Explore Big Sky - February 22 to March 6, 2024

February

RESORT TAX TO ACQUIRE LAND TO RENOVATE 191 /64 INTERSECTION

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BLINDSIDE BURGER OPENS IN TOWN CENTER

LOCAL FREERIDE ATHLETES COMPETE IN AUSTRIA

LONE PEAK SENIOR ACCEPTED TO WEST POINT

YELLOWSTONE PONDERS NEW INTERAGENCY BISON MANAGEMENT PLAN

FORBES GIVES MONTAGE FIVE STARS

February

Volume

PUBLISHER

Eric Ladd | eric@theoutlawpartners.com

EDITORIAL

VP MEDIA

Mira Brody | mira@theoutlawpartners.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Jack Reaney | jack@theoutlawpartners.com

DIGITAL PRODUCER

Jen Clancey | jen@theoutlawpartners.com

EDITORIAL CONSULTANT

Leslie Kilgore | leslie@theoutlawpartners.com

CREATIVE

LEAD GRAPHIC DESIGNER

ME BROWN | maryelizabeth@theoutlawpartners.com

SALES AND OPERATIONS

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Josh Timon | josh@theoutlawpartners.com

CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER

Megan Paulson | megan@theoutlawpartners.com

VP DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Hiller Higman | hiller@theoutlawpartners.com

DIRECTOR OF RELATIONSHIPS

Ersin Ozer | ersin@theoutlawpartners.com

MARKETING MANAGER

Tucker Harris | tucker@theoutlawpartners.com

CONTENT MARKETING LEAD

Taylor Owens | taylor@theoutlawpartners.com

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT

Sara Sipe | sara@theoutlawpartners.com

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LEAD

Patrick Mahoney | patrick@theoutlawpartners.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Mario Carr, Jenny Dalimata, Rachel Hergett, Alex Marienthal, Michelle Nierling, Benjamin Alva Polley, Benjamin Spiker, Paul Swenson

On the night of Feb. 19, Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue performed an overnight rescue of two snowmobilers near West Yellowstone. The rescue required a short-haul helicopter rescue on the morning of Feb. 20.

COURTESY OF GCSSAR

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FORBES GIVES MONTAGE FIVE STARS

7

Montage Big Sky is now a Forbes-rated Five-Star hotel. The designation was announced on Feb. 7 as part of Forbes Travel Guide’s 2024 Star Awards. The recently built ski-in, ski-out hotel features 100 guest rooms and suites and 39 privately owned Montage Residences. Resort amenities include four restaurants, including the hotel’s primary restaurant, Cortina, a recreation room with a bowling alley, outdoor swimming pool, Spa Montage, and a meeting and event space.

BLINDSIDE BURGER OPENS IN TOWN CENTER

On Monday, Feb. 12, Big Sky Town Center welcomed a new restaurant. Blindside Burger will prioritize quick service, and its milkshakes will be “monstrosities” according to local restauranteur Troy “Twist” Thompson, who’s opening the “elevated casual” burger joint. Thompson owns two other Town Center eateries: Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge and Tres Toros Tacos & Tequila.

LONE PEAK SENIOR ACCEPTED TO WEST POINT

Beckett Johnson, senior at Lone Peak High School, recently became the first-ever LPHS student accepted to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Johnson plans to enroll and eventually join the infantry, a decision he credits to his role models with military backgrounds. Johnson was an all-conference and all-state soccer player for Lone Peak in his senior season, and his teachers say he’s a leader in the classroom.

RESORT TAX TO ACQUIRE LAND TO RENOVATE 191/64 INTERSECTION

With partnership from Montana Department of Transportation, the Big Sky Resort Area District is exploring ways to improve traffic flow at the intersection of U.S. Highway 191 and Montana Highway 64 (Lone Mountain Trail). In order to make meaningful improvements, officials say additional land on the northwest corner of the intersection is needed. The land’s value was recently appraised at $9.5 million, and the BSRAD board voted on Feb. 13 to pursue a buy-sell agreement.

LOCAL FREERIDE ATHLETES COMPETE IN AUSTRIA

Elijah Singer and Hayes Livernois, both Big Sky freeride junior athletes, qualified last winter for the 2024 Freeride Junior World Championships in Austria. In January, they competed overseas and braved tough snow and weather conditions after hazards forced a venue change. Although neither earned a spot on the podium, they both hope to continue competing at a high level.

SCAN

After a well-documented shortage of snow in the first half of winter, the beginning of February saw three significant snowstorms and more than two accumulating feet in Big Sky’s upper elevations. Just in time for Presidents Day ski visitors, Big Sky Resort and the surrounding trails were blanketed with fluff and illuminated by warm bluebird skies.

EDITORIAL POLICIES

EDITORIAL POLICY

Outlaw Partners, LLC is the sole owner of Explore Big Sky. EBS reserves the right to edit all submitted material. Printed material reflects the opinion of the author and is not necessarily the opinion of Outlaw Partners or its editors. EBS will not publish anything discriminatory or in bad taste.

EBS welcomes obituaries written by family members or from funeral homes. To place an obituary, please submit 500 words or less to media@theoutlawpartners.com.

ON THE COVER: explorebigsky explorebigsky

YELLOWSTONE PONDERS NEW INTERAGENCY BISON MANAGEMENT PLAN

Yellowstone National Park is preparing a new Interagency Bison Management Plan, the first time the management of bison around park borders has been reconsidered since 2000. EBS contributor Benjamin Alva Polley spoke with stakeholders to understand the history of bison conflict in and around the park, and what changes are being discussed.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Letters to the editor allow EBS readers to express views and share how they would like to effect change. These are not

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NEWS IN BRIEF BRIEFS

BIG HORN BOYS WIN FIRST-EVER CLASS B PLAYOFF GAME

EBS STAFF

Lone Peak High School basketball played its first-ever Montana Class B playoff game on Feb. 14, entering the district 5B tournament as the five-seed and upsetting the No. 4 Whitehall-Willow Creek Trojans, 41-38.

Junior Isaac Bedway accounted for 23 of Lone Peak’s 41 points, including four free throws in the fourth quarter—two of which came with .4 seconds on the clock, giving the Big Horns a 41-38 lead.

“He tried to miss the second, to make the clock run out, but even that one went in,” head coach Al Malinowski wrote in an email to EBS.

Sophomore Ebe Grabow scored six points, sophomore Oliver McGuire scored five and freshman Ryan Malinowski scored three points. Senior Juliusz Shipman and freshman Miles Romney eached scored two points in the Big Horns’ first-round victory.

“The team showed a lot of resilience,” Malinowski wrote. “Neither team could make shots early. Late in the game, Whitehall would score and we would answer. I don’t think we led until the last minute, when Isaac stole a pass and made a breakaway layup to put us up [by] one.”

The Big Horns advanced in the double-elimintation tournament to play the Manhattan High School Tigers—ranked No. 2 in all of Montana Class B— on Feb. 16.

The Tigers beat the Big Horns, 73-31. Lone Peak was eliminated in a subsequent loss against Ennis High School, 60-47, on Feb. 17.

YELLOWSTONE SUMMIT TO RETURN FOR THIRD YEAR

EBS STAFF

Yellowstone National Park will hold its third annual Yellowstone Summit, a virtual event attended by thousands each year. From Feb. 22 to 25, the online gathering will offer educational and art experiences for lovers of the park.

“Attendees of the Yellowstone Summit will have access to a wealth of insider information, firsthand updates, and engaging sessions presented by over 30 Yellowstone experts through a mixture of pre-recorded and live presentations, and live Q&As and discussions,” a release from Yellowstone National Park stated.

Some of the highlights of the event are deep-dive discussion on all things Yellowstone, presentations by creatives who have captured the park through artwork, and tips on best hidden spots and joining a community of Yellowstone enthusiasts.

General pass tickets for all sessions and content, as well as an online community of attendees and experts is $12. VIP tickets are $47, where participants can have lifetime access to all presentations.

Jenny Golding and George Bumann co-founded the event to provide park lovers an opportunity to learn more about Yellowstone.

“The vision for the Yellowstone Summit is to bring this unparalleled level of world-class Yellowstone knowledge and connection to a virtual format that is affordable, and available to anyone, anywhere,” the release stated.

CLASSIFIED

Public Notice of Basic Telephone Service

Available from 3 Rivers Telephone Cooperative, Inc.

3 Rivers Telephone Cooperative, Inc. is designated as an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier by meeting guidelines of the Federal Communications Commission and the Montana Public Service Commission.

Basic service from 3 Rivers Telephone Cooperative Inc. includes:

• Voice grade access to the public switched network

• Access to emergency services (including 911/E911)

• Access to operator services, interexchange carriers, and directory assistance

• Toll-free calling to United States, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands and Canada, if selected.

3 Rivers Telephone Cooperative Inc. offers basic service to all customers in our serving territory. Our monthly rates for residential and business basic services are listed below. Low-income individuals may be eligible for Lifeline and Link-up telephone assistance programs, which provide discounts on basic telephone service. (Link-up is available on tribal lands only). Customers may only receive one Lifeline discount per household.

If you have questions, or would like to become a customer of 3 Rivers Telephone Cooperative, Inc, please contact us at 406-467-2535, 1-800-796-4567, www.3rivers. net or visit our business office at 406 2nd Ave South in Fairfield.

We are also available at:

Big Sky business office: 406-995-2600 32 Running Iron Road, Big Sky, MT 59716

Basic Monthly Rates:

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PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE: REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SEALED PROPOSALS INCORPORATION EXPLORATION STUDY

TO ALL INTERESTED VENDORS: The Big Sky Resort Area District is seeking competitive sealed proposals from “vendors” to provide goods and services for the Incorporation Exploration Study. Competitive sealed proposals should be delivered to the District no later than 4:00 PM, Mountain Time on April 15th, 2024. Proposals will be opened at a regularly scheduled public meeting of the Board of Directors at 9:00 AM, on Wednesday, April 17th, 2024. The full request for competitive sealed proposals can be found at resorttax.org or by contacting the District directly at 406.995.3234.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

The Big Sky Resort Area District (BSRAD) is committed to investing in the future of Big Sky. From improving our roads and traffic flow to protecting our natural resources, we make strategic funding decisions that will benefit both residents and visitors alike. As we look to the future, we will continue to engage stakeholders to seek comprehensive solutions that will have the most impact on Big Sky. We encourage YOU to be a part of that conversation.

Acquiring a Community Asset

The intersection of 191/64 is vital to Big Sky. It is our one way in and one way out. The BSRAD Board agreed to pursue the purchase of property at that intersection unlocking potential solutions for our future.

The property is a key opportunity for a meaningful solution for traffic congestion. BSRAD is working closely with the Montana Department of Transportation on ways to increase mobility and safety along the 191 corridor.

The location also has the potential to house critical infrastructure for the Gallatin Canyon Water and Sewer District, infrastructure that will have significant impact on improved water quality in the Gallatin River

There are many other possible community uses for that property. Acquiring it now affords us the opportunity to plan for the right solutions.

Incorporation Exploration Study

Following through on our promise to explore the potential of municipal governance in Big Sky, the board agreed to solicit proposals to create an Incorporation Exploration Study. This study will be a comprehensive look into incorporation and include a number of governance options. It will outline structure, services and costs - considerations which will help residents make an informed decision on our future.

FY25 Applications Open

With the budget approved, applications are now open for FY25 Government and Nonprofit projects and programs that positively impact our community. How can you get involved?

APPLY

Have a project you think would benefit the community? Meet with District staff to find out if it’s a good fit for Resort Tax funding.

JOIN THE DISCUSSION

Take part in how Resort Tax funds are invested in Big Sky. Attend board meetings, provide public comment, and send us your priorities.

STAY INFORMED

Sign up to receive updates, follow us on social media, and watch for ways you can engage.

Head to the Funding page at ResortTax.org for more information.

LOCAL

MONTAGE BIG SKY EARNS ITS STARS

RESORT NAMED FIVE-STAR HOTEL IN FORBES TRAVEL GUIDE’S 2024 STAR AWARDS

EBS STAFF

Montage Big Sky was recently named a Five-Star hotel in Forbes Travel Guide’s 2024 Star Awards, according to a Forbes news release on Feb. 7.

Forbes Travel Guide is the only independent, global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas and ocean cruises, and with this designation Montage Big Sky stands among other internationally acclaimed destinations including Dubai, Rwanda and Kenya, according to the release.

“We are honored and humbled to receive our inaugural 5-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide, the foremost authority on genuine Five-Star service,” General Manager Victorio Gonzalez told EBS. “This prestigious designation is a testament to the dedication of our associates, whose unwavering passion and commitment to delivering impeccable hospitality fills us with immense pride.”

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Big Sky community for their continued support and look

forward to welcoming locals and visitors alike to enjoy our resort for years to come,” Gonzalez added.

In its 66th year, FTG awards are granted through a thorough and anonymous inspection process where resorts are evaluated based on specific standards, including exceptional service and providing unique worldwide experiences to guests. The only way to get a Five-Star, Four-Star or Recommended rating is by earning it through this inspection process.

Montage Big Sky is located in Big Sky’s 3,530-acre Spanish Peaks Mountain Club. It opened its doors in winter of 2021 and features 100 guest rooms and suites and 39 privately owned Montage Residences. Resort amenities include four restaurants, including Cortina, a recreation room with a bowling alley, outdoor swimming pool, Spa Montage, and a meeting and event space. Its proximity to Big Sky Resort offers ski-in, ski-out access as well as the use of Spanish Peaks Mountain Club’s 18-hole Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course.

