’Antoni was canned by the Knicks last season after a short tenure, and he has a history with new Lakers point guard Steve Nash after their years in Phoenix together.

By Brandon Niles

Big sky weekly sports columnist

LOS ANGELES - After a disappointing start to the season, the Lakers fired second year head coach Mike Brown, who had brought with him a new offensive system, but was perhaps miscast from the beginning in LA. The difficulties of coaching the mercurial Kobe Bryant and taking over a team that won two championships in the tried and true triangle offense of former coach and NBA legend Phil Jackson were obvious.

The new offense never seemed to gel, and with the additions of Steve Nash and Dwight Howard, expectations were through the roof for the Lakers to contend for a title this season. After a 1-4 start to the season, the Lakers decided to move on from Brown.

This was a hasty decision, and was more indicative of a long-term lack of faith in Brown’s ability than a gut reaction to a slow start. After last season when the Lakers looked overmatched, Brown was on a short leash to begin with. After early struggles, the Lakers’ brass had seen enough.

However, Brown was clearly not the right hire to begin with. A better option would have been a promotion for long-time assistant Brian Shaw, who would have maintained the triangle offense and provided a seamless transition for the team.

The firing of Brown was less an indication of Brown and more a message to the fans that the hiring was a mistake from the start.

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D’Antoni will bring a speed offense, predicated on maximizing the effectiveness of the point guard and distributing the pick and roll while providing open shots on the wings. The talent the Lakers have with Nash, Bryant, Howard, and Pau Gasol should lead to a nearly unstoppable offense with D’Antoni leading the team.

The knock on D’Antoni has always been the lack of defense on his teams. However, he has never had a tremendous defender like Dwight Howard to work with. The defensive presence of Howard combined with D’Antoni’s offense might be exactly the formula he needs to win a championship.

The Lakers took a chance by not bringing back Phil Jackson, a coach who has won 11 championships in his career. However, the addition of D’Antoni could pay off in the long run with a healthy Nash and Howard providing the defense his teams are usually lacking. Either way, the offense should be nearly unstoppable and will provide entertaining basketball in LA all year.

Brandon Niles has done online freelance writing about the NFL 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.

explorebigsky.com Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 19

CHALET 4

AT Y E L L OW S TO N E CLUB

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health & wellness

Big Sky Weekly

Ask Dr. Dunn By maren dunn

blood stream. At sea level, the air you breathe is 21 percent oxygen. This air is under enough atmospheric pressure to adequately saturate your red blood cells with oxygen.

big sky weekly health writer

Why exactly does higher altitude affect a person? Does it take someone who is older than 60 longer to adjust to altitude? How long does it take for most people to adjust?

- Patty in Big Sky

Essentially, higher altitude means lower oxygen availability and lower atmospheric pressure, which causes changes in the oxygen levels in the

In the Big Sky Meadow, at 6,500 feet, the oxygen level drops by 15 percent, and the atmospheric pressure drops by 99 mmHg (mmHG is a ‘unit of mercury’, which is a way of measuring pressure).

At the top of Lone Mountain, where the elevation is higher than 11,000 feet, the availability of oxygen decreases by 25 percent and the atmospheric pressure by 210 mmHg.

The ability to acclimatize varies from person to person and depends on many factors including rate of ascent and altitude reached, genetics, medical conditions, medications taken, alcohol consumption and temperature.

While there is no reliable way to predict how well or fast a person will acclimatize, it’s best to ascend slowly, hydrate, abstain from alcohol and discuss medications with a doctor before going.

Your red blood cells carry oxygen to your tissues.

With increased altitude, the percent of oxygen saturation within the blood cells changes. The blood cells contain hemoglobin, which binds oxygen.

Within minutes of elevation gain, the body begins producing more red blood cells to help balance oxygen loss and increase saturation.

Here are some notable high points in the Western U.S.

There are three regions of elevation defined in mountain medicine: high (4900 – 11,500 feet), very high (11,500 – 18,000 feet) and extreme (above 18,000 feet). These regions are used when describing the amount of oxygen available for human use and the amount of atmospheric pressure placed on the body as it goes up in elevation.

Mount McKinley, AK – 20,320 feet, highest in the U.S. Mount Rainer, WA – 14,417 feet Mount Whitney, CA – 14,505 feet, highest in Lower 48 Mount Baker, WA – 10,786 Mount Hood, OR – 11,249 feet, highest in OR Grand Teton, WY 13,775 feet Mount Borah, ID – 12,668 feet, highest in ID Pikes Peak, CO – 14,115 feet Lone Mountain, MT – 11,166 feet Granite Peak, MT – 12,807 feet, highest peak in MT

It is believed the body can raise red blood cell mass to sufficiently adapt a healthy person to altitude changes in 10 – 14 days. This adaptation, also called acclimatization, can take weeks, and is likely only able to balance the body up to 13,000 feet.

Acclimatization includes a complex array of physiologic changes within multiple body systems.

Maren Dunn, D.O., is owner of Gallatin Family Medicine, a medical clinic in the Big Sky Meadow Village. Gallatin Family Medical offers reduced cost and free mammogram screening. Have a question?

Email her at inquiries@gallatinfamilymedicine.com. gallatinfamilymedicine.com

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business

Big Sky Weekly

How to brew beer in the “End of Days” story and photos By tyler allen

big sky weekly staff writer

BIG SKY – Beer has perhaps the longest tradition of any alcoholic beverage and today is the world’s most widely consumed. Some even believe it ushered in our modern, agricultural civilization.

Whether beer actually came before bread, the first evidence of the beverage dates back to 9500 B.C. The ancient Egyptians consumed more beer than they did water – it was safer because fermented beverages are essentially sterile – and workers in that society were paid in beer rations.

flavored with hops, especially the big American India Pale Ales gaining popularity in this country. LPB’s “End of Days” belongs squarely in that category.

Due out the second week of December, LPB brewed this 2012 holiday IPA with American hops and pale malt from Great Falls, Mont., and then fermented it with American yeast.

This is the first time LPB has used American yeast, said Assistant Brewer Ben Smith. “We’ve always used English in the past. American [yeast] gives the beer a cleaner profile, lets the hops shine more.”

Lone Peak Brewery is continuing this tradition with its “End of Days IPA,” brewed fresh this November.

Creating the modern refreshment that will be poured in the tap room all starts with a recipe and a little creativity.

While the tools and means for brewing have evolved since ancient times, the process has changed little. Adding yeast to grains (primarily barley, like the first brewers) and water creates fermentation. The yeast eats the sugars of the grains and the bi-products are alcohol and carbonation.

“Every style of beer has a traditional recipe and then you tweak it,” said Smith, who helped Head Brewer Ian Hendry conceptualize the recipe. “It’s like every good cook has a beef stew recipe, but everyone’s is different.”

