130726_explorebigsky_WEB

explorebigsky.com

header

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 1

Life, land and culture from the heart of the Yellowstone Region

Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 Volume 4 // Issue #15

Inside:

CrossHarbor and Boyne team up

PBR Program Guide

close sale on Club at Spanish Peaks

Emigrant Fire update

Take me out to Pearl Jam! Living the dream:

real estate team's take on the Big Sky housing market

what's next for montana's grizzly bears?

The Rut: Are you tough enough?

Big Sky's locally owned and published newspaper

explorebigsky.com

explorebigsky

explorebigsky

On the cover: Mutton Bustin' at the 2012 Big Sky PBR. For program guide for this year's event, turn to p. 61

July 26-August 8, 2013 Volume 4, Issue no. 14 PUBLISHER Eric Ladd

editorial MANAGING EDITOR Emily Stifler senior editor Joseph T. O'Connor staff writer/distribution director Tyler Allen associate editor Maria Wyllie editorial assistants Matt Hudson and Lauren Rieschel

creative CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mike Martins GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kelsey Dzintars Design assistant Alex Sidun VIDEO director Brian Niles Video Producer Joe Paulet

SALES and operations COO & SENIOR EDITOR Megan Paulson Operations director Katie Morrison Director of Business Development Yellowstone region EJ Daws

CONTRIBUTors

Jamie Balke, Jake Campos, Lori Christenson, Mike Coil, Maren Dunn, Cloe Erickson, Kristoffer Erickson, Kathy House, Heather Morris, Brandon Niles, Tom Robertson, Aaron Schuerr, Kelly Shea, Deborah Courson Smith, Patrick Straub

Editorial Policy

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

Letter to the Editor Parameters

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

ADVERTISING DEADLINE For next issue, August 9 August 2, 2013 CORRECTIONS Explore Big Sky runs corrections to errors we’ve printed. Please report them to media@theoutlawpartners.com

OUTLAW PARTNERS & Explore big sky P.O. Box 160250, Big Sky, MT 59716 (406) 995-2055 • media@theoutlawpartners.com

© 2013 Explore Big Sky Unauthorized reproduction prohibited

Big Sky native James Ramirez, 13, carries the Montana flag at National Junior High Rodeo Finals in Gallup, N.M., where he won seventh in goat tying. Jennings Rodeo Photography

Celebrating Western culture Big Sky is known worldwide for winter sports, but its cowboys have been here much longer than its skiers and snowboarders.

One of the area’s early homesteaders and ranchers, Augustus Franklin “Frank” Crail (1842 – 1924), was recently inducted into the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Center.

Turns out, Western culture is still alive and well in this mountain town. With the Professional Bull Riding event coming July 31- Aug. 1, that will be particularly evident.

“I think we’re seeing it come alive more in the last few years,” said Kristen Ramirez, 44, who grew up in Big Sky on horseback. Her two sons compete in rodeo, and James, 13, won seventh in Junior Rodeo Nationals this June (see page 21).

to PJ Wirchansky, LMR director of sales and marketing.

“We went from having 65 horses two years ago to 95 this year,” Wirchansky said. “We love it.

The more people that can get out to enjoy a ranch experience, the better. There is something about experiencing this beautiful place from the back of a horse that allows people to connect [with nature] and gain perspective on things.”

To help promote Western culture through the PBR, the Cummings family started a new tradition last year: Anyone wearing a cowboy hat the first night of the event, July 31, has a chance to win cash.

The idea came from the Calgary Stampede, the largest rodeo in the world, Jan Cummings said.

The PBR has helped boost interest, Ramirez said, calling it a “fun event that embraces everybody in the community.” She also pointed out Big Sky’s myriad guest ranches – Cedar Mountain Corrals, Lone Mountain, 320, Elkhorn, Nine Quarter Circle and Covered Wagon.

“It’s the spirit of the West, a tradition, and we don’t want to lose that.”

The horseback riding program at Lone Mountain Ranch has grown in the last few years, according

- Emily Wolfe

With the PBR expanding to two nights this year, it seems Big Sky’s enthusiasm for Western culture is continuing to grow.

Explore Big Sky regional distribution

Hundreds of drop points durrounding Yellowstone National Park

GLOBAL

lifestyle

P RO P E RT I E S

Select L&K properties located in Southwest Montana SPANISH PEAKS LOT 93 4.84 Acres $299,000

LOT 305 YELLOWSTONE CLUB Sold In 28 Days $1,950,000

RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT 7 Bedrooms, 13,349sq/ft, Ski Access $13,000,000

LUXURY SUITE 1B MOONLIGHT BASIN Ski Access, Fully Furnished $879,000

SOLD

Ladd, Kulesza & Company

For more information or private showings contact:

Real Estate Brokerage, Consulting & Development

406-995-2404

L K R E A L E S TAT E . C O M

Ryan Kulesza & Eric Ladd

All information given is considered reliable, but because it has been supplied by third parties, we cannot represent that it is accurate or complete, and should not be relied upon as such. These offerings are subject to errors, omissions, and changes including price or withdrawal without notice. All rights reserved. Equal Housing Opportunity. Š2013 LK REAL ESTATE, llc. lkrealestate.com | *Membership is required

4 July 26-August 8, 2013

community

table of contents

explorebigsky.com

Features:

9

Explore Big Sky

crossharbor and boyne team up Close sale on Club at Spanish Peaks

Section 1: News Community...................................................5 Local News...................................................8 Regional......................................................10 Montana.....................................................14 Section 2: Business, Health & Sports Business.....................................................17 Sports...........................................................21 Health..........................................................27 Environment................................................28 Outlaw News...............................................29 Classifieds....................................................30 Bull Market...................................................32 Section 3: Arts & Entertainment Music..........................................................33 Events.........................................................36 Gallery........................................................38 Calendar...................................................41 Fun/Sudoku............................................47

19

Big Sky PBR event program

living the dream

33

14

Section 4: Outdoors Outdoors.....................................................49 The Eddy Line.............................................53 Fun/Sudoku............................................55 Wanderer at Rest.......................................59 Back 40........................................................60

decisions loom for grizzlies

Big Sky PBR event program.......................61

take me out to

pearl jam!

Letter to the Editor: Drivers, slow down I just finished a bike ride along the trails throughout Big Sky with my kids, 4 and 6 years old. My experience in using the crosswalks that link the trails was somewhat terrifying. Rather than go into detail, I think everyone could use a little reminder that we now have clearly marked crosswalks complete with flashing lights! Slow down.

- Kerri Fabozzi, Big Sky

“Hoof Beats”

Wildfire Bit and Pieces GALLATIN NATIONAL FOREST

Represented by

Paula Pearl

Capturing the Spirit of Life

Creighton Block Gallery 33 Lone Peak Drive Big Sky, MT 406.993.9400

406.586.6850 paulapearl.com

Many folks think about how their activities could start a wildfire. Do you?

•

Is the guard chain on your trailer secure so it doesn’t create sparks that could ignite grass along the highway?

•

Do you always drown and stir your campfire until it’s cool to the touch so the wind can’t throw a spark out on to vegetation?

•

Do you place your campfire way from brush, grass and overhanging branches?

•

Do you keep your vehicle off of dry grass?

•

Is your spark arrester working properly on your chain saw or other motorized equipment?

Stop and think about how you can prevent a wildfire. You probably learned about the fire triangle in science class...think about what you’re doing and if it could be a heat source that might start a wildfire.

Our fire danger went to HIGH this week. With recent drier weather, a wildfire could start easily in brush and small, dead trees as well as in grass; campfires are more likely to escape if they are not attended. Thanks for being careful!

community

July 26-August 8, 2013 5

community

July 26-August 8, 2013 5

Big Sky School District graduates first Ivy Leaguer

Tucker Shea to continue education at Cornell University

Specializing in Big Sky

Tucker Shea holds his welcome packet with official acceptance letter to Cornell University. PHOTO BY KELLY SHEA

By Tyler Allen

Explore Big Sky Staff Writer

BIG SKY – Tucker Shea is leaving the big sky for the Big Red this fall. The stand-out Lone Peak High School student was accepted to Cornell University on March 29 and will begin his studies in fiber science and apparel design at the Ithaca, N.Y. school in August.

One of two graduating seniors this year that attended the Big Sky School District since kindergarten – along with Kaela Schommer – Shea was named valedictorian with honors and set his sights high when applying to colleges.

House said. “Our curriculum, as it improves, helps our students be better prepared when they walk out of our doors.” House also credited Shea’s parents, Curly and Kelly, with Tucker’s success.

“He comes from good stock,” House said. “We can extend upon what mom and dad did… the staff did a great job, but had a great base to start with. Give credit where credit is due.” Kelly Shea countered that it takes a village.

Two community members were particularly instrumental in his path to Cornell. Dan and Lisa Zelson are parttime Big Sky residents and full-time Cornell cheerleaders, according to Lisa.

The Zelsons are both Cornell alumni and live here four months of the year.

He also hopes to continue his football career and making the Division I squad – possibly as a kicker – is an attainable goal with some hard work, he said.

“We met each other there [at Cornell],” Lisa said. “Montana is underrepresented in the student body.” The Zelsons, who live primarily in Southport, Conn., heard Shea was interested in Cornell and put him in contact with some professors at the school.

Shea’s accomplishment paves the way for other Big Sky students and speaks to the educational opportunities in the school district, according to Supt. Jerry House.

“In my mind he’s an excellent role model for the rest of our students,”

Jackie Miller

Ania Bulis

Michelle Horning

jackie@purewestproperties.com

aniabulis@hotmail.com

michelle@purewestproperties.com

Sandy Revisky

Michael Thomas

Jason Parks

sandy@ownbigsky.com

michael.bigsky@gmail.com

jason@purewestproperties.com

Managing Broker 406.539.5003

Broker 406.580.6852

Sales Associate 406.570.8901

“Tucker’s been influenced by a lot of people in the community,” Kelly said.

“Everyone’s watched him grow up and achieve what he wants to do.”

“I’ve always heard it’s a great school… an Ivy League school,” Shea said of Cornell. “So when I started applying for schools, I decided Cornell would be my reach, [and] if I got in, my family and I would do everything we could to make it possible for me to go there.”

Cornell, founded in 1865, is one of the eight Ivy League schools, an athletic conference that includes some of the highest-ranking academic institutions in the country: Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Columbia, Brown, Dartmouth and the University of Pennsylvania.

Acceptance at these schools is notoriously competitive; Cornell had an admittance rate of 18 percent in 2013, according to its website.

DreamS for BuyerS anD SellerS

Broker, CRS, GRI 406.539.6316

Broker, CRS 406.581.2400

Broker 406.580.4758

“The feedback I got is that he’s a great guy, he out did himself [during his visit] and made a great impression.

We’re just happy to have a Big Skyer in Ithaca this coming year.”

Shea was awarded the Boyne Exceptional Senior Award in early July, entitling him to a Big Sky Resort season pass while he remains a full-time student.

“I’m sure I’m going to be counting down the days until the end of fall semester,” Shea said, “when I can get back here to ski for a month.”

www.purewestproperties.com | 406.995.4009

6 July 26-August 8, 2013

header

July 26-August 8, 2013 6 explorebigsky.com Explore Big Sky

Big Sky Life Essentials for the Big Sky Lifestyle

SALE Up to 40% off everything in the store July 30-Aug. 4* *vehicles not included

• men’s and women’s clothing • shoes • bath linens • accessories • furniture

Come test drive the 2013 award-winning Audi Allroad and Q7 Experience the drive of your life and golf Moonlight Basin’s Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course ** **While supplies last, must be 25 years of age.

Bozeman Audi Big Sky Showroom

The Market Place Building, 33 Lone Peak Drive, Unit 104 Big Sky, MT | (406) 995-2240 www.bozemanaudi.com

community

community

July 26-August 8, 2013 7

July 26-August 8, 2013 7

Big Sky Community Library news

By Kathy House

BIG SKY COMMUNITY LIBRARY

Biannual book sale teams with bake sale at Crail Ranch The biannual Friends of the Library used book sale will be held in conjunction with the annual Crail Ranch Bake Sale on Saturday, July 27, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. A wide variety of book genres and local baked goods will be available.

There is concern that Crail Ranch may not be available as a venue for the bake sale in the future, so the ranch is encouraging the community to attend and show support.

All bakers are welcome to provide baked goods after 8 a.m.

For information about volunteering for book sale events, call the Big Sky Community Library at (406) 995-4281, ext. 205, or call FOL chairperson Kay Reeves at (406) 700-6152. The next FOL meeting will be held August 7 at 10 a.m. in the BSCL. New members are welcome.

Dig Into Reading The library encourages parents and students to come in and check out upcoming activities for the Dig Into Reading summer reading program. On July 31, students will be making worm farms with Mrs. House at 4 p.m.

your gym

For regular program updates, visit bigskylibrary.org. All programs are free, open to the public and sponsored by the FOL.

Gallatin Riverhouse Grill now open Greg “Carnie” Lisk, coowner of the Gallatin Riverhouse Grill south of Big Sky on Highway 191, returns a bottle to the bar rack. Lisk and Kyle Wisniewski opened the “old west eatery and saloon” on July 11, to a packed house.

“I’m seeing people down here that I’ve never seen Photo by Joe Paulet here before,” Lisk said.

“We knew we were going to be busy and it’s so cool [that] the Big Sky community has our back.”

your garden

your home Big Sky

The Gallatin Riverhouse Grill replaced the Half Moon Saloon, which closed in August 2012. – JTO

Ski Bridges of Madison County summer social set for Aug. 4 Camp Moonlight kicks off first year

By Heather Morris Moonlight Community Foundation

MOONLIGHT BASIN – Set to kick off July 29, the inaugural session of Camp Moonlight will host 48 kids, ages 3-15 for three days. Operated

by Moonlight Basin, the wildernessbased camp will give kids a chance to unplug from their gadgets and i-distractions and plug into nature.

Campers will have opportunities to ride horses under the shadow of Lone Mountain, channel their inner “Hunger Games” by learning archery, canoe in mountain lakes, fish in local ponds, hike the Jack Creek Preserve, and learn about plant and animal identification. Amid all the fun, the program will teach conservation and awareness. A family barbecue will complete the three days, letting campers show off their new skills to their loved ones.

The Moonlight Community Foundation provided scholarships for approximately 30 percent of the campers, and also donated equipment for use, from canoes to headlamps.

Registration for the camp filled in three hours.

Founded in 2011, the foundation is comprised of homeowners and others who love Moonlight. In addition to supporting camp, it has raised money to place interpretive signs on the 2.5-mile public trail that begins at the Moonlight Lodge and wraps around Lower Ulery’s Lake. Currently working under the umbrella of Madison Byways, an existing nonprofit organization, the foundation is also taking steps to form its own nonprofit.

The foundation’s signature event, the Ski Bridges of Madison County Summer Social, will be held on the long bridge just before the Moonlight Lodge on Aug. 4. Open to the public, this year’s party will run from 6-8 p.m. and feature entertainment by local musician Jeff Bellino, hearty appetizers, beer and wine and a silent auction.

Funds raised will be used to sponsor Camp Moonlight participants for 2014, and to complete additional hiking trail improvements. In case of inclement weather, the event will move to the Moonlight Lodge.

For more information or tickets, call (406) 995-2567, email moonlightcommunity1@gmail.com or visit moonlightcommunityfoundation.org.

Winter & Company

Shawna Winter real estate Shawna Winter Broker | Owner

406.995.2093

Shawna@MTwinter.com www.MTwinter.com Shawna@MTwinter.com www.MTwinter.com Winter & Co. Welcomes

Aimee Gerharter

406-599-4448 aimeegerharter@msn.com

William Feher 406.600.0275

Lynn Milligan 406.581.2848

Lara Hobby 406.581.4243

Aimee Gerharter Marcie Hahn-Knoff 406.599.4448 406.599.3530

8 July 26-August 8, 2013

local news

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

Pig out at the 320 Ranch story and photo

By Matt Hudson

Richardson moved throughout the area to greet familiar faces and help out the hosts.

Explore Big Sky Editorial Assistant

There is something about sitting on a wooden bench, with a plate full of pork and beans, a crooning guitar player and the smell of a ranch that makes for an authentic Montana experience.

Just around the bend from cell phone service, this event felt casual, straightforward and downright country.

Deep in the Gallatin Canyon exists a weekly barbeque bash with a casual atmosphere and the endorsement of at least one southerner.

Every Monday evening, the 320 Guest Ranch hosts an all-you-caneat pig roast on the deck and lawn in front of its saloon. The event began six years ago, right around the time John Richardson started as general manager. He said it was created to give more people from the surrounding area a chance to come out and enjoy the ranch.

“It’s turned into a really fun community event,” Richardson said.

On Monday, July 15, all 60 of the ranch’s guest cabins were rented out. Barbeque enthusiasts arrived from nearby Big Sky and West Yellowstone and quickly formed a line along the buffet table, which was laden with coleslaw, cookies, cowboy beans and of course, pulled pork. Around 350 pounds of pork would be served that evening, Richardson said.

“It’s the atmosphere of it,” Richardson said. “Many of these people come to see friends that they don’t see too often.”

Mike Ayres, 44, looks over the barbequed pig on the deck of the 320 Guest Ranch dining hall. He said the pig roast is a nice change of pace from indoor kitchen work.

“It’s quiet,” said 320 Ranch cook Mike Ayres, who has been roasting pigs for the event for five years.

“That’s how you know they like the food.”

From behind the buffet table, Ayres extracted chunks of meat from under the blackened skin of a pig that lay in a giant smoker grill. A man from North Carolina with a heavy accent commended Ayres on the barbeque fare, and his wife asked for a copy of the beans recipe.

Another cook, Lee Walker, happily obliged and emerged from the kitchen with a hand-written recipe.

To roast the pig, Ayres lit the coals at 10 p.m. the previous night and put the pig in to smoke an hour later. Eighteen hours later, it was pulled and served.

Across the deck area, a lone guitarist played live music, only taking breaks to sip from a cocktail sitting in a mic-stand cup holder.

The 320 Guest Ranch is named for the 320 acres on which the ranch sits. The Gallatin River separates the ranch from the highway on one side, and steep hills rise just behind the row of cabins on the opposite side. Originally settled in 1898, it is one of the oldest homestead sites in the region. The original structure is still there and has been integrated into the saloon.

The weekly pig roast will occur every Monday evening, from 5-8 p.m., until Sept. 9. The 320 Guest Ranch is located on Highway 191, 12 miles south of Big Sky and 36 miles north of West Yellowstone.

A zipping good time Big Sky Resort opens new Adventure Zipline story and photo

By Lauren Rieschel Explore Big Sky Editorial Assistant

BIG SKY RESORT – Trusting a metal cable and nylon harness to hold me as I flew along at 35 miles an hour, 150 feet off the ground was petrifying – at first. I’d never been on a zipline before.

By the time my tour on Big Sky Resort’s newest zipline was complete, however, I was ready to do it all over again.

Just opened July 20, the new Adventure Zipline lives up to its name. In its entirety, the course is composed of four ziplines with lengths of 1,200; 700; 1,300; and 1,500 feet, as well as a small rappel station.

After meeting the other members of our group and guides, we rode up the Explorer lift beneath views of the Spanish Peaks and Lone Mountain. A couple of minutes walking downhill from the top of the chairlift, and we’d arrived at the first zip tower.

The guides conducted safety checks and, when at last it was my turn (after watching everyone fly screaming away), Rachel the guide gave a bright smile and motioned for me to go. As it turns out, ziplining is ridiculously fun! The wind blew me around a bit, but the view as I spun around was just as delightful.

Big Sky Resort’s Adventure Zipline guide Adam Glich clips a guest onto the 700-foot-long second zipline.

The tour By the #s: Big Sky Resort Adventure Zipline begins at Opened July 20 the resort’s 3 new ziplines + existing twin zipline Base Camp, longest single zip (at Big Sky) = 1,500 feet long where 150 feet high guides fit total zipping = one mile particispeeds = up to 35 mph pants with equipment, strapping them into full-body harnesses – more After the rappel from the end of the comfortable than regular seat harsecond tower, our tour was already nesses. mostly over, to everyone’s chagrin.

The young girl who protested at the initial tower was now clamoring to be first, along with the other kids on the tour. I felt refreshed. Flying through trees appears to be somewhat therapeutic.

The only hiccup was on the last zipline, the twin zip. It turns out that some of the smaller kids aren’t heavy enough to make it to the last tower and must be retrieved. Although they seemed to enjoy dangling there, I was

told that the Base Camp team is working to improve the line so everyone makes it to the end.

I would go on this zipline tour again in a heartbeat. Our three guides Adam, Willis and Rachel, were helpful and kept us laughing at their jokes and antics.

If hiking and fishing aren’t adventurous enough for you, Big Sky Resort’s Adventure Zipline Tour is a must-do.

explorebigsky.com

local news

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 9

School bonds result in additional taxpayer savings

Boyne and CrossHarbor join forces Close on purchase of The Club at Spanish Peaks’ assets

Big Sky School District

By Joseph T. O’Connor Explore Big Sky Senior Editor

BIG SKY – On July 17, the Big Sky School District completed financing $9.745 million in bonds for its school improvement project, which will fund a new elementary school. The district plans to complete an additional loan of up to $455,000 in 2014 for the remaining authorization of $10.2 million after construction bids and costs are known. The term of these tax-exempt bonds is 15 years, with a final maturity set for July 1, 2028.

Final interest costs were lower than originally projected to voters, despite recent increases in interest rates, according to district administration.

With the final bond figures and estimated loan costs, taxpayers will have an estimated $109,177 less in interest costs over the term of the bonds, compared to election estimates.

Mills to pay debt service on the bonds will commence in 2014/2015 and are estimated to be 32.04; for a home valued at $100,000 on the tax rolls, that would mean approximately $47.19 in new taxes. The projected mills at the time of the election were estimated at 34.63.

The true interest cost rate on the bonds is 3.11 percent, 0.14 percent less than the original estimates of 3.25 percent. Yields to investors ranged from 0.33 percent in the first maturity in 2014, to 3.75 percent in 2028.

The bonds were offered and sold through D.A. Davidson and Co. to local and statewide banks and individual investors.

Approved by voters on May 7, the bonds are being issued to acquire two parcels of land on Windy Pass Trail contiguous to and north of the school campus, as well as to design, build and equip a new complex to serve prekindergarten through fourth grade classes.

As a part of the financing process, the district received an “A” credit rating with a stable outlook from Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services. The S&P rating report specifically indicates the favorable rating is due to the following:

BIG SKY – On July 19, two of the Big Sky area’s largest entities closed on the purchase of The Club at Spanish Peaks’ assets, officially bringing the high-profile club out of Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

CrossHarbor Capital Partners, LLC and Boyne Resorts announced the news and their new partnership in a letter to club property owners dated July 22. Details in the letter indicated that the partnership, in conjunction with the Spanish Peaks Ad Hoc Members Group, will soon seek feedback from stakeholders regarding plans for the 5,300-acre private resort community.

Boyne, owner of Big Sky Resort, and CrossHarbor, principal owner of the Yellowstone Club, plan to send out surveys in the next few weeks and meet with Spanish Peaks property owners to discuss future club operations, according to the letter, which was signed by CrossHarbor Managing Partner Sam Byrne and Boyne President Stephen Kircher.

“I believe this investment will result in important benefits for southwest

Montana, preserving and creating jobs and attracting further investment in the region,” Byrne said in a prepared statement.

The joint owners plan to provide “a revised club concept and membership documents by late fall” and begin operations by December, according to the letter.

The Club at Spanish Peaks filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in October 2011.

On June 3 of this year, at an auction in Butte, CrossHarbor outbid competitors Satterfield Acquisitions and James Dolan’s Spanish Peaks Dynasty for the rights to the club’s assets. U.S. Bankruptcy District Court Judge Ralph Kirscher made the final order accepting CrossHarbor’s $26.1 million bid a week later, on June 10.

According to the letter, The Club at Spanish Peaks assets include the golf course, ski lifts, clubhouse and lodge, and existing and future real estate lots and parcels, among other items.

Explore Big Sky will be following this story as it develops.

• Good local economy situated in the greater Bozeman area, coupled with strong income indicators • The district’s good tax base growth in recent years, with a lack of concentration in the top 10 taxpayers • The district’s adequate financial position maintained during the past two fiscal years with a formal reserve policy of maintaining at least 5 percent of expenditures in its general fund reserve Partly offsetting these foregoing strengths, according to S&P, is the district’s very small reserve levels on a nominal basis and very high debt burden on a per-capita basis.