BURGERS N’ SHAKES ARRIVE IN BIG SKY

BLINDSIDE BURGER TO OPEN IN TOWN CENTER WITH A FAMILIAR ‘TWIST’

BY MIRA BRODY

BIG SKY—Big Sky Town Center welcomed a new culinary venture with a familiar face on Feb. 12. Troy “Twist” Thompson, owner of neighboring Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge and Tres Toros Tacos & Tequila, opened Blindside Burger, which features creative smash-style burgers, fries and milkshakes he describes as “monstrosities.”

“Picture whole pieces of cake with whipped cream,” Thompson told EBS.

Blindside Burger opened its doors with 10 different burgers on the menu, Thompson’s favorite of which is a “peanut butter bourbon burger” featuring smoked gouda cheese, caramelized onions and garlic aioli. The joint will be family- and localfriendly, and Thompson described the atmosphere as “elevated casual.” After hitting their stride, Thompson looks forward to the summer when he plans to expand their menu.

Thompson, a Golden, Colorado native, opened Blue Buddha in 2019, and before that had rolled sushi for 14 years and studied under Andy Matsuda, founder of the Sushi Chef Institute in Los Angeles. While sushi rolling gained him popularity in Big Sky, Thompson calls this burger diversion more of the “bread and butter” of his culinary craft.

Whether it’s rolls or patties he’s whipping up, Thompson expresses appreciation toward the community that has supported him through the years. He said “the appreciation from folks that decided to live here full-time and have chosen Big Sky as their landing pad,” is what he loves most about being a business owner in Big Sky.

“We love small communities,” Thompson added. “I would never, and could never, be anywhere else.”

Blindside Burger is located at 47 Town Center Avenue, Suite D1 (the former site of Lotus Pad) and will serve lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Montage opened its doors in winter of 2021 and features 100 guest rooms and suites and 39 privately owned Montage Residences. PHOTO COURTESY OF MONTAGE BIG SKY

PHOTO COURTESY OF MONTAGE BIG SKY

Troy "Twist" Thompson stands outside of Blindside Burger ahead of its opening. PHOTO BY JACK REANEY

BECKETT JOHNSON BECOMES FIRST-EVER LONE PEAK STUDENT ACCEPTED TO WEST POINT

JOHNSON NOMINATED BY MONTANA SENS. JON TESTER AND STEVE DAINES, AND REP. RYAN ZINKE; PLANS TO JOIN U.S. ARMY

BY JACK REANEY

BIG SKY—Lone Peak High School senior Beckett Johnson will attend the U.S. Military Academy at West Point after graduating in the spring. After moving to Big Sky in 2021, Johnson became the first LPHS student accepted to the prestigious military academy.

Johnson said he’s been considering a military education for a few years. He plans to pursue a career in the infantry after education.

“I’ve always had a great respect for veterans and people who serve their country for something greater than themselves,” Johnson told EBS. “A lot of my mentors are veterans, and I feel like those are the kind of people I aspire to be, so I figured I should probably follow their path.”

He appreciates Tony Coppola and Jeremy Harder, his teachers and soccer coaches, for their involvement with the American Legion and for sponsoring his summer 2023 trip to American Legion Boys State‚ an organization largely run by veterans. Johnson also received help in the application process from local Air Force veterans John and Bobbi Gilbert.

Applying to West Point was tricky, Johnson said, but he was fortunate to pass eligibility screenings for health and other factors, which helped his odds. About a year ago, Johnson began working out in preparation for West Point’s physical test— including push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups, one-mile run and a basketball throw. He continued pushing himself in academics and extracurricular activities, including some volunteer time with Big Sky Bravery, a Montana-based nonprofit that supports active-duty special operations forces.

The West Point application also required a nomination from a senator or state representative. Johnson sent transcripts and essays, interviewed with, and was ultimately nominated by three: Sens. Jon Tester and Steve Daines, and Rep. Ryan Zinke.

Johnson recently met with Tester when the senator visited the area.

“He came up to me and said, ‘I know you,’” Johnson recalled. He thanked the senator for his nomination, and was thanked in return.

“Don’t thank me, you’re the one who’s going to be serving our country,” Johnson recalled Tester responding.

A Jan. 17 press release from Sen. Tester’s office included a statement about Johnson.

“Montanans have a long and proud history of serving in our armed services, and it’s an honor to help our state’s best and brightest students continue that legacy at our military service academies,” Tester stated. “Beckett is an outstanding leader inside and

“A LOT OF MY MENTORS ARE VETERANS, AND I FEEL LIKE THOSE ARE THE KIND OF PEOPLE I ASPIRE TO BE, SO I FIGURED I SHOULD PROBABLY FOLLOW THEIR PATH.”

outside the classroom, and I look forward to seeing him continue to make our state proud by serving our country.”

Johnson thanked his parents for understanding his decision to join the army, his teachers in Big Sky who have made an impact during his three years at Lone Peak, and his coaches and friends for pushing him to be the best version of himself.

Coppola and Harder wrote a joint statement to EBS about Johnson’s impact at Lone Peak High School.

“Beckett is an extraordinary member of our learning and athletic community. In the hallways and classroom, he often holds high expectations

for himself. These repeatedly carry over to his classmates and elevate the learning environment.”

Johnson is a member of the National Honor Society. Coppola and Harder praised him as a “prolific leader” in the classroom and as a tutor to younger students, and as a soccer team captain.

“As his coaches, teachers, and friends, we respect his decision to enter West Point, making him the first LPHS student to be accepted. He will be fulfilling the civic duty of serving his country, defending the Constitution, and embarking on a journey complete of unique worldly experiences,” Coppola and Harder wrote.

On the soccer field, they credit him for aiding the program’s culture and work ethic. This season, Johnson and fellow senior Cash Beattie made the Class A all-state team and the first-team Montana Class A Eastern Conference roster. The Big Horns reached the state semifinal for the first time in school history.

“His invaluable contributions on the field as a dominant player in the league helped us succeed. As a captain in his senior year, Beckett modeled hard work, determination, and a newfound sense of maturity that his fellow players emulated,” Johnson’s coaches wrote.

“We are honored to have had the opportunity to learn from you,” they added, and wished Johnson luck in his next chapter beyond Big Sky.

Johnson and his soccer coach and teacher, Tony Coppola. PHOTO BY JACK REANEY

A NEW ERA FOR BIG SKY WATER AND SEWER WITH NEW CUTTING-EDGE FACILITIES, FAST-GROWING CUSTOMER BASE AND VETERAN OFFICIALS RETIRING, TOMORROW’S WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT WILL PRIORITIZE PROFESSIONALISM AND HIGH STANDARDS

BY JACK REANEY

BIG SKY—The Big Sky County Water and Sewer District will look a lot different in 2025 than it did before 2024.

Perhaps the most significant change will be BSCWSD’s new Wastewater Resource Recovery Facility, a $50 million project scheduled for phased opening between March and October 2024. The WRRF will treat Big Sky’s wastewater to higher standards, and it required a staffing plan.

Coincident with that staffing plan, longtime General Manager Ron Edwards expects to retire not long after the new facility’s ribbon cutting—his replacement, Johnny O’Connor, already has six months under his belt as GM. In August 2023, Edwards’ partner in crime, Jim Muscat, retired after 28 years; in December, the district bid farewell to its front-facing customer service guru of 27 years, Marlene Kennedy. Financial Officer Terry Smith has been crunching numbers for almost 23 years and sees retirement on the horizon.

What may seem like a void in experience and leadership, however, brings about an opportunity. EBS sat down with more than half of the current staff to learn how.

“All of the original crew has served a whole lifetime here, really, and they managed it really well and it’s gotten us to where we are today,” said Vince Palafox, who has worked for the district almost seven years and was recently promoted to fill half of Muscat’s water superintendent role.

This is the first major change in leadership in the district’s three-decade history since being formed in the mid-1990s.

“The changing of the guard,” O’Connor said. “... It will be here before we know it... version 2.0.”

The district now has a 16-person staff, and four are newhires: Katie Coleman, well-known Big Sky local, and Matt Foley, 21-year-old from Belgrade, took jobs as WRRF operators; Montana State University graduate Rose Joseph will support Palafox as a collection and distribution operator; and a new position remains open for district clerk, handling work split by Edwards and other officials in the past. For all new and recently hired staff, Palafox emphasized the importance of recognizing their potential to become the district’s future leaders.

“It’s pretty awesome to see that we are really addressing the succession as well as this restructure at this same time,” Palafox said.

The district has a new organization chart with positions that match the increasing demand and level of services, resulting in three departments: one for sewage treatment, and two for drinking water.

On the sewer side, there’s WRRF and reuse/disposal. Adam Rutz, a two-year employee, is superintendent of disposal and irrigation, and the WRRF. Rutz said the district interviewed seven candidates for the WRRF operator roles before hiring Katie Coleman and Matt Foley.

“It was very important to me to have another Big Sky person on our team, residing up here,” Rutz said of Coleman. She and Foley can learn from Operator Justin Brechtelsbauer, who has almost three decades of industry experience, with many years in Four Corners and Gallatin Gateway before coming to Big Sky.

The drinking water category—previously Muscat’s domain—was split into two departments: distribution and collection, and water production and metering. With five years of experience, Jake Porter was recently promoted to water production and metering

superintendent. Palafox took over distribution and collection.

Palafox is excited to bring the organization to the next level. O’Connor pointed out that most of the staff is already state certified for both water and sewer, and although BSCWSD staff have always held certifications for at least their area of specialty—water or sewer— Palafox and Rutz said more team members will be certified in both.

“We’re still a small utility in general for the size of connections and infrastructure that’s in the ground. We’re a pretty small team,” Porter said. With the district’s wide-ranging responsibilities, it will be important for staff to work outside their specialty.

“We’re excited to go into this next phase of the district. Transition out of the old ways and into the new age,” Rutz said.

“To take the knowledge and experience that’s been inhouse and put some more leadership roles in place, and then bring it up to next generation in the district. Setting us up for longevity,” O’Connor said. “We’re definitely moving out of the Wild West of things, and becoming more professional.”

Education and enforcement

O’Connor said the district will continue to work toward enforcing its policies and educating its customer base.

“[Organizations] are trying to educate people about excessive irrigation using potable water out of your house,” Porter said. “[Planting] more native grasses and trees and such—drought-resistant landscaping.”

The Gallatin River Task Force has been ramping up water conservation incentives. In addition, four organizations launched a landscaping partnership in 2023 called Alpenscapes. It’s a joint effort between GRTF, Grow Wild, Big Sky SNO and the Big Sky Fire Department, “to create a fire-safe, water-wise, and ecosystem-friendly future for Big Sky,” according to the Alpenscapes website.

Palafox said during Big Sky’s summer irrigation season, potable water use can skyrocket up to 600% for average customers.

“That does definitely impact our [water] supply quite a bit. As time goes on, we will definitely add more

restrictions specifically toward irrigation. [Customers] will be limited to how much irrigation they can do in the future. Or they’ll pay a price for it,” Palafox said.

Rutz added that it’s time for Big Sky to “transition from this old mentality of using drinking water to make aesthetically pleasing yards. Go to more native landscapes, not waste such a valuable resource.”

Irrigators will hope to stay friendly with Eric Daniels, a versatile water distribution and collection operator assistant, also known to be an irrigation enforcer. Daniels slaps overirrigation notices on doors and isn’t afraid to deliver his “wrath” to anyone who dares tap a fire hydrant outside of regularly permitted hours, he said.

Another area of concern is fats, oils and grease in the waste stream that could damage or jam up the sensitive membranes in the new WRRF.

“Not only the fats, oils and greases, but baby wipes and the so-called ‘flushable wipes,’” O’Connor said. “That’s just stuff that should not go down into the sewer because it does not break down.”

Before becoming distribution and collection operator, wastewater operator Peter Bedell spoke with EBS at length about “FOG” after BSCWSD board discussion in late November. Since then, the district has decided not to hire a compliance officer who would ensure restaurants are trapping their grease.

“That’s going to be done in-house,” O’Connor said. “We felt confident that through our systems and stuff, we shouldn’t have to outsource for that or bring in a third party.”

Palafox added, “The biggest thing for the customer side is to just be cognizant of not dumping fatty oils and greases down the drain. And if you’re cooking a pan of bacon, to scrape your grease out into a coffee can or something and dispose of it through the landfill, versus into the sewer collection system. That is definitely going to increase the longevity of the [WRRF] as well.”

O’Connor hopes that as Big Sky’s water and sewer district evolves, community members will get to know the new faces. When Ron Edwards and Terry Smith join Jim Muscat and Marlene Kennedy in retirement, it will be the next generation of leadership helping the community through the good, bad and ugly of water and sewer in Big Sky.

Top: Johnny O'Connor, Adam Rutz, Bottom: Vince Palafox, Jake Porter

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FILM AT WMPAC TO EXPLORE MENTAL HEALTH IN MOUNTAIN TOWNS

‘THE PARADISE PARADOX’ WILL SHOW FOR FREE AT 6:30 P.M. ON MONDAY, FEB. 26

BY JACK REANEY

BIG SKY—We’re all attracted to Big Sky’s picturesque peaks, year-round trails, powder days and sunrise treks. Many people are here to live, work or play in the great outdoors. But incredible surroundings cannot erase deep personal struggles, and a new film explores the unglorified challenges of ski town living.

“The Paradise Paradox” will screen for free at Warren Miller Performing Arts Center on Monday, Feb. 26. Doors open at 6 p.m. before the 6:30 showing. Produced by Podium Pictures in association with Alterra Mountain Company—owner of the Ikon Pass and 17 North American ski destinations—the two-hour film “explores the mental health crisis affecting America’s mountain towns and the innovative solutions being developed in response. By opening up the conversation, the stigmas can start to melt away and real progress can be made for the citizens of these towns and beyond,” according to the film’s website.

The film is centered in Colorado’s Eagle County— home to Vail Ski Resort and Beaver Creek Resort—but explores themes common to any recreation-focused destination community. Those interested in attending can reserve free tickets online.