The addition of hops as a flavoring agent and preservative came much later, probably beginning in ninth century Europe. Today, most beers are

The work began on Nov. 19. First, the tanks, hoses, fittings and anything else that might come in contact with the beer were sanitized. This prevents any unwanted bacteria or yeasts from jeopardizing the fermentation process.

In the basement below LPB’s tasting room, the brewers added the malted barley to the hopper, where an auger pushed it up into the mash tun – a big, silver tank – on the brewery floor. Here, they created the “mash” or “wort” by adding water and heat.

“If you mess up this process, you’re screwed,” Hendry said. They were shooting for a rate of 1.2 quarts of water per pound of grain, and a constant temperature of 154 degrees as the grain and water swirled together. At that temperature, the enzymes in the grains break down the carbohydrates into simple sugars, the feast for yeast.

“We’re looking for the consistency of mushy porridge,” Hendry said, as the brown slurry sloshed around the mash tun. “It’s like steeping tea. You want it cool enough not to extract any tannins [from the grain], but hot enough to break down any sugars.” Tannins are found in the husks of the grains and can give beer a bitter flavor and hazy look, he said.

Once all the grain was converted to mash, they let the mixture sit for an hour, allowing the enzymes to continue breaking down the sugars. Next they moved it into the kettle with a pump, which sends water into the mash tun. Called “sparging” or “lautering,” this adds more water to the

Taps at Lone Peak Brewery in the Meadow Village

22 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

business

mixture and also rinses the remaining sugars into the kettle.

Hendry and Smith then boiled the wort and added the first hops, an hour-long process that infuses the beer with its flavors. For additional aroma and flavor, they will add dry hops during fermentation, four to six days before carbonation and packaging.

After the boil, the beer should be cooled quickly to limit contaminants, Hendry explained. To do this, they pushed it through a heat exchanger, bringing it down to 68 degrees, which is the optimal temperature for fermenting ales. Once cooled, they piped it into the fermenting tanks, where the yeast does its magic for eight to 12 days.

Assistant brewer Ben Smith pouring the malted barley into the hopper, where its sent by the auger to the brewery floor

Head brewer Ian Hendry, looking into the mash tun during the mashing processto ensure the water is mixing well with the malt

Finally, the beer will be transferred to the “bright” tanks, where it’s cooled to 32 degrees and the yeast drops, or “flocculates,” to the bottom. The brewers will pull it off the yeast, strain it through a cloth and put it under pressure while adding carbon dioxide, giving it those enjoyable, belchable bubbles, before packaging in kegs or bottles.

“End of Days IPA” was named in honor of the Mayan calendar due to end Dec. 21, 2012. If we are in fact toasting to the final days here on Earth, there’s no better way than with one of our oldest libations.

Head Brewer Ian Hendry mixing the wort with a Lone Peak beer paddle

Spent wort after it’s been sparged and all the sugars have been rinsed into the kettle for boiling

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RIVER RUN SITE explorebigsky.com Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 23

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Big Sky Weekly

Bush tax cuts expiring and what that could mean for you from the taxslayer.com blog

When filing your taxes this upcoming year, you will be filing your taxes for 2012 and therefore can determine the amount of taxes you owe by the 2012 income tax brackets. However, the current Bush-Era tax cuts are about to expire and you may be affected. There are three possible scenarios for the 2013 tax brackets, and Congress has until Dec. 31, 2012 to decide.

How much you will owe when you file in 2013 When you file your 2012 taxes before April 15, 2013, the amount you owe is determined by the 2012 tax bracket rates listed below. The “taxable income” used in this table is not your gross income. Taxable income is generally some or all items of income that are reduced by expenses and other deductions.

Three most likely scenarios for the 2013 tax brackets When you file your 2012 taxes before April 15, 2013, the amount of taxes you owe are determined by the 2012 tax bracket rates listed below. Keep in mind that the “taxable income” used in this table is not your gross income. Taxable income is generally some or all items of income that are reduced by expenses and other deductions.

1. Tax Brackets Proposed by President Obama: Expiration of the Bush-era tax cuts expire for high income taxpayers only. *Married filing separately, has not yet been determined.

2. Congress Proposed Tax Brackets: Bush tax cuts extended for all taxpayers. *Married filing separately, has not yet been determined.

3. If they cannot reach a compromise: Bush tax cuts expire for everyone. *Married filing separately, has not yet been determined.

There is also a chance that the tax brackets for 2013 might differ slightly from one of the above scenarios. It may be several months before anyone has a clear indication on what the 2013 tax brackets will be. When Congress reaches a decision, the 2013 tax brackets will be finalized.

24 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

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business

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Shopping small is big By maria wyllie

big sky weekly editorial assistant

BOZEMAN, BIG SKY – The third annual Small Business Saturday took place on Nov. 24. Founded by American Express in 2010, the idea behind the event is to help small businesses get more exposure during one of the biggest shopping weekends of the year.

Small, independently owned businesses are often unable to reduce prices, thus making it nearly impossible for them to have a presence over Thanksgiving weekend. In hopes of changing that, American Express offered a number of promotional items and marketing tools to small businesses interested in reaching more consumers over the weekend.

American Express sent 50 to 60 promotional doormats to the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce. Danielle Chamberlain, Visitor Information Services Manager at the Chamber, dropped them off at random to businesses in hopes of encouraging people to shop locally and to keep money in Big Sky.

Big Sky Weekly

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More than 250 small businesses in and around Bozeman took part in Small Business Saturday.

Bozeman Mayor Sean Becker, at the Nov. 19 City of Bozeman Commission meeting, made an Official Mayoral Proclamation urging “residents of our community to support small businesses and merchants on Small Business Saturday and throughout the year.” Free parking was offered at the downtown-parking garage as an incentive to bring shoppers downtown.

Music Villa, on East Main in Bozeman, reported steady business that Saturday. The independent music store had heavily advertised for this year’s event.

“Advertising helped the whole downtown and put the bug in people’s ear to shop downtown instead of at the mall,” owner Paul Decker said. “More people are catching on.”

Big Sky is already looking to next year.

Chamberlain plans to put together a pamphlet for Small Business Saturday 2013, making it easier for locals to shop and reminding them of the importance of shopping locally.

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explorebigsky.com Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 25

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environment

Big Sky Weekly

Dogs, humans team up to help eradicate one noxious weed in Montana msu news service

BOZEMAN – A Labrador that’s trained to find cadavers and a Border collie plucked from a Bozeman animal shelter are helping decrease noxious weeds in Montana.

Demonstrating her abilities on a frosty fall morning, Wibaux the Labrador detected the scent of Dyer’s woad on mountainside near Missoula, over the smell of hikers, pets, deer, shrubs and other plants.

