Explore Big Sky Newspaper 1/23 - 2/5

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Life and land from the heart of the Yellowstone Region

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 Volume 6 // Issue #2

Big Sky firefighters climb for cancer Community member profile: Colin Mathews

Inside Bozeman's newest distillery Raising funds for avy forecasters

Back 40: Montana's receding glaciers


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ON THE COVER: Dennis Uhl, a snowmobile guide for Big Sky’s Canyon Adventures, rips through some powder Jan. 20 on Buck’s Ridge with The Sphynx in the distance. PHOTO BY WES OVERVOLD

Jan. 23 – Feb. 5, 2015 Volume 6, Issue No. 2

BELOW: Lone Mountain glows during a pastel-infused sunset on Jan. 20. PHOTO BY MARIA WYLLIE

Owned and published in Big Sky, Montana PUBLISHER Eric Ladd EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR Joseph T. O’Connor SENIOR EDITOR/ DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR Tyler Allen ASSOCIATE EDITOR Maria Wyllie CREATIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kelsey Dzintars GRAPHIC DESIGNER Taylor-Ann Smith VIDEO DIRECTOR Brian Niles PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER Wes Overvold SALES AND OPERATIONS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Megan Paulson DIRECTOR OF SALES E.J. Daws ACCOUNT MANAGER Katie Morrison ACCOUNT COORDINATOR Maria Wyllie MEDIA AND EVENTS DIRECTOR Ersin Ozer ACCOUNTANT Alexis Deaton CONTRIBUTORS Todd Anderson, John Arnold, Jamie Balke, Johanne Bouchard, Jill Bough, Sheila Chapman, Jackie Rainford Corcoran, Kwame Dawes, Sebastien Dion, Dan Egan, Ted Kooser, Jeff Linkenbach, Nancy Mahoney, Barbara Rowley, Katie Smith, Patrick Straub, Ian van Collier Editorial Policy Outlaw Partners LLC is the sole owner of the 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.

Taking a minute Here in Montana we enjoy a slower pace of life. After the holiday bustle, many of us can swing back into that “stop and smell the roses” mentality – that’s part of why we call this beautiful place home.

offers ski tips for less-than-snowy conditions, and Lone Mountain Ranch encourages guests to pick up their fly-fishing rods during this recent, unseasonably warm weather.

We’re spoiled with the uninterrupted scenery and clear skies, and it can be easy to grow accustomed to a landscape that still looks like it once was. Taking a minute to enjoy starry nights and colorful sunsets can be a replenishing feeling, serving as a reminder of why we live here. However, it’s also important not to remain complacent. We have tough questions to ask about how to preserve Montana, amidst the growing population and infrastructure in the region.

This winter’s occasional spring-like conditions, followed by sub-zero cold snaps, indicate that something isn’t right. While we can all enjoy skiing in T-shirts and not having to bundle up quite so much, don’t forget those powder mornings, pristine waters, and crisp, clean air that make Montana “the last best place.”

This issue of Explore Big Sky includes a story about Glacier National Park’s melting glaciers, which scientists suspect will be gone in 30 years. Dan Egan

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 Thank You notes. Letters should be 250 words or less, respectful, ethical, accurate, and proofread for grammar and content. We reserve the right to edit letters. Include: full name, address, phone number and title. Submit to media@theoutlawpartners.com. ADVERTISING DEADLINE For the Feb. 6 issue: Jan. 30, 2015 CORRECTIONS Please report errors to media@theoutlawpartners.com. OUTLAW PARTNERS & EXPLORE BIG SKY P.O. Box 160250, Big Sky, MT 59716 (406) 995-2055 • media@theoutlawpartners.com © 2014 Explore Big Sky unauthorized reproduction prohibited

Explore Big Sky regional distribution Hundreds of drop points surrounding Yellowstone National Park

Take a minute and smell the wild roses, but let’s also ask ourselves how we can ensure they’re still growing here in the years to come. – Maria Wyllie


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4 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Explore Big Sky

FEATURES:

TABLE OF CONTENTS

6 17 Big Sky

Section 1: News Local News...................................................5 Montana................................15 Section 2: Business, Sports, and Health Business Profile.............................................17 Business............................................19 Sports..............................................27 Health...........................................31 Section 3: Outdoors and Entertainment Events....................................33

firefighters climb for cancer

Inside Bozeman's newest distillery

11

Community member profile:

COLIN MATHEWS

C a l e n d a r. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 6 Wanderer at Rest.......................................38 Outdoors...............................38 The Eddy Line............................................41 Word from the Resorts...............................44 Gear Review..............................................46 Fun...................................................47 Back 40........................................................48

33

48

Back 40: Montana's receding glaciers

Rasing funds for avy forecasters

Explore Big Sky is the local paper for Big Sky, Montana, and a news and lifestyle journal for the Greater Yellowstone Region.

Our content

explores everything from community news to global stories relevant to our lives in the Mountain West.

Frequency: 26x/year every 2 weeks

Our 2 week shelf-life allows for in-depth journalism and extensive exposure for our advertisers.

EBS features award-winning editorial content, design and photography. Best page layout and design Montana Newspaper Awards

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LOCAL

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 5

Letter to the Editor: Help stop the spread of houndstongue Winter is my dogs’ favorite season. Nothing makes them happier than heading out for a ski on our favorite trails, and since they’re Australian Shepherds with thick, woolly coats, they have no problem keeping warm. The downside to those warm coats is that they easily pick up unwanted burs – especially houndstongue seeds. Houndstongue is listed as a noxious weed in Montana, and its seeds are covered with barbs that have been referred to as “nature’s Velcro.” This characteristic facilitates the effective, widespread dispersal of seeds on the fur of passing wildlife, livestock and pets, and also on the clothes of humans. Invasive weeds are one of the greatest threats to Montana’s environment. Houndstongue foliage also has the potential to poison livestock and wildlife. Seeds are the only source of reproduction for houndstongue, so be aware of seeds clinging to you or your dog and dispose of them properly. Bring an extra plastic bag with you and if you find your dog covered in burs, take the time to collect and dispose of them – if you toss the seeds alongside the trail, you’ll be spreading noxious weeds and making it worse for years to come. Anyone who enjoys our amazing trails can do their part in reducing the spread of noxious weeds. So pay attention to what clings to your pet when you’re outside and help keep our trails beautiful and noxious weed free! Jennifer Mohler Coordinator Gallatin/Big Sky Weed Committee