Pete MacFadyen has spent his whole working life supporting adolescents’ mental and behavioral health. After working as a licensed therapist and serving as founder and executive director of Big Sky Youth Empowerment, he’s now executive director of the Bozeman-based Rieschel Foundation, a private family foundation focused on finding and developing partners to better serve their communities. The Rieschel Foundation helped to produce the film and is covering the costs of the free showing in Big Sky.

“I came to Gallatin County in 1995, and have just watched over the years, [being] in this sector for a while as a licensed therapist and then as a director of a program working with kids… there’s lots of services in our community that are being cut,” MacFadyen told Explore Big Sky.

Everyone struggles, but American society promotes the message that “everything is OK all the time,” MacFadyen said. The Rieschel Foundation chose to support the film with hopes of de-stigmatizing conversations around mental health.

“People should know they’re not going to see a ski movie. This is not like we’re huckin’ backflips or charging big mountain lines. The content is heavy. It’s about the struggles,” MacFadyen said. “But at the same time, it shows a community coming together in response to tragedy and creating a solution that seems like it could be generalizable to other communities.”

MacFadyen believes that with more intentional dialogue around mental health and wellness, there’s enough smart and motivated people in communities like Bozeman and Big Sky to respond proactively, rather than react to tragedy.

The film tells the story of unexpected suicides and moments of crisis among those who seem to be thriving in some aspect of ski or snowboard culture. It also emphasizes the solutions created by the communities affected by tragedy.

“It’s a phenomenon that plays itself out in a lot of mountain towns, where people come together and experience these amazing moments with nature. And the highs are high, and then everyone goes home, and then the lows are really low,” MacFadyen said.

BSCO TO HOST

COMMUNITY

Who should attend

MacFadyen struggled to put his finger on the film’s ideal audience. He listed a few groups: ski patrollers for their frequent exposure to trauma; teachers for their ability to check in on students and set examples around social support; parents who interact with their children and children’s friends; realtors for their role in welcoming people to the community and sharing its culture; and anyone else interested in connecting community members to wellness resources—he pointed to the work being done by the Wellness Navigator Network organized by Be Well Big Sky.

“So it’s kind of a cop-out to say the movie is for everyone. But it kind of is,” MacFadyen said. The content might be too heavy for kids in middle school or younger, he noted.

MacFadyen said that being a member of any community—whether that’s Bozeman, Big Sky, or beyond—comes with a responsibility to engage and support peers. Seeing “The Paradise Paradox” won’t cost any money, it will only cost attendees some time, he said. “And this is a catalyst,” he said. “The film is designed to make you think, and designed to make you act. And there happens to be a crisis occurring right under our feet. So you can either stick your head in the sand and pretend like it’s not happening, or you can be part of the solution.”

In other venues, including the film’s November premiere in Park City, Utah, MacFadyen said the film revealed a combination of heavy gloom and excitement toward solutions.

“There were a lot of people thinking about how they can be a part of the solution,” he said.

INPUT SESSIONS IN

FEBRUARY TO

DISCUSS PARKS

AND TRAILS PLANS PUSHING FORWARD ITS ‘ALL OUT FOR PARKS & TRAILS’ CAMPAIGN, BSCO WILL ENGAGE COMMUNITY IN THREE MEETINGS STARTING FEB. 13

EBS STAFF

BIG SKY—In July, the Big Sky Community Organization unveiled its three-year plan to expand and renovate parks and trails and support Big Sky’s recreational and athletic needs.

In three duplicate community input sessions during February, BSCO hopes to engage the community and gather feedback on proposed plans—including courts for racquet sports, basketball and volleyball, a multipurpose turf field compatible with adult baseball, a new park in Big Sky’s south fork area and 20 additional miles of trail.

The feedback-focused, 90-minute Q&A sessions are being held at BASE. The first two took place on Tuesday, Feb. 13 and Wednesday, Feb. 21.

The final remaining session is scheduled for Tuesday Feb. 27 at 5:30 p.m., open to the public at BASE.

“Community input is a vital part of this campaign. Learn more and have your voice heard,” a Feb. 6 BSCO press release stated.

Three outdoor goals

After completing BASE in 2022, BSCO is now raising money through its “ALL OUT for Parks & Trails” capital campaign to accomplish three outdoor goals to build community through recreation. The first is to enhance, grow and connect Big Sky’s trails, and add 20 miles.

“Some of our deepest and most memorable connections to this place are tied to our trails network. But with increased usage and pressure come new challenges and needs for investment. The community has also expressed great desire for new and expanded trails that connect people and places in town and surrounding wild spaces while promoting pedestrian and cyclist safety,” the release stated.

BSCO’s second goal is to improve existing local parks— affordable and accessible magnets for children, families and other residents, according to the release.

“The time has come for us to create new spaces and make overdue improvements that capture the imagination and meet the needs of the young and young at heart,” the release stated. Financial support is needed, however, for projects including

transformations to the existing Big Sky Community Park.

“Adding a new adventure-based playground for all ages and abilities, expanding the skate park and pump track, improving and enhancing the athletic fields to extend the playing seasons, relocating Camp Big Sky with additional yurts and improved safe play areas, rebuilding the volleyball courts, and improving the park’s heavily utilized bathroom facilities are the goals for this campaign,” the release stated.

“Beyond these necessary enhancements, BSCO seeks to increase the total number of racquet sport courts, improve the disc golf course, and add more parking.”

BSCO’s third goal is to create a six-acre, south fork area park.

“This new park’s location and recreational amenities will make it a Big Sky favorite that complements the upgraded [Big Sky] Community Park features,” the release stated. “Our vision includes a large area for relaxation and play, a shelter for gatherings and picnics, a basketball court, a walking trail, a multi-use sports field, and two children’s playgrounds.”

RESORT TAX MOVES TOWARD ACQUIRING LAND TO IMPROVE 191/64 INTERSECTION

FOR SALE AT $10 MILLION, ROUGHLY 4.5 ACRES ARE NECESSARY FOR ANY ENGINEERING; PURCHASE IS ‘THE RIGHT THING TO DO FOR THE COMMUNITY’

BY JACK REANEY

BIG SKY—The Big Sky Resort Area District is engaged in a fast-developing quest to improve traffic flow at the intersection of U.S. Highway 191 and Montana Highway 64 (Lone Mountain Trail). BSRAD may be faced with a now-or-never opportunity to purchase the land needed for any meaningful improvement, but it’s most likely coming with a $10 million price tag.

In January, officials from Montana Department of Transportation and BSRAD shared visions of a solution to decongest traffic. Discussion included a potential roundabout to replace the traffic light, but officials continue to emphasize that a roundabout is just one possibility. Regardless of the final solution, one thing is relatively certain: without access to more land northwest of the intersection, no meaningful planning can occur.

“In order to actually make an intersection enhancement or expansion, because of geographical limitations… simply put, there will be nothing that will happen at the intersection if land is not acquired,” Daniel Bierschwale, BSRAD executive director, told the BSRAD board during a regular meeting on Feb. 14.

After more than 45 minutes of discussion, the BSRAD board voted unanimously to move toward making a formal offer to purchase the land—two parcels totaling approximately 4.5 acres.

Board members Kevin Germain and Steve Johnson were not present to vote, although Johnson wrote a letter in support and Germain has previously voiced his support for improvements at 191/64. The board’s decision was not taken lightly—BSRAD may need to immediately budget for an additional $10 million expense, one of its larger capital expenditures in recent history.

Financial feasibility

BSRAD recently paid to conduct an appraisal of the two parcels, resulting in a value of $9.5 million. However, the landowner remains adamant that the selling price is $10 million, according to Bierschwale and board chair Sarah Blechta, who are among a group of local stakeholders—also including Big Sky Resort GM Troy Nedved and Big Sky Chamber of Commerce CEO Brad Niva— engaged with the landowner.

Bierschwale expressed confidence that the landowner will be willing to agree to creative terms to minimize impacts on BSRAD’s current grant allocation process for fiscal year 2025.

“I think there is plenty of opportunity for us to finance this and not have an impact—at least a major impact—on our current grant cycle,” Bierschwale said.

BSRAD is aiming for a buy-sell agreement in which both parties commit soon—allowing Montana Department of Transportation to continue exploring designs and possible funding mechanisms—but the closing date is postponed

“several months” to allow BSRAD’s current funding cycle to play out, Bierschwale said.

A near-term agreement has another financial benefit: if serious plans begin to move forward, BSRAD and MDT will aim to reallocate $750,000 from remaining TIGER grant work—in summer 2024, construction is expected to take place at the same location.

The board discussed how BSRAD could finance the purchase. Different long-term financing options are possible, but a buy-sell agreement will be needed to determine specific debt structure.

“We’ve got $3.5 million in capital reserves, currently. I don’t think that we want to touch that full amount,” Bierschwale said. If absolutely necessary, BSRAD could purchase the land outright in cash—BSRAD has about $24 million in liquid assets—but Bierschwale and Blechta recommend another solution.

Bierschwale warned that this is a great example of what will happen as BSRAD begins to execute projects recommended in Big Sky’s $777 million capital improvement plan across the next decade. As BSRAD takes on debt service, Big Sky’s nonprofit partners will need to diversify their revenue streams so BSRAD can preserve more capital for community benefit projects.

“I don’t think anyone is super stoked to be bringing on additional land acquisition on this team. Just being honest with you… Is this the right thing to do for the community? We’re going to probably take some heat for going out there and spending $10 million,” Bierschwale told the board.

He answered his own rhetorical question: “It’s the right thing to do for the community.”

With affirmations from the board, Blechta asked for continued feedback from the community.

“Know that we are not taking this lightly. This has been a heavy lift for the team, it’s been a heavy lift for the board. We all take personal responsibility for these things, and want to do right by the community,” Blechta said.

The board voted unanimously to pursue a buysell agreement in the very near future, and board member Ciara Wolfe commented that she hopes the board will inform the community about this project’s financial impact on Resort Tax grants.

“As all of our applicants are looking at applications and putting in, just be thoughtful and know that we are going into potentially one of the flattest or least years of growth that we’ve had, and we’ve just improved making our largest investment,” Wolfe said.

Earlier in the meeting, it was pointed out that this fiscal year (since July), year-to-date resort tax collections are up 4%, but November and December collections were below last year. January is expected to follow the same trend for collections.

You got to pump it up

Improving traffic flow is a primary goal for this land acquisition, especially because MDT’s 191 corridor study from 2020 showed that the 191/64 intersection is one of the most congested areas between Four Corners and Big Sky. However, this land acquisition could dovetail with water and sewer infrastructure needs.

The Gallatin Canyon County Water and Sewer District is working to annex properties in Gallatin Canyon into a sewer collection system that would pump wastewater up to Big Sky’s new wastewater treatment facility. If successful, the project could take a potential 156 septic systems offline—septic systems can be risky for river and watershed health.

In order to pump the wastewater up the hill from Gallatin Canyon, GCCWSD will need to construct a lift-station within a quarter-mile vicinity of the 191/64 intersection, according to project manager Mace Mangold.

“We have one to three options in siting the lift station,” Mangold told EBS in a phone call. “And having that area as kind of a locked-down option eliminates some uncertainty. We are coordinating easements on a couple properties… If BSRAD owns that [additional] property, we know we have a reliable fail-safe.”

Mangold said if BSRAD can secure the property and immediately begins planning for intersection upgrades, it’s possible that construction could align between the two projects. GCCWSD is targeting summer 2026 for construction.

“The two driving factors on this, really, primarily are the intersection expansion as well as the pump station,” Bierschwale told the board.

“I see the importance of both projects,” Mangold said. “Both long-term community needs.”

Two parcels of land, totaling roughly 4.5 acres, could enable Montana Department of Transportation and local stakeholders to reconstruct Big Sky’s “one way in, one way out” intersection.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL RUEBUSCH

The land being discussed forms the northwest (shown as top left) corner of the intersection, across the street from the Conoco station. PHOTO BY MICHAEL RUEBUSCH

BY MARIO CARR EBS CONTRIBUTOR

BOZEMAN—In an effort to support locally available mental health services, the Yellowstone Club Community Foundation agreed in early February to match the next $100,000 raised for Bozeman nonprofit Help Center, Inc.

As of Feb. 14, HCI had collected at least $100,000 and YCCF matched the funds.

According to a Feb. 8 joint press release, YCCF participated in the “Answering the Call” campaign, launched by HCI in September 2023 to raise money needed to purchase a Mental Health Campus in Bozeman. In 2022, HCI served roughly 8,000 individuals in southwest Montana through its core five programs that include a 24/7 suicide intervention hotline, counseling for abuse survivors, onsite and in-home family visitation, free long- and short-term trauma services for families and

individuals and a community service site at Sacks Thrift Store.

The campaign is raising money to allow HCI to acquire a 5.1-acre campus at 699 Farmhouse Lane in Bozeman. The property is currently owned by Western Montana Mental Health and consists of five buildings that add up to over 15,000 developed square feet. In addition to providing the space HCI needs, the Human Resource Development Council will manage 10 affordable housing units and Community Health Partners intends to rent a space on the campus to help expand locally available behavioral health clinics. HCI hopes that this space will match the quality of service that their clients receive.

“This match will help the campaign get closer to their goal of purchasing the Mental Health Campus to provide the HCI team and clients the space needed for their vital services,” the release stated.

As of Feb. 8, HCI had raised $3.8 million in gifts, pledges and grants during its current campaign, with a goal total of $4.5 million.

Since 2021, the YCCF has invested $1.7 million in behavioral health across the greater Big Sky region, according to the release. Ruthi Solari, YCCF director of community impact, wrote that the YCCF is proud to partner with HCI and help enhance and expand the ability to respond to the growing mental and behavioral health needs of the community.