Shaking with excitement but true to her training, Wibaux circled the weed, barking, then sat down until her handler verified it was, indeed, Dyer’s woad.

“Good dog. Good girl,” Deb Tirmenstein said, handing Wibaux a biscuit.

Tirmenstein marked the location on her GPS unit, planning to return alone later to spray the weed. It’s a trip she has made many times since she, Wibaux and a Border collie named Seamus joined the Dyer’s woad project in 2011.

One goal of the project is to use dog-human teams to eradicate the invasive weed from Montana. Amber Burch, assistant weed coordinator for Beaverhead County and coordinator of a statewide effort to fight Dyer’s woad, said the plant is native to southeast Russia and was once cultivated in England for blue dye and medicine. First identified here in 1934, it’s now classified as a Priority 1B Noxious Weed.

One Dyer’s woad plant can grow four inches a week and produce up to 10,000 seeds, Burch said. The roots can be more than five feet deep, according to UM Natural Areas Specialist Marilyn Marler. When blooming, the plant can grow waist high. Noxious weeds compete with native plants and can overrun pastures and wildlife habitat.

Wibaux barks to let her handler know that she has detected another Dyer’s woad plant.

MSU photo by Sepp Jannotta

Dyer’s woad in Montana has decreased 87.1 percent since 2005, Burch said. At last count for 2012, the total number of plants in the state was 997. A site is considered eradicated if no Dyer’s woad plants are found in eight years.

Kim Goodwin, a research associate in the Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences in MSU’s College of Agriculture, started investigating the possibility of using dogs to detect noxious weeds while working toward her master’s degree at MSU, from 2005 to 2010. Before that, former MSU Extension Noxious Weed Specialist Pete Fay researched herbicides for Dyer’s woad, and had crews pulling the weed. He started the Montana Dyer’s Woad Cooperative Project.

Dyer’s woad can grow four inches a week, can be waist high when blooming. Photo courtesy of Amber Burch

The weed is widespread in Utah and eastern Idaho, but experts say it’s a good candidate for eradication in Montana because it’s far less widespread here.

Once found in 17 counties, it’s now active in only seven because of the Montana Dyer’s Woad Cooperative Project started, in 1984. The counties with active Dyer’s woad are Beaverhead, Silver Bow, Carbon, Flathead, Gallatin, Missoula and Park.

Goodwin’s research showed that dogs and people complement each other when looking for noxious weeds.

People can find large flowering plants and patches of noxious weeds, but they can overlook individual weeds. Dogs work best in areas of low-density, high priority weeds. They can smell Dyer’s woad even when it’s when it’s just an underground root fragment.

“We found they are able to detect twice as many small plants as the surveyors do,” Goodwin said.

Goodwin also hopes to “turn this discovery into something useful for land managers.”

The effort involving Wibaux and Seamus is based on Mount Sentinel, above Missoula. This year the dogs detected about 40 locations there that humans missed, Goodwin said.

26 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

Goodwin got the idea to use dogs after reading about the federal “Beagle Brigade.” In it, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service uses beagles to inspect luggage and boxes at U.S. airports and ports of entry. Dogs also detect land mines and have been used for thousands of years to hunt.

Goodwin used German shepherds in her master’s degree research on spotted knapweed because of their intelligence and scent-work experience.

Wibaux was already trained to find human remains, and she has searched for cadavers and has assisted law enforcement in Montana, Washington, Idaho and Arkansas, said her owner, Tirmenstein.

Trainers introduced Wibaux to Dyer’s woad by hiding the weed inside a box with holes in the lid and placing it next to boxes containing other weeds. Wibaux learned she would receive a treat or get to retrieve a ball upon detecting Dyer’s woad, and she started honing in on it. Her training became more complex until she could detect Dyer’s woad outdoors.

Seamus came from Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter in Gallatin County to Working Dogs for Conservation, said Aimee Hurt, director of operations for the Montana-based group. Noting that only one or two dogs in 1,000 make good detection dogs, she said Seamus stood out because he was playful even when surrounded by chaos.

A closer look showed other qualities that could make him into a successful detection dog.

“These dogs tend to be highly energetic and easy to motivate with food or toys,” Hurt explained.

“They also don’t mind seeking the same thing over and over. They aren’t distracted.”

“We are asking a lot of them, but they really love it,” Hurt said. “We work with dogs that need a job to be happy.”

This piece was adapted from one originally written

by Evelyn Boswell.

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Big Sky Weekly

YC residence to sell at absolute auction Listed originally at $28 million By emily stifler

big sky weekly managing editor

BIG SKY – Offered last year for $28 million, 26 Obsidian Road is the highest priced residential property ever listed in Big Sky and in the Gallatin Association of Realtors multiple listing service.

The property, now set to sell at live auction without reserve on Feb. 18, was one of the first lots developed in the Yellowstone Club – something listing agent Shawna Winter says adds to the allure.

“The exclusivity of the club, the uniqueness of property, and the current owner’s initial opportunity to select a prime site… It truly is one of the best locations from a ski-in skiout perspective and a view perspective at the club,” Winter said.

New York City-based Concierge Auctions, which is running the auction, is advertising the 15,552 square foot residence on 2.6 acres as “a ski lover’s paradise with sweeping mountain views and direct access to 8,000 skiable acres.”

Concierge sells high-end, luxury properties at absolute auction nationwide, and while auctions are sometimes equated with distressed property, that’s not the case here, according to Laura Brady of Concierge.

“The vast majority of our sellers aren’t distressed. It’s just a decision to sell this way.”

By aggregating competition, an auction can “maximize value and produce the highest possible price by a given date,” Brady said. Otherwise, sellers are “at mercy of when buyers come forward.”

A simultaneous sale in Aspen, Colo. generated cross interest, Brady said. “A lot of people became familiar with Big Sky who weren’t necessarily looking [there] before that.”

“You’re flipping the table around and putting buyers and sellers on an even playing field – and at a live auction at the property.”

Many Concierge clients are searching for certain amenities rather than a specific location, she explained. “We might have someone in Princeton, New Jersey, looking for a ranch or a ski chalet, not telling us they want to be in Big Sky or Telluride.”

The auction format helps generate excitement, Winter said, noting the Nov. 16 announcement attracted attention “instantly.” By Nov. 26, she and the other listing agent Lynn Milligan already had a few hundred inquiries.

“Those with the wherewithal to make a purchase like this, when something like this comes up from a location perspective, it’s an opportunity they’re not going to turn away from,” Milligan said. “The price point alone generates interest.”

Since it will sell at live auction, the price isn’t set and the property will instead sell to the highest bidder on auction day. “We feel confident this sale will set a new high point with respect to the purchase price in our marketplace,” Winter said.