6 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

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Climbing for a cause Big Sky Fire raising funds for leukemia, lymphoma BY JOSEPH T. O’CONNOR EXPLORE BIG SKY MANAGING EDITOR

BIG SKY – For the second year running, Big Sky firefighters are taking steps – literally – to raise awareness and funding for leukemia and lymphoma research. On March 8, three of Big Sky’s finest will again climb for cancer. The Scott Sports-sponsored Firefighter Stairclimb, held in the Columbia Center in Seattle, Wash., draws firefighters from around the country to one of the nation’s largest fundraisers for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. During the 2014 event, 1,800 firefighters from more than 300 departments raised nearly $2 million for LLS.

On Jan. 18, Hamel, Vildas and Bakke held a fundraising demonstration in front of Roxy’s Market in Big Sky, toting a stair mill from the station. Climbing in full turnouts and oxygen tanks, the firefighters climbed in 20-minute intervals continuously for five hours, answering questions and raising community awareness. “It went really well,” Hamel said. “People were receptive and we raised over $1,000.” Last year, BSFD raised approximately $5,000 for the event, a respectable number, Hamel says, but far from where they hope to be this year. The Boise Fire Department led all Firefighter Stairclimb fundraising efforts in 2014, amassing $78,500 for LLS. The Boise department sent more than 50 firefighters to compete in the stairclimb in 2014, and each raised money for their station. According to Audra Daniels, LLS’ Senior Campaign Manager for the event, fundraising is ranked per capita for context. “Obviously you can’t compete [in fundraising dollars] if you have a team of two or three,” Daniels said. “[BSFD] came in 23rd per capita out of 323 teams last year.” The Big Sky firefighters are in the process of planning more fundraising demonstrations, and have their sites set on a date around President’s Day weekend, from Feb. 14-16, though negotiations on the venue and exact date are still underway. “What the event is for and what it represents is an amazing cause,” Hamel said. “The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is really at the forefront of research for all cancers right now.” Call (406) 995-2100 for donation information.

Big Sky Fire Department Firefighter Stairclimb competitors give a fundraising demonstration in front of Roxy’s Market on Jan. 18. (From left to right: Mike Bakke, Jordi Viladas, Mitch Hamel, and mascot Hoss.) PHOTO COURTESY OF BSFD

This is Mitch Hamel’s second year competing and he will join his Big Sky Fire Department colleagues Mike Bakke and Jordi Viladas in the 24th annual event against more than 1,900 racers, but this one is even more special, Hamel says. The trio will climb in honor of Allistair Anderson, a 5-year-old girl with leukemia, whom they connected with through Eagle Mount-Bozeman. “She’s been battling cancer since she was 21 months old,” said Hamel, 32, adding that LLS will hang posters of each honoree in the Columbia Center stairwell during the climb. “The entire time you’re climbing you’ll see all those faces and people who’ve been battling the disease. It’s really a cool reminder of why you’re there.” The Firefighter Stairclimb is an event that will make those who live on a 10th floor feel lucky. Or even a 30th floor.

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The Columbia Center is the second tallest building west of the Mississippi, with 69 flights containing 1,311 steps that rise 788 vertical feet from the streets of downtown Seattle. Competitors, who must be union or volunteer U.S.-based firefighters, wear full protective outerwear called turnouts as well as oxygen tanks, and the gear weighs up to 70 pounds. “You’re standing outside and looking up at the Columbia tower going, ‘Holy cow’.” said Hamel. “You get your mask on, put your helmet on … and run into the building. You’re nervous and excited, but once you hit the stairs, it’s go time.”

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Finishing the climb in just over 18 minutes last year and placing 311th, Hamel says his goal in March is to come in under 15 minutes. Bakke, 27, finished 195th at 17:02, and Viladas, 25, is in his rookie year with BSFD, a firefighter with the Bellingham, Wash.-based Marietta Fire Department last year. Missoula firefighter Andrew Drobek came in first each of the last two years. In 2014, he finished in 11 minutes, five seconds. Hamel says preparing for the stairclimb is an inherent job duty as a firefighter. “We train year round to stay fit for the community, [so] we’re ready to go today if we had to,” he said.

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An independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates, Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and Rock symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no other affiliation of Prudential. Equal Housing Opportunity. All information contained herein is derived from sources deemed reliable; however, is not guaranteed by Prudential Montana Real Estate, Managing Broker, Agents or Sellers. Offering is subject to error, omissions, prior sales, price change or withdrawal without notice and approval of purchase by Seller. We urge independent verification of each and every item submitted, to the satisfaction of any prospective purchaser.


LOCAL

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 7

LOCAL

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LKRealEstate.com All information given is considered reliable, but because it has been supplied by third parties, we cannot represent that it is accurate or complete, and should not be relied upon as such.These offerings are subject to errors, omissions, and changes including price or withdrawal without notice. All rights reserved. Equal Housing Opportunity. If you currently have a listing agreement or buyer broker agreement with another agent, this is not a solicitation to change. Š2014 LK REAL ESTATE, llc. lkrealestate.com


10 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

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New scholarships for arts education camp BY BARBARA ROWLEY EXPLORE BIG SKY CONTRIBUTOR

BIG SKY – Summer camp was not on one busy Big Sky family’s radar until last year, when their daughter’s passion for writing led them to explore an internationally renowned arts camp in Interlochen, Mich. Now, Loren and Jill Bough have established a scholarship to the Interlochen Summer Camps for local students.

“We really like being together as a family, especially during our beautiful Montana summers, so we definitely weren’t looking to send Dasha away,” Jill said. “But the opportunity for her to be able to have both the time and expert direction to work on her writing in such a great atmosphere changed our mind.”

“Sending off our students to programs like these not only helps the individual students who receive them, it helps all the students at the school,” says Loren, who is also chair of the local school board. “Because when these kids get accepted to programs like this, it shows them that we are adequately preparing our students to compete in the larger world, both with the talents they possess and the initiative and drive to take advantage of them.”