“Knowing the next $100,000 will be matched helps the $5 supporter know their donation will be doubled immediately and is incredibly impactful,”Mandy St. Aubyn, HCI development and communications coordinator, stated in the release.

HCI is confident that its $4.5 million goal is in reach, and has faith that the community will continue to rally behind the project.

SPORTS

BIG SKY FREERIDE ATHLETES OVERCOME

CHALLENGING CONDITIONS IN WORLD COMPETITION

HAYES LIVERNOIS AND ELIJAH SINGER BRING LONE MOUNTAIN SKILLS TO THE AUSTRIAN ALPS

BY MARIO CARR

EBS CONTRIBUTOR

On Jan. 24, local freeride athletes Elijah Singer, 17, and Hayes Livernois, 16, traveled to Ski Resort Kappl in Austria to compete in the Freeride Junior World Championships after qualifying last winter. This international competition includes qualifying athletes between 15 and 18 years old. For both Big Sky freeriders, it was their first time competing at the World Championship level. Singer, a snowboarder, has followed his brother Isaac to the Junior World Championships twice before. Livernois, a skier, had never visited the Alps in winter and was blown away by the scenery.

The window for competition was Jan. 20-25, and both athletes were there several days before the window in order to get settled in.

“We all were getting super stoked the first few days,” Livernois said.

The snow was deep, and it kept coming down while the athletes were there. Singer and Livernois described glorious bluebird powder days on Jan 21-23.

“Blue sky pow, waist-deep every lap. We were all just wondering why the comp hadn’t happened yet,” Livernois said.

A venue change was announced on Jan. 23 due to increasing avalanche danger. The venue was changed from the famous Quellspitze face to the Hausberg, a spot much lower on the mountain. Organizers built several jumps on the smaller venue in order to give athletes more opportunity to get airborne.

As is standard for European freeride competitions, Singer and Livernois were prepared to compete with only a visual inspection of the venue— athletes and their coaches plan their run simply by viewing the venue from below with binoculars. In North America, athletes have the opportunity to run the course before competition. With visual inspection, the snow on the venue stays fresh and is only impacted by whatever avalanche mitigation may have taken place—and by the athletes who drop in before you. Livernois and Singer were practicing their visual inspection skills leading up to the competition and were disappointed to not be able to put those new skills to the test on the Quellspitze.

Singer’s coach, Rhett Leuzinger, was confident in Singer’s ability to compete well on the new venue, as he believes Singer is a very well-rounded rider. The two did everything they could to enjoy the snow in the days leading up to the competition, and to remain positive as plans continued to change.

“The stress of the comp being delayed was definitely a bummer,” Leuzinger said. Getting the

event done early in the competition window is ideal because then all the athletes can continue to ride together without the stress of the competition distracting them, he explained.

On the day of the competition, 80 mile-per-hour winds prevented the chairlifts from spinning. Snowcats brought the athletes to the top of the venue for an on-snow inspection where they were allowed to ski through the venue and plan their line. Due to warm weather and rain overnight, the powder was turned to slushy heavy snow. Instead of visual inspection, on-snow inspection was encouraged in order to help pack down take-offs and landings on the venue. The sun was out as the competition started, but most athletes ended up competing in freezing rain. Commentators continuously emphasized the extremely challenging conditions.

Results and recaps

Girls began the competition, with 10 snowboarders and 13 skiers dropped before the boys snowboard competition began. Singer dropped in ninth out

of 13, putting together a smooth and fast line including a great method grab that impressed the commentators and his coach, and a 360.

He unfortunately lost control after hitting a mogul in the bottom third of the run. Singer said he could not see it, and he wasn’t alone—the flat light and sticky snow conditions near the bottom sent many snowboarders cartwheeling forward that day. Frustrated by his unexpected wipeout, Singer threw his hands in the air, knowing that he had put together a great run through the most challenging sections of the course. After taking a breath, knowing that his wipeout would prevent him from placing well, Singer threw a backflip right before crossing the finish line.

This crowd-pleasing gesture had many fellow competitors cheering, but ultimately disqualified Singer—intentional inversions result in disqualification at the Junior level of freeride competition. He placed last, although his overall run may not have reflected that rank.

Singer celebrated his 17th birthday in Spain just days after the competition. He plans to continue competing, but hasn’t decided if that will be at the junior level or the adult level—at 18 years old, he could attempt to qualify for the Freeride World Tour. He loves freeriding and hopes his skills will land him opportunities to create movies and videos documenting the sport.

Livernois dropped in 19th out of 30 male skiers. He lined himself up for a 360 with some big air, and after completing the rotation seemed to have a hard time spotting his landing.

Overcast skies and dropping temperatures resulted in very flat light and firmer snow conditions. The firm and unexpected landing sent Livernois to his back and ejected one of his skis. He completed his run with his goggles up and a shrug though the finish line, and finished in 25th place out of 30.

Livernois said that this crash and the adverse conditions he experienced have only made him more hungry and excited to compete at this level again while he is still eligible for two more years.

Freeride is much more than a competition to Singer and Livernois, it’s their passion. Both athletes were thrilled to reunite with peer athletes and make more friends while riding with some of the best in the world in unforgettable conditions before the competition. The conditions of this competition were unforgettable as well. Control is the most important category that judges will critique riders on in this competition, and there were many things outside the athletes’ control, ranging from weather to when they would be dropping in.

Singer and Livernois are both thankful to everyone who has supported them on the road to this competition and hope to continue to grow as freeriders.

Livernois attempts a 360 in the competition. COURTESY OF HAYES LIVERNOIS

Hayes Livernois (left) and Elijah Singer. PHOTOS BY MIA MARIA KNOLL

Singer gets air in the early part of his run. COURTESY OF ELIJAH SINGER

BASKETBALL: LONE PEAK CELEBRATES

SENIORS, BATTLES WHITEHALL IN FINAL REGULAR SEASON GAME

SIX SENIORS HONORED BEFORE A PAIR OF NARROW LOSSES; PLAYERS REFLECT ON THE END OF LONE PEAK’S FIRST SEASON IN CLASS B

BY JACK REANEY

Editor's note: this story was reported before the district 5B playoff tournament. See page 4 for a recap of the boys' tournament victory.

BIG SKY—Lone Peak High School basketball celebrated six seniors and finished its first regular season as a member of Montana Class B on Saturday, Feb. 10. The Big Horns were not victorious in either varsity game, but coaches emphasized the season’s success heading into the double-elimination district 5B tournament.

The boys played first and jumped out to a 7-3 lead against the visiting Whitehall-Willow Creek Trojans. By the end of the first quarter, the Trojans took a 14-9 lead.

The Trojans extended their lead in the second quarter, despite a pair of physical scoring efforts by Big Horn senior Juliusz Shipman, the first of many impactful plays in his final home game.

“Best game of the season. He’s coming on at the right time. He had 15 [points] tonight; that’s what we need out of him,” head coach Al Malinowski told EBS. Opposing teams have focused on containing Lone Peak’s leading scorers—sophomore Ebe Grabow and junior Isaac Bedway—and Shipman is starting to take advantage.

At halftime, the Trojans had a 34-22 lead. That 12-point deficit would stick with the Big Horns throughout a competitive second half.

The Big Horns struggled to score in a defensive third quarter, falling behind by an additional 3-point margin, 44-29.

Senior Aidan Germain opened the Big Horns’ fourth quarter comeback effort by knocking down a 3-pointer. That shot completed the Big Horns’ goal for all three seniors to score in the senior night game, and it brought some momentum in the final quarter.

“It felt really good,” Germain said after the game. “We had a goal to get all the seniors to score tonight… That was the cherry on top.”

Three scores apiece by Grabow and Shipman helped the Big Horns shrink the fourth quarter deficit to eight points, trailing 57-49 with two minutes remaining. The Trojans responded by killing the clock and adding five points.

Trailing 62-49 with the final 10 seconds ticking, Lone Peak head coach Al Malinowski urged his players to commit a travel, stopping play and allowing the seniors—Shipman, Germain and Charlie Distad—to walk off the court to a standing ovation from the home crowd. The final score was 62-49 in favor of Whitehall.

Malinowski said it’s always tough to see the seniors go, but it should be comforting to know that this team’s young core “is ready to potentially take off” next year. The seniors’ leadership this season will enable future success.

Bedway, a junior, sees confidence in the future, as current freshmen grow and improve.

“I’ve learned a lot of positivity from Chuck [Distad] and Aidan this year. They’ve really helped us out with that, they’ve kept us together. Juliusz has done a really good job playing point guard and gelling the team on the floor. It’s gonna hurt to lose them,” Bedway said.

Grabow scored 17 points on Saturday night. He’ll have two more years to develop into a dominant player in Class B.

“He’s just a tough guy to guard. Even though he’s only a sophomore, it sure doesn’t look like that out there,” Malinowski said.

Of course, this team isn’t done—they’ll rematch Whitehall in the first round of the district 5B tournament on Wednesday, Feb. 14 at Manhattan Christian High School.

Malinowski still sees a team that can hang with any opponent for most of the game. Lone Peak’s roster depth continues to be a disadvantage against larger, older teams.

Mistakes add up. “One possession here, one possession there, and we’re not able to overcome that deficit because we’re constantly trying to battle that maturity difference,” Malinowski said, noting

that his team is not immature, but simply young and relatively inexperienced.

“A 12- or 13-point game is really only a handful of possessions,” he added.

Going into Wednesday’s matchup against Whitehall in Manhattan, the team will need to play clean. Minimizing turnovers, shooting confidently and capitalizing on open looks will be keys to victory.

“We’re back in the same place we were last year,” Malinowski said. “We’re the underdogs again… We know from experience this year that we can play with teams from this district.”

Germain sees rising confidence among his team entering the district tournament.

“I know we can play with this team. We’re all really inspired for it, so I think it’s gonna be a good tournament,” Germain said.

Sentimental after his final home game, Distad agreed.

“I’m confident we can beat them. I’d say they’re confident they can beat us. And that’s usually how most good games go,” he said.

Bedway takes a shot under pressure. PHOTO BY RICH ADDICKS

Shipman said his team is in good shape.

“I think we can do a lot in [practice] to stop some of their offensive sets and really analyze how to beat them,” he said. He also commended the ability of his young teammates to step into big roles and said experience will help them get a lot better in the next couple years.

Freshman Ryan Malinowski recently broke Grabow’s freshman 3-point scoring record from last season. Against Ennis on Feb. 2, Malinowski splashed his 20th 3-pointer—he extended his record to 24 with another against Whitehall on Feb. 11.

Coach Malinowski also credited freshman Miles Romney for his talent on defense. Both freshman— among other young players—will benefit from this season’s experience, plus a year of growth and development.

“I think we have a bright future, with all the freshman,” Distad said. “Playoffs this year, and whatever happens next year.”

Girls ramp up the intensity, fall in a physical game

The girls’ game began slow, and the first quarter ended in a 2-2 tie between Lone Peak and the Whitehall-Harrison-Willow Creek co-op.

By the end of the first half, offense came to life and the scoreboard showed 12-12, with Big Horn points scored by seniors Astrid McGuire and Vera Grabow, and sophomore Addy Malinowski.

Head coach John McGuire sees strength in his team’s ability “to fight hard and compete,” and in the second half of their senior night, that’s how they played.

The Trojans took control in the third quarter, leading 23-16 heading into the fourth. But as the game became increasingly physical—with many penalties and a few fouls—the Big Horns clawed back to a three-point deficit. Sophomore Harper Morris scored a few layups under heavy pressure and sophomore Maddie Wilcynski hit a 3-pointer from the corner. With just over one minute remaining, the Big Horns trailed 29-26.

The Big Horns needed to foul for possession, and the Trojans executed on two separate free throws, keeping the Big Horns down until the final buzzer. Whitehall won, 34-31.

“That was a tough loss,” coach McGuire told EBS after the emotional finish. “Defense was solid, but we didn’t in the end deliver against a team that we competed hard against.”

The offense failed to execute at times, but McGuire emphasized that the girls are playing the best basketball they have all season. He previously described the team’s youth and need to continue gaining basketball experience, and said they’ve come a long way this season.

“I really have a lot of love for this team. For the players individually and for this team as a unit, in a really tough neighborhood, in Class B,” McGuire said.

He said the team will need to put work in during the offseason to sharpen skills and learn to play 32 minutes of intense basketball—the Big Horns scored more points with more ferocity in the final seconds of Saturday’s game than in the entire first quarter.

Astrid McGuire said it’s fun to play an intense game for a home crowd, and Grabow said the

crowd’s energy fed her team’s intensity.

“It’s definitely not the result that we wanted, but it’s always really fun when everyone works hard and we have a bunch of supportive fans,” Astrid said.

The Big Horns will play Thursday against Manhattan High School in the district 5B tournament at Manhattan Christian High School. “We’re psyched to go out there and surprise some people,” coach McGuire said. “We’re gonna fight hard and compete.”

Grabow said the team will be ready to work hard at practice next week and step onto the court with confidence. “Know we have nothing to lose and do our best,” she said.

“I think the district tournament is a good way to start over,” Astrid said. “Anything can happen in the tournament so we’re going to take that and run with it. We’re just coming together as a team, I think we’re all improving together which I think is an advantage for us going into the tournament.”

Senior recognition

Before the varsity games on Saturday, Lone Peak Athletic Director John Hannahs honored the six seniors, reciting written statements to the crowd.

Samantha Ayers manages both basketball teams, and Hannahs announced the coaches’ assessment that Ayers is “the best student-manager they have ever had.” Also a soccer and track athlete, her favorite memory from this season was

watching players bond. She plans to attend University of Colorado (Colorado Springs) to study nursing.

Vera Grabow has been playing basketball since elementary school and joined the high school program in eighth grade. Her favorite basketball memories are spending time with teammates and friends during district and divisional tournaments every year.