Concierge did three auctions in the Spanish Peaks earlier this year and one in the Yellowstone Club.

Working with the now dissolved brokerage Rivers to Peaks, they sold all four units in five weeks.

28 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

“Certainly in both Spanish Peaks and the Yellowstone Club we’re selling the lifestyle as much as we’re selling the properties themselves,” Brady said. “Both of those communities are well-known nationwide and worldwide, so we have a lot of interest just from folks knowing they were [there].”

The auction house also sold a luxury ranch south of Cameron this year, and a property in Whitefish in 2011. It’s had continuous business in Jackson, Wyo. since 2009.

The $28 million price tag is comparable to the highest-end listings in other resort towns. Aspen, Colo. currently has 15 single-family homes listed higher than $20 million on its multiple listing service Vail has one at $25 million; and Jackson has five above $20 million, with one listed at $29.5 million and one at $37 million.

Compared to Jackson or Vail, Milligan said, “There’s so much growth potential here, buyers think they’re getting in on the ground floor.”

Winter says she’s starting to see signs of health in the real estate market. “There seem to be more higher-end home sales than in the last year or two. A lot of buyers feel that the bottom has occurred and the market is slowly climbing back up, and they want to get ahead of that curve.”

More information is available at bigskyauction.com.

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Big Sky Weekly

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Big Sky Weekly

Local painter exhibits powerful work, long journey back to painting By carol schmidt msu news service

It’s no coincidence it took living in the Big Sky landscape for Francesco Gillia to develop as a painter of large, powerful paintings.

Gillia, who will graduate in December from the Montana State University School of Art with a Master of Fine Arts degree, displayed his graduate thesis exhibition from Nov. 13-30 in the MSU Helen Copeland Gallery.

The show was as powerful as it was unorthodox.

The painter showed 15 large oil paintings of nude torsos – both male and female. Gillia paints on huge canvases – most are 4 feet by 6 feet, and a few are larger. Rather than traditional forms, he painted portions of the body from the legs to the neck.

Vaughan Judge, director of the MSU School of Art, says Gillia is one of the most talented students he’s had in three decades of teaching art in both Europe and the U.S. "Francesco Gillia is a radical writing with the paintbrush of tradition," Judge said. "He rejects his cultural nurturing and asks us to look again through his paintings at our own cultural learnings."

Gillia's paintings are reminiscent of those by many great masters.

That’s not surprising, because those masters once created their art near Gillia's hometown.

Born and raised in the Monte Porzio Catone in the province of Rome, Italy, Gillia graduated, summa cum laude, from the Accadamia di Belle Arti of Rome, where he first studied painting.

Seeking adventure and fortune, he moved to Los Angeles in 1999. At first, he found only a job working as a waiter in an upscale Italian restaurant in Hermosa Beach. The job, which was great fun, became strategic when he noticed an upscale product design firm upstairs in the same building.

"I told the owner (of the design firm) that I was a painter from Rome, Italy, I loved to design footwear, and to let me try," Gillia recalls. He earned a two-week, nonpaid tryout that led to a full-time job as a product designer.

"I worked there for three years, and I learned so much," Gillia said. The owner of the company also taught at the Pasadena Art Center and was a great mentor. "It was fun, edgy, and up-and-coming. It was life changing."

Gillia met his wife, Tasha Sylvester, in Los Angeles. She introduced him to Montana while visiting her parents at their ranch near Lima.

"Montana was like nothing I had ever seen before," Gillia said. "I saw cows. To me, seeing cows was like seeing the dinosaurs in Jurassic Park. I wanted to move to Montana... My friends were concerned.

What would I do in Montana?"

"Montana was like nothing I had ever seen before. I saw cows. To me, seeing cows was like seeing the dinosaurs in Jurassic Park."

Gillia developed a business in an unused ranch building, drawing on his product design skills to build furniture. He recruited his brother Marco from Italy, and together, they developed the company Bottega Montana.

The brothers designed and manufactured high-end furniture, and later hand-crafted longboards, which quickly became favorites with designers, celebrities and the wealthy. Their work was featured several times in the Los Angeles Times and The New York Times.

Francesco Gillia has found artistic and commercial success in Montana. The native of Rome has already sold one of his large paintings and has successfully raised more than $17,000 to fund a coffee table book of his work, even though still a graduate student in the MSU School of Art. MSU photo by Kelly Gorham.

30 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

The company thrived for seven years, until the economy crashed.

About that time, Gillia’s brother moved to New York with his wife,

and Gillia's wife decided it was a good time to get her master's degree. Gillia said, "Me, too. So, we moved to Bozeman."

He enrolled in MSU to get back to his first love, painting. Inspired by his mentor, the California artist Steve Huston, Gillia also credits the students he taught at MSU as a graduate student, as well as his family for his rapid development as an artist.

Gillia’s three children also provided a perspective that was a breakthrough in his current work. The revelation that children see bodies as something large and non-sexual made him try to recreate that objectivity and scale.

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Big Sky Weekly THOMAS LEE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Creighton Block

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Big Sky Weekly

Holiday Trunk show with Barbara Pierce Saturday Dec 15 | 10am- 6pm

ART I ST PRO FI LE: BARBA R A PIER CE Barbara Pierce spent most of her life in New Jersey. After traveling between their homes in New Jersey and Ennis, she and her husband are now full time residents in Montana.

Always admiring American Indian jewelr y and beadwork, Barbara began designing hand beaded chokers. Her passion for this ar t form has grown from hand beading to designing necklaces, earrings, and bracelets from a wide variety of beads and natural materials. A new addition to her collection are .999 Sterling Silver Chain Maille necklaces, bracelets and earrings. The Chain Maille creations are interlocking rings forming a design.

Creighton Block

32 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

BI G S K Y TOW N C E N T E R 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM // TUESDAY THRU SUNDAY MONDAYS BY APPOINTMENT

Please visit the gallery to view our extensive collection of fine works of ar t in the Main Gallery, the Charsam Room, and the new Private Collection Salon.

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Section 3:

Big Sky Weekly

Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 Volume 3 // Issue No. 24

life, land and culture

Big Sky Resort opening weekend

By JOSEPH T. O'CONNOR big sky weekly editor

BIG SKY – At 8:48 a.m. on Thanksgiving day, ski patrol explosives echoing in the distance, lift operator Megan Turner gave the word.

“Are you frickin’ excited?” she yelled. The crowd waiting in line at the Swift Current chair lift erupted as Turner loaded skiers on the first chair.

As of Nov. 28, the Swift Current, Challenger and Triple chairs were open.

Big Sky’s opening day brought visitors from all over the country. Trish Mace, from Washington, D.C. and her mother Jane, who lives in Palm City, Fla. were sitting on a lift chair-turned-seat overlooking Swifty.