SPIRITS WITH A WESTERN FLAVOR

MON.-SAT. 9-5 AND SUNDAY 10-4

• Landscape Design + Installation • Full Service Landscape Maintenance • Award Winning Container Gardens

Hwy 191 just south of the Big Sky stoplight

NOW OFFERING MAINTENANCE and LANDSCAPE SERVICES TO THE HEBGEN LAKE COMMUNITY

406.995.4818 • san@wildwoodbigsky.com

WILDWOOD NURSERY wildwoodbigsky.com

GROWING IN BIG SKY FOR 33 YEARS

TAKE A TOUR HAVE A SAMPLE SIP A COCKTAIL SEE THE SIGHTS AND TAKE IT ALL IN

MONDAY-SATURDAY 10AM-8PM SUNDAY NOON-6PM

10% off of purchase in the tasting 312 E MAIN STREET, ENNIS MT

roomWWW.WILLIESDISTILLERY.COM in Ennis to anyone who mentions SPIRITS or bringsWITH in theA WESTERN ad from theFLAVOR paper TAKE A TOUR HAVE A SAMPLE SIP A COCKTAIL SEE THE SIGHTS AND TAKE IT ALL IN

MONDAY-SATURDAY 10AM-8PM SUNDAY NOON-6PM 312 E MAIN STREET, ENNIS MT WWW.WILLIESDISTILLERY.COM

10 July 26-August 8, 2013

regional

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

A run for your money

Hospitals propose different funding, governance methods

By Emily Wolfe

501(c)3 managed by Billings Clinic, similar to a number of other critical access hospitals it manages in Montana and northern Wyoming. A local board of directors would govern the facility, with two of its positions appointed by Billings Clinic.

Explore Big Sky Managing Editor

GALLATIN COUNTY – Money and governance. Those are the two significant differences between the proposals Bozeman Deaconess Health Services and Billings Clinic have for Big Sky, according to independent health care consultant Howard Gershon.

Funded by $20,000 in resort tax dollars and hired by the self-appointed Big Sky and West Yellowstone Health Care Directions Committee, Gershon has reviewed the feasibility studies conducted by the hospitals this year, both of which propose building a hospital in Big Sky. Otherwise, Gershon said, both hospitals are financially stable, with comparable patient ratings and services, and both are financially stable.

With Billings Clinic’s proposal, Big Sky would be required to provide $300,000 annually to cover operations for the first three years, and West would provide $100,000. A local foundation would be established to help with future fundraising.

Both BDHS and Billings Clinic are profitable, Gershon said, putting them in a category with only 30-40 percent of hospitals nationwide. BDHS doesn’t have as much debt, he noted, and could potentially have more borrowing power.

“In the Billings situation, the entity would be completely independent and would have full control and governance,” Gershon explained. “In the Bozeman situation, it would be a subsidiary owned by Deaconess [in which] the board would have some authority, but major expenditures and decisions would likely go through the parent company.”

“These are two very strong organizations,” Gershon said. “[They’re] a little bit different in complexion and scope, but both have real advantages they can bring to the community.”

Funding and governance Bozeman Deaconess has proposed a $21 million facility, and has promised to secure and guarantee all initial funding.

Its feasibility study, Gershon reported, stated that the facility would be a local nonprofit 501(c)3 owned and managed

by BDHS, but with a local board of directors responsible for quality, service and performance.

Under BDHS, future funding could come from Big Sky Resort Tax, and also from a foundation formed in partnership with the Bozeman Deaconess Foundation.

Billings Clinic has proposed a $22 million facility, with $5 million in funding coming from within, $5 million from fundraising in Big Sky, and another $12 million from USDA or HUD grants.

The facility would be a local nonprofit

Furthermore, he said, “if something were to go wrong in the independent situation, it would be the local board that would be fully responsible for any financial shortfalls or any other situation that arises. In the Bozeman situation, it’s ultimately the Bozeman Deaconess organization that’s responsible.”

“It’s a different approach,” said Jim Duncan, president of the Billings Clinic Foundation, about the community investment. “It’s more of a community partnership where there’s input, investment and involvement from all parties… When a community makes an investment or involves themselves philanthropically or with their tax money, there is a lot of pride of ownership and pride of seeing an organization be successful.”

Simply Simply Simply Delicious.

Delicious.

Delicious.

SimplySimply Delicious.Delicious.

Award Winning Outdoor Dining Voted Best in Bozeman Catering and Special Events Dinner Monday-Saturday 5pm-Close Brunch Sunday 9am-1pm At the corner of Grand & Olive, Bozeman Phone: (406) 586-5247 www.emersongrill.com

Award Winning Outdoor Dining Voted Best in Bozeman Catering and Special Events

Award Award Winning Award Winning Winning Outdoor Outdoor Outdoor Dining Dining Dining

Dinner Monday - Saturday 5pm - Close Voted Voted Best Voted Best in Best Bozeman in Bozeman in Bozeman Brunch Sunday 9am-1pm Award Winning Outdoor Dining Catering Catering Catering andand Special and Special Special Events Events Events At the corner of Grand & Olive, Bozeman

Voted Best in Bozeman

Phone: (406) 586-5247 www.emersongrill.com

Health services

Going forward

Both hospitals proposed building a hospital facility and then applying for critical access licensure, which receives federal funding. However, the services they’ve proposed to offer differ to a degree.

The Health Care Directions Committee and Gershon have asked both hospitals to answer additional questions about governance and management, details of funding and timing, and working with local providers.

Bozeman has proposed a 35,000-square-foot primary care clinic with a patient-controlled medical home containing five inpatient beds, expandable to 10, with 24-7 emergency services, a helicopter pad, and space available for lease to other local providers.

Each hospital planned to give updated proposals in a public meeting on July 24, after Explore Big Sky’s press time, also explaining some of the financial and volume statistics incorrectly reported at the previous meeting.

Billings has proposed primary care physician clinics in Big Sky and West Yellowstone. The 30,000-square-foot facility in Big Sky would have four beds, expandable to eight, and 24-7 emergency and triage services, and helipads in both towns.

Bozeman would expand the pharmacy it’s had in Big Sky since 2003, while Billings would use a telepharmacy, in which a technician prepares prescriptions by communicating with a pharmacist and patient through audio and video computer links. Billings would have an MRI available at all times, and Bozeman’s would be a mobile unit only available certain days of the week.

Both would have CT scanning, laboratory, ultrasound, surgery and diagnostic capabilities under their proposed plans.

Population, timeline The two also had differing assumptions about the greater Big Sky-West Yellowstone area population. According to the 2010 census, Big Sky has a permanent population of 2,308 and West of 1,271.

Bozeman is using 4,100-6,100 as its total year round and seasonal population, with a mid-range estimate of 5,000 used for the feasibility study.

Billings, estimating the average seasonal/transient population within Big Sky as three times the size of its year-round population, used a total effective population of 10,515 and West 3,422.

The two hospitals also projected differing levels of use, with Bozeman looking at 344 inpatient discharges and 18,886 outpatient visits for 2016 and Billings estimating 274 inpatient discharges and 16,850 outpatient visits for 2015.

Bozeman has said it would start prep work on the site as soon as this fall, with groundbreaking to occur in spring 2014 and a facility to open in 2015. Billings would continue planning through spring/summer 2014, and complete its facility by summer 2016.

At that meeting, the team from BDHS planned to review its timeline and clarify its proposal, but not change anything, said CEO Kevin Pitzer.

“This is … a reaffirmation of what we’re proposing to the community and our commitment to support and fund that project and really enhance access to [health] services within central and south Gallatin County,” Pitzer said.

Billing’s Clinic proposal also remains largely the same, Duncan said. He and his colleagues from Billings clinic planned to discuss shared governance at the July 24 meeting, as well as community involvement, integrated health services, electronic health records, financing and the role of philanthropy in community hospitals.

On Aug. 7, the committee will make a final vote and Gershon will give his final recommendation.

But what then? Without any legal authority, the committee’s recommendation is just that: a recommendation.

Billings Clinic, Duncan said, “is taking the committee’s recommendation very seriously. It’s been a thoughtful process. We very much want to be part of a community discussion and dialogue and outcome, and we will be very respectful of the recommendation.”

Deaconess recognizes the committee as an avenue for community input, but that will be only part of its decision on whether to move forward, Pitzer said.

“We’ll consider that in the context of the ongoing broader discussion we’re having with individuals, families and patients in Big Sky. It’ll be the broader discussion and the support we get from them that will determine our decision.”

Ultimately, the recommendation is meant to have two main outcomes, said Mike Scholz, co-chair of the committee.

“One, we hope that the hospitals will look at this and use it for guidance in their own decision to move forward, and two, so that both the community and the hospitals did due diligence so that both have a better understanding of both the levels of service and the type of partnership that each can offer,” Scholz said.

header

Explore Big Sky

CHALET 4

AT Y E L L OW S TO N E CLUB

Turn-key chalet with direct access to 2,200 acres of private skiing CHALET4.COM

FEATURES

explorebigsky.com

July 26-August 8, 2013 11

Incredible, Direct Ski-in/Ski-out Access 6,000+ Livable Square Feet with 5 Bedrooms Tu r n k e y P r o p e r t y w i t h B a s e A r e a L o c a t i o n Steps from War ren Miller Lodge Private Backyard Area 2,200 Acres of Private Skiing

12 July 26-August 8, 2013

header

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

Live your Life Style

NEW LISTINGS

UNDER CONTRACT CASCADE LOTS 136A AND 138A 1.762 and 1.591 acres Each at $370,000 MLS #’s 186078 & 186077

2495 LITTLE COYOTE ROAD 3 Bd/3 Ba w bonus room and garage 2,520 Sq. Ft. $650,000 MLS #191480

POWDER RIDGE CABIN #34-Buyers Agent 4 Bd/3 Ba 2,567 Sq. Ft. $800,000 MLS #181705 ALPENGLOW 37A-Listing Agent 2 Bd/3 Ba w/ bonus room and garage 1,517 Sq. Ft $425,000 MLS #189775 SUMMIT HOTEL #10414-Buyers Agent 3Bd/2Ba 1,325 Sq. Ft. $335,000 Short Sale Pending Bank Approval MLS# 186027

JUST SOLD 206 N 2ND., ENNIS, MT 7 Bd/5 Ba $1,395,000 MLS #187378

MICHAEL THOMAS, BROKER Pure West/Christie’s International Real Estate 107 Lone Peak Drive, Suite 3 P.O. Box 160579 Big Sky, Montana 59716

• • • • • • • • • • • •

SHOSHONE 1984-Listing Agent ALPENGLOW 34A-Listing Agent POWDER RIDGE CABIN #28-Listing Agent POWDER RIDGE CABIN #29-Listing Agent COWBOY HEAVEN CABIN #1-Listing Agent POWDER RIDGE CABIN #32-Listing Agent POWDER RIDGE CABIN #32-Buyers Agent PINES G2-Listing Agent 123 NORDIC LANE-Buyers Agent HIDDEN VILLAGE-#192 ROSE HIP-Buyers Agent POWDER RIDGE CABIN #33-Listing Agent POWDER RIDGE CABIN #41-Listing Agent

(406)-581-2400 Cell (406)-995-4009 Office (866)-227-0131 Toll Free (406)-995-2092 Fax MichaelT@purewestproperties.com www.bigskylifestylerealestate.com www.purewestproperties.com

regional

July 26-August 8, 2013 13

Emigrant Fire burning 419 acres east of Paradise Valley

by Tyler Allen

Explore Big Sky Staff Writer

EMIGRANT – Firefighting crews have been battling a wildfire south of Emigrant Peak in Paradise Valley since Sunday July 21, with 36 people and three engines on the ground. At press time, July 24, the blaze was 419 acres and was not contained.

The lightning-caused Emigrant Fire likely started Wednesday, July 17, but was detected Sunday morning.

It’s burning in thick timber with a large amount of dead and down fuels.

Sixteen smokejumpers jumped the fire Sunday afternoon and the Helena hotshot crew arrived at the incident Monday afternoon. Two helicopters shuttled the crew and their gear to a spike camp near the fire line and began dipping water from the Yellowstone River on July 24.

Firefighters have reported large boulders and ground fuels rolling down the steep terrain, igniting unburned fuel below the fire perimeter.

Although there was no immediate threat to private property at press time, the Gallatin National Forest expected the fire would burn for quite some time and warns the influence of weather can rapidly change conditions.

The fire is located between Gold Prize Creek and the North Fork of Sixmile Creek. The decision to suppress it was based on its high visibility and proximity to private land, said GNF Fire Information and Education Specialist Karen Tuscano.

LIVE MUSIC LINE-UP

The west shore access road at Dailey Lake and the road up Sixmile Creek, from its junction with Dailey Lake Road, are closed until further notice.

GARDINER – Work to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety at the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park and the community of Gardiner, Mont., will soon be underway thanks to federal transportation funds allocated through the Federal Lands Access Program as part of the new Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act. The Gardiner Gateway Project will receive $10.3 million from the Federal Lands Access Program, which helps fund state and local transportation repair and improvement projects. The Montana Program Decisions Committee recently approved the grant proposal, which was submitted by Park County, Mont., and the National Park Service. With local matching funds from the NPS and Park County, total project funding is nearly $12 million.

While Gardiner is a community of fewer than 600 year-round residents, more than 1.3 million people travel through the unincorporated town during the summer in connection with a visit to Yellowstone National Park.

“Receiving this funding will help enhance access to our public lands, [and] it will also create jobs and improve our local economy,” said Park County Commissioner Marty Malone.

Engineering and design work are underway. Construction on infrastructure improvements intended to improve vehicle and pedestrian safety, reduce traffic congestion, enhance parking, and provide for greater pedestrian accessibility is likely to begin in 2014.

The project schedule will be developed to minimize construction impacts during the peak summer visitor season.

The Federal Highway Administration Western Federal Lands Division will administer the project in cooperation with the Gardiner Gateway Project partners. Funding for additional community enhancements is actively being pursued.

“For over 130 years, visitors have traveled through Gardiner to enter the world’s first national park,” said Dan Wenk, Supt. of Yellowstone National Park. “We welcome working with our partners to enhance the experience of visiting our public lands.”

August

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

July

Gardiner Gateway Project improvements to get underway

30 OPEN MIC 2 COSTAS 8 BUS DRIVER 13 Willie Waldman Project w/ DJ Logic & Brian Jordan 15 CROPDUSTERS 22 BOTTOM OF THE BARREL 27 OPEN MIC

Highway construction could bring hour delay Traffic will be delayed between Big Sky and Bozeman as part of a project to install turn lanes along Highway 191. Work will take place between mile markers 44 and 66, through at least the end of the summer.

Rock blasting could stop traffic for up to an hour, Forsmann said, while trucking out the material could cause 15-minute waits. He said crews will generally blast rock between noon and 5 p.m. and will remove the material at night.

The main cause for delays is related to rock excavation, according to Dusty Forsmann, the project manager for M.A. DeAtley Construction.

Excavation occurs in two phases that will create different delays.

This phase of the project began July 22 at Moose and Greek creeks. Other sites will include Karst Ranch and the Castle Rock Inn. The excavation process could last up to two months, Forsmann said. – MH

Open Daily at 11:30 a.m.

Lunch & Dinner Located in the Big Sky Town Center Big Sky, MT (406) 995-3830

14 July 26-August 8, 2013

montana

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

Decisions loom for grizzlies

Population study begins at Taylor Fork, public comment underway in western Montana

By Matt Hudson

Explore Big Sky Editorial Assistant

While Montana’s grizzly bears mill about the forests, debate over their federal protection status is gaining steam once again. From Yellowstone to Glacier, grizzly management will be examined on the heels of what has been called one of the most successful species recovery stories.

Ecosystem grizzly bear population and its habitat,” said Noreen Walsh, Mountain-Prairie regional director, in a USFWS press release.

grown at about 3-4 percent annually in recent years.

“We’re lucky, this state is pretty darn wild,” Jonkel said. “This really is the

A separate, multi-year grizzly population study is underway in the CabinetYaak Ecosystem, a 2.4 million-acre region in northwest Montana.

Grizzly delisting has been a point of contention for nearly a decade. While most state and federal wildlife agencies support the species’ removal from the endangered list, other groups have taken strong stands against it.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service moved the process forward on May 2 by introducing a draft conservation strategy should the bears be delisted.

The document pertains to the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem, an area of over 27 million acres in western Montana and Idaho that stretches from Bozeman to the Canadian border and includes Glacier National Park, the Bob Marshall Wilderness and tribal lands.

The strategy would add more than $437,000 to the current grizzly management cost. It doesn’t call for delisting, but would be implemented in that event.

“We developed this strategy because maintenance of a healthy, recovered grizzly population depends on the effective continuation of many partnerships to manage and conserve the Northern Continental Divide

A grizzly in Yellowstone National Park

The plan sets a minimum healthy population figure at 800 bears.

last opportunity for this kind of thing to happen.”

Around 1,000 currently live in the ecosystem, according to Jamie Jonkel, a wildlife management specialist and bear expert for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. He said the population has

The public comment period for the USFWS draft management strategy ends Aug. 1.

EARTHSHIP BIOTECTURE & SEVEN DIRECTIONS

Big Sky Earthship Open House

In the Greater Yellowstone area, the delisting discussion is ongoing. The bears were delisted in 2007, but two years later, U.S. District Judge Donald Molloy reversed that decision after conservation groups called for its review.

On July 16, researchers began an effort to trap and tag grizzlies in the Yellowstone area to monitor the regional population. One focus is determining how the decline of whitebark pine trees, a primary food source for grizzlies, is affecting the population, according to Frank van Manen, team leader for the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team.

Judge Molloy named the decline of the whitebark trees in his 2009 ruling as part of the reason to relist the bears.

S A T U R D A Y

AUGUST 10TH

2-5P M

“We just ask that everybody pays close attention to that and follows the signs for the safety of both the people and the bears,” he said.

LOT 27 MICHENER CREEK RD. BIG SKY, MT 59716 (Hwy 191, turn onto Michener Creek Road.

Park on the side of Michener Creek Road and walk up the driveway.)

Seven Directions, a leader in healthy and sustainable living invites you to take a walk through Big Sky’s first “Off The Grid” Earthship. Followed by a presentation and Q&A with Michael Reynolds at 4:30pm.

The bears may be able to adapt to other food sources and grow in numbers even as the whitebark pine declines, said Ken McDonald, MFWP wildlife division administrator. Once the interagency study team’s findings are released, he foresees a move to delist in 2014.

The IGBST study is routine, according to van Manen and Chris Servheen, coordinator for the USFWS Grizzly Bear Recovery Program.

“The monitoring work is ongoing, and it’s been ongoing for almost 30 years now,” Servheen said, noting that the USFWS has not begun an official process to delist the bears.

A BETTER WAY TO LIVE

The study will continue through Aug. 15, and van Manen urged recreationists not to enter posted research areas.

In June, the environmental law organization Earthjustice sent a letter to Servheen’s office on behalf of eight conservation groups, including the Greater Yellowstone Coalition, the organization that brought the Yellowstone delisting decision before a judge, leading to its reversal in 2009. The 14-page letter calls for the continued protection of Yellowstone-area grizzlies under the Endangered Species Act. It cites concerns about food sources, habitat quality and other factors they say need further examination before delisting becomes a reality.

The Greater Yellowstone Coalition doesn’t want the grizzlies to remain on the endangered list forever, said Jeff Welsch, a GYC representative. They want to be sure the proper elements are in place to support continued population growth.

“We’re saying, let’s see how the grizzly bear team answers these questions about food sources,” Welsch said.

Lifting the endangered status doesn’t mean the bears will be left alone.

“For both of [the ecosystems], there are commitments by state and federal agencies to ensure that populations remain recovered,” McDonald said.

The Montana Wildlife Federation, a hunting and fishing advocacy group, supports delisting and subsequent management of Montana’s grizzly bears.

“We see the status of grizzlies in Montana as a symbol that the Endangered Species Act does work,” said Nick Gevock, MWF director of outreach. He said that “extremely limited” hunting could be one management tool in the future.

Grizzly bears were originally placed on the endangered species list in 1975. The act defines two categories of declining species: “Endangered” species are believed to be on the brink of extinction, while “threatened” species may reach that point in the near future. Grizzlies are currently listed as threatened.

The public comment period for the NCDE management strategy ends Aug. 1. Comments can be sent to the Grizzly Bear Recovery office at ncdecs@fws.gov.

montana

July 26-August 8, 2013 15

Media shield law introduced in U.S. Senate

LINDLEY PARK | BOZEMAN, MT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A new bill introduced to the U.S. Senate would protect journalists from revealing confidential information. If passed, the 2013 Free Flow of Information Act would be the first of its kind on the national level.

NATIONAL MUSICAL ACTS

Jerry Douglas Band ROOTS/AMERICANA

Members of the media could not be compelled to reveal private information except in certain cases, including threats to national security, death or threats to minors. The burden of proof would be placed on the federal government to prove that obtaining the information is necessary.

DirtyNEW Dozen Brass Band ORLEANS JAZZ/FUNK

Victor & Penny

“Increasing protections for our First Amendment and holding officials more accountable will keep government from crossing the line and stepping on our Constitutional rights,” Sen. Tester said in a press release. “This nation was founded on checks and balances, and smarter oversight will make sure we live up to the expectations of our Founders and the American people.”

ANTIQUE POP/JAZZ

Finnders & Youngberg BLUEGRASS

The Farewell Drifters RETRO POP/FOLK

New York Democratic Sen. Chuck Schumer introduced the bill to Congress in May. Montana Sens. Jon Tester and Max Baucus have co-sponsored the bill, along with 16 other senators, including four Republicans.

MONTANA ACTS Ben Bullington ....................................................................... Montana Folk Alex Nauman Trio ....................................................................... Organ Jazz Intermountain Opera Bozeman......................................................... Opera Growling Old Men ........................................................................Bluegrass Tom Catmull & the Clerics .................................................Americana/Rock

The bill includes a section that protects communications service providers from turning over journalists’ records, and it comes on the heels of a scandal this spring in which the government seized phone records from the Associated Press.

At least 39 states, including Montana, have media shield laws, but none exist at the federal level. A similar bill was introduced in 2009, but failed to reach the Senate floor for a vote. -MH

TO LISTEN TO SAMPLES AND VIEW THE COMPLETE SCHEDULE, VISIT SWEETPEAFESTIVAL.ORG 2013’s theme

I t’s Magical!

CONCEPT TO CREATION BUILDING SINCE 1994 rothconst.com • (406) 582 8223

• MOUNTAIN VILLAGE • • BIG SKY TOWN CENTER •

COMPLETED BUILDINGS BY ROTHERHAM CONSTRUCTION IN BIG SKY, MONTANA Village Center Hotel Mountain Inn Hotel Cedar Creek Condos New Beaverhead Condos Pinnacle Condos

Big Sky Apartments Mountain Village Firestation Beehive Basin H2O Tank Smith Residence

Hungry Moose Market Aspen Design Center Market Place Building RJS Town Center Building

Lone Peak Cinema Elevation 6000 Condos Fire Pit Park Town Center Ampitheater

16 July 26-August 8, 2013

header

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

AUCTION 08.09 SELLING WITHOUT RESERVE // BIG SKY, MT

Livin’ Lodge.

A true sanctuary, the Big EZ Lodge is a uniquely beautiful, uniquely private retreat — the ideal setting for adventurous play and peaceful solitude.

Sited on 60 acres, this magnificent mountain escape is fun for all ages.

BIGSKYAUCTION.COM // 877.812.0402 // #BIGEZLODGE

•

Private, 23,000+/- square foot retreat on 60 acres

•

16 bedrooms, 16 full and 5 half bathrooms

•

Extensive outdoor activities: trout ponds, putting course, hot tub, hiking trails and more

•

Minutes to world-class fly fishing and skiing

•

Listed for $24.5M // Selling Without Reserve

•

Open Daily 1-4 & by Appointment

•

2.5% Co-Broke Commission LISTED BY MARTHA JOHNSON, BROKER

7000 BEAVER CREEK ROAD, BIG SKY, MT 59716

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

Listed for sale by Martha Johnson, Broker/Owner Martha Johnson Real Estate DBA auction marketing services, is not a brokerage, and is not directly involved in selling agents and affiliates, broker partners, Auctioneer, and the Sellers do not warrant or or any other property listings or advertising, promotional or publicity statements and

33771_BigSkyWeekly_10x15.75_072613.indd 1

Montana Living ~ Big Sky Real Estate (P.O. Box 160730, Big Sky, MT 59716, 406-995-6333, Lic#10419). Concierge Auctions, LLC is the provider of real property. The services referred to herein are not available to residents of any state where prohibited by applicable state law. Concierge Auctions, LLC, its guaranty the accuracy or completeness of any information and shall have no liability for errors or omissions or inaccuracies under any circumstances in this materials. This is not meant as a solicitation for listings. Brokers are protected and encouraged to participate. See Auction Terms & Conditions for details.