Astrid McGuire began basketball in seventh grade. She thanked her father and coach for supporting her, and her “amazing teammates who make this team special,” Hannahs said. McGuire plans to play soccer at Bowdoin College beginning next fall.

“I have a ton of respect and love for Vera and Astrid,” coach McGuire told EBS. “They’ve been tremendous leaders and have an incredible fouryear career here at Lone Peak.”

Juliusz Shipman started playing basketball in fifth grade, and his favorite basketball memories include eighth grade basketball with all his friends and classmates, and last year’s historic run to the Montana Class C state tournament. He plans to study engineering in college.

“One of those guys that got to really experience it firsthand as a starter last year,” Malinowski told EBS. “Our great run to state. Tough to make the jump to Class B as a senior—a lot of adjustment, lot of playing with really young players—but he’s always taking that in stride.”

Charlie Distad picked up basketball as a sophomore, in addition to his commitment to football. He plans attend Montana State University to study agricultural management.

“Just one of the nicest kids you’re ever gonna meet. Always a positive attitude—takes criticism well, takes coaching well. I still believe we haven’t seen what we can see out of him, and I know we’re going to see it this week. It’s time for him to really blossom,” Malinowski told EBS, emphasizing Distad’s potential to use his size advantage in the paint.

Aidan Germain started hooping in third grade, joining coach Malinowski’s intramural league. His favorite memory was beating rival Ennis High School in the Mustangs’ gym on Jan. 5.

“Gosh I wish he would have played with us last year,” Malinowski told EBS. “He’s such a great teammate. Just a mature senior that brings so much athleticism and excitement to the team, but also maturity and leadership.”

The Big Horn girls fought back in the fourth quarter of an intense senior night game PHOTO BY RICH ADDICKS

Grabow drives into contact in a physical senior night game. PHOTO BY RICH ADDICKS

REGIONAL

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK PREPARES NEW INTERAGENCY BISON MANAGEMENT PLAN

BY BENJAMIN ALVA POLLEY

EBS CONTRIBUTOR

In 1872, Yellowstone National Park was established as the world’s first National Park by an act of Congress, signed into law by President Ulysses S. Grant. A century and a half ago, the park’s founders didn’t have the foresight to expand its boundaries to include wintering ranges for antelope, bison, elk and deer. Ungulates like bison often migrate out of the park’s boundaries each winter to escape deep snowpack, seeking greener pastures at lower elevations. Much of the land outside of the park is owned in checkerboard sections by different landowners, including Custer Gallatin National Forest, the state of Montana and neighboring ranchers.

Historically, ranchers have expressed umbrage with sharing grazing rights with bison, fearful of the brucellosis transmission to their cattle, as well as destruction of property and fences. Elk also migrate out of the park and can transmit brucellosis. However, they aren’t as aggressively managed by the state as bison, which are either quarantined, killed by the state of Montana, allowed to be hunted by eight Western tribes, or transported to other tribal reservations.

Eastern Shoshone Tribal member and vice president of the InterTribal Buffalo Council, Jason Baldes, said that dealing with the state has been a challenge.

“The state has generally been anti-buffalo and antitribal, so we have been navigating that process of restoring this relationship with buffalo for a long time,” Baldes said. A topic he’s intimately familiar with, Baldes is also the senior program manager of Tribal Buffalo Partnerships for the National Wildlife Federation and executive director of the Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative. “It has been an uphill battle. We have a good relationship with the park service because our goals often align with what we want to see for wildlife and habitat.”

To better address these issues, Yellowstone National Park is drafting a new Interagency Bison Management Plan for the bovines inside their boundaries. Anticipated for later this year, the plan will be the first revision since 2000.

The drafting of the new Interagency Bison Management Plan involves a partnership between the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes, InterTribal Buffalo Council, Montana Department of Livestock, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, National Park Service, Nez Perce Tribe and the U.S. Forest Service.

The management plan highlights how the park manages bison in coordination with state and tribal wildlife officials. It guides park policy on how they will work collaboratively with other agencies through a workgroup created by the Interagency Bison Management Plan.

Three alternatives

The National Park Service presents the new Bison Management Plan in three alternative options:

1. The first option is maintaining the current plan, in which park managers would aim for a population of 3,500-5,000 bison and continue to allow existing hunting, hazing, quarantine and slaughter operations when the animals stray outside the park.

2. The second option prioritizes treaty hunting by tribal members to manage herd size, continuing with the quarantine-and-transfer-to-tribes program. This option manages a larger bison population, ranging from 3,500 to 6,000 animals after calving.

3. The final option involves a less intensive approach, where bison would be managed like other wildlife and

“The National Park Service’s planning process is flawed because it does not include the U.S. Forest Service and thereby excludes the buffalo’s National Forest range and habitat contiguous with Yellowstone National Park,” writes the Buffalo Field Campaign. “Without the involvement of the U.S. Forest Service, an ecosystembased approach to restoring self-sustaining wild buffalo herds cannot be achieved because millions of acres of national public trust lands are left out of the planning process.”

allow for natural selection and bison dispersal. This option increases bison numbers from 5,500 to 8,000 or more animals after calving. This alternative ceases all trapping for shipments to slaughter.

All options still include working with stakeholders and using methods like capture and hazing operations if bison are seen mingling with livestock.

A key difference—while the current plan assumes bison transmits brucellosis to cattle, the new draft plan highlights scientific data showing that elk cause more wildlife-livestock brucellosis transmissions than bison— since 2000, elk have transmitted the bacteria to cattle more than two dozen times, explains Jennifer Carpenter, chief of the Yellowstone Center for Resources, in an informational video published on Aug. 28, 2023.

The new plan was drafted after a year of extremes for bison. Last winter’s deep snow caused many to migrate outside the park to lower elevations seeking food. According to data gathered by the Buffalo Field Campaign, in 2023, 1,272 bison were killed, and 282 were transported away from the Yellowstone ecosystem. Treaty hunts by tribes harvested 939, and there were 100 additional unknown hunts/harvests (it’s unknown whether by a state or tribal hunter), and 75 hunter lottery tags.

The plan also emerges as tension between the federal government and Gov. Greg Gianforte’s administration over bison management. Last March, the U.S. Department of the Interior planned to invest $25 million into bison restoration, citing their cultural, ecological and historical importance to tribes. In August 2022, Gianforte joined the Montana Stockgrowers Association in opposition to allowing bison to graze on Bureau of Land Management land in central Montana.

Opposing voices

There are some who disagree with the proposed alternatives.

One of those groups in opposition is the Buffalo Field Campaign, a West Yellowstone-based nonprofit devoted to conserving free-roaming bison habitat, and “to stop the harassment and slaughter of America’s last wild buffalo.”

“An additional justification to scrap this plan and start over begins with Yellowstone National Park’s range of alternatives, which are not based on sound science and do not meet the principles of managing buffalo as a wild species,” Darrell Geist of the Buffalo Field Campaign explained in an email to EBS.

The biggest complaint of the Buffalo Field Campaign is that “all alternatives and future plans fail to protect connectivity to habitat for wild buffalo” and “removing zones prohibiting buffalo’s freedom to roam National public trust lands.”

Many tribal stakeholders also agree that the park is too small and that federal agencies like the Park Service and Forest Service must figure out how to work together to ensure habitat connectivity for wild bison. Baldes said the ability for tribal members to access those lands with live animals is crucial in maintaining their traditions— the ability to show their children how to get food and medicine and hunt and gather.

“We want to ensure we get live animals,” Baldes said. “We are supportive of sovereignty treaty rights and self-determination. But there’s a challenge with the treaty hunt that the state of Montana has opened up to the tribes and is essentially using us as their scapegoats to do the dirty work. We don’t want to see animals indiscriminately killed when there’s intrinsic value in those animals and keeping them alive to get to the tribes. We want to maximize that effort. It’s a tricky issue to navigate.”

Yellowstone’s conservation success

Before the westward expansion of settlers, bison were widespread throughout North America, with numbers estimated at around 30 million. Only 23-24 bison were alive there when the park was first established, and now, 150 years later, there are about 5,000. In the summer of 2023, park biologists counted 4,830 bison in two primary herds. These numbers show that, overall, Yellowstone’s bison management plan has been a conservation success story.

“Yellowstone bison represent an ongoing conservation success story—a collaborative effort to bring bison back from the brink of extinction and see them restored more broadly across their native range,” Greater Yellowstone Coalition Executive Director Scott Christensen and partners wrote in an open letter to Gov. Greg Gianforte on the coalition’s website. “Bison are important ecosystem engineers. The North American landscape is less balanced in their absence. The State’s position threatens to halt bison conservation and dismantle the last two decades of progress—taking the Yellowstone bison population back to the diminished numbers of 20 years ago. This is regressive, short-sighted and damaging to the long-term health of the State’s economy and outdoor heritage.”

Despite this success, the Park Service fully knows that only some agree on bison management.

“I think most of you probably realize that there are a lot of opinions on bison management,” Cam Sholly, the park’s superintendent, said in a virtual public meeting on Aug. 28, 2023. “This plan does not solve every problem. It does not satisfy everyone. There are people on both sides of the issue. Some want unlimited bison in the park, some want fewer bison, and we’re trying to strike a balance in many ways to solidify progress that’s been made over the last two decades.”

Next steps

With the environmental impact statement complete and alternatives defined, the meat of the Interagency Bison Management Plan process is in the rearview. The public comment period closed on Oct. 10, 2023, and stakeholders are now analyzing public comment for their final decision, which will be released later this year.

Bison herd in Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley. PHOTO COURTESY OF YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

big sky, Montana

big sky Events arena

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

A CONVERSATION ABOUT ‘WHAT HAPPENS IN MONTANA’ WITH AUTHOR KIM MCCOLLUM

BY JEN CLANCEY

BOZEMAN—Writer Kim McCollum has lived in Bozeman for eight years, the longest she’s ever lived in one place. It should come as no surprise then, that her longtime home inspired a book, which came out at the end of January. Her debut as a published novelist, “What Happens in Montana” is a historical fiction piece about a group of women that find themselves at a haunted hot spring retreat.

McCollum attended Barnard College in New York and studied the Japanese language before working on Wall Street. Eventually McCollum pursued writing, starting two different books that merged into one: “What Happens in Montana.” Since its release, the book has been awarded the Firebird Book Award in the New Fiction and Paranormal categories. The International Firebird Book Awards celebrate work from writers of all backgrounds and donate author’s entry fees to make families in homeless shelters feel more at home.

Explore Big Sky met with McCollum at the Coffee Pot in Four Corners to talk about this new chapter in her career. Every table in the establishment was taken, so the conversation happened outside, sitting on the edge of the cafe’s wood porch, facing U.S. Highway 191. On an unusually warm winter day in Montana, McCollum told EBS about how her own life experiences and historical research across the state helped her create “What Happens in Montana.”

Responses have been edited for brevity and clarity.

Explore Big Sky: Where are you from originally?

Kim McCollum: Oh, gosh, that's a good question. I don't have an original link, because I've moved every 10 years now and Montana is the longest I've lived anywhere. Before that it was New York City for eight years. I was born north of New York. And then I lived in California. Massachusetts, New Jersey. I lived in Germany, in Japan for a little while.

My parents divorced when we were little. My mom didn't know what she wanted to do, and we just moved around. … people are always like, ‘Oh, that's so sad.’ I'm like, ‘No, it's great. You get to meet new people.’ I still have friends that I've kind of picked up all along the way. I get to see new places.

EBS: That's awesome. And when did you start, “What happens in Montana?”

KM: It was originally two different books. I think it's been over eight years now that I decided I wanted it. Well, I knew I wanted to write a book.

So I started writing it. I had a book about my girlfriends who I had … met when our babies were babies at a Mommy and Me playgroup in Las Vegas. We've stayed friends even though we've moved away, and we get together every couple years. Our kids went off to college, and we had a big reunion. And I thought well, that'd be a fun story to write about, you know, coming to Montana.

And then I started [a] historical fiction [book]. I also started getting my MFA at Harvard. But then I ended up doing two years of it and found a publisher and got my book published and was too busy ... I met great people. I'm glad I did it.

When I saw the hot springs there was a detour. I was like, wow—it's this huge stucco building. It looks really majestic and also very out of place … it had this rounded Mission-style roof. I asked my husband who's been here 30 years, I'm like, ‘What is that?’ And he told me … 'That's supposedly haunted and it's only partially

fixed.’ I thought, what a fun place for reunion for these girlfriends? Now that would make it a lot more exciting. And then partially into that, I was like, ‘Wait, there's a ghost, the ghost can tell her story.’ And that was the historical fiction I had been working on. So it all kind of came together. And it made it a little more fun because it has that historical fiction twist to it.

EBS: Did you ever end up going there?

KM: I stayed there for one night. I have a girlfriend who was there years ago and she said. ‘Wait, you stayed there by yourself?’ It was a little creepy.

Yeah, not 100% sure I believe in ghosts. But if there are, I'm pretty sure they might be there.

So I snuck over here … There's this huge deck with like 20 rocking chairs that just sit there empty. And then I went and peeked in the window and it's still beautiful. And the rugs are still there, the marble check-in counter. And there was opera music playing and there was no one around. I don't know why it was playing. It was really creepy … I was glad it was only one night.

EBS: So, the Mommy And Me friends that you met in Las Vegas, did they inspire the characters in your book?

KM: Absolutely… So I changed all the backstories and stuff. But whenever I wanted to write dialogue, I would just think, what would [my friend] say right now in this scene, and it would pop right into my head.

I've been asked to give tips on some podcasts and things that I've done for writers. And that's the one that people say they really enjoy. If you're stuck on writing dialogue, either picture a friend, or—Maude is one of the characters in my book, and she's almost 80 and I would often think of Betty White. Because I love Betty White and I wanted a fun, spunky character ... So it works not just with friends, but with celebrities, too.