Aaron Hurlburt was stoked.

“We’re enjoying all the snow and sunshine,” Jane said, leaning back into the seat.

“It’s my first time here,” said Hurlburt, a native of Amherst, Mass. and a freshman at Montana State University. “I’ve been waiting for this.”

“There’s eight of us here,” said Trish, who was in town visiting her son, an MSU student. They had Thanksgiving dinner at Buck’s T4 after the family finished skiing.

This year, 1,500 people stormed the hill at Big Sky, up from 1,200 last season, and snow coverage was better this year, as well.

For Trish and Jane Mace, opening day need not include skiing, but Proctor says it’s a fine time for skiers to get their legs back.

“We opened with about a 20-inch base,” said Kipp Proctor, Big Sky’s media relations and community manager. “We definitely have more snow at this time than we did last year.”

“It’s been skiing great,” Proctor said. “[We] definitely [have] early season conditions, but we’re at 21 inches in the base area (as of Nov. 28) and we’ll be opening new terrain soon.”

Mark Davidson starts the season off strong with a textbook cossack. Chris Davis

photo by ryan day thompson

photo by Mike Coil

photo by ryan day thompson

photo by ryan day thompson Photo by Mike Coil.

explorebigsky.com Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 33

explorebigsky.com

outdoors Lone Mountain Ranch has new groomer Big Sky School District kids to name the machine By emily stifler

big sky weekly managing editor

BIG SKY – On Friday, Nov. 16, Lone Mountain Ranch head groomer Patrick McVey got his wish: a new PistenBully 100 groomer.

It may be hard to believe, but this new machine will make Big Sky’s nordic ski trails – already known for impeccable conditions– even nicer.

A top of the line machine built in Germany, the new groomer came to the ranch from a distributor in Logan, Utah. It replaces an identical - but much older – machine that was no longer working.

The difference, McVey said, is that the new groomer has more teeth on the tiller, which chews up the snow better, and makes the trails a little smoother.

The ranch will also still run its smaller groomer, a PistenBully 160, which was rebuilt this summer.

At the end of November, the ranch is working with students from the Big Sky School District to name the groomers, said PJ Wirchansky, Director of Sales and Marketing at the ranch.

McVey will trailer the new machine to the school and unload it for an afternoon. The kids will get to pitch ideas for names, and Lone Mountain will choose two – one for each groomer.

The students who pick the winning name will get a ride with McVey, receive a small replica of the PistenBully, and also get a day of skiing and lunch with their families at the ranch.

“We’re trying to get more involved in the community,” Wirchansky said.

Lone Mountain Ranch's new PistenBully 100 arrived this fall. Photo courtesy of

The Lone Mountain Ranch trails are set to open Dec. 7, depending on conditions.

Lone Mountain Ranch.

PLAY VIDEOS TO LEARN MORE AT FLATHEADLAKETIMBER.COM

Big Sky Weekly

General deer and elk rifle season comes to a close montana fish, wildlife and parks

BOZEMAN – Hunter harvest in Region 3 increased over the last two weekends of the general deer and elk rifle season, but numbers were down slightly from the same weekend last year.

Staff and volunteers checked 1,294 hunters with 18 white-tailed deer, 48 mule deer and 62 elk. The percentage of hunters with game jumped from just over 8 percent in the fifth weekend to nearly 10 percent in the sixth and final weekend.

According to check station reports, the most successful hunters over the weekend found animals up high.

“Given our relatively mild start to the winter, we had a slow, but moderate harvest,” Region 3 Wildlife Manager Howard Burt said. “That recent bit of snow certainly helped our last minute hunters.”

In terms of the percentage of hunters with game, overall numbers dipped from 7.7 percent in 2011 to 6.9 percent in 2012. Otherwise, numbers are similar for the last two seasons when comparing the same check stations.

Numbers from three west-central Montana hunter check stations in Region 2 indicate overall deer and elk harvest was down from last year and the fiveyear average.

According to FWP, the numbers reflect conservative hunting regulations in many parts of the region, combined with the effect of relatively mild weather.

ti meles s uni que hist oric FLATHEAD LAKE HISTORIC TIMBER was harvested from pristine wildlands surrounding Flathead Lake at the turn of the 20th Century. Millions of feet of this lumber sank to the bottom of the Flathead, where the cool water preserved and enhanced the beauty of the wood over the last 100 years. Northwest Management Inc. is salvaging the submerged logs with the aid of scuba divers, giving new life to this uniquely beautiful, brilliant colored timber.

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outdoors Bozeman Ice fest schedule Tribute to climber Jack Roberts Wednesday, Dec. 5 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.: Demo Gear Check Out for Thursday On-Ice Climbing Clinic, Emerson Ballroom. 111 South Grand, Downtown Bozeman.

Thursday, Dec. 6 7 a.m.: Leave downtown Bozeman no later than 7 am. Parking is limited so please car pool.

8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.: On-Ice Clinics Location: Hyalite Canyon.

5 to 7 p.m.: Demo Gear Check Out for Friday Women-Only Ice Climbing Clinic, Emerson Ballroom.

7 to 9 p.m.: Sarah Hueniken slide show presented by Outdoor Research.

Friday, Dec. 7 7 a.m.: Leave downtown Bozeman no later than 7 am. Parking is limited so please car pool.

8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.: Bozeman Ice Climbing Festival Women-Only OnIce Clinics. Location: Hyalite Canyon.

5 to 7 p.m.: Demo Gear Check Out for Saturday On-Ice Climbing Clinic, Emerson Ballroom.

7 to 8 p.m.: Special guest Doug Chabot, Director of the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center will discuss Hyalite, ice climbing and avalanches and show the trailer for “Snow Guardians.” Special presentation of the beloved 5th Annual “Guy Lacelle Hyalite Service Award.”

8 to 9 p.m.: Brought to Bozeman by The Spokane Mountaineers, this will be the talk of season and the first time Michael and Hayden Kennedy will appear together on stage at a major festival.

explorebigsky.com

Elevate Living Lone View Ridge at Yellowstone Club

5 to 7:30 p.m.: Demo Gear Check Out for Sunday On-Ice Climbing Clinic, Emerson Ballroom. 111 South Grand, Downtown Bozeman.

6 to 8:30 p.m.: Presented by The North Face. Under the bright lights of the Emerson Lawn, join your Host and Emcee, the legendary Conrad Anker to witness a World Cup climbing exhibition with some of the best athletes in the world. Admission is free to the public.

9:00 pm: Award Ceremony for Ice Breaker Speed and Lead Climbing Exhibitions. Emerson Ballroom.