7/18/13 1:00 PM

explorebigsky.com

July 26-August 8, 2013 17

Explore Big Sky ultramarathon in big sky p. 26

Section 2:

business, health & sports

living the dream p. 19

introducing new outlaws p. 29

Camp in style with Yellowstone Under Canvas story and photo

By Maria Wyllie

Placed in urban and rural settings, the tents are a convenient option for special events where everyone wants to remain on site together, she added.

Explore Big Sky Associate Editor

WEST YELLOWSTONE – Ten minutes from the western entrance to Yellowstone National Park rests a secluded luxury camp offering guests a new way to experience the outdoors.

“Those are really fun because they are usually a weekend or a week long, and we get to know everyone really well,” Dusek said. “We get to bring their ideas to reality and create the environment they dreamed of.”

Grazing cattle welcome visitors as they drive down the long dirt road running through Bar-N-Ranch. A small sign with the words “Yellowstone Under Canvas” and an arrow pointing straight assures hesitant minds that they are, in fact, headed in the right direction.

White canvas tents dot the landscape, and the serene atmosphere makes it hard to believe you’re so close to bustling downtown West Yellowstone during its busy summer months. But that’s the draw – rather than staying in a hotel, Yellowstone Under Canvas offers guests a way to connect with the outdoors without having to rough it.

Clients can enjoy the comforts of home inside one of the deluxe safari tents. Furnished with a chest of drawers, plush bedding, a wood burning stove and a cowhide rug atop wood flooring, guests enjoy slumberous nights and rise in the morning to the sounds of nature just beyond their tent flaps.

Sarah Dusek, who founded the operation with her husband Jake, says Under Canvas is a good halfway point between camping and staying in a hotel, offering visitors advice on bear management safety practices, helping them use a wood burning stove and providing other outdoor tools for those less familiar with camping.

“For the most part people love it, which is why our business is growing,” Dusek said. “People are really intrigued by the idea of being able to camp in style without it having to be too much hard work.”

Originally from England, Dusek spent a number of vacations on safari in Africa. After moving to Montana in 2009 with her husband Jake, who grew up 20 miles north of Havre, Mont., Duseck saw a similarity between Montana’s prairie and landscape and the African bush.

So, the couple decided to bring the idea of the African safari to Mon-

For information on booking tents for your own Sasha Dingle offers a glimpse into one of the deluxe safari tents at Yellowstone Under Canvas. event, visit canvasevent. com. Find more informatana. Starting first in 2009 with Sage Under Canvas Events is also growtion on Yellowstone Under Canvas Safaris, North America’s only winging, Dusek says, in terms of both at mtundercanvas.com shooting safari, the Duseks offer the bookings and expansion. luxury of African safari with elite upland bird hunting on nearly 40,000 acres of open land on the family farm near Havre each fall.

Building on their success with that business, the company has grown to include Yellowstone Under Canvas, as well as Under Canvas Events, which provides tents for music festivals, weddings, retreats and other events around the country.

“It’s such a simple concept that can be adapted to any location,” said Sasha Dingle, events assistant for Under Canvas Events and guest services supervisor for Yellowstone Under Canvas. “The landscapes in the background really create the experience.”

Not only is staying in the tents a fun alternative to a hotel, but it also lessens environmental impacts, Dingle said. Under Canvas partners with Leave No Trace, a center for outdoor ethics dedicated to teaching people how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly.

“At the end of the season, we reseed,” Dingle said, adding that they take the tents down every fall. “It will be like no one was even here.”

Yellowstone Under Canvas has at least doubled its capacity from last summer, Dingle says, and it has been fully booked all summer. Rapidly growing, the company now also hosts a camp in Moab, Utah, called Moab Under Canvas and has plans to expand to Montana’s Glacier National Park.

18 July 26-August 8, 2013

business

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

New building under construction in Town Center Phase 1 of new apartments, business space

By Emily Wolfe

Explore Big Sky Managing Editor

BIG SKY – Perhaps you’ve noticed the mountain of dirt sitting just east of Lone Peak Cinema. By November, it will be 32 Town Center Avenue, a 9,000-square-foot, two-story building with three commercial spaces on the ground floor and four apartments above.

share a wall. Romney also developed the movie theater and owns neighboring Ousel and Spur Pizza Co.

can walk to everything… the coffee shop, the pizza place, the movie theater, the bus stop, cross-country ski trails, concerts and farmers markets.”

The approximately $2 million project, which will abut the east side of Lone Peak Cinema, is being developed and built in coordination with TNG Development and Rotherham Construction. It is phase 1 of a twopart project that will include a second building of the same size slated for construction next summer.

TNG bought the land from Simkins Holdings LLC, developer of the Big Sky Town Center. The first new construction there since 2011, the building will also be notable for its street address, said Ryan Hamilton, Town Center Project Manager.

“This is the first building with the Town Center Avenue address, which is the future main street for Big Sky. [Town Center Avenue] will be shopping, dining, hotels, bars, restaurants, entertainment, with condos up above.

It’s going to be the hub, the center of town. ‘Where Big Sky comes together,’ that’s our tag line.”

Designed by Bechtle Architects, in Bozeman, both buildings will have open-air walkways allowing foot traffic to pass through from Town Center Avenue to the parking lot on the south side.

“It’ll give it that city feel with the zero lot line, but then it allows foot traffic flow between the spaces,” said TNG President John Romney, meaning the two buildings will

sionals in the loft-style apartments, which will be pet friendly.

Romney echoed that sentiment.

“I think it will appeal to people who work in this area. You’ve got a lot of stuff at your doorstep, and you

PLAY VIDEOS TO LEARN MORE AT FLATHEADLAKETIMBER.COM

The idea, he said, is to have retail shops or offices on the first floor of both buildings, and young profes-

“I think we’re on the verge of a boom, and this is Main Street USA. Everything is going on here. I think Town Center is the place to be.”

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.

Every aspect of these “historic timbers” is hand manufactured piece by piece by our well trained staff who sort and select materials designed to meet your specific needs.

FLOORING • FURNITURE • CABINETS • TIMBER ACCENTS FLATHEADLAKETIMBER.COM

|

(406)465-4346

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

business

July 26-August 8, 2013 19

Living the dream Local brokers find new way to sell real estate story and photo

By Joseph T. O’Connor

Explore Big Sky Senior Editor

BIG SKY – A duo of local real estate brokers is collecting a quiver of skis. But they don’t plan to ski on them; instead, these boards will showcase for-sale signs in front of Big Sky homes.

This past winter, with the local real estate market bouncing back, Kevin Butler and Craig Smit, brokers for Montana Living/Big Sky Real Estate, put into practice a dream they’d been sleeping on for months.

Butler and Smit live in Big Sky and make the most of this mountain locale: skiing on and offpiste, mountaineering, fishing, riding dirt bikes, climbing.

about growing up in Sturgis, which in August will hold the 73 rd annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

University, first visited Big Sky in 1990. He immediately fell in love with it, he says. Waking up to fresh snow gave him the same feeling as in Boca Raton, where he knew if the surf was up when his bedroom window was open.

“I’d wake up at 5 a.m., and if the waves were really thumping and [breaking] far apart, I knew I had to get down to surf,” he said.

In 1999, Butler felt the pull of the mountains and moved to Big Sky. He tuned skis at the resort – he still does when it’s busy – but with a family background in real estate, it made sense to enter into the world of home sales.

He became a Montana Living/Big Sky Real Estate agent in 2001 and a broker in 2003.

Bolting two skis together to form a cross, they hang their real estate signs from a set Kevin Butler (L) and Craig Smit started liveTHEDREAM last December and are seeing the fruits of their labor in Big Sky and Bozeman. of eyehooks. With a combined 37 years in Big Sky, these two locals may be on to They say it’s what brings visi“We sold T-shirts in seventh something. tors here and what gets them grade on Main Street before These days he tells people, “I’m to buy homes in numbers the people sold T-shirts on Main from Big Sky now.”

“They grab your attention,” market hasn’t seen since 2003.

Street,” he said of the rally, said Smit, a Sturgis, S.D. native. known for its throngs of bikers “They’re not the cleanest, slick“The lower-hanging fruit has and rowdy atmosphere. est look, but hey, we live in a ski been picked,” said Smit, referSince Butler and Smit began town.” ring to the housing deals being collecting their ski quiver, the After graduating from MSU, snatched up in Big Sky. Butler community has responded. Folks a school Smit says he picked And that’s what brought both says the next likely scenario drop skis off at their office and because Bridger Bowl was 15 Smit and Butler, who hails from could mimic what happened stop them on the street to hand minutes away, he met Packy Boca Raton, Fla., to Big Sky. They after 2003, when Big Sky home them old boards. One day, ButCronin, a Big Sky and Bozeman wanted to live the dream. sales drastically increased. ler got a call from Ophir School’s real estate builder and agent who front desk to let him know somenow lives in Bozeman and who “There was an optimistic tone one had left a pair. introduced Smit to the area’s to the market [then],” he said. construction scene. For three Kneeling in his driveway on a “The road could take a differThe two business partners also ski years, Smit built houses and warm July morning, Smit, 48, ent direction, but it’s starting and hike together, and have chilcondos in summer and skied all holds together the tips of a pair to get healthy again and feels dren around the same age. They winter, but in 1993, he decided of Dynastar 4x4 Bigs. Butler is like the same pattern. History work as a team, sharing clients to take a risk. drilling from the topsheet through does repeat itself.” and splitting everything down the the bases and wears a T-shirt with middle.

“I was looking to use my degree their new marketing slogan: liveIn the first quarter of 2013, and invest,” Smit said. “And the THEDREAM. 20 single-family homes sold in “They’re kindred spirits,” said whole time the Conoco [Travel Gallatin Canyon, West YelMartha Johnson, owner of MonShoppe] was for sale. Living here Smit has held onto the domain lowstone and Big Sky, accordtana Living/Big Sky Real Estate.

I could totally see the potential. name livethedreambigsky.com for ing to Multiple Listing Service “They both have an absolute love At the time, everything else shut nearly three years, he said, while numbers, which indicate nine for the outdoors.” down over off-season, except the studying the housing market. homes sold in the area during Conoco.”

He wasn’t sure what to use it for, the same period last year. And In running with their idea to livebut when he and Butler put their although some second quarter THEDREAM, the pair is combinAfter owning the gas station for heads together in mid-December sales haven’t been reported yet, ing their passion for recreation nine years, Smit sold it to his last year, liveTHEDREAM was 19 single-family homes sold with their job, one ski at a time. sister Renae Schumacher and, born. between April 1 and June 30. after a brief stint traveling in Johnson wouldn’t have it any Europe he returned to Big Sky, “That’s what it’s about for us,” said other way: “I’ve noticed a boost on and became an agent at Montana Butler, 45. “We really wanted to their listings and sales. What it’s Living/Big Sky Real Estate in make a distinguishing name for Craig Smit began studying ecodone is give them a brand and logo 2004. ourselves, and people can take it or nomics at Montana State Unithat their client base can relate leave it. But we like to help them versity in 1985. He has closely to. They’re not just throwing up Kevin Butler, a 6-foot-5-inchlive their dream, the same as we cropped greying hair and a sign; it shows a commitment to tall business and horticulture are.” flashes a broad smile as he talks their work.” graduate from Palm Beach State

some restaurants do italian food. some do chinese food.

WE DO BIG SKY FOOD

we deliver 4069952305

serving breakfast lunch & dinner

explorebigsky.com

sports

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 21

Big Sky cowboy closes out his junior high season at National Rodeo Finals Scores seventh in world EXPLORE BIG SKY STAFF WRITER

GALLUP, N.M. – Big Sky cowboy James Ramirez, 13, battled through a rough State Rodeo Finals to earn a place on the Montana National Team headed to Gallup, N.M, at the end of June.

James, who will go into his freshman year at Lone Peak High School this fall, competes in five rodeo events: tie down roping, goat tying, chute dogging, team roping and ribbon roping.

“He looked at me and said, ‘I am going for it, Dad. I have nothing to lose, the worst I can do is 20th in the world,’” recalls Ramirez’s father Ed Ramirez.

“He used his head throughout the week to stay in the average and was allowed another chance in the short go,” Ed said.

With the start in reverse for the short go, James was the fourth man out of the gate. His run, solid at 10 seconds, held the winning goat tie time until three nine-second runs pushed him to fourth place in the short go. Ramirez then moved from 17 th to seventh in the world standings.

“I am so happy I earned the opportunity to go to nationals,” James said. “It is an honor to represent Montana and my school at such an elite event. I also enjoyed meeting kids from different places.

The experience was worth all the hard work. I hope to go again in high school.”

Every year, Montana takes its top four contestants in each event – barrel racing, pole bending, boys and girls breakaway, team roping, girls and boys goat tying, bull riding, ribbon roping and tie down roping – to nationals. Ramirez scored fourth in goat tying at states, just squeaking into the national competition.

James and his teammates from across Montana competed against elite rodeo competitors from the U.S., Canada and Australia during the sevenday rodeo. There were roughly 200 kids per event, all competing for a world title. The top 10 in every event are awarded prizes.

Gallup has hosted the National Junior High Rodeo Finals for the past nine years. There were three arenas going at a time, with morning and evening performances.

James had to make two good runs to qualify for the short go, or top 20, on Saturday night. He ended up 17th going into Saturday night’s final performance.

James Ramirez, a 13-year-old cowboy from Big Sky, performs the right get off at Rodeo Junior Nationals in Gallup, N.M. Jennings Rodeo Photography

wear the “g o o d s t u f f ” every day.

Playing outside?

Let us take care of your bites, bruises, cuts, burns, rashes and other summer injuries

S H E L LY B E R M O N T Unique, handmade jewelry Extensive selection of South Sea & Tahitian pearls Exotic stones, raw diamonds, fine silver and 18-22 karat gold

B I G S K Y, M T | P A C I F I C P A L I S A D E S , C A Private appointments and trunk shows available. shellybermont.com

Pediatrics • Chronic Conditions • Women’s Health Pregnancy Care • Osteopathic Manipulation

Maren Dunn D.O. Board Certified in Family Medicine

18 Meadow Village Drive, Big Sky, MT (across from the post office) Phone: 406-995-3111 | gallatinfamilymedicine.com Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays

22 July 26-August 8, 2013

sports

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

The Patriots and Aaron Hernandez five-year, $40-million contract this past year. One can only speculate why he would allegedly commit such a heinous crime. If he’s convicted, it will be one of the most alarming examples of violence in professional sports since the O.J. Simpson trial nearly 20 years ago.

By Brandon Niles

Explore Big Sky Sports Columnist

Give credit to the New England Patriots for handling the Aaron Hernandez situation so well. It’s easy to cut a backup center or a fourth-string defensive back in the NFL when they’re in trouble with the law. It’s another thing entirely to cut one of the three best tight ends in the league.

The tragic tale of former Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez is far from over, as evidence continues to stack up against him in the murder of Odin Lloyd, found on June 17 near Hernandez’s home. Since Hernandez’s arrest on June 26, his name has been mentioned in another investigation of a double homicide that occurred approximately a year prior.

Once Hernandez was arrested, the New England Patriots immediately released him from their roster.

Hernandez is one of the most talented young players in the league, an elite tight end who signed a

pointed when their parents try to explain why they can’t wear their favorite jersey. The Patriots said they lost more than $200,000 in the exchange.

For the record, I hate the Patriots.

As a Miami Dolphins fan, I naturally despise the other teams in the AFC East Division: the Jets, Patriots and Bills, the order of my loathing dependent on how good each team is. So the fact that I hate the Patriots the most is just a compliment to them for achieving continued success during the past decade-plus.

Kudos to the Pats. And kudos to the media for focusing its attention on the crime rather than the on-field impact to the team.

Sometimes, the tragic stories in sports need to be reported with the horrific frankness they deserve.

While Hernandez’s criminal trial likely remains months away, the Patriots have expertly distanced the team from the situation as best they could. They’ve also done something with the fans in mind, a rare act in professional sports.

However, I have to give credit The Patriots cut Aaron Hernandez where credit is due. The Patriafter his arrest on June 26, 2013 (CC) ots cut Hernandez after he was I still hope the Dolphins sweep the Patriots this year and they miss the playoffs, arrested and have done an excellent job distancing but I’m finding it hard to hate them with the same themselves from the situation. Furthermore, in an fervor I’m accustomed to. admirable public relations act, the team held a free jersey swap at the New England Patriots ProShop for fans to exchange their Hernandez jersey for one Brandon Niles has done online freelance writing about worn by a different player. sports since 2007, and co-hosts the 2 Guys Podcast.

With a Masters in Communication Studies from the The Patriots didn’t have to do that; fans wouldn’t University of North Carolina Greensboro, Niles is have been angry with the team for not exchanging also an avid Miami Dolphins fan, which has led to the jerseys. Several news sources announced reasons his becoming an avid Scotch whisky fan over the past behind the swap, from the team wanting to treat decade. fans fairly, to the team not wanting kids to be disap-

2013 Big Sky Softball League standings

Garden Center Brighten up your summer with some color!

We have hanging baskets, planted containers, perennials, trees, shrubs and more!

National League Team 1 Country Market Team 2 Blue Mooners Team 3 Yellowstone Club Team 4 Black Bear Team 5 Milkies Team 6 Big Sky Resort Team 7 RiverHouse Beavers

Win 7 2 1 3 3 3

Loss 1 5 5 4 5 6

2

7

American League Team 8 Huckers Team 9 Broken Spoke Team 10 Yeti Dogs CSC Team 11 Black Sox Team 12 Cab Lizards Team 13 Scissorbills Team 14 First Place

Win 8 4 1 7 2 3 5

Loss 0 4 4 2 6 2 1

H E L P P R OT E C T YO U R HOME FROM WILDFIRES

CALL NOW FOR A COMPLIMENTARY ON-SITE HAZARD ASSESSMENT

HOURS: M-SAT 10-6, SUN 11-5 Located in Westfork Meadows in front of G.A.S.

406-995-2668 • www.Bslmt.com

QUOTE IT YOURSELF AT

www.agencyinsdiv.com

AGENCY INSURANCE DIVISION SERVING MONTANA WITH OFFICES IN BIG SKY & ENNIS

BIG SKY 406.993.9242 // ENNIS 406.682.4202

O F F E R ING AU TO, BU S I N E S S, FA R M A N D R A N C H , H O M E , W O R K E R S C O M P We work with Allied (Nationwide), Chubb, CBIC, The Harford, Kemper, MetLife auto and home, Progressive, Safeco, State Fund, Travelers & more!

explorebigsky.com

header

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 23

PruMT.com 406.995.4060 55 Lone Peak Drive | Big Sky Town Center

1 Real Estate Company in Montana

#

Big Sky | Bozeman | Dillon | Ennis | Sheridan | Twin Bridges | Hamilton | Florence | Missoula | Seeley Lake | Polson

1200 towEriNg piNES • • • •

$3,285,000 • #191842 • call don

5 bd, 6 ba, 6,882 +/- sf home on 40 +/- acres six fireplaces, large stone decks several balconies and two master suites unique hot tub surrounded by native stone

45 cowboy hEavEN rd • • • •

$1,050,000 • #188095 • call Stacy or Eric 3 bd, 4 ba, plus sleeping loft, 2220 +/- sf aka Mountain Home #11, Moonlight Basin ski-in/ski-out access from front door offered furnished, including artwork

• • • •

• • • •

20 +/- acres, meadows, horses property fabulous Gallatin Range views south facing, includes Locati house plans minutes from Big sky Town Center

• • • •

• • • •

14 +/- acre lot, end of the road privacy gentle sloping land with great build site great views of many mountain ranges short distance to NFS land/trails

• • • •

• • • •

.45 +/- acre Antler Ridge Sub. lot sitting high on ridge w/expansive views homesite is adjacent to open space excellent building site on quiet street

• • • •

$950,000 • #180527 • call Stacy or Eric

20 +/- acres Triple Triangle Ranch cross country ski trails to lot desirable, private enclave contiguous 20 +/- acres also available

$560,000 • #182257 • call leah

4.02 +/- acre lot bordering river front, National forest direct access to blue ribbon fishing call Leah, 539-7665

• • • •

$320,000 • #184925 • call don

2 bd, 2 ba, unit 1704, 1,604 +/- sf extensively remodeled rock fireplace, indoor hot tub furnished, lower level unit

• • • •

• • • •

.99 +/- acre lot mature timber creates a secluded feel close to Meadow Village and Town Center power and phone to lot

Don Pilotte, Broker, GRI, RRS, SFR, 406.580.0155 Eric Ossorio, Broker, 406.539.9553 Stacy Ossorio, Broker, 406.539.8553

3 bd, 3.5 ba, 3,168 +/- sf custom home ski-in/ski-out, beautiful deck great rental history, immaculately maintained includes: www.bigskyvacationrental.com

$759,000 • #189728 • call bryan

5.1 +/- acres touching Gallatin River borders National Forest Service land semi-secluded to build riverfront home call Bryan Atwell 579-7616

alpENglow coNdo

• • • •

105 Nordic, aSpEN grovES • • • •

$499,000 • #192047 • call Stacy or Eric

3 bd, 4 ba, 2,583 +/- sf, Unit #17C nicely furnished end unit, sleeps 12 heated lower bonus/rec room great deck, hot tub, Lone Mtn views

$1,085,000 • #190238 • call Stacy or Eric 3 bd, 3.5 ba, 2700 +/- sf, .62 +/- acre lot custom home in coveted neighborhood main level master w/private covered deck designer furnishings, rock wood fireplace

430 SprucE coNE drivE • • • •

• • • •

$219,000 • #184874 • call dave

.60 +/- acres, backs to the Gallatin River 4 bd septic installed, 25 GPM well drilled between Bozeman and Big Sky call Dave 580-4290

aSpEN lEaf coNdo

• • • •

$145,000 • #192182 • call Stacy or Eric

1 bd, 1 ba, 745 +/- sf, unit 202 opportunity to custom finish space located in the center of Town Center seller financing possible, please inquire

$598,000 • #186619 • call Marc

2 bd, 3 ba, 3,200 +/- sf loft, additional rooms rock fireplace, clerestory windows, large deck vaulted ceilings, wood floors, custom lighting .32 +/- acre lot, 2 car garage, Agent owned

SpaNiSh pEakS club coNdo • • • •

gallatiN rivErfroNt

aSpEN grovES lot 12 $179,000 • #190285 • call Marc

$1,295,000 • #184968 • call Stacy or Eric

64650 gallatiN road

SkycrESt coNdo #1704

aNtlEr ridgE lot

$180,000 • #191626 • call Stacy or Eric

3 bd, 5 ba, 4,430 +/- sf home on 20+/- acres furnished home with bunkroom sleeping 6 2 bd, 2 ba, detached 2,048 +/- sf guest home Lone Mountain and Madison Valley views

iNdiaN MEadowS

bEavEr crEEk wESt $350,000 • #185650 • call don

$3,250,000 • #186493 • call Stacy or Eric

North fork rd, tract 8

gallatiN highlaNdS lot $575,000 • #180951 • call Stacy or Eric

341 low dog road

141 ulEry’S lakE hoME

$425,000 • #183440 • call Stacy or Eric

Unit 13A, 2 bd, 3 ba, 2,402 +/- sf den/bonus room, two car heated garage end unit, adjacent to Big Sky Golf Course private clubhouse with pool, workout facility

71 EaglE hEad drivE • • • •

$206,000 • #186875 • call toni

4 bd, 2.5 ba, 1,700 +/- sf, 3 levels furnished, newer floors, lighting wood stove, sauna, 1 car attached garage complex has outdoor pool and hot tub

hEbgEN lakE EStatES lotS $50,000 each • #189807 &189809 • call Marc

• • • •

.36 +/- acre lots in beautiful Hebgen Lake Estates year round access with spectacular mtn & lake views close proximity to Yellowstone National Park recreational opportunities abound around the area

Toni Delzer, Sales Associate, 406.570.3195 Marc Lauermann, Sales Associate, 406.581.8242

24 July 26-August 8, 2013

sports

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

Registration for Big Sky ultramarathon filling up Bringing Euro-style trail racing to the Rockies

By Emily Wolfe

Explore Big Sky Managing Editor

Mike Wolfe and Mike Foote were leading the pack of 800 runners 28 miles into the 73-mile Lavaredo Ultra Trail race on June 28 when they took a wrong turn, and went five miles and 3,000 vertical feet off course.

It had snowed a foot and a half in the Italian Dolomites the night before, and the lifts were turning at the nearby Cortina ski area. The race directors had re-routed the course, but hadn’t taken down the original flagging, which the Mikes had followed. A truck chased them down, and gave them a ride back to the spot where they’d gone astray.

Now behind 18 other runners, Wolfe and Foote high-tailed it back to 2nd and 5th place, respectively.

Both professional ultramarathoners for The North Face, the Mikes are founders and race directors for Big Sky’s inaugural ultra, the Rut – a 50K and a 12K – set for Sept. 14.