Following her acceptance into Interlochen’s competitive high school writing camp program, Lone Peak High School sophomore Dasha Bough, 15, went to Interlochen for three weeks. The experience was game changing for the young writer, she says, and the Boughs were blown away by the caliber of the opportunity Interlochen offered in the arts – from writing and filmmaking to dance and musical theater, to instrumental and vocal camps.

Contact Lone Peak High School Program Coordinator Brenda Yahraes at (406) 995-4281 to find out more about the Bough Interlochen Scholarships. Visit camp.interlochen.org to learn more about Interlochen Summer Camps.

“The energy on campus is amazing,” Dasha said. “There is art happening absolutely everywhere. The kids are so passionate and focused.” The Boughs hadn’t planned on spending three weeks apart from their daughter over the short Montana summer, but Interlochen’s curriculum was extensive.

After meeting with Interlochen officials in the fall, the Boughs created a Big Sky School District scholarship that will allow two students in grades 6-10 to attend Interlochen each summer, pending acceptance to the program of their choice. Need and acceptance will be determined solely by Interlochen, which will administer the scholarships.

With two other Big Sky kids also taking part in Interlochen’s camps last summer –Elizabeth Quackenbush in the filmmaking program, and Michael Romney in piano – it seemed clear to the Boughs that Interlochen’s programs had much to offer Big Sky kids who are exposed to the area’s burgeoning local art scene.

Application deadlines for programs that require an audition or portfolio are Feb. 1, while applications for other programs are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

“Moose Marsh”

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Creighton Block Gallery 33 Lone Peak Drive Creighton Block406.586.6850 Gallery Big Sky, MT 33 Lone Peak Drive, Big Sky, MT 406.993.9400 406.993.9400 paulapearl.com

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Announcements Toddler Storytime Mon. 1/26 & 2/2 at 10:30 am Everyone is welcome!

Tuesday 4-8p.m. Wednesday 4-8p.m. Closed Thursday-Saturday Public Computers available here. All are welcome. Located at the north end of Ophir School


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LOCAL

Explore Big Sky

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 11

Community member profile: Colin Mathews Local gallery owner exudes vision for the arts BY MARIA WYLLIE EXPLORE BIG SKY ASSOCIATE EDITOR

BIG SKY – Creighton Block Gallery, located in Big Sky Town Center, is home to a diverse collection of Western art, including impressionist landscapes, traditional representational wildlife art, and historical Western paintings. Every piece tells a story, and Colin Mathews, who owns the gallery with his wife Paula, is eager to share each with customers who walk through the doors. His own stories are often just as intriguing. Donning a white cowboy hat, bolo tie, bright red ski shirt and jeans on a cold January day in Big Sky, Mathews, 67, is reminiscent of a cowboy skier – and he pulls it off. With a twinkle in his eye and a way with words, it’s easy to lose track of time in his company, whether the conversation is about fine art or his years growing up in Sausalito, Calif., among writers, artists and musicians. Inside Creighton Block Gallery, Colin Mathews poses alongside a bronze bust of “Wild Bill,” made by sculptor Greg Woodard. Mathews’ passion for the arts PHOTO BY MARIA WYLLIE has been lifelong. He studied art history at California’s five years. “It all boils down to the fact that Although Mathews now staffs the gallery when Stanford University and in Austria for a year, he needs to take a ski break, he says the notice he’s passionate about the arts, and that comes providing him with a classical education from the remains more for nostalgia than any other reason. through.” Renaissance through Impressionism.

In the 1970s, after graduating from the University of Pennsylvania Law School, Mathews worked as a lawyer in Washington, D.C., where he enforced oil price controls for the U.S. Department of Energy before practicing at the law firm of Vinson & Elkins. In 1992, he retired to pursue other business interests before returning to the West, “to live among a better class of human beings,” he says. “My office décor would be the envy of my former law partners,” Mathews adds with a goodhumored grin. Creighton Block Gallery opened in Big Sky in October 2010, moving from its original location in Virginia City, Mont. After living in Virginia City for 13 years, where he opened a restaurant prior to operating the gallery – and also served as mayor for three years – Mathews felt it was time to move on. And as a lifelong skier, a chance to live at the base of Lone Mountain was a big incentive. “My passion for skiing is matched only by my passion for my family, my friends, and art,” he said. Born in Salt Lake City, Mathews’ parents instilled in him a love for the sport at age 4, when he put on his first pair of skis. His affinity for deep snow is reflected in the sign on his gallery door, which notes, ‘We ski powder mornings.’”

-----------------------------------------------------------Since bringing the gallery to Big Sky, Mathews has developed relationships with many of the artists he represents, now proudly calling them friends. “Artists are among the bravest people I know,” he said, comparing their plight to a children’s game where pegs are repeatedly hammered through holes in a wooden bench. “Artists put their soul into creative work and offer it to the public not knowing whether it will be well-received, or whether the artist will experience something akin to the last peg standing [in] the immortal children’s toy, the peg bench.” While Mathews has his own favorite pieces in the gallery, he’s careful to let patrons discover treasures for themselves. “Almost everyone has had the experience of looking at a painting and having it sing to them,” he said. “The universal experience of a painting touching one’s soul is part of what makes owning a gallery such a marvelous experience.” Mathews’ love for his business is also evident to the artists he represents. “He has a great energy when you enter the gallery,” said Paula Pearl, an impressionistic wildlife painter based in Bozeman whose art has been hanging in Creighton Block for about

Creighton Block’s inventory has quadrupled since 2010, and Mathews opened a second gallery in the Town Center’s new TNG Tower building in December 2014 – a contemporary gallery featuring art with Western inflection but with modern expression. Outside of his galleries, Mathews is also involved in bringing arts to the community. “Colin has a vision for the arts in Big Sky,” said Tallie Lancey, Vice President for the Arts Council of Big Sky and board member of the Warren Miller Performing Arts Center. “His leadership with the Arts Council’s annual art auction has enabled our organization to grow in ways we wouldn’t have thought possible.” Mathews also serves on the Arts Council board, sponsors the art prize at Lone Peak High School, and enjoys the occasional opportunity to hang monumental art as a backdrop at WMPAC. His most recent undertaking is to further beautify the area by placing five sculptures by famed English sculptor Simon Gudgeon, who specializes in large pieces for public display, around the new TNG Tower building. “Owning a gallery facilitates community involvement,” Mathews said. “And offering my time to community has been a lifelong passion of mine.”