Big Sky Weekly

• • • • •

We l l d e s i g n e d , re a d y - t o - b u i l d l o t s I n t e rc o n n e c t e d a c c e s s t o Ye l l o w s t o n e C l u b , B i g S k y R e s o r t & Moonlight Basin 8 , 0 0 0 + s k i a b l e a c re s Wo r l d - c l a s s f a m i l y a c t i v i t i e s Ye a r r o u n d re c re a t i o n i n t h e heart of Montana

9:15 pm till they Kick us out: Come dance the night away with Tom Catmull and the Clerics. Proceeds to benefit Hyalite Road Plowing.

Sunday, Dec. 9 7 a.m.: Leave downtown Bozeman no later than 7 am. Parking is limited so please car pool.

8 a.m. to 4 p.m.: On-Ice Clinics Location: Hyalite Canyon.

6 to 7:30 p.m.: Aprés-climb party and appetizers in the Emerson Lobby.

7:30 to 9:00 p.m.: Join in for an amazing pasta and salad dinner by the Emerson Grill with a presentation on Mt. Everest and Lhotse by Hyalite’s own Kris Erickson and guest Emily Harrington. Proceeds to benefit Hyalite road plowing fund.

For more information, including event costs, visit bozemanicefest.com.

Saturday, Dec. 8 7 a.m.: Leave downtown Bozeman no later than 7 am. Parking is limited so please car pool.

8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.: Bozeman Ice Climbing Festival On-Ice Clinics Location: Hyalite Canyon.

Noon to 9 p.m.: Urban Base Camp This is your opportunity to meet sponsors, local businesses, conservation groups and other like-minded winter enthusiasts, farmer’s market style, to celebrate winter and experience first hand what the much-talked-about Bozeman Ice Tower movement is all about.

Join in for fun, food and activities for the whole family. Admission is free.

1 p.m. to 4 p.m.: Presented by The North Face. Speed Climbing Exhibition. Come see some climbers race side-by-side in fast paced heats (NCAA style) on the impressive Ice Breaker Tower. Emerson Lawn, Admission is free.

Climber Jack Roberts attended all previous 15 festivals. He passed away early this year, and the festival will be, in part, a celebration of his life. Photo courtesy of Bozeman Ice fest

LONEVIEWRIDGE.COM

Gear reviews

The Big Sky Weekly/explorebigsky.com staff is a group of outdoor-loving men and women who play hard almost every second we’re not in the office. Some of the gear seen here is brand new, and some of it’s stuff we’ve had for ages—we think it’s worth the ink to tell you about some of the gadgets, gizmos, gear and garb that make our lives even more fun.

Klean Kanteen insulated bottle

Black Diamond Sprinter USB headlamp The new Sprinter headlamp from Black Diamond gets you out of the office and onto the trail.

What’s innovative: It charges via USB port, so while you’re plugging away at the desk it’s fueling up for your after-office adventure. When it lights up green, the charge is complete and all signals are go.

On its highest setting, 75 lumens, the Sprinter can run up to six hours, and up to 42 on lower settings. A rear red light keeps you visible to vehicles, and the weather resistant exterior leaves no excuses, even in evening rain or snowstorms.

Added bonus: the expandable cord from the back battery pack to the light ensures you look like an all-out badass. – Renae Counter

This double-walled wide vacuum insulated bottle is essential to my afternoon productivity, as I switch from coffee in the morning to yerba mate midday.

The quick twist, splash-proof Café Cap ($5.95) makes it easy to fill a mate gourd or take coffee to go; however, it’s not leak-proof, so hang onto the included Loop Cap for stashing hot, skin track beverages in your ski pack.

Klean Kanteen created the first BPAfree stainless steel water bottle in 2004, offering a safer alternative to plastic or aluminum-lined hydration vessels.

Exposure to BPA (short for Bisphenol A), even in very low levels, has been linked to many health problems because it can interfere with the body’s hormonal system. It’s found in medical and dental devices, food storage containers, DVDs and many household items. It’s all around you, so you might as well not drink it too. – Tyler Allen $27.95

$69.95 blackdiamondequipment.com

kleankanteen.com

Peace of Mind 2 Years Complimentary Maintenance: • Oil & Filter Change • Tire Rotation • 19-point Inspection 24/7 Roadside Assistance: • Tire Change • Lockout Protection

• Towing

ToyotaCare covers normal factory scheduled service. Plan is 2 years or 25k miles, whichever comes first. The new Toyota vehicle cannot be part of a rental or commercial fleet or a livery or taxi vehicle. Other restrictions may apply. See local participating Toyota dealer for coverage and details.

Toyota of Bozeman INSERT DEALER INFO HERE 866-623-5535 36 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

EVENTS

explorebigsky.com

Big Sky Weekly

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

Chanukah is celebrated from Dec. 8-16 this year friday, nov. 30

sunday, dec. 2

friday, dec. 7

monday, dec. 10

big sky

big sky

big sky

Bozeman

$20 Day Big Sky Resort

Last Day Frequency Week Big Sky Resort

BSSHA Slapshot Movie Night Lone Peak Cinema, 5:30 & 8 p.m.

Improv on the Verge Equinox Theater, 7 p.m.

Bozeman

Bozeman

Christmas Brasstacular Reynolds Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m.

The Nutcracker Willson Auditorium, 2 p.m.

Energy Workshops MT Weatherization Training, noon

Christmas Brasstacular Hope Lutheran Church, 2 p.m.

A Christmas Carol (thru 12/23) Ellen Theater, 7:30 p.m.

Mountain Outlaw Magazine Release Party Choppers, 7 p.m.

Bozeman Energy Workshops Montana Weatherization Training, noon

Irish Music Sing Pub 317, 7:30 p.m.

Sister Mary Ignatius Explains it All For You Equinox Theater, 8 p.m. (and Sat.)

Madrigal Dinner Gallatin Gateway Inn, 6 p.m.

livingston & paradise valley

Booze Hounds Eagles, 9 p.m. (and Sat.)

Bozeman Icedogs vs. Helena Haynes Pavilion, 6:30 p.m.

Red Ribbon Ball Fundraiser Emerson Cultural Center, 7 p.m.

Cure for the Common Zebra, 10 p.m. livingston & paradise valley Holiday Stroll Livingston, 4 p.m.

Big Ol Pine Creek Café, 7 p.m.

The Lion in Winter Blue Slipper Theatre, 8 p.m. (and Sat.) Exit 288 Chico Hot Springs, 9 p.m. (and Sat.)

saturday, dec. 1 big sky Gary Lynn Roberts Creighton Block Gallery, 4 p.m.

Gypsy Lumberjacks Black Bear, 9 p.m.

Bozeman KGLT Music Swap Gallatin Fairgrounds, 10 a.m.