Combined, the two Missoula residents have run approximately 50 ultras, and they’re using that experience to avoid incidents like theirs in the Dolomites, Foote said.

Mike Wolfe (left) and Mike Foote, both professional ultramarathoners, are organizing the Big Sky’s inaugural ultra, The Rut. Pictured here scouting on Lone Mountain, they finalized the details of the course in July. Photo by Tom Robertson

“We’re going to work hard to have this course well-dialed and marked, and to have course marshalls where necessary.” Also, he noted, having a good backup plan is key: That in-

Covered outdoor patio open

cludes a lower mountain route in case of snow, and working with ski patrol to prepare for emergency and medical situations.

pass through the Bowl twice. The only off limits locations are Alto Ridge and the Upper Morningstar Road, she said.

There are some aspects of the Alps, however, they wanted to bring to the Rut.

As for the vibe, Foote hopes to combine the Alps with the Rockies.

“[Lone Mountain] is steep and technical like the Alps,” Foote said. “We’re trying to fit that niche of a mountain race, but have a course with that steep European alpine feel. You’re on trails that aren’t even runnable up an 11,000-foot peak. Lots of trail races don’t integrate that type of terrain.”

That section he’s referring to is the approximately 5-mile section of the 50K that runs from the top of the Swift Current chairlift to the top of the mountain, and then down to the base of the Dakota lift.

The rest of he course, he noted, is “more runnable,” with lots of smooth singletrack, particularly on the 10.5-mile section at Moonlight Basin.

Race spectators can hike to most parts of the course, and Big Sky Resort is opening Swift Current and the tram for spectators starting at 7 a.m. that morning.

Chicken Tender Tuesday- happy hour all night, 1/2 off chicken tenders wild wing and whiskey Wednesday- $3 well whiskey and 75 cent wings all night live music every thursday and saturday night 7/13 - Wondering wilds

M-F 4pm-2am Sat-Sun- 12pm-2am | 406.995.2750 located in the “Blue MaLL” in westfork meadow

“This is such an awesome opportunity for someone to go support their runner in places they’d never be able [access],” said Lyndsey Owens, director of marketing at Big Sky Resort.

Owens encouraged spectators to post up in the Black Kettle Soup Shack, because the runners will

He compared the Bighorn 100 in Dayton, Wyo., with it’s “extremely low-key Rocky Mountain down home feel,” to the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc’s 2,300 racers from 70-80 countries and “tons of hype.”

“Between those two races, I’d like for us to find a happy medium, a race with that good classic Montana feel, but also draws an international field in future years, a destination event,” Foote said.

As of July 16, 170 people had registered for the 50K and 125 for the 12K. Although most runners are coming from the northern Rocky Mountain region, there are also participants coming from Georgia, Florida, New Mexico, California and even one from Spain, Foote said.

Both races are capped at 200 participants.

“Even though we’re on a ski resort, the surrounding area of southwest Montana just feels a little bit more wild than the Alps,” Foote said.

“That’s what I like about it.”

Want to volunteer?

The Rut will utilize 80-90 volunteers.

Opportunities include positions at aid stations, along the course to monitor runners, at registration, parking areas and at the start/finish area. Find more information at runtherut.com.

Now offering special finance rates as low as 1.9% for 60 months and Audi Owner Loyalty allowance of $3,000.**

*Lease offer is 36 months / 10,000 miles per year offered to qualified customers by Audi Financial Services (AFS) through Bozeman Audi. Photo for illustration only. Advertised unit subject to prior sale. $4695 due at lease signing includes $695 acquisition fee & $4000 down payment (excludes taxes, title, other options and dealer fees). Payment includes Audi Owner Loyalty Allowance.

Offer valid exclusively at Bozeman Audi in Bozeman, Montana. Offer expires: 08/05/2013. ** O.A.C., See dealer for details.

Audi Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles 2009 Audi A4 49K miles.............................................$25,490 2013 Audi A4 8K miles...............................................$36,275 2013 Audi Allroad 6K miles......................................$41,875 2011 Audi A5 Cabriolet 8K miles........................$43,990 2011 Audi S4 3.0T 16K miles..................................$46,990 Pre-Owned Vehicles 2006 Audi A3 134K miles...............................................$8,990 2007 Audi A4 94K miles..............................................$14,990 2008 Audi A6 105K miles............................................$16,990 2010 Audi Q5 44K miles...............................................$32,990 2012 Audi Q5 29K miles..............................................$37,990 2011 Audi A6 44K miles..............................................$39,990

•

Certified rates as low as .9%

•

Rigorous 300 point safety inspection

•

6 year 100,000 mile Audi warranty

•

No-charge Roadside Assistance

•

No-Charge Service Loaner

•

Audi peace of mind

•

Complimentary 3 month Sirius

•

Satellite Radio Description

2010

2011

2012 Audi

MagnaSociety Award Winner

Bozeman Audi

Bozeman Audi Big Sky Showroom

1800 W. Main St. | (406) 586-1772 Sales Dept. Hours Mon.-Fri. 8-6 | Sat. 9-5 Parts & Service Hours Mon.-Fri. 7:30-6

The Market Place Building, 33 Lone Peak Drive, Unit 104 Big Sky, MT | (406) 995-2240

www.bozemanaudi.com

26 July 26-August 8, 2013

header

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

Discover the future of health care in Big Sky Improving access to healthcare in Big Sky requires a long term commitment and investment. Bozeman Deaconess Health Services (BDHS) has been planning and preparing for increased healthcare services in Big Sky and southern Gallatin County for over a decade.

Now the next phase of expanded healthcare is ready to move forward. BDHS is committed to building viable and sustainable services in Big Sky and has revealed its plan and approach for the Big Sky Medical Center (BSMC) which incorporates these 12 key elements.

1.

Quality & Safety is at the forefront of everything we do. Medical services at BSMC will be delivered in a safe environment with measured quality outcomes.

Maintaining staff certification and competency level is paramount, so services will be developed based on the appropriate setting and ability to maintain sufficient volumes to ensure safety, quality outcomes and value to our patients.

2.

Convenience & Access to healthcare resources located in close proximity is a major benefit to all. BSMC will be constructed on the land parcel owned

by BDHS in Big Sky Town Center. It will include a hospital, primary care clinic, laboratory, and expanded imaging services – all under one roof. In addition, the Bozeman Deaconess Pharmacy will relocate to the new facility with expanded retail hours.

3.

24/7/365 Emergency Services department with heli-stop for air ambulance, will be a core component of the medical center. Its convenient location and 24/7 availability of emergency medical providers will reduce unnecessary out of area ambulance transports. This location will now make the nearest emergency department services 50 miles away for West Yellowstone residents; 20 miles closer than current options.

4.

Outpatient Diagnostic Services will initially include an outpatient imaging center with x-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, and scheduled mobile MRI services, along with an outpatient laboratory on site eliminating the need to travel outside of Big Sky for most diagnostic testing.

5.

Alignment with Existing Big Sky Medical Providers to expand primary care services is a commitment we have made in our ongoing discussions with the physicians in Big Sky. A major advantage for

the patients will be integrated electronic health records shared between local physicians and Bozeman Deaconess Hospital and Bozeman Deaconess Health Group providers.

9.

Hospital Care with Future Growth Capacity is included in the BSMC model. The facility will initially include a 5-bed inpatient unit, with allocated space to increase to 10 beds without additional facility expansion. The new facility would seek hospital licensing and Critical Access Hospital (CAH) certification.

6.

Expanding Primary Care Clinic Access in West Yellowstone is part of the BSMC plan for southern Gallatin County.

Working collaboratively with Community Health Partners (CHP), a Federally Qualified Health Center, BDHS will help recruit additional primary care providers to the community to meet future growth and access demand. BDHS will continue support to CHP to further stabilize and expand primary care and ancillary diagnostic services in West Yellowstone.

10.

Community Value is important.

BDHS received a Five Star rating for Community Value from Cleverley & Associates ranking us in the top 20% among more than 1400 similar hospitals nationwide. This community value index suggests that a hospital provides value to the community when it is financially viable, is appropriately reinvesting back into the facility, maintains a low cost structure with reasonable charges, and provides high quality care to patients.

7.

Facilitating Access to Specialty Services is an integral part of the plan utilizing Telemedicine, Teleradiology, and Telepharmacy linkages to BDHS specialists. Occupational Health Services will be available for local employers. Bozeman Deaconess medical and surgical specialists will offer specialty clinics. Additionally, BDHS is a network member of the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance which brings the resources of three internationally renowned medical institutions to our community: Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, University of Washington Medicine, and Seattle Children’s for the latest in cancer treatment options.

8.

Community Collaboration is essential.

BDHS will work with existing Gallatin County providers and agencies to address community needs as part of its Community Benefit Plan and in partnership with the “Healthy Gallatin” Collaborative to assess and strengthen the health of our communities. Also, philanthropic and other community support will be an integral part of BSMC’s long term success and its ability to expand and sustain services to address the needs of a growing community.

11.

Building a Sustainable Business Model is key to long term viability for the organization and for the community. The estimated total project cost is $21M. Having worked with other CAHs in the region, we can attest to the challenges faced by small rural communities.

BDHS was recently reaffirmed with an ‘A+’ rating from Standard & Poor’s and has committed to secure, and be the guarantor, on all financing required for construction and operation of the BSMC. BDHS will be accountable for the full risk of the new medical center, as a vested partner in the Big Sky community.

12.

Affordable Employee Housing is an important element of the BSMC plan. The BSMC will add over 30 new jobs in Big Sky. BDHS recognizes the inherent housing challenges faced by many resort communities and has planned to provide a housing program for some of its employed workers.

BDHS has presented its plan and approach for moving forward to expand healthcare services in Big Sky and southern Gallatin County.

We’ve had numerous conversations with residents and business owners throughout the community who have affirmed their support of the BDHS plan. Our most recent survey data shows solid support for BDHS as the “provider of choice” for residents of Big Sky and West Yellowstone. The physician-patient relationships between Big Sky medical providers and BDHS medical staff physicians span decades and multiple generations of families. BDHS welcomes these important endorsements.

We are continuing to move forward with the BSMC project which will expand healthcare services in our primary service area of Gallatin County. We plan to begin building site preparation in fall 2013 and initiate construction in spring 2014. It is a privilege to serve the communities of Big Sky and West Yellowstone and we remain committed to continue to grow with you, as your health care partner.

Stay up to date with how Bozeman Deaconess plans to advance healthcare for Big Sky and southern Gallatin County. Check the website often for updated information and latest developments.

w w w. b i g s k y m e d i c a l c e n t e r. c o m

explorebigsky.com

health

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 27

Sunscreen

By Maren Dunn, D.O. Explore Big Sky Health Writer

How bad is the sun for my skin?

Does sunscreen really work to reduce aging or cancer?

– Rita, Bozeman The human body needs sunlight. It boosts mood and is essential for the synthesis of vitamin D. However the ultraviolet (UV) radiation in sunlight causes skin damage, including sunburn, advanced skin aging and higher risk of skin cancers like melanoma.

UV radiation is divided into two types: UVA and UVB. UVA represents 95 percent of the UV radiation reaching the Earth and causes skin cancer, while UVB represents 5 percent and commonly causes sunburn and skin cancer. Both are damaging to human skin causing premature aging. Protection from UV exposure can be accomplished with sun-protective clothing, sunscreen and sun avoidance during peak hours.

Sunscreens protect the skin by reflecting or absorbing the UV radiation. The term “broad spectrum” typically refers to sunscreens that block both UVA and UVB. The

U.S. Food and Drug Administration has made sure this will be the case as of December 2013, when only sunscreens that block both wavelengths can be labeled “broad spectrum.” Additionally, only the terms “water resistant” or “very water resistant” will be allowed on labels. These terms indicate that the product’s protection lasts for 40 or 80 minutes of water activity.

The FDA is discontinuing use of the terms “sweat proof” or “waterproof” on all sunscreen labels.

SPF, or sun protection factor, measures a sunscreen’s ability to block UVB. It’s a scientifically measured ratio of the radiation dose required to produce redness on the skin. SPF 15 absorbs 93 percent of the UVB rays, while SPF 30 and 50 absorb 97 and 98 percent, respectively. It’s false to think you can stay in the sun 15 times longer when wearing SPF 15 sunscreen. Your skin will still be affected by 7 percent of the UV radiation that’s reaching the Earth, which during the summer months can still be a large and damaging dose.

Since there is strong evidence that sunscreens prevent squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma and aging, SPF 15 should be used daily, during

A collection of

Alpine Home

Decor & Chalet Style Antiques Standing ski coat rack

Broad Spectrum: provides UVA and UVB protection Water Resistant: provides 40 minutes of protection when in water Very Water Resistant: provides 80 minutes of protection in water

Percent protection from UVB radiation: SPF 15: 93 percent SPF 30: 97 percent SPF 50+ : 98 percent

all months of the year and luckily can be found in many cosmetics and daily moisturizers. “Broad spectrum” is always preferred to assure more complete UVA and B protection. SPF 30 plus is recommended for people performing outdoor work, sports or recreational activities, or for those who are unlikely to reapply often during prolonged periods in the sun.

Proper application is paramount.

For lotions, an adult should apply at least 1 ounce, or a shot-glass full, to sun-exposed areas 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapplication every 2-4 hours is extremely important; sooner if the skin has been exposed to water.

Since infants’ skin is immature, it is not advised to apply sunscreen on babies younger than 6 months old. If it’s the only form of sun

protection available, sunscreen can be placed on limited areas like the cheeks and hands. The American Association of Pediatrics recommends shade and sun-protective clothing for infants.

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 or visit her website at gallatinfamilypractice.com.

cklist Your Summer Fly Fishing Che fly C at ch a cu tth roa t on a dr y of our Ta ke you r kid fis hin g on one d fa mil y tri ps or in our pri va te pon

Ri ve r Dr ift bo at flo at th e M ad iso n in a St alk a mo ns te r br ow n tro ut se cr et cr ee k Pe rfe ct you r do ub le- ha ul

off

25

New FDA sunscreen label rules:

%

USE PROMO CODE:

OUTLAW

Since ’84. Fine Purveyors of Fly Fishing Awesome-ness.

GEAR. GUIDES. HONEST INFO. Serving Big Sky, Yellowstone Park, and Southwest Montana MANY MORE ITEMS AND MUSEUM AT

VintageWinter.com

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

This is how Big Sky gets into hot water.

28 July 26-August 8, 2013

environment

“Testing Before Drilling” earns favor in oil and gas country

By Deborah Courson Smith Big Sky Connection

HELENA – A group that’s been watching water quality concerns connected to oil and gas development is saying, “Look what Wyoming is doing.”

Wyoming is taking a new approach for development that reflects concerns over groundwater pollution that may be connected to an oil and gas boom.

The Wyoming Oil and Gas Commission has voted to set rules for baseline water testing – gathering information from wells around each drilling site before any drilling happens.

This plan carries lessons for states such as Montana with long oil and gas legacies, said Jon Goldstein, senior energy policy manager for the Environmental Defense Fund.

Nordic Hot Tub We service what we sell!

Spa sales to fit your budget Pool and spa care after the sale Custom maintenance plans

Spa covers and custom lifts Lots of accessories for your spa Special orders available

www.BigSkyHotTubs.com (406) 995-4892 • NordicHotTub@aol.com 47520 Gallatin Rd. • Big Sky, MT 59716

“I think all states with oil and gas development ought to be looking at what Wyoming’s doing, for sure,” Goldstein said.

Montana unveiled water quality guidelines and some testing about a year ago, but baseline testing is not required for all projects.

The oil and gas industry in Wyoming generally has been supportive of the move. Goldstein described Wyoming’s proposal for a set of standards and protocols as the kind of “quality science” all states should follow.

“All of these tests will be performed in the same way,” he said. “All the samples will be taken in the same way. That way, you really get apples to apples, in terms of the results that come out.”

Goldstein stressed that it’s important to follow water quality over time on a well-by-well basis as development takes place.

explorebigsky.com

outlaw news

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 29

New faces at Outlaw Partners Outlaw Partners is working hard to produce the highest quality writing, video, design, web and advertising out there. We realize as a team that we

need to recruit the most intuitive and creative wordsmiths, video hounds, design gurus and salespeople available – so we are.

Here’s an intro to the newest faces at Outlaw, each of whom brings a quiver of talents, a fresh approach and game-changing creativity.

Joe Paulet Videographer/Photographer

Alexandra Sidun Design Assistant

Lauren Rieschel Editorial Assistant

Matt Hudson Editorial Assistant

Hailing from the Great Grey City of the West (Portland), Joe Paulet visited Big Sky last year and has been looking to come back ever since. Paulet grew up snowboarding on Mount Hood and filming friends with a castiron Arriflex camera.

Alex Sidun fell in love with Big Sky during a visit 15 years ago and has returned every opportunity since. As a graphic design assistant since May, Sidun has worked on some important projects already, and seen what the design workflow looks like in a place that she says is doing “some pretty inspirational work.”

A boarding student at Stevenson School in Pebble Beach, Calif., Lauren Rieschel plans to utilize her experience in Outlaw’s editorial department to help with her high school newspaper. Writing has always been a passion for Rieschel, who has lived in Shanghai, China, most of her life.

Writing for Explore Big Sky is her first foray into journalism.

Matt Hudson was born and raised in Great Falls, Mont., where his middle school basketball team won the city title two years in a row. He’s a firstgeneration Montanan, whose parents moved from Minnesota and Georgia.

As a summer editorial assistant at Outlaw, Hudson reports and writes stories for publication and contributes to in-house meetings and discussions.

Rieschel has also collected data from reefs in Thailand for marine biologists and organized events at her school. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading, playing basketball and scuba diving. She’s delighted to be spending time in Montana this summer with her family.

Upon leaving Big Sky, Hudson will resume his senior year at the University of Montana School of Journalism.

His professional aspirations lie in the continued practice of writing, and his other interests include domestic sedans, the Minnesota Vikings, golf and Americana. His Twitter handle is @sanfordish.

“Since moving here, I’ve seen more wildlife than in the rest of my life combined,” said Paulet, who’s loving it so far. “I’d never even seen an elk before.”

He studied digital media production at the Art Institute of Portland, cementing his love for film and video.

Paulet’s a vintage Subaru lover, a watcher of sunsets and a student of Star Trek.

“That experience truly is priceless,” Sidun said. “To see how everything I learned in school is actually applied, I had to roll up my sleeves and get dirty with a real agency.”

Currently enrolled at James Madison University in Virginia, Sidun plans to take her experiences back east for her senior year this fall.

32 TOWN CENTER AVENUE RETAIL AND RESIDENTIAL SPACES AVAILABLE NOVEMBER 2013

RESIDENTIAL A 2 BEDROOM 1381 SQ. FT.

RETAIL A- 1363 SQ. FT.

RESIDENTIAL B 2 BEDROOM 959 SQ. FT.

RETAIL B- 1552 SQ. FT.

RESIDENTIAL C 1 BEDROOM 954 SQ. FT.

RETAIL C- 1212 SQ. FT. RESIDENTIAL D 2 BEDROOM 1366 SQ. FT.

CONTACT JOHN @ TNG DEVELOPMENT 314-359-5450 CON ST RUCTIO N

30 July 26-August 8, 2013

classifieds

for rent Smith River packages, Drift boat, belly boats, canoe, ATV and RZR rentals, Baby gear too! bigboystoysrentals.com 406-587-4747 WESTFORK TOWNHOUSE FOR RENT. 3 bdrm, 2 /12 bath, garage, W/D, large deck. Excellent condition. Walk to everything! No smoking/no pets. $1300/month. Call 406-539-0555.

for sale WOOLY MAMMOTH TUSK FOR

SALE 10,000 year old tusk found in S.E. Alaska in 1903. 76" about 25lbs. White Ivory not fossilized.

In Big Sky, Private showings only for serious buyers. $25,000 call Beau Hill 406-539-0523

Home for Sale - Beautiful location in Big Sky near Town Center, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom, high efficiency home; 2009 construction. $425,000.

Please contact 406-595-6641

help wanted

explorebigsky.com The Big Sky Visitor Services Center is looking for enthusiastic volunteers this summer! Volunteer at the Visitor Services Center and share your love of the Big Sky Community with visitors.

We are looking for individuals interested in volunteering in 3 hour shifts at least once a week in both the mornings and the

Explore Big Sky

afternoons. Knowledge of the Big Sky area and its many activities such as hiking, biking, dining, and lodging is a plus.

Please contact Marci Lewandowski, Visitor Services Manager, at 995.3000 or stop by the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau at 55 Lone Mountain Trail for more information.

Home of tHe The Hungry Moose Market and Deli in Big Sky is Hiring Part-Time or Full Time Deli & Grocery positions.

Kitchen/baking skills preferred for Deli. Opening 2nd location summer 2013 at base of Big Sky Resort. Good pay/Benefits/Year round job security.

We look for a friendly smile, initiative, team player, strong work ethic. Application online: hungrymoose.com or at front counter 406-995-3045 Payroll processor/ Human Resource position in Big Sky. Two days a week.

Wage DOE. Send resume to bigskyjob@gmail.com Housekeeper wanted for Big Sky home. Cleaning, shopping, some cooking. Approximately 15 hours per week/2 days per week. Pay is $15.00 per hour depending on experience. Please respond to seyparllc@gmail.com.

Classifieds!

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

(406) 995-2055

Invitation to Bid The Big Sky Chamber of Commerce (BSCC) will accept bids for the Big Sky Housing Development Plan until 5:00 P.M. (Mountain Standard Time) on the 1st day of October, 2013 at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.

The purpose of the Housing Development Plan is to provide a framework for public and private development investment in support of year-round resident housing. Capturing demographics of the seasonal workforce and fluctuation of housing demand will be necessary to determine appropriate housing inventory mix needs.

An investigation of existing conditions, including infill opportunities in the Big Sky Resort Area District will be conducted to determine if the study area exhibits conditions to warrant creation of an official housing authority or special district as permitted in Montana statutes and, to prepare a Housing Development Plan for the use of BSCC and any of its designated representatives.

Bids are invited upon several items and quantities of work, detailed in a Request for Proposal (RFP). The RFP will be posted on the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce web site at http://visitbigskymt.com/ housingplan on August 1, 2013 at 8:30 AM. All bidder questions will be posted with answers at visitbigskymt.com/housingplan.

for rent Big Sky Meadows home, 6 bedrooms, 4 baths, room for 14. Kid and pet friendly. Right across the street from Town Center and 7 miles from the slopes. Nightly and weekly rates. Great for reunions, multi-family get aways, business retreats, men or women only weekends. Plenty of parking. See full ad on www.vrbo.com/53181. Please contact via VRBO.com

• short or long term luxury rental in Big sky •

PUBLIC NOTICE DIRECTOR ELECTIONS An election for two (2) board of directors positions for the Big Sky County Water & Sewer District No. 363 Board of Directors will be held on November 5, 2013. Petitions for nomination for the election are available at the Gallatin County Election Department, Gallatin County Courthouse, 311 W. Main St Room 210, Bozeman, Montana; and at the District office at 561 Little Coyote Road, Big Sky, MT, 59716. Petitions will be accepted by the Gallatin County Election Department until the filing deadline no later than 5:00 PM, Thursday, August 22, 2013. Candidates must be a resident, or owner of real property within the District. For more information please contact the Big Sky County Water & Sewer District, 561 Little Coyote Road, Big Sky, MT, 59716, 406-9952660; or the Gallatin County Election Department, Gallatin County Courthouse, 311 W. Main St., Room 210, Bozeman MT, 59715, 406-582-3060.

4 bedroom, 4.5 bath in Spanish Peaks Call 406-995-2174 or visit vrbo.com/393008 for more details

explorebigsky.com

header

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 31

VO LKSWAGEN OF BOZ EM AN

We don’t think much of APR around here.

42 MPG HWY*

2013 Volkswagen JETTA 2.0L TDI

SAVE

18 17

2,193†

$

TO CHOOSE FROM

40 MPG HWY*

2013 Volkswagen PASSAT SE 2.0L TDI

2,060†

$

SAVE

265

OR

PER MONTH

$

FOR 72 MONTHS‡

HWY*

SAVE

3 2

1,904

†

OR

242

PER MONTH

OR

+ $750 IN INCENTIVES

TO CHOOSE FROM

39 MPG HWY*

2013 Volkswagen BEETLE 2.0L TDI

SAVE

1,904

$

V31189

$

FOR 60 MONTHS‡

Lease details: $340 per month lease for 36 months wi th $2,500 total* due at signing. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Payment based on MSRP of $29,390. 10,000 miles per year, residual amount $16,458. *Total amount due at signing includes all fees, on approved credit. See Dealer for details. Offer ends July 31st, 2013. VCI pays 1st payment up to $500.