12 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

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Harbor DeWaard competes at the 2014 Big Sky PBR Mutton Bustin' event. OUTLAW PARTNERS PHOTO

Obituary Harbor Kingston DeWaard Harbor Kingston DeWaard was born on Oct. 8, 2008, at Bozeman Deaconess Hospital at 5:59 p.m. Harbor was intelligent, funny, creative, and had an imagination that could go past the moon – to the sun and beyond. Harbor was so brave and he became an organ donor after he passed on Jan. 12, 2015, which could save the lives of seven other children or young adults. He was a leader at school and a true individual; he even had kids twice his age look up to him. When he graduated from Morning Star Learning Center in Big Sky, Mont., he received the Best Manners Award. In his short time in kindergarten, he obtained the Student of the Week Award. Harbor loved the outdoors and was an extremely gifted skier for his age; he had no fear when he put on his ski gear. He also enjoyed off-roading with his favorite dog Kaya, tee-ball, soccer, fishing, skipping rocks at the river, dancing, swimming, playing at the beach, Lego-building, playing with Thomas the Train, mutton bustin’ and playing hot wheels. His favorite foods were steak, spaghetti, pepperoni pizza, sushi, grape tomatoes and seaweed. He loved his friends and family, and they loved him right back. He loved his mother and father, who loved him to infinity and beyond. Harbor’s tragic death changed an entire community. His presence has made an impact on this earth bigger than any meteor; thousands of lives have been changed from coast to coast. Harbor left behind his mother Candice Brownmiller; father Jaritt DeWaard; his two grandmothers Lynn Brownmiller and Cheri DeWaard; two grandfathers Paul Brownmiller and Terry DeWaard; and all of his loving aunts, uncles, cousins, family and friends. Harbor, thanks for being the best boy...the happy, happy boy! Arrangements are being made by Cremation & Funeral Gallery. Condolences may be sent to the family at cfgbillings.com through “Our Families.”


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LOCAL

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 13

Obituary Kurt A. Simon Kurt Simon passed away on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2014 at the age of 52. Kurt was born in St. Louis, Mo., and grew up in nearby Ferguson. After graduation from McCluer High School, he moved to the Lake of the Ozarks, in Missouri. There he began his culinary career, which flourished over the next 18 years. A good friend and co-worker at the lake talked him into a job at Buck’s T-4 Lodge in Big Sky, which he loved so much that he spent 15 years and the remainder of his career there. Although Kurt enjoyed his Big Sky life and all the wonderful friends he made, he was a Missouri boy at heart and adored his St. Louis Cardinals. Kurt was a dedicated worker, a trusted friend, an avid hunter, a patriot, and truly a gentle soul. Kurt is the beloved son of the late Marvin A. and Grace E. Simon; dear brother of Dennis (Kim) Simon and Barbara (Richard) Schmermund; dear uncle of Joseph (Miirei), David, Katheryn, Melanie (Tony) Lima, Richard and Rachel Schmermund and LaNae and Brett Simon; dear great uncle of Matthew and Noah Schmermund; dear cousin and friend. A memorial service will be held Sunday, Feb. 8 at 1:30 p.m. at Buck’s T-4 in the Montana Ballroom. Musical friends are encouraged to bring instruments. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to American Legion Post #99, P.O. Box 160144, Big Sky, MT 59716.

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14 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

REGIONAL

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Public comment requested on North Hebgen landscape project Open house and field tour Jan. 27 CUSTER GALLATIN NATIONAL FOREST

WEST YELLOWSTONE – The Custer Gallatin National Forest is seeking public comment through Feb. 10 on the North Hebgen Multiple Resource project, which aims to reduce fire hazard and mitigate disturbance effects. A variety of vegetation management treatments are being considered in the Teepee drainage, along with drainages on the north side of Hebgen Lake, as well as along a portion of U.S. Highway 191 from Teepee Creek south to Duck Creek and west to the Horse Butte peninsula. An open house and field tour will be held Jan. 27 to familiarize people with the proposed landscape level project area. The integrated project encompasses 73,250 acres, of which approximately 8,200 acres are proposed for treatment. This would include thinning followed by piling, burning, chopping and/or masticating natural and activity fuels or possibly prescribed burning. Stands in the area are susceptible to dangerous and damaging fire behavior due to the combination of surface fuel loading and continuous vegetation into the canopy, known as

ladder and crown fuels. A variety of treatments are designed to reduce surface, ladder and crown fuels, such as thinning and group selection harvest. Focused around several housing subdivisions and essential infrastructure, and in the Tepee drainage, treatments are proposed to improve public and firefighter safety. This would be achieved by reducing fuel in the wildland/ urban interface; enhancing wildlife habitat by revitalizing aspen and whitebark pine; improving public and wildlife safety by opening up visibility near the Rainbow Point Campground and along Highway 191; and increasing forest health and resiliency. Portions of the treatment area would be thinned, decreasing competition for key species such as whitebark pine and Douglas fir. Aspen stands would be opened up, reducing the conifer encroachment, increasing vigor and the likelihood of natural sprouting amongst these habitats. Along U.S. Highway 191 sight distance will be improved through thinning, helping to alleviate wildlife and vehicle collisions common in the area.

Mountain pine beetle, western spruce budworm, lodgepole pine dwarf mistletoe, Douglas fir beetle and white pine blister rust are also of concern in the project area. These natural and introduced disturbance factors can have a significant impact in similar or uniform age class species. A variety of treatments are planned to increase resiliency to insect and disease in some stands, and to reduce or eliminate presence of damaging agents in other stands. Send comments to: comments-northern-gallatin@ fs.fed.us; subject line North Hebgen Integrated Vegetation Management Project, with commenter’s name, address and contact number. Comments are considered part of public record. To attend the open house and field trip on Jan. 27 meet at Hebgen Lake Ranger District, West Yellowstone, at 2 p.m. The open house will follow the field tour from 4-6 p.m. at the West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce. To download and read project documents visit online at: fs.usda.gov/gallatin and click on the right-hand link: NEPA and Public Scoping Documents.