EBS: Cool. I was going to ask about Maude. I was reading a lot about the background of the book. Maude sounds like a really key character.

KM: She is, I would say, the main character, the main protagonist. Some of my favorite books are "Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine," or, "A Man Called Ove." They're these quirky characters who are kind of isolated, and I love that. So that's kind of who Maude is. Her best friends are the dog and the ghost. She doesn't really want to deal with real people. And she just tells it like it is. And she's, I hope, kind of funny and quirky … She's the chef. She's been there for 30

years longer than the owners who keep coming in, trying to fix it up and they don't get it done.

EBS: It sounds like you were inspired by the hot springs with the ghost story. But what made you add that into t his book?

KM: The idea that there was a ghost, I thought, was really fun and really intriguing. When I stayed there, I found out they thought she was a prostitute and she was murdered there. That's all they know of her backstory. So when I was doing research about homesteading in Montana, [I learned that] 18% of Montana's original homesteaders were single women, often with children.

They would come on the train until the late 1800s while 320 acres was yours for free if you could farm it for five years. And often they were teachers, so they had some income. And they would buy these homestead kits with all the wood cut already to build a 12-by-12. So I went out to the Museum of the Rockies, they have one there, … Imagine what it would be like to live there … How would you do that as a single woman?

The most famous single woman was named Maddy Kramer, and she was a writer. She came from Virginia, I believe it was where she was an editor. And she came out and she started writing for the Northern Railway Bulletin. And that's how women learned this idea to go west. She was single and she brought her eightyear-old son. And she wrote about it. That was before the drought, so farming was easy, she said, because you didn't have to irrigate.

A bunch of women were often fleeing alcoholic husbands or bad situations, or they weren't married, or they were pregnant out of wedlock, which is what happened with my character. And they come out west to be free.

EBS: So for your research, where else did it take you?

KM: For a while I thought [the mom] was going to go to jail. So I went to Deer Lodge to visit the [Montana State] Prison. I went and visited the underground brothel and the underground network up in Havre. I toured the brothel in Butte. My son played hockey so I was all over the state.

EBS: What made Montana or maybe even southwest Montana appeal to you as the setting for this book?

KM: It's so different, you know I grew up mostly on the East Coast. I can hardly imagine anything more different … You know, Montana, there's just something special. And I've lived in so many places. I feel so qualified to say that it's just the best. The people here are so genuine and so great. And the outdoor lifestyle … you really feel like you're part of nature when you're here more than anywhere else I've ever lived.

EBS: What's next for your writing?

KM: My next one, I'm trying to do the “Eleanor Oliphant” type thing where she's a very quirky character. I just love her though. At first you don't, she’s initially an unlikable character. And I've had a few people read my first chapter, and they're like, ‘She's very unlikable. Is that what you are going for?’ [But] that’s exactly what it's about. It's really about the insidious nature of abuse, the emotional abuse, so she is the way she is because her husband was emotionally abusive, but she doesn't even realize that she doesn't recognize. It just happens. It's a slow, slow thing that happens. And she ends up isolated and very rigid in her thinking. And it's because of this abuse that she doesn't recognize until later.

EBS: I'm looking forward to reading that.

KC: Oh thank you.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KIM MCCOLLUM

BIG SKY EVENTS CALENDAR

Thursday, Febuary 22 - Wednesday, March 6

If your next event falls between March. 7 - March. 20, please submit it to media@theoutlawpartners.com by March. 13.

THURSDAY, FEB. 22

2024 Auction for the Arts

The Montage (Grand Ballroom), 5 p.m.

Cocktail Class

The Wilson Hotel, 6 p.m.

FRIDAY, FEB. 23

Full Moon Women’s Circle Santosha Wellness Center, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY, FEB. 24

The Moth Mainstage WMPAC, 7:30 p.m.

Norman conducts Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3

Willson Auditorium (Bozeman), 7:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, FEB. 25

Norman conducts Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3

Willson Auditorium (Bozeman), 2:30 p.m.

MONDAY, FEB. 26

Benefit Big Sky Pint Night Beehive Basin Brewery, 4 p.m.

How to Have Hard Conversations with Your Pre Teen/Teen Discovery Academy, 5:15 p.m.

Complimentary Screening of the Paradise Paradox WMPAC, 6:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, FEB. 27

Western Roots Swing Dancing Tips Up, 7:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 28

Big Sky Fire District Board of Trustees Meeting Big Sky Water and Sewer District, 8:30 a.m.

THURSDAY, FEB. 29

Brian Kassey From Laney Lou & The Bird Dogs Tips Up, 9:50 p.m.

FRIDAY, MAR. 1

Karaoke

The Waypoint, 10 p.m.

SATURDAY, MAR. 2

Snowshoe Shuffle BASE, 2 p.m.

Art Walk with Kene Sperry The Montage, 5 p.m.

FEATURED EVENT

20TH ANNUAL SNOWSHOE SHUFFLE

BASE, 2 P.M.

Four-legged friends and snowshoers are invited to this community winter hike. Tickets are $25 and proceeds go to support critical expenses for the shelter. The first 75 tickets bought will receive a free Snowshoe Shuffle Goodie Bag.

Säje WMPAC, 7:30 p.m.

MONDAY, MAR. 4

Queer Climbing Night BASE, 7 p.m.

TUESDAY, MAR. 5

American Legion Bingo The Waypoint, 5:30 p.m.

Western Roots Swing Dancing Tips Up, 7:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, MAR. 6

Women’s Basketball Open Gym BASE, 5:30 p.m.

Community Art Class: Wood Burning BASE, 6 p.m.

Trivia

The Waypoint, 7 p.m.

DINING

A LA CARTE: RIB & CHOP REFOCUSES WITH NEW LUNCH MENU

BY RACHEL HERGETT EBS COLUMNIST

The Rib & Chop House first opened in Livingston in 2001 and built a decades-long reputation for quality and service with a steakhouse menu that draws inspiration from the original owners’ Louisiana roots. Starters like chicken and sausage gumbo and boudin balls led into butter-seared steaks, glistening racks of barbecue ribs and cedarplank salmon.

The Rib & Chop has shirked any need to give into fine dining trends and instead leaned into its own casual style that has become known as “Rocky Mountain Hospitality.” Friendly wait staff write their names seemingly upside down and backwards on paper table coverings so that the name is facing the diners. Crayons are placed on the table, so children—or adult children like me—can busy themselves drawing. And that paper covering serves as both canvas and tablecloth to catch drips from the butter-drenched steaks.

This is how I thought of the Rib & Chop. Then, as we all know, came the COVID-19 pandemic. Everything shifted. The hospitality industry was hit hard. Therein, the Rib & Chop was forced to pivot, to find new paths forward in an attempt to simply maintain the standards people came to expect from the restaurant.

Enter chief operating officer Corey Robbins, who was taken aback, but kindly fielded my probing questions at what was probably supposed to be a softball of a media event to introduce the chain’s new lunch menu at its Bozeman restaurant.

“We’re doing what we can, trying to treat staff right,” Robbins said. “We’ve had to up our pay scale annually, monthly, daily sometimes it feels like.”

And they’re making strides. With the opening of a Rib & Chop in Great Falls last fall, there are now 13 locations across Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Utah and Colorado. Another is in the works in North Platte, Nebraska.

Also part of what Robbins called a “refocus,” is the new lunch menu, which launched across all locations on Feb. 5.

“The Rib & Chop House culinary team has produced a menu that satisfies a broad range of appetites, focusing on classic steakhouse tastes and flavors, and how they could be influenced by our distinct Louisiana-inspired heritage,” the website states.

The lunch menu adds lighter options that are easily for the kitchen to execute. Gone is the precisely stacked avocado and shrimp tower, replaced with a bowl version that may not be as visually striking but gains from the new lemon vinaigrette. The dressing’s slight sweetness complements the lightly Cajun-spiced shrimp perfectly.

The Rib & Chop’s lunch menu is available weekdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is designed to be quick for the work crowd to easily get in and

out in an hour. But if you’re worried that it doesn’t include the fried green tomato appetizer or wedge salad, the full menu is always available.

At the luncheon, I was seated next to an old Bozeman High School friend and now owner of the Bozeman City Lifestyle magazine, Maggie Hebron. Together, we ordered much of the lunch

menu. Standouts included the slightly spicy buffalo chicken sandwich and the decidedly smokey flavor of the roast beef on the French dip. I understood when many of the people at the table ordered the executive lunch, a baseball-cut sirloin steak that has remained on the menu for good reason. It’s cost-effective and deliciously juicy with the perfect crispy sear on the outside.

When it comes to menu planning, the Rib & Chop wants there to be what they refer to as “no veto vote,” something appealing to every palate so that no one vetoes the restaurant suggestion.

To that end, the new lunch menu is appealing. There are a variety of new salads, quick “handheld” or sandwich options, fish or shrimp tacos and a smaller version of the chicken marsala, with a sweet wine sauce that is a customer favorite.

Or it was, until “some guy who looks a lot like me took it off the menu,” Robbins joked. Now, it is back on the main menu as well as the new lunch menu.

While the Rib & Chop House has certainly experienced growing pains and pandemic uncertainty, it is still at its core the restaurant I remember. It feels like home.

“We’re all just family,” Robins said. “We’re just taking care of each other. That’s what we need to do.”

Rachel Hergett is a foodie and cook from Montana. She is arts editor emeritus at the Bozeman Daily Chronicle and has written for publications such as Food Network Magazine and Montana Quarterly. Rachel is also the host of the Magic Monday Show on KGLT-FM and teaches at Montana State University.

The Rib & Chop House serves a revamped lunch menu with something for everyone. PHOTO BY RACHEL HERGETT

PHOTO BY RACHEL HERGETT

BUSINESS

ENJOYING THE RIDE

HOW DO PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS AFFECT THE MARKET?

BY BENJAMIN SPIKER EBS CONTRIBUTOR

Sponsored Article

President’s Day, recognized the third Monday each February, is popularly viewed as a day to celebrate all U.S. presidents, past and present. In today’s contentious political environment, it seems hard to believe anyone is celebrating anything but an extra day off and a nice long weekend!

In honor of this holiday, we felt it appropriate to recognize the fact that we are in a presidential election year. One of the most common questions we get as financial advisors during a presidential election year is, “what does it mean for my investments if 'enter party or candidate name here' wins?”

While this can be a loaded question sometimes charged with preconceived bias, there are very real trends we’ve seen of the impact of presidential elections on the stock market.

The first thing we like to point out to clients is that the stock market really doesn’t care what party wins the election. What the stock market tends to prefer is that whatever the outcome of the election, the federal government ends up in some sort of gridlock that won’t allow for sweeping policy changes in the near term that could disrupt carefully conceived and laid out business plans. This is not to say that certain policies may be deemed to be more or less business-friendly in the long term, but in the nearer term, no change is good change.

So, what are some impacts to investments we have seen over past election years? Thanks to data compiled by Morningstar and Blackrock investments, we can look at the data over nearly the past 100 years. Since Jan. 1, 1926, the average return in the stock market has been 10.3%. Interestingly, the average return in presidential election years came in a little higher at 11.6%! During this same time frame, going a little deeper, the market typically launched the first two quarters of an election year sluggishly, with the third and fourth quarters earning the bulk of the returns during those times. One interesting trend that has been noted in the past 30 years of data has been investors tend to build up cash reserves in election years at twice the rate of non-election years. During election years, the average money market in-flows was $114 billion while for non-election years money market in-flows averaged $56 billion.

Now to tackle the question everyone wants to know the answer to, “which party is better for my investments?” While debates have and will continue to be waged as to what party’s policies are best for the stock market and economy, we have looked at two periods of time to see what the data shows us. First off, over the past ten years since Dec. 31, 2013, $100,000 invested for the entire time would be worth $311,000 today. If the same $100,000 was invested ONLY during Democrat presidencies, the total would have grown to $172,000 while the same $100,000 invested for only Republican presidencies would have grown to $181,000. Going back the past 70 years, the numbers are even more distinctive. $1,000 invested in Dec. 31, 1953 for the entire time would have grown to an astounding $1,580,000! During only Republican tenures, $1,000 would have grown to $31,000 while only during Democrat tenures, $1,000 would have grown to $50,000.

The takeaway from all this information is what we stated at the beginning, “the stock market really doesn’t care what party

wins the election.” The old adage of it’s “time in the market,” not “timing the market,” clearly holds true. Maintaining a welldiversified, long-term investment approach will always win in the end. So, while there are a lot of differing political views, try not to let those views derail your long-term investing success so you can continue to Enjoy the Ride!

Benjamin D. Spiker is the Co-Founder and COO of Shore to Summit Wealth Management. His wealth management career spans more than 24 years, and he currently works and lives in Annapolis, MD with his wife, two sons and daughter.

Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network did not assist in the preparation of this report, and its accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed. The opinions expressed in this report are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily those of Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network or its affiliates. The material has been prepared or is distributed solely for information purposes and is not a solicitation or an offer to buy any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network and Shore to Summit Wealth Management are not legal or tax advisors. You should consult with your attorney, accountant and/or estate planner before taking any action.

Shore to Summit Wealth Management is located at 105 E. Oak Street, Unit 1A Bozeman, MT 59715 # 406-219-2900.

Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN), Member SIPC. Shore to Summit Wealth Management is a separate entity from WFAFN.

©2023 – 2024 Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC. All rights reserved.

2024 IN BIG SKY BUSINESS

Learn about the Economics of Big Sky from Jackie Haines from Resort Tax. Hear from a line up of speakers representing businesses in the Big Sky community.