2013 Volkswagen GOLF 2.0L TDI

$

340

PER MONTH

+ $750 IN INCENTIVES

Lease details: $265 per month lease for 36 months wi th $2,500 total* due at signing. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Payment based on MSRP of $23,685. 10,000 miles per year, residual amount $13,500. *Total amount due at signing includes all fees, on approved credit. See Dealer for details. Offer ends July 31st, 2013. VCI pays 1st payment up to $500.

42 MPG

TO CHOOSE FROM

V31155

V31061

$

8 7

†

3 2

TO CHOOSE FROM

V31132

FOR 72 MONTHS‡

+ $750 IN INCENTIVES

Lease details: $242 per month lease for 36 months wi th $2,500 total* due at signing. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Payment based on MSRP of $27,365. 10,000 miles per year, residual amount $15,050. *Total amount due at signing includes all fees, on approved credit. See Dealer for details. Offer ends July 31st, 2013. VCI pays 1st payment up to $500.

$

330

PER MONTH

OR

FOR 60 MONTHS‡

+ $500 IN INCENTIVES

Lease details: $330 per month lease for 36 months wi th $2,500 total* due at signing. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Payment based on MSRP of $25,660. 10,000 miles per year, residual amount $14,626. *Total amount due at signing includes all fees, on approved credit. See Dealer for details. Offer ends July 31st, 2013. VCI pays 1st payment up to $500.

*EPA estimate www.fueleconomy.gov †Savings based on $3.75 per gallon, 15,000 miles per year for 5 years, MPG compared to 2012 passenger car CAFE standards for 2012 ‡All Jetta Sedans, Beetles and Golf models. All prices OAC. Not All Buyers Will Qualify.

D R I V I N G

T O

C O N S E R V E

M O N T A N A

(406) 586-1771

Text 579-9966 for Service Same Day Service montanaimportgroup.com

31910 Frontage Road SALES Mon-Fri 9-6 • Sat 9-5 SERVICE Mon-Fri 7:30-6 • Sat 9-5

Stay Local. Save Local. Feel flush with great deals in each edition of Explore Big sky.

Tree removal 995-7852

removiNg dead aNd iNfeSTed TreeS

10% diScouNT

Tom Newberry:

995-7852

BigSkyTrees@aol.com valid until aug. 15

with coupon

Garden Center

Off any purchase

Located in West Fork Meadows | 406-995-2668

101 East Main St Bozeman, MT 406.404.1700 coppermontana.com

$1.00 off all Montana-made beer and spirits + specialty foods!

Spend $50 and get a FREE Bottle of Wine Big Sky’s biggest grocery selection Open 7 days a week

Buy 1 coffee or juice drink and get a 2nd for 1/2 price VALID THROUGH AUG. 15

Big Sky, MT • (406) 995-7175

$5 OFF

Any Pasta, Stir Fry, Steaks, or Seafood Entrée!

Local Beers and Wine New Menu!

Main Street Bozeman 125 W Main St. Bozeman, MT 59715 (406) 587-4100 http://johnbozemansbistro.com/

Great store discounts on food & gear before hitting the trail.

SPECIAL:

25c wings

Food. Fun. FREEDOM!

limit 12 with purchase of 2 entrees Located in the “Blue Mall” in Westfork Meadow, Big Sky (406) 995-2750

Join us for lunch! $2 Taco Tuesday Dine In or Carry Out

8

Ask about our Happy Hour Specials 7-9pm Daily Open 7 days a week: 11am - Late 406.995.7222 $100118 off ifOusel you spend $400Rd.or more Falls Big Sky, MT $50 off if you spend $200 or more $25 off if you spend $100 or more $10 off if you spend $50 or more FREE Cup ofAugust Coffee Expires 31st, 2013 Monday-Friday 6:30-8:00 am *must bring coupon to store Try our Fresh Deli and Alignment - $159.99 (in stores nationwide) BakeryLifetime Items

Expires August 31st, 2013 *must bring coupon to store

27 Pioneer Way, Bozeman, MT 406.209.8272

Willie Waldman Project with DJ Logic & Brian Jordan

9

Tuesday, August 13 10 pm Tickets avail. at Choppers and 191music.com $12/advance, $15/door

Located in the Big Sky Town Center 406.995.3830

$100 OFF if you spend $400 or more $50 OFF if you spend $200 or more $25 OFF if you spend $100 or more $10 OFF if you spend $50 or more Lifetime Alignment- $159.99 (in store nationwide)

expires August 31st, 2013 *must bring coupon to store

Located in the “Blue Mall” in Westfork Meadow, Big Sky (406) 995-2750

Firestone Located in the “Blue Mall” in Westfork Meadow, Big Sky Complete Auto Care (406) 995-2750 810 N 7th Ave

Firestone Complete Auto Care 810 N 7th Ave. Bozeman, MT 59715-2502 firestonecompleteautocare.com

Bozeman, MT 59715-2502 firestonecompleteautocare.com You make your plans.

We’ll help you get there.

$119

APARTMENT SPECIAL:

2 Bedrooms, 1 Living Room, 3 Closets, 1 Small Hallway, 1 Small Entry Way, FREE Traffic Prespray

$209 CONDO/ SMALL HOUSE SPECIAL:

3 Bedrooms, 1 Living Room, 4 Closets, 1 Hallway, 1 Entry Way, 13 Stairs, 2 Landings, FREE Traffic Prespray

any Economy or Full Size Car until 9/15 30 Homestake Dr., Bozeman, MT 59718 | (406) 551-2277 journeyrentacar.com

Want to reach 35,000 readers of explore big sky? Grab a space in the Bull Market today!

Spaces going fast. $75 each. Call 406.995.2055 | media@theoutlawpartners.com

explorebigsky.com

July 26-August 8, 2013 33

Explore Big Sky

Section 3:

arts & entertainment

sweet pea festival is august 2-4 p. 42

Ozomatli to headline Spruce Moose festival p. 35 montanans portray morocco p. 36

Lightning in center field An evening with Pearl Jam at Wrigley story and photos

By Eric Ladd Explore Big Sky Publisher

For baseball fans, the ivy walls of Wrigley Field are sacred. For music fans, witnessing a Pearl Jam concert is a spiritual experience. The perfect storm of Chicago hometown boy Eddie Vedder playing there yielded Wrigley’s fastest sold-out concert ever.

July 19, Pearl Jam played a show to the windy city with songs from its new album, Lighting Bolt. A dynamic lightshow ensued, with energy befitting of this legendary Seattle rock band. Fans gathered in the sweltering heat to witness history, and Ernie Banks, legendary Hall-of-Fame Cubs player, showed up to join the band in a sing-along of “All the Way”.

As fans entered Wrigley Field, high fives where thrown out like Cracker Jacks in the stands. While the idea of holding concerts is new to Wrigley, it’s used to die-hard and dedicated fans. Beer sales were strong, t-shirts sold out and scalping sites were rumored to have sold tickets for more than $2,000 apiece.

Eddie Vedder takes center stage with his traditional bottle of red wine

At 8 p.m., the main act took the stage, and lead-man Vedder was nearly speechless as he waved to the crowd and shared childhood

Fans were on their feet screaming for more as Wrigley’s officials turned on the house lights, ending the show at 2 a.m.

Band co-founder, Jeff Ament played a bass guitar logoed with a bison and wore a lighting bolt T-shirt, befitting of this Montana native. His understated approach to the driving music brought an element of rocking grace to the Wrigley show.

"Pearl Jam continues to build its now 23-year legacy, while keeping the focus on humble appreciation for its fans and its roots."

Pearl Jam continues to builds its now 23-year legacy, while keeping the focus on humble appreciation for its fans and its roots. A portion of proceeds from the Wrigley concert generated a $130,000 donation to the South Chicago Arts Center.

Marquee announcing sold out show

dreams of playing on these “sacred grounds.”

Irony arrived seven songs into the show when the band announced fans needed to take cover with wind, rain and lightning blowing in from the west.

“Guess we should have thought twice about naming our new album Lightning Bolt,” Vedder joked. After a two-hour delay, Pearl Jam returned to the stage and played 23 songs.

Pearl Jam’s Vitalogy Foundation, which supports community efforts such as health, the environment, arts and education and social change, continues to be a focus for the band. With more than two decades together and 60 million albums sold, it feels like Pearl Jam is entering a new era, one that attracts three generations of fans worldwide.

“What’s not to love?” said one dedicated fan after the show. “Mike McCready had face-melting guitar solos, Eddie surfed the crowd, the band kicked off its new album with a lightning show, and I got home at 4 a.m.

It’ll make a great bootleg!”

Jeff Ament, Montana native and co-founder of Pearl Jam

Pearl Jam recently announced Lightning Bolt will go on sale Oct. 14,, with preorders available at pearljam.com.

Earlier this month, the band also announced a 24-date North American tour with tickets going on sale July 27.

34 July 26-August 8, 2013

header

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

192328

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

events

July 26-August 8, 2013 35

Spruce Moose Festival headliners announced On Saturday night Galactic leads the show, bringing a New Orleans-influenced mix of percussion, world music and funk. Galactic has released ten albums and toured with a diverse group of artists including Widespread Panic and B.B. King.

Joining the Spruce Moose lineup on Friday night is Cure For The Common and In Walks Bud. And Saturday night, Golden Grenade and Jespy perform, along with House of Vibes featuring Chali 2na, a founding member of Jurassic 5.

In conjunction with the Spruce Moose festival, Big Sky Resort will have Mountain Fest during the day on Aug. 31, starting with a 5K trail run at 9 a.m. There will be kidfriendly activities including a bounce house, inflatable slide and face painting, in addition to Big Sky Resort’s everyday activities: the bungee trampoline, giant swing and climbing wall, among others.

Ozomatli blends hip-hop, funk, salsa and more with political and humanitarian undertones. They headline Big Sky Resort’s Spruce Moose Festival on Friday night, Aug. 30. Photo courtesy of Ozomatli

BIG SKY – Musical powerhouses Ozomatli and Galactic will headline the third annual Spruce Moose music festival at Big Sky Resort, Aug. 30-31.

For the first time, the festival will span

two nights over Labor Day weekend; doors open at 5:30 p.m. both days.

Ozomatli will headline Friday night, with their family-friendly, worldly

fusion of hip-hop, salsa, dancehall, funk, and reggae medleys. The band is known for the political activism and community involvement behind their music.

Find lodging specials and Mountain Fest information at bigskyresort.com/ sprucemoose. To purchase Spruce Moose tickets visit sprucemoosefestival. com. Ticket prices will increase as the event date nears.

36 July 26-August 8, 2013

events

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

I-90 Collective to play free concert at Big Sky Chapel BIG SKY – The Arts Council of Big Sky and the Carroll Topeffer Memorial Fund are presenting a concert at the Big Sky Chapel on Friday, Aug. 2, at 8 p.m.

The concert is free and will feature the baroque sounds of the I-90 Collective.

Seating is on a first come, first served basis.

The I-90 Collective is quickly establishing itself as one of the Northwest’s premier chamber ensembles, according to press information from ACBS. With a repertoire extending from the very dawn of the baroque era to the works of Bach and Boccherini, the quartet’s fresh, improvisatory style blends the virtuosity of the violin and cello with the intimacy of the lute.

Founded in 2009, the collective is comprised of a rotating group of busy baroque soloists who perform extensively across the country and abroad, and with many of America’s leading period instrument ensembles. Current members include Bozeman Symphony Concertmaster Carrie Krause, violin; Adrianne Post, violin; Paul Dwyer, cello; and John Lenti, lute.

There will be a reception following the concert in the community room on the lower level of the chapel.

To find more information on the concert, call (406) 995-2742 or visit bigskyarts.org.

The I-90 Collective will play a free concert at the Big Sky Chapel on Friday, Aug. 2, at 8 p.m. Photo courtesy of ACBS

REAL LOCAL KNOWLEDGE ...THAT WORKS FOR YOU.

liveTHEDREAM. Craig Smit, Broker

BIG SKY’S REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS

Kevin Butler, Broker

406.581.5751

406.570.3890

|

w w w . l i v e t h e d r e a m b i g s k y . c o m

|

fi nd us o n

explorebigsky.com

header

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 37

YELLOWSTONE CLUB AND CONTINENTAL CONSTRUCTION PRESENT

JULY 31 & AUGUST 1, 2013

PBR’S BEST COWBOYS & BULLS BUY TICKETS ONLINE AT EXPLOREBIGSKY.COM, THE OUTLAW PARTNERS OFFICE OR THE COUNTRY MARKET

FREE +MUSIC JULY 31: HELL’S BELLES AUG. 1: DIRTY SHAME

BECOME A SPONSOR CALL 406-995-2055 TO JOIN IN

38 July 26-August 8, 2013

gallery

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

Montanans portray Morocco Art show opens Aug. 9 Carol Woolford and Melissa Branson; and architectural sketches from Montana State University architecture professor Christopher Livingston.

The Atlas Cultural Foundation works to help underserved Moroccans, especially women and children, improve their quality of life through locally determined development projects in cultural preservation, education and health.

“The success of our programs is a direct result of [a] commitment to service between Montanans and Moroccans,” said Cloe Erickson, president and founder of ACF. Oil Painting by Aaron Schuerr

BOZEMAN – Through an art show at Sola Café, a group of Montana artists will showcase the Moroccan Berber culture and the work of the Atlas Cultural Foundation through paintings, sketches and photography this August and September.

On display will be works from part time Montana-Morocco resident and photographer Kristoffer Erickson; pastels and photographs from ACF board member Ann Justin; oil paintings from Livingston artist Aaron Schuerr; pastels from

Working in the Atlas Mountains, ACF has focused on development in the region of Zawiya Ahansal since 2009. Collaborating with MSU-Bozeman as well as individual Montanans, ACF has in the last five years restored three historic buildings, constructed a refuse oven, implemented a year-round elementary school tutoring program and conducted community and environmental health education and outreach.

The show will open Aug. 9 at 4:30 p.m.

Montana State University architecture students work with local craftsman on construction of a refuse oven in Zawiya Ahansal, Morocco. Photo by Cloe Erickson

The Atlas Cultural Foundation, based partly in Livingston, Mont., works to help underserved Moroccans improve their quality of life through locally determined development projects. Pictured in the background of this image is Aguddim Igherm, in the region of Zawiya Ahansal. ACF worked with the Morroccan Ministry of Culture and MSU to restore the historic structure, which is used as a granary and saint’s house. Photo by Kristoffer Erickson

explorebigsky.com

events

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 39

Go, dogs, go!

Dog Day of Summer returns to Big Sky Aug. 10 BIG SKY – The third annual Dog Day of Summer, the interactive fundraiser for Camp Big Sky, is returning for the entire family, pets included.

The event begins with a costume parade – for dogs and occasionally, their owners as well – led by Grand Marshall Charlee Sue and Tucker Dreisbach, last year’s first prize winners.

“The day is always a highlight for pet owners,” said Camp Big Sky Director Katie Coleman. “They love to have an event where dogs aren’t just allowed – they are central.”

After the parade, join a dog/owner fitness class led by Jolene Budeski Callahan, owner of Big Sky Fitness Fusion. This interspecies workout is the newest fitness craze, and offers a fun 30-minute, total body workout. Recognizing that 30 minutes won’t be enough for the buff Big Sky crowd, a two-mile trail fun run is next on the agenda.

A break for lunch and entertaining

pet tricks competition follows, and then everyone heads to the lake for the highlight of the day: The dockdiving competition.

There will also be a Rubber Duck Race with prizes. Junior leaders will be selling ducks every Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. outside of the Big Sky Post Office. West Paw Designs and Antler Dog Chews will award prizes for first through third-place winners in all events.

This year’s funds will be used to help underwrite tuition costs for the growing numbers of kids in Camp Big Sky, Coleman said.

“In order to let every kid who wants or needs camp in their life we instituted a pay-what-youcan scholarship program that many of our families have loved and so many more kids have been able to go to camp as a result.”

All proceeds go to the Kids of Camp Big Sky.

Photo courtesy of Camp Big Sky

Enhance your landscape and extend your growing season with our beautiful hand-crafted Montana greenhouses.

6532 US Highway 287, Norris, MT 59745 Just around the cor ner from the Norris Hot Springs!

406-685-3677 • nye@frdmontana.com

w w w. f r d m o n t a n a . c o m

40 July 26-August 8, 2013

header

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

DEALER LOGO AREA Toyota of Bozeman 866-623-5535 0% APR Financing for 60 months with $16.67 per $1,000 borrowed on new: 2013 Corolla, 2013 Camry (gas and hybrid), 2013 Prius Liftback (Two), 2013 Prius v, 2013 Venza, 2013 Sienna, 2013 Highlander (gas), 2013 Tundra (B/C Cab) and 2013 Tundra CrewMax. APR financing through Toyota Financial Services with approved credit. Tier I+ thru III only, except new 2013 Camry (gas and hybrid) Tier I+ and I only. Cash back from manufacturer. $2,750 Cash Back on 2013 Tundra CrewMax, $1,000 Cash Back on 2013 Camry (gas) and $500 Cash Back on 2013 Corolla, does not include College or Military Rebates. $500 Tundra CrewMax and $750 Camry (gas) subvention cash from manufacturer, not applicable for cash back offers and must qualify for cash through TFS. Offers good in WA, OR, ID, and MT. For ID and MT state dealerships, a documentary service fee in an amount up to $350 may be added to vehicle price. For Washington state dealerships, a negotiable documentary service fee in an amount up to $150 may be added to sale price or capitalized cost. For Oregon state dealerships, a negotiable documentary service fee in an amount up to $100 may be added to vehicle price. Oregon state dealerships not using an electronic vehicle registration system may only apply fees up to $75 to vehicle price. Does not include taxes, license, title, processing fees, insurance and dealer charges. Subject to availability. See your local participating Toyota dealer for details. Must take retail delivery from dealer stock by 8/5/13. © 2013 Graham Oleson

NWT062613-July10x7.6_APR.indd 1

7/10/13 9:24 AM

YOU CAME TO CATCH FISH, BUT IF INSTEAD YOU CATCH A COLD, WE’RE HERE. You’ve come a long way to get away from it all. Maybe hoping to reel in the big one. But when that turns out to be a cold, you need relief. That’s why Bozeman Deaconess Pharmacy at Big Sky offers everyday remedies. Like over-the-counter cold medicine. Or an allergy presciption.

Stop by for all that and then some. We’re right here in the neighborhood across from Big Sky Chapel. And easier to find than one of those fabled lunkers.

Bunker Bar & Grill

Hours: M–F 10 am–6 pm (406) 993-9390 :: Meadow Village Center bozemandeaconess.org/pharmacy

Bunker Bar & Grill

Bunker Bar & Grill

explorebigsky.com

calendar

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 41

Planning an event? Let us know! Email maria@theoutlawpartners.com, and we’ll spread the word. *If your event falls between Aug. 9 and Aug. 22, please submit it by Friday, Aug. 2 Friday, July 26 – Thursday, Aug. 8

BIG SKY SATURDAY, JULY 27

Crail Ranch Homestead Museum Annual Bake Sale Crail Ranch, 9 a.m.

BSCC Parks & Trails Gala Big Sky Community Park, 6 p.m.

Electric Sunday Broken Spoke, 10 p.m.

MONDAY, JULY 29

Quick Draw w/ sculptor Ott Jones 320 Guest Ranch, 5 p.m.

TUESDAY, JULY 30

Open Mic w/Kent Johnson Choppers, 9 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 31

Big Sky PBR Rodeo Town Center Park, 5:30 p.m.

Free concert by Hell’s Belles Town Center Park, 9:30 p.m.

Quenby and the West of Wayland Band Choppers, 9 p.m.

The Riot Act Broken Spoke, 10 p.m.

THURSDAY, AUG. 1

Big Sky PBR Rodeo Town Center Park, 5:30 p.m.

Free concert by The Dirty Shame Town Center Park, 9:30 p.m.

Bottom of the Barrel Broken Spoke, 10 p.m.

FRIDAY, AUG. 2

I-90 Collective Big Sky Chapel, 8 p.m.

Pretty Gritty Broken Spoke, 10 p.m.

SATURDAY, AUG. 3

Big Sky Fly Fishing Festival 2013 F3T Fly Fishing Film Tour Lone Peak Cinema, doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m.

bozeman FRIDAY, JULY 26

80s Bands Night Wild Joe’s, 7:30 p.m.

Don’t Close Your Eyes The Verge, 8 p.m.

Mark Twain Comedy Hit Ellen Theatre, 8 p.m.

The Gettin’ Up Early Boys Filling Station, 8 p.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 27

Louisa Hall Reading Country Bookshelf, 3 p.m.

Bill Burr, Comedian Emerson Cultural Center, 7 p.m.

Whim Grace Wild Joe’s, 7:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, JULY 28

Introduction to Improvisation The Verge, 2 p.m.

Underhill Rose Peach Street Studios, 9 p.m.

MONDAY, JULY 29

Hopeless Jack, Medium Sized Monster Zebra Cocktail Lounge, 8 p.m.

Shooter Jennings Peach Street Studios, 8 p.m. & 10 p.m.

TUESDAY, JULY 30

Chalk on the Walk Mainstreet, 9:30 a.m.

Bus Driver Choppers, 9 p.m.

DJ Tiny and DJ Rampage Broken Spoke, 10 p.m.

BIG SKY CLASSICAL MUSIC FESTIVAL FRIDAY, AUG. 9 Cassat String Quartet w/Boze Bones Trombone Quartet Town Center Stage, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY, AUG. 10 The Florestan Trio w/ MSU String Camp Orchestra Town Center Stage, 6 p.m.

SUNDAY, AUG. 11 Big Sky Festival Orchestra Town Center Stage, 6 p.m.

Community Involvement Day w/music by Prairie Wind Jammers Farmers Market,

Fly Paper Wild West Saloon, 8 p.m. (and Sat.)

Ryan Swanzey Murray Bar, 9 p.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 27

THURSDAY, AUG. 1 Prairie Wind Jammers Pine Creek Café, 7 p.m.

SUNDAY, JULY 28

Deadstring Brothers Murray Bar, 9 p.m.

One Leaf Clover Wild West Saloon, 8 p.m.

Music in the Park III Pioneer Park, 7 p.m.

DJ Night Wild West Saloon, 10:30 p.m.

FRIDAY, AUG. 2

Smoking Waters Mountain Man Rendezvous Old Airport, 9 a.m., Aug. 2-11 Yellowstone Rod Run Pioneer Park, 10 a.m. (thru Sunday) Marshall Poole Wild West Saloon, 8 p.m.

SATURDAY, AUG. 3

Dutch Oven Cooking Union Pacific Depot, late morning Finders and Youngberg Wild West Saloon, 8 p.m.

FRIDAY, AUG. 2 The Max Chico Hot Springs, 9 p.m. (and Sat.) Cold Hard Cash Murray Bar, 9:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, AUG. 3 Underhill Rose Pine Creek Café, 7 p.m.

Dead Winter Carpenters Murray Bar, 9:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, AUG. 4 Ashley Buchart Chico Hot Springs, 8 p.m.

Chapel Blues Murray Bar, 9 p.m.

TUESDAY, AUG. 6 Finnders & Youngberg Chico Hot Springs, 7 p.m.

Free Fly Casting Clinic Jacklin’s Fly Shop, 7:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 7 Ben Rice Band Murray Bar, 9 p.m.

Bowl for Kids’ Sake Kick Off Party Santa Fe Red’s Downtown, 5 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 7

THURSDAY, AUG. 1

Music on Main: Dale Watson Downtown Bozeman, 6:30 p.m.

Baki & Evolving Cast Filling Station, 8 p.m.

Derailers Peach Street Studios, 9 p.m.

Music in the Mountains: Jeanne Jolly Center Stage at Town Center Park, 7 p.m.

FFA-4-H Rodeo Fairgrounds, 3 p.m.

Lunch on the Lawn w/Fossils Emerson Cultural Center, 11:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 31

MONDAY, AUG. 5

First Security Bank Community BBQ First Security Bank, 11 a.m.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 31 Park County Fair Park County Fairgrounds, (thru Aug. 3)

Josh Harty Murray Bar, 9 p.m.

Mark Twain Comedy Hit Ellen Theatre, 8 p.m. (thru Sun.)

THURSDAY, AUG. 8

FRIDAY, JULY 26

TUESDAY, JULY 30 Daddy Mack Murray Bar, 9 p.m.

SUNDAY, AUG. 4

Shinyribs Peach Street Studios, 9 p.m.

Ski Bridges of Madison County Fundraiser Ski bridge near Moonlight Lodge, 5 p.m.

Women’s Summer Bible Study & Potluck Luncheon Big Sky Chapel, 10 a.m.

Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo 175 Oldroyd Rd., 8 p.m. (thru Aug. 31)

WEDNESDAY, JULY 31

C.J. Box Reading Country Bookshelf, 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 7

West yellowstone

The Blackberry Bushes Stringband Filling Station, 9 p.m.