MDT proposes turning lane addition on U.S. 191 MONTANA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

WEST YELLOWSTONE - The Montana Department of Transportation is notifying the public and seeking comments on a proposal to construct new turn lanes at the intersection of U.S. Highway 191 and Rainbow Point Road. The project is located between reference posts 4.7 and 5.1, about five miles north of West Yellowstone. Proposed work includes reconstructing the roadway to build wider shoulders and constructing a left-turn lane from U.S. 191 to Rainbow Point Road. The project would finish with a chip seal of the new asphalt, as well as installing new pavement markings and upgrading signage as needed. New right-of-way and relocation of utilities will be required, and construction is tentatively planned to run beyond 2020, depending on the completion of design and availability of funds. MDT staff will contact all affected landowners prior to doing survey work on their land, and staff will again contact landowners prior to construction regarding property acquisition and temporary construction permits. Members of the public may submit written comments to the Montana Department of Transportation Butte office at P.O. Box 3068, Butte, Mont., 59702-3068, or online at mdt.mt.gov/mdt/comment_form.shtml. For more information, contact Butte District Administrator Jeff Ebert at (406) 494-9625 or Project Design Engineer Jennifer Nelson at (406) 444 6227. For the hearing impaired, the TTY number is (406) 444 7696 or (800) 335-7592, or call the Montana Relay at 711.


MONTANA

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 15

MONTANA

Radio announcements highlight importance of breakfast MSU NEWS SERVICE

BOZEMAN – The Montana Team Nutrition program at Montana State University and other partners have created a series of eight public service announcements about the importance of children eating breakfast. The free, 30-second announcements, called “Breakfast: Every Child, Every Day,” are available for all Montana radio stations to air. The announcements are designed to reinforce the importance of eating breakfast and highlight options – such as free, reduced price and expanded breakfast programs in schools – for accessing breakfast in Montana communities. They feature Montana First Lady Lisa Bullock and Montana Superintendent of Public Instruction Denise Juneau. “Children who regularly eat breakfast are better prepared for success in the classroom,” Juneau said. “They behave better in school, are late or absent less frequently, and score higher on math and reading tests. I’m excited to see more Montana schools

offering healthy breakfasts and trying out strategies like breakfast in the classroom.” KGLT-FM radio at MSU produced the announcements in partnership with the Montana Team Nutrition program, the Montana Governor’s Office, the Montana Office of Public Instruction, the Montana Food Bank Network, School Meals that Rock founder Dayle Hayes, Valtron Recording Studio and Montana Action for Healthy Kids. A national organization, Action for Healthy Kids, funded the project through its state affiliate. “Breakfast: Every Child, Every Day” announcements may be downloaded for free on the Montana Food Bank Network website at mfbn.org/breakfast. They’re available as both audio and text files. For more information contact Molly Stenberg, nutrition education and consultant with the Montana Team Nutrition program, at (406) 994-7217 or stenberg@montana.edu.

Glendive oil spill sparks concern over Keystone XL pipeline NORTHERN PLAINS RESOURCE COUNCIL

GLENDIVE – A pipeline ruptured near Glendive on Jan. 17 and spilled up to 50,000 gallons of oil into the Yellowstone River. This is the second major spill in the Yellowstone in 3 1/2 years. Harmful compounds, particularly the cancer-causing chemical compound benzene, were released into the river and residents reported tasting and smelling oil in their water on Jan. 18. Gov. Steve Bullock declared a state of emergency for Dawson and Richland counties on Jan. 19, and the public was still being advised not to drink the water at EBS press time on Jan. 21. A Bridger Pipeline spokesman said the break happened Saturday morning about nine miles upstream from Glendive. The company, which transports Bakken crude, is confident that no more than 50,000 gallons of oil spilled during the hour-long breach. This discharge is similar in size to another pipeline spill in the Yellowstone River that gained national attention 3 1/2 years ago. ExxonMobil’s Silvertip pipeline burst during a flood on July 1, 2011, below the Yellowstone riverbed near Laurel. More than 63,000 gallons of oil quickly spread downstream, affecting wildlife, parks, landowners, and agriculture producers.

Hundreds of workers cleaned up the mess for months at a cost of $135 million and $1.6 million in state fines for Exxon, as well as a lawsuit filed against the oil company by landowners affected by the spill. In the latest spill, an oil sheen was spotted 60 miles downstream. Ice on the river has hampered early cleanup efforts. This oil spill has reinforced landowner concerns about having the proposed Keystone XL pipeline cross their property. “People should understand how serious pipeline spills are because they don’t just affect the specific site where the spill happens,” said Dena Hoff, a Northern Plains Resource Council member and farmer/rancher whose land borders the Yellowstone River near where the spill occurred. “They affect everyone for miles downstream, to municipal water users, irrigators, wildlife, recreationists, soil, water, air, everything. Pipelines don’t have a good track record. The Keystone XL would cross just upstream from where my irrigation water comes from.” Northern Plains Resource Council is a grassroots conservation organization that organizes Montana citizens to protect our water quality, family farms and ranches, and our unique quality of life.