The Lion in Winter Blue Slipper Theatre, 3 p.m.

monday, dec. 3

Holiday Farmers Market Livingston Civic Center, 9 a.m.

Fossils Pine Creek Café, 7 p.m.

wednesday, dec. 12

Madrigal Dinner Buck’s T-4, 5 p.m.

The Lion in Winter Blue Slipper Theatre, 8 p.m. (and Sat.)

Shuffleboard Wednesday Lone Peak Brewery, 8 p.m.

Bozeman

The MAX Chico Hot Springs, 9 p.m. (and Sat.)

Bozeman

West Coast Swing Baxter Ballroom, 6 p.m.

Open Mike Haufbrau, 10 p.m.

tuesday, dec. 4

The Driftwood Grinners Murray Bar, 9:30 p.m.

saturday, dec. 8 big sky

Bob Britten Baxter Ballroom, 6:30 p.m.

UKE Group Wild Joe’s, 7:30 p.m.

Bozeman

Moonlight Basin Opening Day!

Vette w/ Leif Christian Peach St. Studios, 7:30 p.m.

Bike Kitchen Open to the Public BozemanBikeKitchen, 6 p.m. (every Tues!)

2nd Annual BSSEF Fundraiser Buck’s T-4, 5 p.m.

Sizzling Salsa Baxter Ballroom, 7:30 p.m.

Tango Montana Beall Park Art Center, 7 p.m.

Bozeman

livingston & paradise valley

Hello My Name Is Wild Joe’s, 7 p.m.

Writer’s Night Pine Creek Café, 7 p.m.

Sally Newsome Ted’s Montana Grill, 7 p.m.

big sky

Magnificat Willson Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

Shuffleboard Wednesday Lone Peak Brewery, 8 p.m.

Cure for the Common Eagles Upstairs, 8 p.m.

Bozeman

Open Bluegrass Jam Pub 317, 7 p.m.

wednesday, dec. 5 big sky Shuffleboard Wednesday Lone Peak Brewery, 8 p.m.

Bozeman

Bobcats vs. Stonybrook (FCS Playoff) Bobcat Stadium, 5 p.m.

livingston & paradise valley

International Mountain Day Emerson Cultural Center, 7 p.m.

big sky

Christmas Stroll Downtown Bozeman, 4:30 p.m.

10 Foot Tall & 80 Proof Eagles, 9 p.m.

Open Bluegrass Jam Pub 317, 7 p.m.

livingston & paradise valley

The Nutcracker Willson Auditorium, 1 p.m., 7:30 p.m.

Holiday Ball Eagles Upstairs, 7:30 p.m.

tuesday, dec. 11 Bozeman

big sky

Bozeman Ice Climbing Fest Emerson Cultural Center, Dec. 5-9 Sizzling Salsa

Madrigal Dinner MSU SUB, 6:30 p.m.

Mustache Bandits Zebra, 10 p.m.

Open Mike Haufbrau, 10 p.m.

thursday, dec. 12

Warren Miller’s “Flow State” Emerson, 6 & 9 p.m.

Musik Lives Here Eagles, 9 p.m. livingston & paradise valley

Bob Britten Baxter Ballroom, 6:30 p.m.

Uke Group Wild Joe’s, 7:30 p.m.

Little Jane & the Pistol Whips Pine Creek Café, 7 p.m.

UKE Group Wild Joe’s Coffee, 7:30 p.m.

Livingston & paradise valley

Driftwood Grinners Murray Bar, 9:30 p.m.

Sizzling Salsa Baxter Ballroom, 7:30 p.m.

Writer’s Night Pine Creek Café, 7 p.m.

thursday, dec. 6 Bozeman Music Lives Here Zebra, 10 p.m.

Livingston & paradise valley Sugar Daddies Pine Creek Café, 7 p.m.

Strangeways Murray Bar, 9 p.m.

sunday, dec. 9

thursday, dec. 13

big sky

Bozeman

Uganda Orphans Fund Big Sky Chapel, 12:15 p.m.

Don’t Claus Your Eyes Equinox Theater, 8 p.m.

Friday, dec. 14

Bozeman

big sky

Chanukah Party Beth Shalom, 4:30 p.m.

Big Sky Christmas Stroll 5:30 p.m.

Irish Music Sing Pub 317, 7 p.m.

explorebigsky.com Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 37

explorebigsky.com

fun

Big Sky Weekly

Buscrat's Fables A Rascal of a doggie Folks ask me ‘bout the magic in my fables, if they’re true and how they came to be. So I’ll tell ya bout one of the first magical fables what took place way back in the 1600s. It’s bout one of my doggies named Rascal.

Normally I say to her “stay,” and bein’ an obedient doggie, she’d stay. But since she warn’t around fer me to say “stay” she took this opportunity to run up behind my buggy and jump on back.

And along came that rascally mutt.

Ever week when I’d return from my trip to town, my doggies would come a runnin’ to meet my buggy, tail a waggin’. Durned mutts didn’t have too much sense though. They’d run in front of the horse and practically git trampled and killed.

During the ride to town Rascal fell asleep, so I still didn’t notice her when I arrived. I done my rounds to the bank, the livery, the barber shop, the general store and finally got me a hot lunch at the saloon, then started back down the street to my buggy.

Twas the reason why I never took ‘em to town cuz I knew they’d git excited ‘bout the new surroundin’s, and run wild over to meet folks to say ‘hello’.

Shure as shootin’ they’d run across the street and git runned over by a carriage or horse.

Fear struck my heart.

Well, one day I was fixin’ to go to town and noticed my doggies sleeping. That was my opportunity to sneak out cuz they always gave me the sad eyes when I left ‘em at home. So, I snuck off to town. What I didn’t know was Rascal heard me leavin’ and came after me.

There was Rascal searchin’ fer me on the other side of the street. I didn’t want her to see me cuz I knew she’d come runnin’ and, not havin’ human smarts, she wouldn’t look both ways before crossing. Horses, buggies, stagecoaches and wagons were zipping down Main Street with no mind fer those what stepped in the way.

My only hope was to turn around and cross back a ways so’s she

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38 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

couldn’t see me, then walk the boardwalk where it’d be safe if she came runnin’. But as I turned I heard her frantic barking.

Rascal seen me!

“STAY, RASCAL STAY!” I yelled.

I looked at the traffic passin’ from the north and the south, then looked at Rascal and could only think of what was about to happen. Tears hit my eyes and I closed ‘em.

When I opened ‘em agin, there was Rascal sittin’ on the board-

walk, stayin’ right where she was.

She never knew how bein’ obedient, even when she just wanted to see me, was what saved her life. But more magical was what happened cuz of her obedience.

I crossed the street when it was safe, and Rascal jumped up on me with her tail a waggin’. Then she said “did you get me lunch too?”