SUNDAY, AUG. 4

Quick Draw w/ sculptor Ott Jones 320 Guest Ranch, 5 p.m.

Music on Main: Ten Foot Tall & 80 Proof Downtown Bozeman, 6:30 p.m.

Free Fly Casting Clinic Jacklin’s Fly Shop, 7:30 p.m.

Bite of Bozeman Downtown Bozeman, 6 p.m.

Gallatin Banquet w/speaker Bruce Farling Music by the Driftwood Grinners Buck’s T -4, 6 p.m.

THURSDAY, AUG. 8

Don’t Close Your Eyes The Verge, 8 p.m.

DJ Tiny & DJ Rampage Broken Spoke, 10 p.m.

Big Sky Fly Fishing Festival: Product demonstrations, casting clinic and competition Town Center, 12 p.m.

Cody Canada Peach Street Studios, 8 p.m. & 10 p.m.

FRIDAY, AUG. 2

Yellowstone Rod Run Parade Canyon Avenue, 10:30 a.m.

DJ Night Wild West Saloon, 10:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, AUG. 8

John Gospodarek Wild West Saloon, 8 p.m.

livingston & paradise valley FRIDAY, JULY 26 PBR Pre-party The Office Lounge, 6:30 p.m.

Relay for Life Livingston High School track, 7 p.m.

Denny Earnest & The Revelators Pine Creek Café, 7 p.m.

Sweet Pea Festival Lindley Park, 4 p.m. (thru Sunday)

Blackwater Band Chico Hot Springs, 9 p.m. (and Sat.)

Shakespeare in the Parks: The Recruiting Officer Lindley Park, 4:30 p.m.

Bluebelly Junction Murray Bar, 9:30 p.m.

Moon Taxi Zebra Cocktail Lounge, 9 p.m.

SATURDAY, AUG. 3

S.L.A.M. Festival Bogert Park, 10 a.m. (thru Sun.) Ben Taylor Filling Station, 8 p.m.

Bren Hill Peach Street Studios, 9 p.m.

SUNDAY, AUG. 4 Har di Har Wild Joe’s, 4 p.m.

MONDAY, AUG. 5

Mickey Hart Band w/Tea Leaf Trio Emerson Cultural Center, 8 p.m.

TUESDAY, AUG. 6

Dale Watson Peach Street Studios, 9 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 7

Lunch on the Lawn w/The Louverlys Emerson Cultural Center, 11:30 a.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 27 Chicken Jamboree Sacajawea Park Gazebo, 12 p.m.

Harvest Celebration Chico Hot Springs, 5:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, AUG. 8 Strangeways Murray Bar, 9 p.m.

norris hot springs Music starts at 7 p.m. every Fri., Sat., Sun

ongoing big sky events Jonathan Wilde Exhibition: Mostly Birds Gallatin River Gallery, June 18-July 27 Into the Wild: The Art of Todd Connor & Ezra Tucker Creighton Block Gallery, June 29-July 18

MONDAYS:

Fly Fishing 201 LMR Outdoors Shop, 9-11a.m.

Yoga on the Deck Moonlight Lodge Deck, 9:30 a.m.

Pig Roast 320 Guest Ranch, 5-8 p.m. (thru Sept. 9)

TUESDAYS:

Hike, Bike & BBQ Moonlight Lodge Deck, 4:30-9 p.m. (thru Aug. 27)

WEDNESDAYS:

Big Sky Farmers Market Fire Pit Park, 5-8 p.m. (thru Sept. 4)

Open Range Pine Creek Café, 7 p.m.

Pick-up Soccer Big Sky Community Park, 6 p.m.

Livingston Classic PBR Park County Fairgrounds, 7 p.m.

Riverside BBQ & Wagon Ride 320 Guest Ranch, 5-8 p.m. (thru Sept. 11)

Little Jane and The Pistol Whips Cooper Tires Stage at the arena, immediately following PBR event

Bluebird Sky LMR Saloon or Veranda, 8 p.m.

Jesse Taylor Murray Bar, 9:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, JULY 28 Chase Murray Bar, 9 p.m.

MONDAY, JULY 29 Sweetgrass County Fair Big Timber Fairgrounds, The Coffis Brothers Murray Bar, 9 p.m.

FRIDAYS:

Yoga on the Deck Moonlight Lodge Deck, 9:30 a.m.

Live Music Ousel & Spur Pizza Co., 9-11 p.m.

SATURDAYS:

Toons & Spoons Lone Peak Cinema, 10 a.m.

Free Orvis 101 Class LMR Outdoors Shop, 10 a.m.

42 July 26-August 8, 2013

events

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

Sweet Pea Festival is Aug. 2-4 BOZEMAN – “It’s Magical” is the theme of this year’s Sweet Pea Festival, Aug. 2-4.

The three-day, volunteer-run festival has a mission of “promoting and cultivating the arts,” and has been held in Bozeman since 1978, offering music, dance, theatre, family entertainment, arts and crafts, a flower show and parade.

Missoula Children’s Theatre offers children entering grades 1-12 a chance to act in a performance of The Secret Garden. Auditions will be held July 29 at 10 a.m. at Hope Lutheran Church.

Montana Shakespeare in the Parks will perform The Recruiting Officer and Henry V.

Storyteller Bil Lepp and Celtic magician Daniel GreenWolf are featured Main Stage musiperformcal headliners ers on the This year's Sweet Pea poster for 2013 include Family Stage, designed by Autumn Fiske world-renowned while Camp dobro player Jerry Equinox Douglas and The Summer Dirty Dozen Brass Band from New Theater Day Camp, a Orleans. Additional performance Bozeman institution genres include bluegrass, folk, jazz, and Sweet Pea tradition, funk, rock and opera. will again perform at the festival.

Artists from the Oregon Ballet Theatre will headline the dance lineOne hundred local and up. This celebrated group recently regional vendors offering performed on tour at the Kennedy arts and crafts in ceramCenter in Washington, D.C., at Chiics, fiber, glass, jewcago Dancing Festival and in Seoul, elry, mixed media, metal South Korea. works, painting, photog-

raphy and sculpture will be nestled under the trees in Lindley Park.

Thursday the Sweet Pea Art Show opens at the Bozeman Public Library.

The week leading up to the festival sets the stage with community events. Artists of all skill levels converge on Main Street Tuesday morning for Chalk on the Walk.

Wednesday evening local restaurants line Main Street to offer up samples during the Bite of Bozeman, and on

All proceeds from Sweet Pea go toward festival operations and grants for the arts, art education, and special projects in the Bozeman area.

For a full schedule of events and ticketing information, visit sweetpeafestival.org.

Dancers at the 2012 Sweet Pea Festival Courtesy of sweetpeafestival.org.

Authentic, traditional Mexican soul food Everything hand-made, in-house from scratch

NOw open in Big Sky TOwn Center Happy Hour Specials 7-9pm Daily (Cantina seating only) $2 Tacos (chicken, beef, pork) $2 off Bottles $2 off Specialty Drinks & Margs $6 Shots of Patron $1 off Wells $2 Can Beers $5 Bomb shots Everyday doubles

Open 7 days a week: 11am - Late Dine In, Take Out: 406.995.7222 118 Ousel Falls Rd. Big Sky, MT

July 26-August 8, 2013 43

Got Noxious Weeds?

We can help!

Now is the time to manage the noxious weeds on your property, and the Gallatin/Big Sky Noxious Weed Committee can help!

We provide free onsite assistance, including identifying weeds on your property & recommending treatment methods.

For assistance, contact Jennifer Mohler at 406‐209‐0905 or bigskyweeds@gmail.com, and visit www.bigskyweeds.org.

Noxious Weed Spotlight: Oxeye Daisy

Oxeye daisy is a perennial, resembling Shasta daisy, that’s common in meadows, roadsides and along trails in Big Sky and the Gallatin Canyon. This aggressive invader can form dense stands that displaces native plants. Because of the plant’s beauty and showiness, conscientious management is often neglected.

Unfortunately, some of Montana’s state listed noxious weeds are still offered for sale in wildflower seed mixes. Be on the lookout when purchasing seeds for your garden or landscaping. More photos & information @ www.bigskyweeds.org.

Visit us at our booth at the Big Sky Farmers Market!

Help protect wildlife habitat, water resources, & native plants by controlling noxious weeds!

s y a esd

n i u s t A nd ht B

s P eo o n L i g at M

Join us for one or all EVERY T U E S D AY until August 27 AduLts $18.95 ChiLdrEn (6-12) $8.95 ChiLdrEn (5 & undEr)

4:30pm Adventure Hike or Bike

Explore our 16 miles of scenic trails with a complimentary guide or on your own.

Free

5pm – 9pm BBQ at Moonlight Lodge

Enjoy views of Lone Mountain and live music while feasting on a tasting BBQ menu.

H i K i n G at M O O n l i G H t Discover beautiful vistas and trails for all levels, 7 days a week at Moonlight Basin.

Check with the Guest Services team for hiking trail maps and recommendations.

Pet Friendly trail s

moonlightbasin.com • (406) 995-7600 P h oto : E r i k M o r r i s o n

44 July 26-August 8, 2013

events

Explore Big Sky

Big Sky Fly Fishing Festival The Big Sky Fly Fishing Festival kicks off Saturday night, Aug. 3 with a showing of the 2013 F3T Fly Fishing Film Tour at Lone Peak Cinema in Big Sky. This event is a series of short fly fishing films from around the world.

The show starts at 8 p.m. with doors opening at 7 p.m.

On Sunday, Aug. 4, in the afternoon, there will be a family friendly outdoor event in Town Center with booths set up with product demonstrations, casting clinics, casting competitions, kid’s games, fly-tying and other vendors. Vendors include Sweetgrass Rods, American Rivers, Trout Unlimited, Fish Wildlife and Parks, Montana Outdoor Science

School, Big Sky Girl Scouts, Yellowstone Park Foundation and Yellow Dog Fly Fishing Adventures.

The festival will conclude that evening with a dinner event at Buck’s T-4, complete with music and silent and live auctions to raise funds for the Blue Water Task Force programs to protect and improve water quality and fish habitat in the Upper Gallatin. Bruce Farling, the Executive Director of Montana Trout Unlimited, will be the keynote speaker.

Tickets are available at Gallatin River Guides, Grizzly Outfitters, East Slope Outdoors, Lone Mountain Ranch and RO Drift Boats.

BIG SKY’S ONLY FULL-SERVICE WORKOUT FACILITY OPEN 5 A.M.-10 P.M. 7 DAYS A WEEK DAY, WEEK AND YEAR-LONG MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE VISIT OZSSAGE.COM/GYM.PHP FOR DETAILS 32 MARKET PLACE, MEADOW VILLAGE, BIG SKY (406) 995 4522

events

July 26-August 8, 2013 45

BSCC's Fourth of July Celebration BIG SKY – The Big Sky Community Corp.’s July Fourth celebration had a strong turnout this year with 440 people attending. Activities included a 10-mile trail run, 5K run/walk, 1K, tennis, kid’s activities, skate park jam, home run derby, softball game, 3-on3 basketball, disc golf tournament, a fly casting clinic at the Historic Crail Ranch and dunk tank.

Activities results: 10-mile trail run First Place: Lewis Elliot, 1:18:48 Second Place: Brett Busacker, 1:19:17 Third Place: Barin Hein, 1:23:32.

5K First Place: Ben Butler, 19:13 Second Place: Andy Beckman, 19:42 Third Place: Jason Elliott, 19:42 1K First Place: John Etchart, 1:06 Second Place: Grace Butler, 1:13 Third Place: John Etchart, 1:18.

3-on-3 basketball First Place: Eddie Starz, Dakota Perry and James Ramirez (Big Sky) Second Place: Holden Samuels, Austin Samuels and Cyle Kokot (Big Sky) Third Place: Skyler Crew, Devin Crew and Steve Crew (Urbandale, Iowa) Fourth Place: Charlie Quinzau, Colin

Quinzau and Raleigh Quinzau (Covington, La.) Home-run derby First Place: Aaron Farr Second Place: Lee Horning Third Place: (tie) Adam Farr, Brian Scott and Brandon Fischer

The essence of an extraordinary LIFE is about living your PASSION.

Skate park competition - Junior First Place: Rhett Luezinger Second Place: Holden Samuels Skate park competition - Adult First Place: Tim Bowers Second Place: Rand Sterns Disc golf tourney – Women First Place: Karen Brown Second Place: Heather Davidson Third Place: Stacey Brower Disc golf tourney – Advanced First Place: Jon Nelson Second Place: Brent Jacobs Third Place: Jarren Golay Disc golf tourney – Masters First Place: Joe Harr Second Place: (tie) Steve Tolo and Travis Frickle For more information about BSCC Parks Committee events and volunteer opportunities contact Krista Mach, Parks Committee Chair, at krista@bsccmt.org.

LIFE ENTHUSIASTS FIND

YOUR PASSIONS AT:

SUCCESS IS COUNTING MILES, NOT DOLLARS

bigskysothebysrealty.com carrieradtke.bigskysothebysrealty.com

GREAT RATES ON AUTO LOANS

CONTACT

Apply online, or stop in at 78 Meadow Village Dr. www.ourbank.com|993-3350

CARRIE RADTKE

FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS

406.599.3574

© MMVI Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

Member FDIC

Equal Housing Lender

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

fun

July 26-August 8, 2013 47

Big Sky Beats

By Maria Wyllie

Explore Big Sky Editorial Assistant

Find out what tunes we’re bumping! In “Big Sky Beats,” Explore Big Sky's staff and guests talk soundtracks for summer activities in the Rockies – anything from training for a marathon to floating down the river with friends.

Road Trip Songs: Country and soul rock band Nicki Bluhm and The Gramblers made stops in Bozeman and Big Sky July12-13, showing off some impressive pipes m tock.co and sultry dance moves. rOpenS The group, which gained sudden fame via to c e .V wwwa series of live recordings filmed on the road, is hitting “Van Sessions,” the road hard for the rest of the summer. Nicki shared with Explore Big Sky a few of her favorite songs to listen to on the road when not jamming out with the band.

“All these songs, some old some new, give me meaningful memories of the past, hope for the future or just comfort in the now. “ – Nicki Bluhm “Free Man in Paris,” Joni Mitchell “Colorado,” Linda Ronstadt “Elisa,” Bee Gees “Coat of Many Colors,” Dolly Parton “Pacific Ocean Blue,” Dennis Wilson “Call me the Breeze,” J.J. Cale “Gone Gone Gone,” Everly Brothers “Jefferson Army,” Mother Hips “In a Good Place Now,” Bobby Charles “Olivia,” Rayland Baxter

Join us on the porch this summer baked goods | pizza | $2 pbr | sweet iced tea | fresh lemonade | iced coffee

we deliver 406.995.2305 open 7 days a week 7am-10pm view menu at: bigskybluemoonbakery.com located in westfork plaza mall, Big Sky

48 July 26-August 8, 2013

header

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

explorebigsky.com

July 26-August 8, 2013 49

Explore Big Sky

Q&A with a bike tech p. 56

backcountry fishing p. 53

Section 4:

outdoors

remembering the fires of 1988 p. 51

Wildflowers of Ousel Falls Trail

By Lauren Rieschel

Explore Big Sky Editorial Assistant

Montana is known for its beautiful scenery, and few things exemplify that more than the wildflowers that can be spotted on hiking trails during the summer. Below are some facts and details of the more common flowers that can be found on Big Sky’s Ousel Falls Trail.

Silvery Lupine Lupinus argenteus Family: Pea family Season: May - August Trivia: With its bold, spiked lavender-blue flowers, Silvery Lupine is an iconic wildflower in the West. There are at least 10 different species of Lupinus in Montana. However, the plants, and particularly the seeds, can be toxic if ingested.

Mountain Harebell Campanula rotundifolia Family: Bellflower family Season: June - September Trivia: Traditionally linked to fairies and magic, the mountain harebell’s name originates in English and Scottish folklore that said that witches squeezed the juice from the flowers and used it to turn themselves into hares.

Wild Rose/Wood’s Rose Rosa woodsii Family: Rose family Season: June - August Trivia: The rose hips left on the plant during the colder months provide an important vitamin-rich food source for animals and are also used in a variety of teas to help prevent colds or influenza.

Indian Paintbrush (pictured left) Castilleja linariifolia Family: figwort family Season: May - September Trivia: A well-known flower here in Montana and the state flower of Wyoming, most of the Indian paintbrushes have already bloomed in lower altitudes this year, but they can still be found at higher elevations. Its flowers are edible, and the long white corolla tube can be pulled out to eat the sweet nectar at the bottom.

50 July 26-August 8, 2013

outdoors

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

Bridger Bowl joins Powder Alliance Bridger Bowl has joined a member of the Powder Alliance, a 12-member group of Western resorts. This means free skiing.

All 2013/2014 Bridger season pass holders get three days of skiing at each of the other 11 resorts. Bridger is the only member in Montana.

The other participating resorts are Schweitzer, Idaho; Stevens Pass, Wash.; Timberline and Mount Hood Ski Bowl, Ore.; Sierra at Tahoe, China Peak and Mountain High, Calif.; Snow Basin, Utah; Angel Fire Resort, N.M.; Crested Butte, Colo; and Arizona Snowbowl.

Bridger Bowl ski pass holders will be able to ski at 11 other resorts this winter at no cost.

Big Sky Hiker's schedule Date August 1

August 8

Rating-Hike

Trailhead

Length

Climb

Leaders

A. Dudley Lake

Dudley Creek

11 miles

2700 ft.

B. Lightning Lake

Taylor Fork Lightning Creek Hell Roaring Creek Hyalite

9.8 miles

1360 ft.

Rumsey Young (995-2629) Jim Schaefer (995-3238)

6 miles

1000 ft.

Sarah Peterson

10.8 miles

2960 ft.

Hyalite Ousel Falls

8 miles 6 mies

1500 ft.

960 ft.

C. Hell Roaring Creek A. Hyalite to Storm Castle B. Triple Tree C. 3rd Yellow Mule

Comment

Trailhead near Hebgen Lake Nina Hill (995-2532) Bozeman Week; shuttle required; early start Arlyn Selting (522-8118) Bozeman Week Cindy Larsen (995-7988) Bozeman Week

Check future issues of Explore Big Sky for continued schedule

Bringing you closer to Santosha (contentment) today...

yoga massage acupuncture chiropractic ayurveda thai massage

Bringing you closer to Santosha (contentment) today... yoga massage acupuncture

chiropractic ayurveda thai massage

406-993-2510 • 169 Snowy Mountain Circle • Big Sky, Montana

s an t o sha bi g sk y.c o m

SUMMER SCHEDULE SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Check our Website for Workshops or Yoga Practice Sessions

9-10:30am Yoga with Jill 5:30-6:45pm SUP Yoga with Callie on Lake Levinsky

7-8am Yoga with Callie 9:30-10:45am Yoga with Hannah 6:30-8pm Yoga w/ Jill

9-10:15am Yoga with Debbie 11-12pm Pilates with Jolene 5:30-6:45pm Yoga with Dani 7:30pm Awareness Wednesdays (2nd & 4th weeks)

7-8am Yoga with Linda 9:30-10:45am Yoga with Callie

9-10:30am Yoga with Hannah 11-12pm Pre/PostNatal/Gental with Jill 5:30-7pm The Practice (1st, 3rd & 5th Fridays)

9:00-10:30am Yoga with alternating teachers

weather permitting* (pre-register)

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

make it a

Moo Nl ig ht suMMe r

h i ke S pa·SW i m

DiNe moonlightbasin.com • highway 64 • 2 minutes from big sky resort

Make a splash

at Moonlight’s outdoor heated pool!

Daily and Weekly Pool Passes Available

Summer Fun

at the MooNlIgHT s pa & B o u t i q u e NEW THIS SUMMER Try our Watermelon Basil Creme Body Bliss treatment featuring Farmhouse Fresh products

O p e n D a i ly 9 a m - 7 p m Call (406) 995-7700 for a full list of services and reservations Located at the Moonlight Lodge

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

LIVE WHERE THE RIVERS MEET THE BIG SKY. Here are the wide-open spaces of Montana you have been looking for. Gallatin River Ranch features a 6,000 acre playground of rolling hillsides along three miles of private access to the famous Gallatin River in the Horseshoe Hills. Spanning views of the entire Gallatin Valley pour out before you including several snow-capped mountain ranges, and the headwaters of the Missouri River.

Build a home for future generations on large ranch parcels, only 20 minutes from Bozeman, and enjoy our world class equestrian center, blue ribbon trout fishing and miles of shared horseback riding trails.

FEATURED PROPERTY FOR SALE Upper Pass Ranch - 51 acres $199,000

Incredible opportunity to own a large Gallatin River Ranch lot! Beautiful views of several Montana mountain ranges and private access to fly-fishing on the Gallatin River. Minutes away from the GRR’s World-Class Equestrian center. Year-round access on maintained roads. Thousands of acres to hike & ride. This specific lot’s topography is incredible! Rock outcroppings, beautiful canyons, 360 degree view of surrounding mountains and more. Call the GRR today to set up a tour.

GALLATIN RIVER RANCH. It’s the fishing. It’s the riding. It’s your community - all under the Big Sky. 3200 Nixon Gulch Road, Manhattan, MT 59741 (406) 284-3200 GallatinRiverRanch.com GRRinfo@GallatinRiverRanch.com

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

the eddy line

July 26-August 8, 2013 53

Hit the trail

It’s backcountry fishing season for those willing to explore

By Patrick Straub

Explore Big Sky Fishing Columnist

It was late July back in the early ‘90s when I learned my destiny lay in taking people fishing. Now, more than

in our busy lives to mix backpacking with fly fishing, but getting away from the melee of civilization can be done without freeze-dried food and Jetboils. Here’s some advice:

First cast is often the cast that works. Backcountry trout tend to be opportunistic. If your cast lands in a spot you think is fishy, be ready. Lesspressured streams are home to lesswary trout, and they tend to eat when they see food.

Don’t fish alone, and tell someone where you’re going. Have a partner. This helps with bears, and it also helps if you get hurt. But it doesn’t help with the damn bugs.

Stay general with your fly selection. Attractor dry flies like Stimulators, Trudes and foam hoppers fool most backcountry trout. For nymphs use Beadhead Princes, Pheasant Tails and Lightning Bugs. For lakes use black beadhead Wooly Buggers and olive or brown beadhead Leeches. Hoppers, ants and beetles also work for lakes as those insects can be blown into the water.

Keep moving. Many backcountry streams are small, meaning you can cover the best holding water quickly.

You might want to fish a deeper pool a few times over, but when moving from pool to pool or between deep runs, cast and move through the marginal water, as well.

These days I visit with many folks venturing out to chase backcountry trout.

The excitement in their voice makes me jealous, as I know they are headed for an adventure. The best way to have success fly fishing for backcountry trout is to just go and do it. Get off the road. Get out of cell phone range. And get ‘er done.

Use a lighter weight, 4- or 5-piece rod. A packable fly rod is crucial for fishing away from the Pat Straub is the author of six books, incrowds. It can be strapped cluding The Frugal Fly Fisher, Montana to a pack or tied to a belt.

Backcountry fly fishing offers a way to get away from the crowds, fish smaller creeks and rivers, and discover some less-pressured waters. Photo by Pat Straub Fish a 3- or 4-weight rod On The Fly, and the forthcoming Evloaded with a floating fly erything You Always Wanted to Know line. With a floating fly About Fly Fishing* *but were afraid to 20 years later, I look back in disbelief Be willing to walk a little. It’s not ask. He and his wife own Gallatin River line on a fly rod you can effectively at some of the things I did for the unusual on a backcountry day to put Guides in Big Sky. fish lakes, too. sake of getting friends into fish. in five miles or more. You walk in a I was young, fit and weighed a lot mile and then fish for a mile or longer; less. Back then it was second nature you have two miles coming back, and if loading up a pack and hiking five you spend anytime bouncing around on miles to fish in solitude or to show a the creek, the distances pile up quickly. future ex-girlfriend a secret fishing spot that would probably hold my Be wary of bears, but also be aware interest longer than a relationship of the terrain and bugs. Going up Therapeutic Massage & Day Spa with her.

Slough Creek, for example, it’s not unusual to see grizzlies. But keep your Boyfriends or girlfriends aside, for eyes on the road – you could also slip those willing to sacrifice a little and fall, or twist an ankle. And bring comfort and put in some grunt work, bug dope, as the mosquitos and deer fly fishing in the backcountry is flies may take more of your blood than rewarding. Few of us have the time a bear or a fall.

OZssage Spa

1200 Sq/Ft

High water temperatures prompt fishing closures Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has closed portions of the lower Madison River, the upper and lower Big Hole River, and the entire Jefferson River to fishing from 2 p.m. to midnight daily. Consistent high water temperatures and low stream flows have prompted the “hoot-owl” closures until conditions improve.