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Explore Big Sky Know Thy Dog p.22

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 17

Big Horns beat rival team p.27

Section 2: BUSINESS, SPORTS AND HEALTH

Results from BSSEF p.29

Shop local, drink local Bozeman Spirits Distillery BY TAYLOR-ANN SMITH EXPLORE BIG SKY STAFF WRITER

BOZEMAN – Walking into Bozeman Spirits Distillery, located next to the historic Charles Lundwall building in downtown Bozeman, you’re greeted with a relaxed atmosphere and genial staff ready to serve you. The tasteful pairing of reclaimed wood and metals throughout the space brings both history and modern charm to the tasting room. The focal point of the space is clearly the bar, which replicates that of an old saloon’s. Your fresh cocktail rests upon wood from the 1930s, which is part of the building’s original floor. History is an intimate part of Bozeman Spirits Distillery as they aim to be a focal point of the downtown area, and the business prides itself on its Montana roots. Since opening its doors on Oct. 31, the distillery has created two types of vodka,

Bozeman Spirits Distillery has the perfect atmosphere to cozy up to the bar with a fresh cocktail and enjoy the company of the locals. PHOTO COURTESY OF BOZEMAN SPIRITS

a gin and a whiskey, using Montana ingredients and as many locally sourcing grains as possible. Each spirit is crafted with water sourced from the Hyalite, Sourdough and Bozeman Creek watersheds, and all distilling and bottling occurs in the back room of the distillery. Bozeman Spirits offers an original vodka called Cold Spring Vodka, but it’s the Cold Spring Huckleberry Vodka that’s making a big statement in local restaurants. This mildly fruit-flavored spirit has replaced 44 North Huckleberry Vodka – a major competitor based out of Boise, Idaho – in downtown restaurants including Montana Ale Works, Plonk, and Open Range. Paradise Valley’s Chico Hot Springs has also been serving the local vodka in its bars, according to Bozeman Spirits owner Jim Harris. “This was the first product I made back in the summer of 2012 and it’s become my pride and joy,” Harris said. “I felt if I could make great tasting products with the best ingredients, then that’d be where I succeed.” Bozeman Spirits also crafts a Montana 1889 Whiskey, which is named for the date Montana gained statehood. This spirit is currently a blended whiskey using finely sourced, seven-year aged corn rye from the Eastern U.S. and blending it with whiskey they distill on site. As the company grows and produces more whiskey, this blend will eventually become 100 percent Montana sourced, Harris said. This whiskey is especially good in their staple cocktail, the Montana Mule. The drink is a twist on the classic Moscow Mule and features Montana 1889 Whiskey, ginger beer and a twist of lime served in a branded copper mug. After completing the vodkas and whiskey, Harris wanted to continue testing his skills by distilling his Ruby River Gin. He explains that he One of the sweeter items on the menu is the Huckleberry Lemon Drop. This cocktail features a twist on a traditional Lemon Drop martini with the inclusion of Cold Spring Huckleberry Vodka and fresh huckleberries. PHOTO BY TAYLOR-ANN SMITH

Continued on pg. 18


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Continued from pg. 17 was sitting on the bank of the Ruby River near Dillon, tying on a dry fly, and noticed how clear the water was – as clear as gin, he said. The subtle hints of botanicals create a smooth finish that pairs perfectly in their Gin & Juice cocktail, and it’s recently become a hit at the tasting room. The distillery is a tasting room, and according to its liquor license, patrons are only allowed two servings at the bar and can purchase two bottles of liquor at a time. While it may be hard to limit yourself to just two drinks, they will likely be some of the best you’ll taste in town.

The Montana Mule is Bozeman Spirits' take on a classic drink, formerly known as the Moscow Mule, and is served in a specially branded copper mug. PHOTO BY TAYLOR- ANN SMITH

Bozeman Spirits Distillery takes pride in their Montana roots and hand-bottles each product on location. PHOTO COURTESY OF BOZEMAN SPIRITS

A MODERN TAKE ON A CLASSIC VIEW

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Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 19

Work hard? Play hard. BY JOHANNE BOUCHARD

he was getting older. He was mesmerized at how innovative he continued to be and how much more effectively he was handling travel to board meetings, overcoming jet lag and feeling fit.

EXPLORE BIG SKY BUSINESS COLUMNIST

The world is full of exceptionally driven, ambitious individuals. From the outside, it may appear that those who achieve success in their careers do so by working constantly, but keys to their successes often involve taking time to “play” – refreshing themselves by downshifting to recreational activities.

Play can be invigorating. A leading female biotech executive I know makes it a priority to walk or run every morning, regardless of the weather. Her daily exercise is her time to play freely in nature and not solve problems. She says that as she gets ready to go to work after her morning routine, her mind is clearer and she is more effective when she walks into her office.

With an incredible load of responsibilities it’s not easy to make the time, but many high achievers are inspired to maintain balance in their lives. It’s possible when they make it a priority.

Big Sky residents and visitors are thirsty to live and play in the outdoors, and this population includes members of the Yellowstone Club, representing some of the biggest movers and shakers in the business world. In alignment with ideas like those espoused by Arianna Huffington and the Huffington Post’s Third Metric – which redefines success to include wellbeing, wisdom and compassion – these successful people understand that working 80-plus hours a week without making time to relax and refresh can lead to burnout, physical ailments or unhealthy relationships. If you’ve been working hard to get to the top of your professional game, here are some ideas about the value of play I’ve collected from observing high achievers. Play can be inspiring. “To make an embarrassing admission, I like video games. That’s what got me into software engineering when I was a kid.” – Elon Musk, Tesla Motors CEO

Johanne Bouchard is originally from Quebec City, Quebec and splits her time between Big Sky and Belvedere, Calif. PHOTO BY SEBASTIEN DION

A successful clean-tech entrepreneur I know concurs with Musk’s comment, saying he feels rejuvenated when he allows himself to be playful and has greater confidence and insights that might not have surfaced otherwise. Play can be healthy. “Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” – Jim Rohn, entrepreneur, author and motivational speaker. Most successful leaders are very disciplined. One of my clients and dear friends recently turned 70. He’s been a successful entrepreneur and has striven not to take his health for granted. Twenty years ago, he integrated yoga into his routine and found that he was more self-aware, and by being more centered in his body, increased his ability to focus even though

I often conduct meetings while walking or hiking to give clients, colleagues and mentees an opportunity to incorporate something beneficial while we attend to pressing business matters. The moments we take to relax and recharge, making time to be playful, can increase our ability to confront challenges in our everyday life without resisting them and feeling burdened. “My general attitude to life is to enjoy every minute of every day.” – Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group. Live your life with balance in mind. Love yourself, allowing yourself to play and to be playful. Johanne Bouchard, a former high-tech executive, is a leadership advisor to CEOs, executives and entrepreneurs, as well as an expert in corporate board composition and dynamics. An avid skier, Bouchard and her husband have a second home in Big Sky. See more at johannebouchard.com.