WARREN

PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

WEDNESDAY MARCH 6, 2024, 6 PM

FEATURED RECENTLY SOLD RESIDENCE

Residence 304

Listed at $2,350,000 Beds 3 | Baths 2 2,332 SqFt

With a unique wrap-around covered deck, this residence is a private oasis. Featuring an open floor plan, beautiful views, and a built-in wet bar, perfect for entertaining with friends. A palette of warm white oak, black accents, trend-worthy fixtures and an abundance of natural light make this home a highly coveted slice of Bozeman.

Listed with EJ Daws & Ethan Stokes | Outlaw Realty

The Wildlands building located in the Northeast Neighborhood of Bozeman has crossed the finish line and is truly spectacular.

The 6 remaining residences each boast top-of-the line finishes, large living spaces, and meticulous detail.

Schedule a tour today and experience the masterpiece that is Wildlands.

WWW.WILDLANDSBOZEMAN.COM

Scan the QR code to visit the website for floor plans, virtual tours, and more.

ASK:

LONE MOUNTAIN LAND COMPANY

Can

you tell us about Blindside Burger in the old Lotus Pad location?

Lone Mountain Land Company and the Town Center Owners Association are thrilled to welcome Blindside Burger, a new restaurant at 47 Town Center Avenue, Suite D1 in Town Center. Brought to you by the culinary artists of Blue Buddha Sushi and Tres Toros Tacos & Tequila, Blindside Burger opened on February 12. “Picture this: Creative smash burgers that’ll make your taste buds high-five, shakes so unique they’re practically edible art, crispy fries, and beers that’ll have you saying, “Cheers, Big Sky!” It’s the kind of vibe that’s fast-casual and family friendly.”, says Twist Thompson, Owner of Blue Buddha Sushi, Tres Toros, and Blindside Burger.

Blindside Burger will serve lunch and dinner, from 11am to 9pm, Monday – Saturday. For further information about the Town Center Owners Association or to inquire about retail or restaurant opportunities, please contact: retail@lonemountainland.com

Is LMLC opening a laundry facility?

Yes, LMLC has built a laundry facility to address a big need of our affiliate businesses. It is located just north of Four Corners that is currently operational with a third party operator. The facility is 22,000 square feet (roughly 4,000 square feet of office space and 18,000 square feet of industrial space). The facility has a capacity of 8.4 MM pounds of linens a year, which creates more capacity than we will need for all of our entities and will allow us to give more options to local businesses in Big Sky and the greater Gallatin Valley. Operations began in December of 2023.

I heard there is a project planned for Upper Whitefish Dr. Can you share more about it?

The vision here is to create a natural extension of the South Fork neighborhood. The PUD was approved last year for 26 lots that are 0.30 – 0.50 acres each. We plan on installing a trail network throughout the subdivision that will connect the existing trail and will initiate conversations with BSCO on establishing a permanent easement. Our goal is to begin the installation of infrastructure later this year.

How is Lone Mountain Land Company involved in cell tower improvements in Big Sky?

There are four major projects in progress and one completed. Two years ago, Verizon installed a temporary 50ft tall cell tower at Moonlight that has greatly improved Verizon coverage in that area. The location is on Powder River, on the ridge line that is on the Gallatin/Madison divide. Last Fall, Crown Castle, built a permanent cell tower that looks like a tree, at the same location. The “tree” cell tower does not have cellular equipment on it yet and is not live. The plan is to get multiple provider equipment on this tower starting this summer, which will help improve cell coverage even more. A cell tower at Moonlight alleviates pressure on the existing cell towers, hence improving coverage community wide and not just adjacent to the Moonlight tower. A new T-Mobile and Verizon tower has come online in the 191 corridor of Big Sky and we’re hoping AT&T will locate at that site as well. We’re also actively working on improving coverage and capacity in Town Center, including an updated Verizon tower installed on the roof of the Wilson Hotel. We’re hoping to have improvements across Town Center this coming summer.

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BIG SKY, MT

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AMENITIES

• 6 bedrooms sprawling over approximately 4,620 square feet

• 0.31± acre lot, offering fantastic views, a covered deck with heating lamps, walk out patio with a hot tub, and landscaping placed with entertainment in mind

• Convenient 2-car garage

• Ski-in/out access

• A park and expansive open space just steps away

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AMENITIES

• Covered porch with a fireplace offers a cozy space

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• 20± Acres offering endless outdoor adventures

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5255 LONE MOUNTAIN TRAIL BIG SKY, MT

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Quintessential Montana elements converge to craft an extraordinary equestrian and outdoor enthusiast’s legacy property Encompassing over 22± sprawling acres with meticulously maintained pastures and corrals, this landscape affords direct access to extensive horseback riding, hiking, and cross-country skiing trails, all while offering a front-row seat to the awe-inspiring panorama of Big Sky’s mountain vistas, including Lone Peak, Pioneer, Yellow,

AMENITIES

• 5 minutes from skiing at Big Sky Resort

• 4 minutes from Big Sky Town Center

• Locati-designed main house, perched atop the property’s summit, boasts more than 6,342± square feet of living and entertaining space

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Create your own legacy property with this grand home bordering recreational open space. Hop onto the Crail Ranch Trail from your front door where freshly groomed cross country ski trails beckon in Winter and biking and hiking trails await in Summer. The Crail Ranch Trail connects to the Lone Peak Trail via the new

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ENVIRONMENT

DISPATCHES FROM THE WILD: WOLVERINES IN LIMBO

THE STATE OF MONTANA PLANS ON SUING THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OVER A RECENT ESA LISTING

BY BENJAMIN ALVA POLLEY EBS COLUMNIST

Glimpsing the ghost is almost mythical. Wolverines’ elusiveness has more to do with their low population numbers than how hard they are to see. Their numbers are much more stable in northern and western Canada and throughout Alaska, but these populations are isolated from the 300 or so wolverines left in the Lower 48 as populations in southern Canada decline. Wolverines live in western Montana, northwestern Wyoming, northern and central Idaho, northcentral Washington, and Oregon and occasionally appear in California, Colorado and Utah. Most of the 300 live in Montana’s northern Rockies and Washington’s Cascades.

Should states own them and do what they want with them—allowing trapping, for example—or should they be federally managed because the creatures need vast amounts of land and travel between states and countries?

On Nov. 29, 2023, Wolverines were listed on the Endangered Species Act because they face many threats, including climate variation and changes to the landscape. Their habitat needs to be more cohesive and it has become harder for isolated populations to connect. Wolverines are solitary, wide-ranging, medium-sized mammals, the largest member of the weasel family that moves beyond state and international borders. States should have the right to manage animals that solely reside inside their boundaries, but most boundaries are porous, and animals, especially wolverines, move back and forth regularly if they have the habitat to do so.

They don’t need states creating more threats when they already have it hard.

History

Historically, wolverines were trapped and hunted to near extinction for their beautiful fur in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Fur trappers craved their thick, oily, water-repellent fur that keeps wolverines warm and dry through harsh winters. Wolverines’ fur prevents them from needing to hibernate like bears. Their fur was typically used as trim for parka hoods, one of many reasons it became valuable to humans. Wolverine populations declined and were extirpated from much of their range by the early 1900s. Between 1921 and 1950, one wolverine was in Washington, one in Oregon, five in Idaho, 15 in Montana, and one in Wyoming. Wolverines most likely sought safe havens in remote mountainous areas and slowly dispersed down from southern Canada when their numbers were more stable and they had connected habitat to do so. Their numbers are finally starting to rebound, but they face new threats on the horizon.

Habitat requirements

Wolverines are creatures of northern latitude, often living at high elevations in summer and lower elevations in winter, threatened by climate variation and habitat fragmentation. They are wide-ranging individuals. Wolverine spatial patterns include intersexual overlap where a resident male’s home range covers 500 square miles and overlaps two to six resident females. Female home ranges usually cover 150 square miles. They can travel 15-40 miles daily over mountains or through low valleys; no landscapes are too treacherous for the wily wolverine. They need a lot of open, wild space and room to roam and to connect to other isolated populations.

They prefer to reside in remote, extensive wildernesses dominated by coniferous forests or open tundra, in undisturbed habitats with few roads, and far from human development, including agriculture, suburbia, logging, mining, and oil and gas exploration.

Habitat fragmentation carves up wildlands. Many wolverines live in isolated populations like national parks and wilderness areas. Unfortunately, many national parks and wilderness areas have become biological islands in a sea of development, cutting off the gene flow needed for species’ health. As more and more humans push recreational sports like backcountry skiing, ultra-running, and snowmobiling deep into wild and remote areas, wolverines are displaced and retreat further into the backcountry, especially females with young who need north-facing slopes that retain snow into late May to raise young.

Ninety percent of Canada’s human population lives within 100 miles of the U.S.-Canada border. A 2023 University of Calgary study shows wolverine populations in southern Canada have decreased

by 39% since 2011. Now that populations are shrinking in southern Canada, that gene flow isn’t flowing as smoothly into Montana, Idaho, and Washington. Southern Canada’s wolverine population is no longer as viable. This hurts the long-term viability of wolverines, especially if the species in the Lower 48 needs it to connect to the northern populations.

Wolverines and many other wide-ranging carnivores need migration passages where habitat is connected and linked through wildlife corridors or buffer zones surrounding these parks. Hence, more development on the wildland-urban interface is not a recipe to save wolverines or other wideranging carnivores.

New protection or new threats

On Jan. 26, 2024, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks notified the Department of the Interior of their intent to sue, claiming the decision to list wolverines as threatened was based on “flawed, outdated science.” The state argued that wolverines regularly move between Canada and the U.S. and are not isolated, but according to the latest science, that doesn’t happen as much as it used to as southern Canada’s population wanes.

Wolverines finally receive the protections they deserve, but politics get in the way. Montana is not the only state crying wolverine; Idaho and Wyoming don’t like the ESA decision either, nor do industry groups, including the American Petroleum Institute, the International Snowmobile Manufacturing Association, the Western Energy Alliance and the Utility Air Regulatory Group.

The state of Montana wants to be able to allow trappers or hunting guides the opportunity to hunt wolverines, and they don’t want a federal agency mandating their protection. Even with wolverines being protected by the ESA, it doesn’t mean they won’t accidentally be caught in traps intended for other species like pine martens, foxes, coyotes or wolves, which could cause a further decline in wolverine numbers.

Regardless, states should follow scientific data and allow animals to be animals, roaming freely across their habitat. If states were in the business of conserving and preserving species, then there would be less need for federally mandated protections.

Wolverines don’t need to be held in political limbo.

Benjamin Alva Polley is a place-based storyteller with stories published in Outside, Adventure Journal, Popular Science, Field & Stream, Esquire, Sierra, Audubon, Earth Island Journal, Modern Huntsman, and other publications at his website www.benjaminpolley.com/stories. He holds a master’s in Environmental Science and Natural Resource Journalism from the University of Montana.

A wolverine lopes along a creek between two lakes on the east side of Glacier National Park (taken April 22, 2018). PHOTO BY JENNY DALIMATA

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE SUBLIME

BY PAUL SWENSON EBS COLUMNIST

Have you ever noticed that snow in the yard, on a pine bough or a roof, seems to slowly disappear over a few days or weeks even when the temperature never gets above freezing? Or that icicles seem to diminish in size even without melting? Or that the frost on your windshield goes away as soon as the sun shines on the glass, even at negative 20 degrees? It seems the snow just vanishes into thin air.

That of course is the key, thin air, especially if it has low humidity.

Water is one of a few substances that can change from its solid state, ice or snow, into its gaseous state, water vapor, without transitioning through its liquid state. Two other common solids that do this are carbon dioxide, which is why it’s called “dry ice,” and Naphthalene, better known as “moth balls.” The process of going from solid to gas states is called sublimation.

To sublimate ice, energy needs to be provided to the system usually in the form of sunlight. To calculate the amount needed is a basic problem found in a physics or chemistry class. Start with the cold ice, heat it to its melting point, melt it, raise the temperature of the now water to its boiling point, then boil it. Each phase transition takes a lot of energy—for the frost crystal shown above, I calculate that it takes about 20 Joules of energy. Given that sunlight provides about 1 milliwatt per square centimeter of energy, it should take about an hour and thirty minutes for this frost crystal to sublimate away.

So where does the water go? Into the air just off the glass’ surface, then disperses into the garage, increasing the humidity in the garage until the next cold night.

This process can be seen out in the field as well. On calm, cold, sunny days, the sparkling snow seen in the early morning loses its sparkle over the course of the sunny day as the frost crystals sublimate away. The resulting water vapor stays close to the ground if there is no wind, and when the sun sets, the opposite process occurs.

After dark, radiative heat loss causes the snowy surface to cool off until it is colder than the air above it. The water vapor condenses directly into its solid state on the ground—a process known as deposition. On cold, clear, calm nights, with just a slight downslope movement of air, very large ice crystals can grow, sometimes topping and inch or two in length. This is known as hoar frost.

This cycle of sublimation and deposition can occur day after day for as long as the weather stays in a high-pressure cycle, like the Big Sky region experienced for weeks at the beginning of winter. Very thick layers of hoar frost can build, which is a wintertime dream, but also a nightmare. The hoar frost is so pretty to hike through, sparkling like fields of diamonds, but the crystals trap a lot of air between them when new snow falls on top. The large, fragile behavior of the hoar frost and its

trapped air leads to a structurally weak layer in the snowpack.

One only has to look at the avalanche reports provided to the public by the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center and watch their snowpack analysis videos to see the results of buried hoar frost layers in the snowpack. If you are a backcountry enthusiast, please check the avalanche reports provided, especially as we get more frequent and larger snowstorms in the following weeks leading into spring.

The beauty of a cold crisp winter morning has been the sublime inspiration for many. As Robert Lewis Stevenson wrote in Winter Time:

“Black are my steps on silver sod; Thick blows my frosty breath abroad; And tree and house, and hill and lake, Are frosted like a wedding cake.”