On the Madison, the closures are from Ennis Dam to the mouth of the river. Similar restrictions were issued on the Dearborn, Smith and Sun Rivers in central Montana.

The FWP drought plan calls for angling restrictions to be imposed when maximum daily water temperatures equal or exceed 73

degrees for three consecutive days.

The preferred water temperature for rainbow and brown trout is about 55-57 degrees. Brown trout, rainbow trout and mountain whitefish caught when water temperatures exceed 73 degrees suffer an increased mortality rate due to the cumulative stress.

“The fish need a break,” said Region 3 Fisheries Manager Travis Horton. “We will continue to work together with anglers and irrigators to reduce stress on fish populations whenever possible.”

Anglers can find details on fishing restrictions or closures at fwp.mt.gov.

Private Suite for Groups/Couples

Couples Room, 5 Treatment Rooms Spa Day Packages 1- 8 people Therapeutic & Specialty Massages Intraceutical Oxygen Facials Phytomer Luxury Mask Facials Scrubs & Body Wraps MASSAGE AVAILABLE IN YOUR HOME STEAM ROOM & FULL GYM FOR RELAXING SUMMER SPECIALS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE OPEN 7 DAYS 10:00am - 8.00pm. Advanced bookings highly recommended.

Please note we do have a 24 hour cancellation & amendment policy.

32 Market Place, Meadow Village, Big Sky. 406.995.7575

.

www.ozssage.com

TH E W E S T MAY BE WILD,

but it’s not uncivilized

Over decades Over 33decades buildinginin building Montana Montana

Giving you the most

value possible, with dedication, communication and design insight, we focus on cost

effectiveness,

Summer under The rainbow

building the most

Join us for a staycation and take advantage of long summer nights under the Big Sky in our newly renovated hot tub, leisurely mornings lounging riverside and, of course, the -RR signature deluxe continental breakfast.

efficient way possible.

Visit rainbowranchbigsky.com for specials.

The Restaurant is open for the season with a new summer menu featuring Chef Troxler’s signature dishes and seasonal specialties. Stop by for dinner or -RR Happy Hour and enjoy our signature barrel-aged cocktails on the deck.

Call 1.800.937.4132 for reservations.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

145 Center Lane, Unit L Meadow Village Big Sky, MT 59715

406-995-4579

rainbowranchbigsky.com • 1.800.937.4132 Five miles south of Big Sky entrance on Hwy 191

BlueRibbonBuilders.com

the art of todd Connor and ezra tuCker June 29 – July 18 Opening reception June 29, 5-8 p.m.

Creighton Block

bi g s k y ’ s m o s t e x t e n s i v e f i n e a rt C o l l e Ct i o n

11:00 am - 7:00 Pm // TueS Thru SaT

every ThurSDay aT 4:30 Pm

provided by

11:00 am - 5:30 Pm // SunDayS mOnDayS By aPPOinTmenT

“desperate Challenge” 30x40 by ezra tucker

located in the Big Sky Town Center on the corner of lone Peak Drive | C r e i g h TO n B l O C k g a l l e ry. C O m | (406) 993-9400

explorebigsky.com

history

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 55

Remembering 1988 25-year anniversary of the Yellowstone National Park fires Story and photos

by Mike Coil

Explore Big Sky Contributor

Some fishing buddies and I were sitting in a cafe in Hardin early one morning in September 1988, waiting for our breakfast. We arrived the night before, drift boats and fishing gear in tow, and were planning to spend a few days on the Big Horn River.

Opening the Big Horn County News as I waited for my eggs, I read a headline that ended our trip: “Montana Closed to All Recreation.”

unrelenting. By early July, things were tinderbox dry, and fires appeared around the area, including several small ones in Yellowstone. In accordance with the “let it burn” policy, no suppression actions were taken.

ON THE

Our department was ordered to put a crew on a fire truck provided by the state. My buddies at the department said we needed to schedule crews on the engine into the West The fire explodes on a hot afternoon, Sept. 1988 Yellowstone area.

I rushed home and helped organize a With thousands of acres already rotating schedule that allowed us to burning in the region that summer man our engine but didn’t require any and dry conditions, then-Gov. Ted firefighter to be gone too long from Schwinden made an executive order work and family. closing all public lands in the state to recreational activities.

I rolled with the first crew, and it was obvious by the time we got to Gallatin Of all the fires that summer, none Gateway that this was a very serious was more impressive than the one in situation. Other engines and crews Yellowstone National Park. were also on the move, and thick smoke was already obscuring visibility. Much Forest fires had been suppressed in of Gallatin Canyon was on standby to the park since its 1872 founding. The evacuate if the fire moved north. resulting fuel load in Yellowstone’s forest needed only the right conditions Just inside the most southerly park to explode into a giant fire. gate on Highway 191, we ran into fire.

It was burning out of control on both Beginning in the early 1970s, experts sides of the highway, and the resources began to realize that fire had a natural were spread so thin that no one was place in a forest’s overall health. By the able to control traffic or fight the fire. mid-‘70s, a “let it burn” policy was About a dozen tourists were parked instituted in the national parks. When along the sides of the highway taking combined with the fuel load, this set photos. I tried to get them out of the the stage for what took place in 1988. area, but they refused to leave.

The spring of ‘88 was wet and lush Since we still didn’t have radio contact with growth, but by late June, the with Incident Command, we continued weather dried up and the heat became

1988 From nps.gov

by 42 caused lightning

caused 9 fires by humans

The park fires grew over the next few weeks, and in mid-August several of them merged into an unstoppable mega fire. Tens of thousands of acres inside the park were ablaze, and firefighting crews were mobilized to save park infrastructure.

When the fire moved out of the park along the west boundary, it became Gallatin County’s responsibility, and soon the call went out for all firemen to report to their stations and mount a defense.

I was a volunteer firefighter with the Sourdough Fire Department at the time, and as soon as I saw the story in the Hardin paper, I called the fire hall from a pay phone.

FIRE OF

Fires begun outside of the park burned approximately

63% or

500,000 acres of the total acreage.

Did you know that...

In Yellowstone National Park itself, the fires affected

793,880 acres, or 36% of total park acreage.

The 1988 fires comprised the largest fire-fighting effort in the U.S. up to that time:

spent fighting the fires. $120 million

25,000 people involved in these efforts.

About 300 large mammals perished as a direct result of the fires

246

4

mule deer

elk

9

2

bison

moose

After July 21, park managers ordered that all fires be fought, including natural fires that had been allowed to burn.

Firefighters saved human life and property, but they could do little to control or stop the fires because weather and drought made the fires behave in unusual ways.

Contrary to what was feared, the fires of 1988 did not deter visitors.

2,600,000

In 1989, more than

people came to Yellowstone – the

highest annual visitation of the 1980s. south, hoping a disaster wouldn’t develop at that location. Closer to West Yellowstone we finally got through to IC, which sent the Montana Highway Patrol to close 191 from the Duck Creek ‘Y’ to Big Sky. It stayed closed for the next couple of weeks.

Dusk was encroaching on the day as we topped the Grayling Creek Divide and had our first look at the Hebgen Lake

area. Fire burned on the ridge tops as far as we could see, and huge plumes of smoke billowed in all directions. I knew we had an immense firefighting task ahead of us.

Our engine was assigned to the Duck Creek ‘Y’ area, and we set up a fill site Continued on p. 57

56 July 26-August 8, 2013

header

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

history

noticed a smoke column behind us. I radioed to IC and within minutes they had a chopper in the air investigating.

It found a power line had blown down, sparking a new blaze. It had already grown to an acre, and we were ordered to stand by to evacuate.

Continued from p. 55 to supply a main water line strung through the trees; this line provided water for many of the crews protecting houses scattered along Duck Creek to the park boundary. We also used it to resupply other trucks with water.

What happened next was amazing: IC scrounged up every airborne water delivery aircraft they could find and sent them our way. At one point, I counted six aircraft and choppers dropping loads of water from Hebgen Lake. After an hour I received a call that a hand crew was on the fire, and it appeared contained and out. Disaster avoided.

I got my crew organized to man our truck 24-7, so everyone had time to sleep, eat and rest. That first shift was a mix of sitting around, interspersed with intense activity as we moved our truck to various fill locations up and down the creek and the Madison River.

At night we could see the flames, and the fire was growing. I rotated home after four days and was scheduled to make a second trip to the fire 10 days later.

When I returned in the latter half of September for my second rotation, things had changed drastically. The fire had breached a large section of the park boundary, and the crews and equipment were spread thin. Our engine was fighting the blaze, trying to protect a series of homes along Duck Creek, which had been evacuated. We could see the fire through the trees.

A group of farmers from Idaho had come with irrigation sprinklers and set up a rectangle around West Yellowstone to try and to prevent

July 26-August 8, 2013 57

Night time blowup at Duck Creek

the fire from overrunning the town.

There wasn’t enough equipment to build a regular fire line along the park boundary.

Those were four of the most intense days of my life. The fire was active during the heat of the day, and we moved with the other crews along the fire line to douse spot fires and keep the house roofs damp. We also nailed sprinklers to the roofs, tried to keep them running at all times and had hose lines running off six engines, with one positioned at each cluster of houses. When the fire was active, we ran from one house to the next, manning the hose lines and putting

out spot fires. Fire brands rained down as we worked.

At one point, a firefighter from Los Angeles who had rented a nearby cabin showed up to help. I don’t know how he got through the roadblocks, but he was an experienced and capable hand, and he spent most of his vacation fighting the fires. We found out later he ranked high up in his department, something he never told us; instead, he pitched in and went to work. I never got to thank him for his selfless effort.

On day three of my rotation, a strong afternoon wind developed and we were fully engaged battling the fire when I

We never put the fires out that summer.

Ultimately it was the fall rains and snow that did.

At the time, it seemed like Yellowstone had been dealt a crippling blow, but the forest managers kept reassuring us the forest would recover. Over the next few summers, I was astonished to see the thick stands of new trees that appeared in the park. Those trees are now 25 years old and are healthy and vibrant, with very little beetle kill.

The “let it burn” policy, as shortsighted as it seemed at the time, was the right decision. The forests in Yellowstone are now healthier and less fire-prone because of the big burn of 1988.

58 July 26-August 8, 2013

header

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

column: wanderer at rest

July 26-August 8, 2013 59

Winded and angry update: perseverance, and other foibles story and photo By Jamie Balke Explore Big Sky Columnist

As described in previous columns this year, I’ve gotten back into running.

I suppose it would be more accurate to say I’ve gotten back into jogging. My return to the sport began with rushed preparations for the 10K Run to the Pub in March, and I’m happy to report it has continued.

How wrong I was. I continued jogging a few days a week, but rather than setting goals for increasing time and mileage, I cut my runs down to 20 or 30 minutes. Although the training was less intense, I was pleased with myself

This fear of slipping into complacency has resulted in some questionable jogs.

After leaving work one scorching evening, I decided if I didn’t go right away, it wouldn’t happen. Rather than wait a couple of hours for the temperatures to drop, I convinced myself to expand my normal route and go a bit further.

As I ran down sidewalks alongside busy streets in the unrelenting heat, I thought, “I bet I look super determined, unfazed by the elements.” Arriving home, I had the unfortunate experience of glancing in the mirror, and discovering that rather than poised and athletic, I looked like a sweaty tomato with wild hair.

For me, completing a 10K was a significant accomplishment. I’d never run that far before, not even in training. After the race, fearing a loss of motivation Jamie Balke hasn’t let this summer’s unrelenting heat prevent her from lacing up and accountability, her running shoes; even if it makes her look like a sweaty tomato with wild hair.

I signed up for a That image haunt5K, though it might have been better to for keeping at it.

As I found out a few ed me as I laced up for the next few sign up for another 10K. My thought years ago, it’s incredibly easy to stop runs, but I kept at it.

Shortly before process went something like this: running and remarkably difficult to the July 5K, a co-worker approached “Good for me. I signed up for another start again. me. Having discovered that I love race. A 5K should be a piece of cake.”

Oregon and can sort of run, she

wanted to know if I’d be interested in something called the Hood to Coast race. She explained that as a 12-person team, you compete in a 198mile relay from Mount Hood to the Pacific Ocean.

At first I thought, not a chance.

Then she lent me a documentary about this race. I laughed, I cried, and then I told her I wanted to join the team.

Because of the popularity of Hood to Coast, more teams apply than can participate, and our acceptance is not assured. If we get in, each team member will run three legs of the course, which according to the website, can vary from 3.52 to 8.09 miles.

Last year, I would have come up with excuses and kept everything crossed in the hope that we wouldn’t be accepted. Now, as a result of my semi-reluctant perseverance, I’m brainstorming team names.

Having completed the 5K, Jamie Balke hopes that next summer will find her winded and angry, careen-

ing down Mount Hood toward the ocean.

-O’DELL CREEK RANCH-

LIMA • $2,595,000 187 +/- acres, borders public land on three sides, remote, abundant wildlife 3,500 +/- sf log home, mature forest, meadows, seasonal ponds and springs

ile let mob g isin advert ness usi drive b u! to yo

More Fine Ranch & Recreational Offerings: ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROAD • BELGRADE • $4,300,000 719 +/- acres, 3,622 +/- sf home, views, primitive cabin, borders USFS land Mill Creek runs through, water rights, productive hay ground ROCK CREEK ROAD • EMIGRANT • $2,975,000 130 +/- forested acres, borders public land, meadows, springs, pond 1,489 +/- sf cabin, amazing views, year-round access CABIN ON WILLOW CREEK • LIVINGSTON • $2,449,000

308 +/- acres, timber, cottonwoods, native grass, ponds Willow Creek runs through, 2,313 +/- sf log cabin, ap. 12 miles to town

Don Pilotte bus wraPs available - Target thousands of local consumers including Resort employees, permanent residents, MSU Students and 300,000 seasonal tourists

contact outlaw Partners (406) 995-2055 or media@theoutlawPartners.com

Broker, GRI, SFR Resort & Recreation Specialist

(406) 580-0155

RanchMT.com

60 July 26-August 8, 2013

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

For Explore Big Sky, 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.

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

Q+A with a bike tech On July 15, Grizzly Outfitters’ bike technician Marc Lange, 37, shared 18 years of knowledge with Explore Big Sky. Offering sound advice for experienced riders, as well as those just getting into mountain biking, Lange recounts a messy encounter with a barbed wire fence, gives servicing tips and delves into the sport’s positive growth in Montana.

Growing up in Cherry Valley, Ill., Lange had access to single-track trails out his back door. He didn’t ride anything fancy, but he always had wheels beneath him and the wind in his hair.

Spurred by dreams of bigger and better trails, Lange moved to Winter Park, Colo. in 1995, where he first started working as a bike tech. He also worked in outdoor retail in Steamboat and guided river trips throughout the West before moving to Big Sky in 2010.

Outside the shop, Lange enjoys exploring the Taylor Fork area on his Pivot Firebird.

Q+A:

Explore Big Sky: What should riders have in their kit for repairs when riding?

Marc Lange: Whether you’re running tubeless or not, you need a tube, pump, patch kit and tire levers. Shock pumps are not a bad thing to have either; bear spray, food. You could also have a master link or connecting pin, which enables you to rejoin a chain. A multi tool will enable you to do anything – it’s a Swiss army knife for your bicycle.

EBS: Could you offer advice for servicing a bike on the trail?

M.L.: I think most people figure out inverting the bike is necessary for repairs.

If I’m out riding, I hang the saddle on a tree branch that will carry the weight of the bike. Having a knowledgeable person in the group is a good idea, too.

People who aren’t do more bad than good trying to fix their stuff.

EBS: What’s a common thing people do to mess up their bikes?

M.L.: People almost always leave from their house with their tires inflated incorrectly, which leads to negative drama. If your tires are inflated correctly, you are much less likely to get a pinch flat.

EBS: Mountain biking seems to be growing exponentially. Why do you think that is?

M.L.: The grin factor, I guess. Sweeter bikes make for a bigger smile. It’s pretty easy to get out there and have a good time, and if the technology keeps up with it to make you feel safer, then great. So many things in outdoor retail keep getting better and better.

EBS: What new trends have you noticed?

M.L.: People are all hyped up about 29ers and 27 ½-inch bikes. It’d be interesting to see how big the 27 ½-inch craze gets. The larger wheels roll over

obstacles a little more easily.

It feels smoother when you’re going through rocks, cracks and dips.

EBS: What kinds of upgrades/changes are you seeing in the 2014 line of bikes and accessories?

M.L.: We’re seeing more manufacturers produce fat bikes for the industry. They help you access new terrain like beaches and Nordic trails.

Shock and fork technology too – all suspension technology is constantly evolving into better and better product.

Marc Lange performs a basic bike tune at the Grizzly rentals shop. Photo by Maria Wyllie

EBS: What routine services will help keep a bike in good condition? How can you get the most life out of a bike?

M.L.: You’re going to offer yourself the greatest longevity by keeping the drive train clean. Anytime there’s sand or grit in the working components of the bike, it erodes and wears things out, so you want to keep them clean and lubricated.

Replacing the chain annually is a smart thing if you ride a lot, because it will stretch and induce unnecessary wear.

my bike to work, all excited about the weather, and it was after work when I rode home. Some snow had melted on the bike path, and it refroze. I was hauling to my friend’s birthday party, and I went to turn right, but the bike went straight into a snow bank. I flew over the handlebars, and my face went straight into a barb wired fence. I tore my mouth off and had to eat out of a blender for two weeks.

EBS: What gear should a biking enthusiast have on hand in his or her garage?

EBS: What is your most fun trip of all time, or your favorite trails?

M.L.: Eye protection so you’re not getting mud and bugs in your eyes – clear is better for when you ride into dark spots. A helmet and bike gloves. If you’re becoming more of an enthusiast, you might want cycling shoes and clipless pedals. For the garage, you should have lubricant, and a bike stand’s nice.

For any kind of service work, it just helps simplify the process.

M.L.: There’s a lot of trails around Winter Park that are pretty near and dear to me. I really like the Flagstaff, Ariz. area – some phenomenal biking there. Ridge trail to North Fork which is accessed from the North Fork Trail Head just above Lone Mountain Ranch is pretty bitchin.’

EBS: What’s the worst biking crash you’ve ever taken?

M.L.: Ironically, it was a commute from the shop I was working at in Winter Park. So, it was a nice spring day. I rode

EBS: How about this year?

M.L.: For this year, my favorite trip is the one that hasn’t happened yet. I think it will be when me and Damien [another bike tech at Grizzly] go to Interbike, a big trade show for the bike industry in Vegas.

They usually have on-dirt demos at different places, so you can try all the new stuff and figure out what to covet for next year.

EBS: What’s the best part about being a bike mechanic?

M.L.: Selling fun. This is the adult toy store. Introducing new technology to people and watching them have a great time, setting them up for success. Getting them on the right product when maybe they don’t even know what that is.

EBS: How does Montana compare to the rest of the country for biking?

M.L.: The sweetest thing we have ahead of us is a lot of fantastic trail development. As the biking communities pull together and bike parks become more of a reality at ski resorts, we’ll continue to see more positive growth. So I look forward to riding a lot of new trails. More and more people are moving here and enjoying the sport, so I think we’re just going to watch it grow. A lot of places just don’t have space available to grow, and here we do.

explorebigsky.com

header

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 61

yellowstone club and continental construction present

July 31 & august 1, 2013

02 / schedule 03 / bull riding basics 04 / big sky pbr 05 / calcutta 06 / berger's bulls 09 / rider profile: Pistol robinson & The entertainer: flint rasmussen 10 / mutton bustin' 11 / music 12 /sponsors & nonprofits

Big Sky PBR Winners

event program 2012

brant atwood

2011

beau hill

2 July 26-August 8, 2013 ™

big sky pbr

PBR SCHEDULE 2013

General Admission & Golden Buckle ticket holders: PRIVATE THEATER DISTRIBUTED AUDIO / VIDEO SECURITY / CCTV SYSTEMS TELEPRESENCE LIGHTING CONTROL

July 31: 4 p.m. – Vendor village opens 5:00 p.m. – Golden Buckle Tent gates open 5:30 p.m. – General admission gates open

ENERGY MONITORING

6:00 p.m. – Calcutta in Golden Buckle Tent

CONTROL SYSTEMS

7 p.m. – Bull riding event starts (bounty bull at conclusion of event)

EXECUTIVE IT SUPPORT

9:30 p.m. – Free concert by Hell’s Belles

August 1: 4 p.m. – Vendor village opens 5:00 p.m. – Golden Buckle Tent gates open 5:30 p.m. – General admission gates open 6:00 p.m. – Calcutta in Golden Buckle Tent 7 p.m. – Bull riding event starts 9:30 p.m. – Free concert by The Dirty Shame

We provide complete design and installation services for residential and professional environments. Our firm practices design/build solutions that balance innovative technology with utility and simplicity. We cater to clients who have an appreciation for craftsmanship and design, and who expect and demand the best every time.

4 0 6 5 8 6 5 5 9 3 bozeman, mt 4 0 6 7 7 7 5 5 5 9 missoula, mt 3 0 7 2 0 0 0 5 3 3 jackson, wy

w w w. STUD I O AV. n e t

What is PBR? Headquartered in Pueblo, Colo., the Professional Bull Riders tour was founded in 1992 by a group of 20 bull riders looking to bring their sport into the mainstream. The PBR now holds more than 300 annual events in the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Brazil and Australia and attracts over 1.5 million live event attendees each year.

Bull riding is the fastest growing sport in the U.S., and more than 1,200 riders have PBR memberships, competing in in the Built Ford Tough Series, the Touring Pro Division, or the PBR International circuits.

The ultimate goal for PBR athletes each year is to qualify for the prestigious PBR World Finals in Las Vegas where the coveted title of PBR World Champion is decided.

explorebigsky.com

big sky pbr

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 3

BULL RIDING BASICS The bull rope This is what the rider grips throughout his ride. A metal bell hanging at the bottom of the bull rope is designed to add weight, allowing the rope to fall off the bull as soon as the rider is bucked off or dismounts.

The flank strap This is what makes the bull kick. The idea: Rig it tight enough so it stays on, but loose enough so the bull thinks he can kick it off.

Foul If a rider is fouled, it means something happened during the eightsecond ride that gave the bull an unfair advantage over the rider.

This can include the animal hitting the rider or himself on the bucking chute before the ride, or the flank strap falling off before the ride is over. When a foul occurs, the judges often award a re-ride.

Scoring and Judges A rider must stay atop a bull for eight seconds, ride with one hand, and is disqualified if he touches himself or the bull. Judges award higher marks to riders with good control and body position. A rider who spurs the bull earns extra points.

The total score possible for a bull ride is 100 points. Half of that is based on the bull’s performance and how

difficult he is to ride, and the other half is determined by how well a rider matches the animal’s movement. The clock begins when the bull’s shoulder or hip crosses the bucking chutes and stops when the rider’s hand comes out of the bull rope or he touches the ground.

Touring Pro Division events like Big Sky have two judges. Each can award

up to 50 points for the ride (25 points for the bull and 25 for the rider). The total is added together to make up the score. Riders earn points at each event based on their ride scores, their finish in each round, and for their overall finish in the event.

Judges look for bulls with speed, power, drop in the front end, kick in the back end, directions changed and body

rolls (when a bull kicks his hind feet or all four feet to the side). The more of these characteristics a bull displays during a ride, the higher the mark. If a bull doesn’t perform at the level of others in the competition, judges can award a re-ride, so the cowboy has a fair chance to earn points on a different animal.

Find more at pbr.com.

4 July 26-August 8, 2013

big sky pbr

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

Big Sky PBR: July 31- Aug. 1 One of Big Sky’s most anticipated summer events is even bigger this year. The two-day Professional Bull Riders competition features 40 elite riders and 80-90 world-class bulls.

Now in its third year, the event has become one of the premier stops on the Touring Pro Division series. This is the first time it features two nights of bull riding.

PBR announced on July 23 it will stream the Big Sky event on pay-perview, making it the first Touring Pro Division stop ever to be broadcast live around the globe.

Round one will be held July 31, and round two and the championship ride on Aug 1. The aggregate score from the first two rounds will determine the 10 riders competing in the championship, on 10 of the toughest bulls.

“You get to see the best bulls and bull riders in the most beautiful place in the world,” said retired rider Wiley Petersen, who competed in the inaugural 2011 event and will serve as a PBR ambassador this year.

The expansion coincides with a shift in the PBR Built Ford Tough Series this season, where the top riders on the circuit now have to earn points in the

Touring Pro Division to improve their world standings.

“The top 45 riders used to hole up in the summer,” said Jacey Watson, co-owner of Freestone Productions which produces the Big Sky event.

“Now they have to ride this summer to stay in the Built Ford Tough Series.”