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luxury listings

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Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 21

Business brief: ‘Hands-on chiropractic’ BY JOSEPH T. O’CONNOR EXPLORE BIG SKY MANAGING EDITOR

BIG SKY – Local chiropractor Jeff Saad, D.C., has added some help to his small practice, Montana Chiropractic, in Big Sky Town Center. Lisa Lundstrom, D.C., moved to Big Sky permanently in November after selling her Rapid City, S.D. practice in summer 2014, and began chiropractic work in early December. She brings an extensive background to the area, and one with a littleknown focus. “I have a huge pediatric chiropractic background,” says Lundstrom, who in 1998 received her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Northwestern College of Chiropractic in Bloomington, Minn., and who trained under Anne Langford, D.C., in St. Paul, Minn., with a focus on pediatric work. While Lundstrom adjusts people of all ages, she saw a need in the Big Sky community that she was happy to fill. “There are so many [chiropractic] studies on kids it’s not even funny,” she says. “A missing piece in the healthcare field in Big Sky is … adjusting kids.” Lundstrom points to the balance and health benefits that chiropractic work has on people, and says that starting young can benefit a child whether they play tennis or ski. As for overall health, she adds, chiropractic work is

being prescribed these days for everything from colic and ear infections to teething, pneumonia, asthma and migraine headaches. “It’s healing from the inside, out,” Lundstrom says. “The true meaning of chiropractic is releasing that nerve root – the nervous system. If you live life with a balanced nervous system and your nerves are freeflowing, your life is better from every aspect.” As the official chiropractor for the Big Sky Ski Education Foundation, Lundstrom was drawn to the beauty of the area, as well as the ability for her two daughters, Ashley and Macy, to ski. BSSEF U-16 skier Sam Johnson is addicted to Lundstrom’s treatments, according to his mother, Martha Johnson. “It’s amazing,” Martha said. “He feels better and the coolest thing is that he said, ‘Mom, I think I could be a [Doctor of] Chiropractic.’” But Lundstrom’s adjustments aren’t relegated to the young or the avid skier, she says. “Everybody needs to be adjusted. It depends on how often.” Lisa Lundstrom, D.C., lives in Big Sky with her husband Cory and daughters Ashley and Macy. Call Montana Chiropractic at (406) 995-4050 for appointment information.

Lisa Lundstrom, D.C., new addition to Montana Chiropractic, adjusts Sam Johnson and uses a cold laser to reduce swelling and pain while increasing functionality in his knee. PHOTO BY WES OVERVOLD

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22 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

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Know Thy Dog STORY AND PHOTOS BY WES OVERVOLD EXPLORE BIG SKY STAFF WRITER

BOZEMAN – Enriching the lives of both dogs and their owners has been Kelly Engel’s passion since she was young. As the owner of Bozeman’s newest dog training and boarding facility, Know Thy Dog, she looks to share that passion with southwest Montana. Located just a short drive from downtown Bozeman on Barnett Lane, Know Thy Dog can accommodate a large number of canines while providing a comprehensive amount of services, Engel said of the business she opened last November. The facility includes both indoor and outdoor play areas, boarding kennels, a full kitchen and a live-in suite, in which Engel resides. “[The center is] like a home, but it’s been dog-proofed to accommodate up to 45 dogs,” Engel said, adding that having a constant presence allows her to pay close attention to the visiting canines during their stay. With an extensive background as both a dog trainer and animal control officer, Engel recognized that the Bozeman and Big Sky areas were in dire need of a progressive facility that offered training, boarding, and daycare, she said. And by bringing on head trainer Mandy Britton, who is also certified with the Council for the Certification of Professional Dog Trainers, Know Thy Dog provides a valuable resource for the region’s dog-loving residents. Through expertise and training, Engel and Britton are qualified to accept dogs from a variety of backgrounds, including those that show aggression toward humans. “It’s

amazing … to offer people help who were going to get rid of their dogs or who were sacrificing so much in their life,” said Engel, who has been training and handling dogs since age 7. “Every dog that comes in here should leave in a better position than when they started.” In addition to boarding and training services, Engel and Britton create an environment that allows dogs to feel as comfortable and as “at home” as they can. Whether the animals spend an evening in the movie room or on an afternoon adventure hike, the dogs are not far removed from their environments back home. “If you want your dog to have the same level of companionship as they would get at home, they can sleep in [a trainer’s] bed,” Britton said. “It’s literally like they come into a new home, and they get that [same] level of attention.” Despite its limited tenure, Know Thy Dog is receiving positive client feedback, Engel says. “We give out my personal cell phone number and people text me all the time wanting pictures and updates of their dog,” she said, pointing to a sense of relief she gets from clients. “From their messages back, they’re just like ‘Thank God you exist!’ We hear that a lot.” Know Thy Dog offers a shuttle service for dog owners in Big Sky and the Yellowstone Club, and the operators fully expect to keep growing the business. When asked what gives her energy on a daily basis, Engel says she feeds off her clients’ happiness. “It’s helping people and helping dogs to be able to live their best life together.” Visit knowthydogtraining.com for more information on training, boarding and doggy day care.

Four-legged patron, Sweet Pea, enjoys some play time at the boarding facility.

Kelly Engel, left, and Mandy Britton pose with the family of miniature blue heelers that assist in the daily operations of Know Thy Dog.