Paul Swenson has been living in and around the Big Sky area since 1966. He is a retired science teacher, fishing guide, Yellowstone guide and naturalist. Also an artist and photographer, Swenson focuses on the intricacies found in nature.

Frost on the inside of a garage window where conditions of elevated humidity, cold surface, and very little air disturbance are perfect for growing ice crystals. The “tree” is two inches long. PHOTO BY PAUL SWENSON

Hoar frost crystals found along the Porcupine trail during the last cold snap. Each crystal is an inch long.

PHOTO BY PAUL SWENSON

BY ALEX MARIENTHAL EBS CONTRIBUTOR

In my nine years of avalanche forecasting I have not seen a snowpack so weak. When I thought the snowpack was bad in past seasons, it wasn’t this bad. Almost every season we have weak, sugary faceted snow near the bottom of the snowpack, and at least half the time the weak snow is a problem all season. Professionals with longer careers have seen few, if any, winters with as poor stability as this winter. Doug Chabot, Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center’s director, wrote the following in late January:

“This year’s snowpack is not to be trifled with. Unusual weather leads to unusual avalanche conditions, and that is certainly the case this year. This year is unique in my 29 years of avalanche forecasting in southwest Montana. Large avalanches are being triggered from hundreds of feet away long after the most recent snowfall. Even a few inches of new snow is causing us to elevate the danger. This is not like other seasons, and it’s making our entire forecasting team nervous. We are recalibrating our risk and notching back our travel plans due to a great deal of uncertainty about what it will take for things to become more stable.

Typically, the snowpack begins to adjust to new snow within a few days after a storm, avalanches and obvious signs of instability like whumpfing decrease, and we can start notching down the

avalanche danger. This year is different. Our current snowpack is stabilizing at a rate that is agonizingly slow. The only real solution to our current snowpack situation is patience. With our current weak layers, every small storm is likely to raise the avalanche danger, and instability will lurk on many slopes long after the snow falls.”

A small, but mighty amount of snow fell in January and formed a slab on top of the weak layers that formed during an exceptionally dry early season. This created a very unstable snowpack and considerable to high avalanche danger. Avalanche activity was widespread, and many avalanches were easily triggered remotely, from a distance away on flatter terrain. It seemed like any steep slope would avalanche with the added weight of a person. The

large amount and type of avalanches in January are strong evidence that these weak layers will be a problem all season.

This season it is important to remain diligent with cautious travel and conservative route selection, especially during snowstorms and for a few days after. The safest plan is to choose routes that avoid travel across or underneath slopes steeper than 30 degrees. When it snows, don’t let the excitement of fresh powder distract you from proper planning and safe decision making. Make sure to read the avalanche forecast for daily updates, especially each day before you head into the backcountry.

Alex Marienthal is an avalanche forecaster with the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center.

A natural avalanche in the Lionhead area near West Yellowstone in mid-January. PHOTO COURTESY OF GNFAC

HEALTH

LET’S TALK ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH

FEBRYOUARY

BY MICHELLE NIERLING GUEST COLUMNIST

A solid foundation—it’s something necessary to build upon.

To build this foundation, no matter what the foundation is for, you need tools. A nail is just a sharp object without a hammer. You can’t just pour cement to build a foundation without the proper tools to level it out. We know we need tools in everyday living and building. Do you know what else society needs tools for? Building a better YOU. It says it in the month itself, FebrYOUary! Let’s all take a few moments while reading this article to focus on ourselves.

Life is real—at times it can be heavy, chaotic, sad and overwhelming, and sometimes there is little to no warning. It happens to all of us. We use “trial and error” in hopes of finding a resolution to the pain, stress, sadness, or whatever the source may be. We do whatever it takes not to feel. It is easier to cover it up than to sit with it. Perhaps this looks like anxiety, jitters, being stuck in one’s head and buried in the “What if? Why me? How could they?”—the list goes on and on. How do we stop or lessen those thoughts?

To recap a tool from a previous EBS column, Holidaze Health by Jeremy Harder, we’re going to “box it out” as I like to say.

Put your feet flat on the floor, sit up straight, and roll your shoulders back just a bit. Breathe in for four seconds, hold

for four seconds, breathe out for four seconds and hold for four seconds. Repeat three times. On the third round, when you exhale, do it with an intense sigh—out loud is great but mindfully works well, too. Let’s do this routine one more time. Notice how you feel. Maybe you feel a bit calmer, less anxious or even a little goofy. Whatever it is, feel it—it’s all about you.

Many of us are asked to hold space for other people—or maybe what feels like our entire community—and we do because we care. We can and will continue doing this, but we also need to hold space for ourselves. We are needed by friends, family and coworkers, whether it’s to be an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on, or a presence to help ease someone’s loneliness. If we get so busy holding space for others, we sometimes forget to hold space for ourselves. This space has many shapes, sizes, actions and looks. For some reason, holding space for ourselves seems incredibly impossible at times. Other times, we overlook the importance of this and forget to not only hold space for ourselves, but to take time out for ourselves.

I am completely guilty of this and didn’t realize its importance until lately. In the past, I would have rather helped others with anything than to sit with myself. The moment I stopped helping others and sat with myself, there was nothing I could do to stop my thoughts, and they all came at once like a freight train. Then would come the anxiety, guilt, wondering and negative thinking. It took a long time for me to realize, “I am not my thoughts. I am not the only one this happens to. I am not the only one who tried whatever I could to not take care of myself.”

I am one of the lucky ones, and not because I am a lucky person. Rather, I found the tools I needed to work through it.

I’m a work in progress. Not just now, but every day.

As Lisa Olivera, author and therapist, said, “Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you doesn’t mean you can, should, or need to do it alone.”

Finding stability for myself in this community has become more achievable by becoming involved with a great organization called Be Well Big Sky. I have been provided tools to keep in my mental toolbox to help when anxiety kicks in, when the thoughts won’t stop, when I just can’t calm down.

In closing, I’d like to provide you with one more tool to help during times when emotions and anxiety are running high—it’s another breathwork tool, and you can do these without anyone even knowing. This is my favorite right before I fall asleep.

Gently close your eyes. Breathe in for a count of four. Hold for a count of seven and breathe out slowly to a count of eight. I suggest repeating this at least five times. This is a form of pranayama which is the practice of breath regulation. You are the very most important thing in your life—take care of YOU!

Michelle Nierling is the mother of two young adults, and the Noona to two beautiful grandchildren. She works at Yellowstone Club as the Culinary Department Administrator. She is a volunteer member with Be Well Big Sky’s Navigator Network and serves on Be Well Big Sky’s leadership council.

BACK 40

MINING HISTORY A ROCK LEGEND DIGS DEEP INTO HIS FAMILY’S MONTANA ROOTS

BY BRIAN HURLBUT

Pearl Jam lead guitarist Mike McCready runs onto the stage at Big Sky’s inaugural Peak to Sky music event in August of 2019, the roaring Montana crowd on their feet. McCready, a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer with Pearl Jam, and his all-star band—featuring members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foo Fighters and Guns N’ Roses—rip through some of classic rock’s greatest tunes over a three-hour show, and a huge smile lights up his face. Indeed, he seems right at home. In many ways, he is.

McCready’s roots run deep in the history of the Treasure State. Though he only recently discovered Montana as a family getaway when he wasn’t on the road with Pearl Jam, McCready’s genealogical studies revealed several Montana connections on both sides of his family. From Butte to Roundup, his lineage has history in turn-of-thecentury mining interests on both sides of the state, and an old family cabin still stands today outside of Pony.

For McCready, the tales associated with this history transcend time. They allow him to reconnect to his past, even more important today as he and his wife Ashley and their three children spend more and more time in Montana.

“I’m getting older,” McCready, 55, admits. “If my kids ever want to know this stuff, we’ll have it documented. If they ever have questions, I want something to show them.”

Much like learning a new song on a six-string, McCready dug in and discovered connections around nearly every corner.

• • • •

Butte, Montana, was the true Wild West in the late 1800s and early 1900s as copper mining turned the city into one of the wealthiest and rowdiest places in the country. McCready’s father’s side of the family lived in Butte during its heyday, and like many residents they had deep ties to mining. His great-grandfather, John Harrison McCready, was born in Grangeville, Idaho, in 1892, and after attending Washington State College moved to Butte when the city’s population was just topping 11,000. In just 18 years, Butte’s population would peak at 100,000, and the "Richest Hill on Earth" would produce one-third of the entire world’s copper.

The elder McCready, who later operated a trucking company, married Joanna Grigg, the daughter of a prominent city doctor, and the couple had three children. Mike’s grandfather, Roy, was born in Butte in 1917, attended the Montana State School of Mines (now the Montana Technological University) and worked in the mining industry.

It was while living in Butte that Roy met a girl named Aino “Ina” Kero, whose parents owned and operated a bath house for miners, as did many of the Finnish immigrant families in the northeast area of Butte called Finntown. They met at the School of Mines when she asked him for help with a science project. Ina then transferred to the University of Montana in Missoula her sophomore year, and Roy would drive for weekend visits.

After college the couple headed further west to the Seattle area where Roy worked as an assistant professor of engineering at the University of Washington. Ina went on to teach at Perkins Preschool, where McCready went in 1970. They married and had two boys, Roy and Ron, and the younger Ron married Louise Wiepke. Michael David McCready was born in 1966.

McCready’s great-great-grandfather on his mother’s side, Henry Fletcher, helped start the Klein coal mine outside of Roundup in 1907 after moving there from Illinois. The mine produced coal for the locomotives running the Milwaukee Railroad, and workers laid its tracks to Roundup that same year. At one point the mine had more than 500 workers, and a post office was in operation from 1909-1957. Klein’s population was about 1,500 in 1917, with another 2,000 living in Roundup, and that year the mine produced nearly 400,000 tons of coal.

Mining was, of course, dangerous work, and Fletcher was killed in a mining accident in 1917 at age 53. He left behind a wife and two children, one of which also worked in the mine. “He was so loved by the miners that they called him Dad,” notes Louise McCready, Mike’s mother and Fletcher’s great granddaughter. “He died inspecting the mine, when a large chunk of coal fell on him.”

Henry’s son and McCready’s great-grandfather, Earl Roy Fletcher, was a shift boss at the mine, and later ran the post office. He passed away in Seattle in 1967, a year after Mike was born, leaving his wife, Emma, and two children, Doris and Alice.

Doris, McCready’s grandmother, was born inside the Klein Post Office in 1915. She was six when the family moved to Roundup, where, by all accounts, the family enjoyed good living in a picturesque, small Montana town. Doris liked to swim, fish, raise and sell rabbits, and golf—she was three-time Roundup Golf Club women’s champion in her late teens. She was considered a firecracker, always up for an adventure, and was proud to have a Red Cross life-saving insignia. In the early 1930s, Doris and her high school boyfriend, David Comstock, flew in his home-built airplane—complete with a Ford Model A engine—above Roundup and Doris took the controls for 45 minutes. The plane, a 1932 Pietenpol, was fully restored in 2007 and now sits in Roundup’s Musselshell Valley Historical Museum.

Mike never got to meet his grandfather Roy, who died the same year Mike was born. Ina, however, died only recently in 2020 at the age of 102. She never made it back to Butte, but her father—McCready’s great grandfather—died in the house he built and lived in for his entire life.

Though Mike didn’t grow up coming to Montana, he listened to his grandmother Ina’s stories—one involving riding a donkey around town—of growing up in Butte. In a way, Montana has been ingrained in him since he was young, but life gets in the way—especially the rock ‘n’ roll version where so much time is spent on the road. When the COVID-19 pandemic canceled a year’s worth of Pearl Jam concert dates, though, McCready and his young family lit out for the mountains.

“I want my kids to be here right now,” he says, noting that most winter days include skiing and snowboarding sessions sandwiched between online school classes. “They shred, and it makes me so proud that they get to ski here.”

• • • •

Roundup, Montana, couldn’t be more different than Butte. Situated on the Musselshell River about an hour north of Billings, it’s one of those places that people say have more cows and horses than people. In the early 1900s, however, and much like Butte, mining took center stage in the area’s development. But it was coal, not copper, that miners pulled from the earth.

“When her parents, Earl and Emma Fletcher, found out about it, that was the end of mom’s flying career,” says Louise Wiepke McCready, Doris’ daughter.

At the same time she met her future husband, Henry Wiepke, Doris entered a contest through the thenpopular Physical Culture magazine, run by media mogul Bernarr MacFadden. She was given an all-expenses paid trip to New York City for the final judging.

Doris and Henry were married in 1938, moving to California in 1948 before settling in Seattle in 1949. She passed away in 1997, but never forgot the memories she made in Montana.

• • • • v

Now that McCready and his family spend more time in Montana, his appreciation has grown for what his ancestors went through in those early days.

“I’m definitely not as strong as these people,” he says, smiling on the back deck of his Big Sky home, a fire roaring in the outdoor fireplace. “I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for them.”

And his children wouldn’t be in Montana either, something that’s not lost on one of the best-known rock guitarists in the world, one who now seems right at home at his cabin in the woods.

“I think it’s critical that they can be out here in Montana at this time,” he says. “I love it. I’m so happy.”

This story was originally published in Mountain Outlaw summer 2021.

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. Here, we highlight stories from our flagship sister publication Mountain Outlaw magazine.

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

These images show the plane's builder, David Comstock (upper left) and McCready's grandmother, Doris Fletcher (upper right) in the early 1930s. Known for being adventurous, at one point Doris flew the plane for 45 minutes above the town of Roundup, Montana. The plane was fully restored in 2007 and now sits in the Musselshell Valley Historical Museum in Roundup. PHOTO COURTESY OF MIKE MCCREADY / RECENT PLANE PHOTO BY DALE ALGER