Because 50 percent of the points riders score at the Big Sky PBR go toward their BFTS total, while most touring series events only contribute 15-20 percent, it’s a particularly enticing destination, Watson explained.

With $40,000 in added prize money – double last year – it is one of the three top U.S. events in the division. The champion will take home between $20 and $25,000, which is on par with BFTS events. The top four places in each of the three rounds will pay out.

“With our new points system… this is definitely one that our riders want to hit,” said Jay Daugherty, Vice President of the PBR Touring Pro Division who attended the Big Sky event in 2011. “It has great production, great bulls and [it’s] in one of the most beautiful spots in the country.”

The Big Sky Town Center is hosting the event for the third straight year.

Attendees at the 2012 Big Sky PBR in the vendor village. The music stage and Lone Mountain are visible in the background.

“When the show comes to town we put in the arena, four chutes, 40 back pens, tents and porta-potties,” Watson said. “Being able to be outside in the mountain air in Big Sky makes it unique, and to see that sunset behind Lone Mountain is pretty amazing. It’s like sitting down in a small theater with [thousands] of your closest buddies.”

Free concerts will follow the competition both nights, with all-female AC/DC cover band Hell’s Belles on

July 31, and southwest Montana outlaw country juggernaut the Dirty Shame to close it out Aug 1.

Approximately 70 percent of the PBR crew travels across the country on the BFTS circuit, from New York City to Anaheim, Calif.

“They always say this is the best crowd,” Watson said. “The fans that come are off the hook.”

the producers

It takes a huge effort to put on an event of this caliber. Here are four of the main players who make it happen.

Andy and Jacey Watson – Freestone Productions

New 2013 Toyota Tundra

Toyota has the longest lasting vehicles of any full-line automotive manufacturer.

Jim Murphy – Continental Construction

(866) 781-9868

8476 Huffine Lane Bozeman, MT 59718 • www.toyotaofbozeman.com Longevity based on Polk U.S. Vehicles In Operation registration statistics MY 1987-2012 as of October 2012.

Full-line manufacturer based on car, SUV, minivan, compact and full-size pickup.

NWTBOZE070213 PBR Rodeo Ad.indd 1

© July 2013 Graham Oleson

7/16/13 11:35 AM

Eric Ladd – Outlaw Partners

explorebigsky.com

big sky pbr

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 5

Calcutta auctions raise money for area nonprofits A history of Calcutta

The Calcutta auctions at the Big Sky PBR will bring in cash for area nonprofits and give some members of the audience another reason to cheer for 8-second rides.

The Big Sky PBR Calcutta continues a wagering tradition practiced on a wide range of modern-day contests including golf, backgammon and the NCAA basketball tournament. This style of betting can be traced back to early 19th century horseracing in colonial Calcutta, India.

How it works: The 40 bull riders are split into eight teams of five, with each team auctioned off to the highest bidder. All the money is pooled, and the top scoring team pays out 70 percent, the second team, 20 percent, and the third, 10 percent. That cash is split between the winning bidders and this year’s receiving nonprofits, Big Sky Community Corp. and Yellowstone Park Foundation. “[The Calcutta] adds a lot for the fans that buy a team,” said Chad Berger of Mandan, N.D., who provides the bulls for the Big Sky PBR. “It’s more exciting for them and makes them feel more of a part of the event.”

Berger provides bulls for 35-40 events a season and says only about half a dozen hold a Calcutta auction. One of those is held at the Built Ford Tough World Finals in Las Vegas for the Rider Relief Fund, which provides financial assistance

The 2012 Big Sky PBR Calcutta

to athletes, bull riders and bull fighters, injured in the competitive sport of bull riding, according to its website.

BSCC promotes, acquires, preserves and maintains land, parks, trails and easements for the use of the Big Sky community and the general public. YPF is the official fundrais-

ing partner of Yellowstone National Park. Last year’s auction brought in $18,000 for BSCC; with an additional night for 2013, event planners hope it will raise even more this year.

The Spanish Peaks Community Foundation, newly formed this spring, is sponsoring the Calcutta.

There, tickets were sold to the public for 10 rupees apiece and capped at 100. Because more tickets were sold than horses racing, each horse was entered into a lottery with one ticket pulled for each. The winning ticket holder had exclusive betting rights on that horse.

Each winning ticket was auctioned off to the highest bidder, with half the money going to the original ticket holder, the other half into the pool. Each horse, dependent on where it placed, would pay out a percentage of the pool to the winning bidders.

AUCTION 08.09 WITHOUT RESERVE // BIG SKY, MT

•

Private, 23,000+/- square foot retreat on 60 acres

•

16 bedrooms, 16 full and 5 half bathrooms

•

Extensive outdoor activities: trout ponds, putting course, hot tub, hiking trails and more

Where the Living is EZ.

•

Minutes to world-class fly fishing and skiing

•

Listed for $24.5M // Selling Without Reserve

•

Open Daily 1-4 & by Appointment

•

2.5% Co-Broke Commission

7000 BEAVER CREEK ROAD, BIG SKY, MONTANA 59716 LISTED BY MARTHA JOHNSON, BROKER

BIGSKYAUCTION.COM // 877.812.0402 // #BIGEZLODGE

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

Listed for sale by Martha Johnson, Broker/Owner Martha Johnson Real Estate DBA Montana Living ~ Big Sky Real Estate (P.O. Box 160730, Big Sky, MT 59716, 406-995-6333, Lic#10419). Concierge Auctions, LLC is the provider of auction marketing services, is not a brokerage, and is not directly involved in selling real property. The services referred to herein are not available to residents of any state where prohibited by applicable state law. Concierge Auctions, LLC, its agents and affiliates, broker partners, Auctioneer, and the Sellers do not warrant or guaranty the accuracy or completeness of any information and shall have no liability for errors or omissions or inaccuracies under any circumstances in this or any other property listings or advertising, promotional or publicity statements and materials. This is not meant as a solicitation for listings. Brokers are protected and encouraged to participate. See Auction Terms & Conditions for details.

33771_PBR_10x7.6_070913.indd 1

7/9/13 3:43 PM

6 July 26-August 8, 2013

big sky pbr

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

Chad Berger Bucking Bulls Chad Berger Bucking Bulls, of Mandan, N.D., is known for breeding big, fierce, magnificent animals. Three-time PBR Stock Contractor of the Year, the Bergers provide bulls for 35-40 events a season and are trailering up 55 animals to Big Sky this year.

“We always look forward to coming to Big Sky,” Chad Berger said.

“It’s beautiful country up there, and everyone treats us well.”

His bulls range between 1,400 and 1,900 pounds, and the ones he’s

bringing to Big Sky this year are mostly 3- and 4-year-olds, Berger said.

They should provide riders with big scores – if they can hold on.

Featured bulls: A few of the Berger’s Bulls coming to Big Sky

Prince Albert: 1,450 lbs.

Prince Albert, 5, is another bull to watch this year. He won the Classic Wildcard last year at the World Finals, coming in first out of 85.

Chris Shivers rides Dakota/Berger's Prince Albert for 89.75 during the second round of the PBR World Finals Built Ford Tough series PBR. Photo by Andy Watson

Berger's Flint during the second round of the Chicago Built Ford Tough series PBR.

Ty Pozzobon attempts to ride Smackdown during the championship round of the St. Louis Built Ford Tough series PBR.

Photo by Andy Watson/bull stock media

Photo by Andy Watson/ bull stock media

Flint: 1,600 lbs.

Smackdown: 1,850 lbs.

Just a young up-and-comer, 6-year-old Flint is knocking on the door of being a contender for Bull of the Year, according to Berger. Since there’s no better entertainer than Flint Rasmussen, Berger figured he’d have a bull named after him.

“He’s pretty cocky!”

This 8-year-old took third place in Bull of the Year last year, and the year prior was in the top five. Smackdown has been one of the most consistent bulls in the PBR the last four years and he never has a bad day. If a cowboy can ride him, the score’s going to be over 90 points.

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

header

July 26-August 8, 2013 67

68 July 26-August 8, 2013

header

explorebigsky.com

y e l l o w s to n e c l u b f o u n d at i o n . o r g

Partnering with our community to promote education, conservation, and community service.

Explore Big Sky

explorebigsky.com

big sky pbr

Explore Big Sky

July 26-August 8, 2013 9

FEATURED BULL RIDER: Caleb “Pistol” Robinson Seven-year professional bull rider Pistol Robinson has a clear goal in mind for Big Sky’s PBR event.

Pistol Robinson stats Age: 29 Hometown: Burleson, Texas Height: 5’ 10” Weight: 135 Career events: 80 2013 TBD wins: 3 Avg. score: 86.43 Ride %: 33. 03 90-pt rides: 4

“I’m not coming up there just to hang out,” he said. “I plan on winning it.”

The 29-year-old from Burleson, Texas, has averaged a score of 86.43 and collected four 90-point rides in his career. He’s entering Big Sky’s event with three Touring Pro Division wins, the last on July 13 at Hidalgo, Texas.

Both of Robinson’s parents were involved in rodeo, and he said it was the natural choice for him.

“I grew up with a cowboy hat, boots on my feet and a diaper on,” he said.

Robinson said he’s looking forward to riding among the mountains and outside of the Texas summer heat. He’s attended the PBR in Big Sky before and said the enthusiastic crowd created a great atmosphere.

In January 2012, a bull named Carillo Cartel threw Robinson and broke his legs at a PBR event in Madison Square Garden. After a long recovery, PBR doctors released Robinson this January to ride, and now he’s focused on doing what he does best.

“It started out slow,” he said. “Now it’s back to bull riding and having fun.”

Pistol Robinson rides Stubby during the first round of the Bismarck Touring Pro Division PBR. Photo by Andy Watson/ bull stock media

The Entertainer: Flint Rasmussen For the past 15 years, Montanan Flint Rasmussen has captivated fans, young and old, every night on the Built Ford Tough Series as the official barrel man and entertainer extraordinaire of the PBR. The former high school math and history teacher from Choteau, Mont., uses his quick wit, comical stunts and dance moves to keep the crowd engaged during television commercial breaks and other lulls in the action, and also helps the announcer explain the details of the action.

GLOBAL

lifestyle

P RO P E RT I E S

$14.2M in closed sales in the last 60 days.

Thank you for the support!

L K R E A L E S TAT E . C O M For more information or private showings contact:

406-995-2404

10 July 26-August 8, 2013

Big Sky pbr

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

Mutton Bustin' The chute bursts open and the animal bounds into the ring, its pounding hooves leaving a wake of dust. A brave rider grips its mount tightly, spurred on by the cheering crowd.

This is mutton bustin’, an introduction to the limelight for aspiring bull riders or kids just looking for a good time. Instead of a 1,800-pound bucking bull, pint-sized riders test their mettle on 140- to 180-pound sheep, holding on as long as they can. Competitors must be 6 years old or younger, and weigh less than 60 pounds.

“Some of these kids know exactly what they’re doing,” said Gretchen FellerhoffWhite, who provides the sheep from her ranch in Gallatin Gateway. “Some of them are tough as nails.”

Fellerhoff-White has raised sheep for their wool for 27 years and been a stock contractor the past couple for Freestone Productions, which produces the Big Sky PBR. She brings ewes to mutton bustin’ events, since they’re gentler than rams.

“Sheep don’t kick,” she said. “They’re pretty safe animals.”

The trick to getting them sprinting across the ring is a lead sheep named Ramona, and an 11-year-old Australian shepherd named Arrow, who keeps the flock in order.

“The excitement of the young kids and the camaraderie and support they extend to each other has got to be a highlight for many who watch as well,” said Karen Lum, Director of Sales and Marketing at Moonlight Basin, which is sponsoring mutton bustin’ for the third year in a row. “They are a symbol of the adventurous spirit of Montanans and rodeo competitors.”

Moonlight is presenting every participant with a t-shirt and the winning rider with a locally made belt buckle.

participants

Tania Brennan won the Mutton Bustin' at the 2012 Big Sky PBR Photo by Jake Campos

Limited spots left for July 31 and Aug. 1. To register your child or get more information, call The Outlaw Partners office at (406) 995-2055 and ask for Maria.

Tate Bulis Age: 6 Weight: 50 pounds Riding: Secretariat

Dominic Ditullio Age: 3 ½ Weight: 35 pounds Riding: Buckey

Geno Ditullio Age: 5 ½ Weight: 45 pounds Riding: Spike

Paige Downey Age: 5 Weight: 35 pounds Riding: Shaun

Joaquin Garcia Age: 5 Weight: 55 pounds Riding: Pancho

Jory Hill Age: 4 Weight: 44 pounds Riding: Chicken On A Chain

Cate Leydig Age: 5 Weight: 43.5 pounds Riding: Bodacious

Lucy Stratford Age: 6 Weight: 45 pounds Riding: Buster

Jack Tinnin Age: 6 Weight: 43 pounds Riding: Rage

Heidi Welch Age: 4 Weight: 30 pounds Riding: Billy Goat

Ryan Wenger Age: 5 Weight: 45 pounds Riding: Mutt

Maddie Wilcynski Age: 5 Weight: 40 pounds Riding: Buckin’ Bronco

explorebigsky.com

big sky pbr

Explore Big Sky

Let there be rock Hell’s Belles, the hard-rocking all-female AC/DC cover band, brings their passionate fury to cap off the first night of bull riding with a free show at the Big Sky PBR on July 31.

July 26-August 8, 2013 11

Get down with the Dirty Shame

The band got together in 2000, and came to Big Sky for the 2002 Dirtbag Ball. The current lineup features lead guitarist Adrian Conner, original drummer Laura Derig, Mandy Reed on bass guitar, Sharon Needles playing rhythm and Australian native Amber Saxon, belting out the vocals of Bon Scott and Brian Johnson.

Covering the legendary Australian rockers is no easy task, given their technical playing style and notorious onstage antics, Conner said. “[AC/DC] is some of the best rock ‘n roll music ever written.”

The Belles play 70-80 shows a year, but the Big Sky PBR will be their first rodeo. They’re ready for the challenge, though, accordaing to Conner.

The all-female, AC/DC tribute band Hell’s Belles will rock a free concert after the Big Sky PBR July 31. PHOTO COURTESY OF HELL’S BELLES (DEVIN TRUE)

“We bring the party.”

The Dirty Shame performed at the inaugural Big Sky PBR in 2011.

The last bull will buck near dusk at the Big Sky PBR on Aug. 1, but the party will just be tuning up. The Dirty Shame, one of southwest Montana’s hardest working bands, returns to Big Sky to close out the PBR. The Bozeman-based, outlaw country outfit plays about 120 shows a year and are veterans to the rodeo circuit.

In addition to performing at the inaugural Big Sky PBR in 2011, the band has played the Livingston PBR three years in a row and play smaller rodeos around the state.

“We have a good time in Big Sky,” said lead singer Brandon Hale. “It’s always a great, energetic crowd. We’re ready to come up there and kick some ass.”

The Dirty Shame, formed in 2006, is working on their second studio album this summer and plans to play a number of new tracks at the free Big Sky show, Hale said.

PROUD TO BE A SUPPORTER OF PBR.

theoutlawpartners.com

12 July 26-August 8, 2013

big sky pbr

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

Continental Construction With bull riding surging in popularity across the U.S., Jim Murphy knew hosting a PBR event in Big Sky would have a positive impact on the community. Murphy’s company, Continental Construction, had sponsored Professional Bull Riding events in Bozeman in the past, and in 2011, he felt it was time to bring it up the road.

Originally from Albany, N.Y., Murphy first came west on a solo cross-country bike ride in 1982. “I took my time, went up in to Canada, over Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, and back into the U.S.,” he says. He stopped in Iowa and worked on a pig farm, then rode to Yellowstone Park, where his sister had a summer job. Finally, he hit the coast in Oregon and rode down to San Francisco.

Murphy and his wife Maureen settled in Naples, Fla., and started Continental in 1987. As soon as their six children were old enough, they vacationed in Big Sky, spending two weeks at Lone Mountain Ranch in summer 2002.

Eric Ladd of Outlaw Partners, and Jim Murphy had many discussions about moving the event to Big Sky. They knew it would have an economic impact on the community and felt it would put Big Sky, Mont. on the map to have a nationally recognized world-class event in its backyard. In 2011, it became a reality when Sam Byrne from the Yellowstone Club agreed to sponsor the event.

Continental Construction of Montana was formed in 2005, followed by the opening of Continental Interiors and an in-house cabinet shop in 2007.

Murphy assembles a team of local craftsmen specifically for every job.

“We select the right people for the right job, the right mix of the right talents,” he said. “These are local artisans committed to creating a magnificent home. Everyone is working toward a common vision – to create something beyond extraordinary.”

Continental is a general contractor in the Yellowstone Club and Big Sky area, and Murphy also felt this would be a great way to give back to the community and support his employees and contractors.

Although soft spoken, he’s proud of what it has become.

Continental this summer completed Slopeside #503, an unforgettable residence that is the culmination of years of vision, design and creation.

Photo courtesy of Continental Construction

“For weeks preceding the event, it’s what you hear wherever you go – in grocery stores, retail establishments, coffee shops, restaurants. The excitement is palpable. The PBR

draws people from around the country, giving them an exciting evening, and also introducing them to Montana.”

“At Continental, we aim to create one-of-a-kind homes with the utmost dedication to quality and craftsmanship,” Murphy says. “At the heart of our business is a commitment to integrity.”

Bounty Bull On night one of the Big Sky PBR, July 31, the top rider after the first round is invited back for a bonus “Bounty Bull,” with funds raised by a 50/50 raffle.

If the cowboy manages to hang on for eight seconds, he’ll split the pot with the winning ticket holder. If he’s bucked, half the money is donated to a local nonprofit, and the other half rolls over to next year’s bounty.

“We think [the PBR] is truly Big Sky’s best event,” said Kate Scott, co-owner of Lone Pine Builders, which sponsors the Bounty Bull.

“These guys put on such a great show and really take a beating on those bulls. [This] is a nice way to show our appreciation for what they do.”

You can leave your hat on!

Wear a cowboy hat to the Big Sky PBR on July 31, and you might win cash.

The Cummings got the idea from the Calgary Stampede, the largest rodeo in the world, Jan Cummings said.

In an effort to promote western tradition, the Cummings family is putting up $500 to be split into three cash prizes - $100, $150 and $250 – and raffled off during that night.

During the parade at Calgary, vendors give out coupons to discounted items and giveaways—but only to attendees wearing cowboy hats.

Anyone wearing a hat at the entrance gate will get a free raffle ticket, and one of the Cummings grandchildren will pick the winners from – yes, a hat.

When the Cummings first came to Big Sky in 1989, more people wore cowboy hats, Jan said.

“It’s the spirit of the West, a tradition, and we don’t want to lose that.”

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

big sky pbr

July 26-August 8, 2013 13

With the goal of bringing the community together, the Big Sky PBR has always supported local nonprofits.

“We’ve always wanted this to be a true community event,” said event organizer Eric Ladd. “We feel that it’s important to give back and support local charities by generating awareness and funds for their causes.”

The nonprofits featured here are all involved with the 2013 event.

Big Sky Community Corp.

The BSCC was created in 1998 to promote, acquire, preserve and maintain land, parks trails and easements for the use the Big Sky community and the general public. BSCC manages 16 miles of trails and three large parks and is also home to Camp Big Sky, Crail Ranch Conservations, Tennis Association, softball, disc golf, and parks and trails committees. bsccmt.org

Warren Miller Performing Arts Center Built in the old Ophir School gym, the Warren Miller Performing Arts Center was completed in March of 2013. The mission of the WMPAC is to establish and maintain a stable, artistic infrastructure to grow a community of confident performers and inspired audiences. warrenmillerpac.org

Big Sky Firefighters Local 4732 This group is raising money for “Fill the Boot,” a national campaign put on by the International Association of Firefighters. The money will go towards the Muscular Dystrophy Association, a nonprofit health agency dedicated to finding treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy. The IAFF is MDA’s largest donor via “Fill the Boot.” iaff.org

Yellowstone Park Foundation The Yellowstone Park Foundation has been the official fundraising partner of Yellowstone National Park since 1996. Its mission is to fund projects and programs that protect and preserve the natural and cultural resources, and enhance the visitor experience in Yellowstone. YPF has raised more than $70 million and funded more than 250 important projects and initiatives since its inception, including cutthroat trout restoration, wildlife research, trail restoration and youth education. ypf.org

Yellowstone Club Community Foundation YCCF was established in 2010 to provide a resource to nonprofit community organizations in the greater Big Sky and Gallatin Valley area. Funded by members, friends, ownership and management of Yellowstone Club, YCCF will provide grants to eligible organizations that promote community service, education and conservation. yellowstoneclubfoundation.org

Spanish Peaks Community Foundation The Spanish Peaks Community Foundation supports the greater Big Sky area by funding community service projects, the arts, education and management of the outdoors. spanishpeaksfoundation.org

Gallant Chance Ranch Gallant Chance Ranch works with at-risk youth ages 13 and up in Gallatin County to inspire them to D.R.E.A.M. – develop responsible, enthusiastic and ambitious mindsets. The organization strives to develop youths who are prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century as emerging leaders within their community. gallantchanceranch.org

The Spanish Peaks Community Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation that supports the greater Big Sky area by funding community service projects, the arts, education, and management of the outdoors.

SPANISHPEAKSFOUNDATION.ORG

14 July 26-August 8, 2013

big sky pbr

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

Working together

Yellowstone Club Community Foundation Every Friday during the school year, the Gallatin Valley Food Bank sends 500 kids home with extra food for the weekend. Started in 2009, GVFB’s KidsPack program reaches students around Gallatin County, from Bozeman and Belgrade, to Big Sky and West Yellowstone.

The Yellowstone Club Community Foundation has donated nearly $200,000 to the food bank since 2010, with $185,000 earmarked for KidsPack; it now helps subsidize a parttime GVFB employee to ensure the program’s ongoing growth. The goal is to extend KidsPack around southwest Montana to towns like Harrison, Alder, Twin Bridges and Boulder, said GVFB Program Manager Lori Christenson.

Since its inception in 2010, YCCF has given more than $1 million to Big Sky and Gallatin Valley organizations focused on community, education and conservation.

With two grant cycles annually of $150,000, YCCF is building ongoing relationships with many of the 50 organizations it supports, said Executive Director Casey Schwartz.

“How can you build a program if you don’t know where your funding is going to come from?” she said.

Also important, Schwartz says, is being able to see the difference it’s making.

“How do you prove success? With [Big Sky Youth Empowerment], it’s how many kids go on to college or trade school, enlist in the military, or finish high school.”

With the Big Sky Community Park – which YCCF has supported through the Big Sky Community Corp. – those outcome measures are in the form of kids carving in the new skatepark or playing pickup basketball.

“The employees are essential to the YC membership experience,” Schwartz said. “By funding community needs, we make Big Sky a better place to live, which it helps us attract better employees.”

Big Sky Community Park

Elementary aged students at recess at Ophir School.

In that vein, the Big Sky School District is the foundation’s second largest grant recipient, behind only the food bank.

Funding has gone toward the district’s technology program, and to establishing the Thrive Cap Mentor program in Big Sky. Many YC employees also volunteer in the community. “If this area in Montana is going to be successful, we have to work together on it, that’s clear,” Schwartz said.

YCCF has also supported the Warren Miller Performing Arts Center, Big Sky Broadway, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Women In Action, Eagle Mount, Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter, Friends of the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center, Blue Water Task Force, the Big Sky Skating and Hockey Association, Montana Shakespeare in the Parks and the Belgrade Community Library summer reading program.

“The Yellowstone Club Community Foundation is dedicated to serving the needs of the greater Gallatin Val-

Students help with the Kidspak program at the big sky food bank. photo courtesy of lori christenson

ley,” said Sam Byrne, YCCF board president and principal owner at the Yellowstone Club. “I am proud of the work done to promote such essential local programs and look forward to many years of continued support and partnership with our friends and neighbors in the community.”

The Weiskopf Cup, one of YCCF’s two annual fundraisers, is Aug. 23

this year. Engaging local businesses and community members through sponsorship and participating golf teams, the tournament last year raised $100,000.

“It’s really exciting to see things that didn’t exist [and do now] because of the generosity of members,” Schwartz said. “It’s tangible, [and] it’s pretty humbling.”

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

thank you to our sponsors

A&A THAI

big sky pbr

July 26-August 8, 2013 15

76 July 26-August 8, 2013

header

explorebigsky.com

Explore Big Sky

ENJOY THE RIDE. REALESTATEOFBIGSKY.COM The most integ rated, specialized network for Real Estate of Big Sk y.

Ania Bulis, Broker 406.580.6852 aniabulis@hotmail.com

BIG SKY • MOONLIGHT BASIN • THE CLUB AT SPANISH PEAKS • YELLOWSTONE CLUB