I said “wait a minute! Did you just say sumpin?”

She said, “you betcha. And by the way my name isn’t Rascal, it’s Tiva.”

explorebigsky.com

column

Big Sky Weekly

A Coke please, or the dangers of dehydration in a water-rich environment By jamie balke

big sky weekly columnist

With a brotherly introduction, by John Balke.

Though she is far too understated to admit it, my sister is a force of nature. Don’t let her penchant for book recommendations or her disturbingly albino guinea pig fool you. Among other things, she has served as a park ranger, a wildland firefighter and an EMT-I in a remote setting. As a senior officer of an outdoors club, Jamie has led various expeditions. I mention the above to illustrate the absurdity of the following story.

My younger brother is one of my best friends. Although we were always close as kids, we went separate ways when I entered high school.

It wasn’t until I graduated from college and began my first seasonal Park Service job in Grand Teton National Park that we remembered how much we have in common.

John had just graduated from high school, so he came out for a visit before beginning a semester with the National Outdoor Leadership School.

After reviewing different hiking options, we decided on Shoshone Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park. Depending on the route you choose, the 16- to 17-mileroundtrip can lead past Lone Star Geyser, a personal favorite. I love this geyser because it has a fakeout eruption before the spectacular main one.

Let me preface what I am about to say: When feasible, I try to let fellow hikers know about the second eruption. I also kind of enjoy watching people leave after the first one.

We started down the trail to Lone Star, which meanders alongside the Firehole River. Also intended for bicycle travel, the trail is paved.

The asphalt ends at the geyser, where we waited for the eruptions before continuing down the path that would take us to our destination, and a valuable learning experience.

Truth be told, I found the first part of this trail a bit monotonous.

However, just about the time I was starting to feel disappointed with the scenery, we emerged into a beautiful series of stream-crossed meadows. We continued along and eventually arrived at the Shoshone Geyser Basin.

There was only one other person

Miss Balke and her brother cold chillin'. Photo courtesy of Jamie Balke

there, and after a summer of shuffling along crowed boardwalks past thermal features, it was wonderful to explore this remote basin in relative isolation.

P.P.S. Brotherly note: You’re welcome.

Whether she wants me to or not, I’m going provide further future introductions, so you can enjoy some of our more notable mishaps. Hopefully, through careful study, you can learn a few things not to do.

Jamie Balke moved to Bozeman in the fall of 2009. She can generally be found behind the cover of a book, meandering down a trail or desperately trying not to kill houseplants.

For reasons I can’t explain, on the return trip I stopped drinking water. Perhaps in my dehydrated brain, the water in my CamelBak had lost appeal after becoming warm, but regardless, the last few miles of most hikes rarely seem like that big of a deal. This is what we call a warning sign.

Several miles from the trailhead, I started fiercely craving a CocaCola. In elaborate detail I described convoluted scenarios involving my desire for the Firehole River to be made of this most delightful of sodas. I decided I would need a straw, so as to avoid getting my hair in the oh-so-sweet carbonated river (Brotherly note: At this point I was becoming concerned).

My brother’s misgivings aside, neither of us realized how severely dehydrated I was until we made it to the Old Faithful Snow Lodge Geyser Grill, and I almost passed out in line to order. I sat down at a table, and still insisted upon a Coke.

As this was the exact opposite of what I actually needed, when it did arrive, it was sickening. I didn’t finish it.

Now, whenever I try to order a Coke, my brother hands me water.

P.S. Sisterly note: Thanks for the cool title.

explorebigsky.com Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 39

explorebigsky.com

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.

Tech Talk

Geometry – What shape ski or board is right for you?

By matthew sterbenz 4frnt skis

There’s nothing quite like a ski or board wall at a shop. To the untrained eye, the equipment might appear the same, but the truth is, the “wall”

is actually organized by brand or category and selected specifically for the abundant local terrain at your fingertips. This column is dedicated to the daunting task of selecting the right setup for you this season.

The topic of geometry and how to select the right shape for your ski or riding style can be broken into three general measurements: width, sidecut and length.

Nose width

Illustration adapted from evo.com

Waist width

Length

Tail width

Most freeride skis and all snowboards have turned up tails. The versatility of this design influences your choice in length.

Width

Sidecut

Width is typically measured at three points: Tip, waist and tail. The result of these measurements highlight the amount of taper the ski or board may have which translates to how the ski tip will feel when adjusting to different snow conditions.

Every ski or board is the product of multiple circles, or radii.

If a ski has minimal taper, resulting in a more centered binding-mount position, the width dimensions of the tips and tails will be nearly the same.

This is a shape most commonly found in terrain park skis, where riding switch is common.

If the measurements show a wider margin between tip and tail, the result is that the ski or board tends to be more directional and thus less versatile for switch use, but better in variable snow conditions.

Skis with greater width margins in the tip and tail tend to dictate a mount position further fore or rear of center.

Key point here: Realize your desired mount position and then seek out the dimensions that naturally accommodate you.

Sidecut, a visual term, references how much width is removed from the waist, or center of the ski or board. It gives the boards that “hourglass” shape.

A ski with a lot of sidecut will have a short “turn radius.” Turn radius is the scientific measurement of how quickly or slowly a ski or board will turn across the fall line, and is the factor that determines whether you want to make big or small turns.

So, if you desire a lively feel with short turns at moderate speeds, or you ride in mostly terrain parks, you should seek out a deeper sidecut.

The opposite would be a shape with less sidecut, resulting in a longer turn radius. If you’re a tram guy and turn only when necessary, then finding a ski or board with less sidecut will result in a considerably more stable feel.

40 Nov. 30 - Dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com

A sizing rule for a skier looking to grow with a ski is to find a setup that stands between your nose and head height. Likewise, when hunting down a new snowboard, the usual reference is between your chin and nose. The length of traditionally shaped skis – those without turned up tails – can be measured like a snowboard, between your chin and nose, given the skis’ on-snow running surface continues throughout the ski.

Also take into consideration how long a radius is used to create the ramp between your tip and tail.

For powder skis or boards, the tip or tail is more drawn out than that of a shape designed for riding groomers. To do this, you’ll want to check out the shape of the side profile. Sight down one edge and get a sense for how much will actually be contributing to the running surface and how much will be simply there to support the float of the tip and tail.

One 158 cm board versus another of the same length may have drastically different results; similarly, a ski in 171 cm and 177 cm could be nearly identical in actual running surface once you realize the variety in tip or tail radii.

Matt is a former freeskiing professional who now spends his weekdays running 4FRNT, the ski company he and his friends started 10 years ago. 4FRNT is based out of Salt Lake City and calls Alta its home resort. You can find 4FRNT locally at Gallatin Alpine Sports, or online at 4FRNT.com.