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Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 23


24 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

THE EDDY LINE

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*#35061. 2015 Audi Q5 2.0T quattro Premium Plus lease is 36 months | 10,000 miles per year. $4695 due at lease signing includes $695 acquisition fee & down payment (excludes taxes, title, other options and dealer fees). MSRP $48,315. Residual value $27,056. Payment includes $1000 Audi AFS Owner Loyalty Program Incentive. 36-month closed-end lease offered to qualified customers by Audi Financial Services (AFS) through Bozeman Audi. Photo for illustration only. Advertised unit subject to prior sale. Offer valid exclusively at Bozeman Audi in Bozeman, Montana. Offer expires 4/1/2015

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Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 25

Katabatic Brewing blows into downtown Livingston STORY AND PHOTOS BY TYLER ALLEN EXPLORE BIG SKY SENIOR EDITOR

LIVINGSTON – Walking into Katabatic Brewing Co. on West Park Street in Livingston, one is struck by the taproom’s expansive space. The calm air inside may strike you as well. A katabatic is a “cold, downslope wind that’s common on glaciers, ice fields, Antarctica and Livingston,” says Brice Jones, brewery co-owner and self-proclaimed weather geek. Jones was a smokejumper for a number of years and operated a yurt skiing operation outside of Seeley Lake until he sold it in 2007. Both occupations kept him closely tuned in to the weather and wind. Brice and his wife LaNette opened Katabatic on Sept. 17 after moving to Livingston from Missoula in July 2013, intent on opening a brewery. “I really like the area, the recreational opportunities, and the town,” LaNette said. “We started doing our research and wanted to go somewhere where the craft brewery market wasn’t inundated.” The two Montana natives began renovations on the space in November 2013, completely gutting the 1882 building. It’s been home to a soda shop, coffee shop and, in recent years, a string of Chinese restaurants. The space housed the Longbranch Saloon in the 1960s and ‘70s, and the couple says a lot of people tell them stories from those days, many happy to see the location serving beer and hosting music again. That was apparent on a recent Monday night, when the taproom was packed with revelers enjoying the weekly bluegrass jam. Katabatic also

hosts live music acts Wednesday and Saturday evenings, and on Tuesdays donates a dollar from each beer sold to a local nonprofit. They advertise a board-game night every Sunday – for kids and adults alike – when families raid the toy box for Battleship, Chutes and Ladders, and Bananagrams, a fastpaced word game. “We wanted to create a community hub, someplace to go to socialize with your neighbor,” Brice said. “Somehow we’ve been able to do that. People come down with a buddy, solo or with big parties.” The brewery offers three or four seasonal rotators, but tries to keep LaNette and Brice Jones opened Livingston’s Katabatic Brewing Co. in September. four signature beers on tap at all times, recently moved back after 10 years in Missoula. including their “Katabatic” American Pale Ale, “I’ve done a bit of traveling and I’m drawn to Hefeweizen and Scotch Ale. The fourth is the breweries wherever I go – this place is really “Katabatic IPA.” good.” “I’m a huge IPA fan and this is spot on,” said Jennifer Neville, who grew up in Livingston and

The operation may be young, but has already received accolades at November’s Harvest Montana Brewfest held in Great Falls. Katabatic earned a silver medal for its IPA and a gold for a Double Danger Imperial IPA. It’s not surprising though, as Head Brewer Jason Courtney brought an award-winning pedigree with him from Bangor, Maine. The East Coast transplant won five Great American Beer Festival medals as a brewer at Gheagan’s Pub & Craft Brewery. Katabatic’s space is open and inviting. A long, “L”-shaped bar dominates the southwest wall, which shows the exposed, original brick – the couple lacquered it four times to keep the dust from crumbling onto patrons. The northeast wall is covered with reclaimed wood from a snow fence in Belgrade and an old barn outside of Bozeman. Custom metalwork accents many of the tables and fixtures, and the bar’s foot rail is a Montana Rail Link train track rail out of a yard in Livingston. The wall facing the street is dominated by a giant, glassed garage door that they open “when the windy season is over,” according to LaNette. With all the work the couple has put into the building, Katabatic Brewing Co. has a decidedly new age, rustic feel. The beauty of the space is only rivaled by the taste of your first pint.

Katabatic hosts an open bluegrass jam every Monday night.


26 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

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Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 27

The Bough-Dolan Athletic Center was packed on Jan. 16 for the games against the rival Wolverines. PHOTOS BY JILL BOUGH

Young fans help rally the Big Horns to home court wins for both the girls’ and boys’ varsity teams. It was the Lady Big Horns’ first ever win against West Yellowstone.

Big Horns bank wins over rival Wolverines Notch big victories versus Lima BY EXPLORE BIG SKY STAFF

LPHS Senior Cooper Shea attempts a leaping pass during the Jan. 17 victory over Lima.

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BIG SKY – The Bough-Dolan Athletic Center at Lone Peak High School was filled with enthusiastic fans on Jan. 16 as both the boys’ and girls’ varsity basketball teams defeated their West Yellowstone rivals. The boys finished with a 53-39 victory over the Wolverines, and Justin McKillop led the LPHS scoring attack with 13 points. The Lady Big Horns’ first ever win versus West Yellowstone ended 46-33 for the home team, with Dasha Bough putting up 14 points and Louisa Locker adding 12 for LPHS. The girls’ team came storming onto their home court against Lima on Jan. 17, with Bough (16 points) and Locker (13 points) leading the scoring charge for a second straight night, as LPHS won in commanding fashion, 57-31. Bianca Godoy added 11 for the Lady Big Horns, which improved their conference record to 3-5. The boys’ team took the court with equal enthusiasm Saturday night notching a 64-46 win over the Bears. After the Big Horns took a 13-point lead into the half, Lima opened up the second with a 21-7 run and held a 1-point lead at the end of the third quarter. LPHS applied a full court defense throughout the fourth quarter, forcing numerous turnovers during a 29-10 run. Sophomore Eddie Starz set a new LPHS boys’ single-game scoring record with 28 points, and senior Quinn House added a double-double with 13 points and 16 rebounds. The Big Horns improved to 4-3 in the conference with the weekend sweep. LPHS basketball travels to Harrison/Willow Creek on Jan. 23 and returns home Jan. 24 to host Sheridan. The Big Horns will be in Big Sky Jan. 30 to take on Shields Valley and travel to Gardiner Jan. 31.

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SPORTS

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Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 29

BSSEF U16 comp at Red Lodge Mountain Resort Big Sky Ski Education Foundation’s A-U16 racers showed up strong to Red Lodge Mountain Resort from Jan. 17-19 to compete in giant slalom and slalom events. Alexa Coyle nabbed third place on day one and second place on day two in giant slalom, then finished fourth in the slalom race on Jan. 19. Mackenzie and Madison Winters each finished in 15th place in the giant slalom on days one and two, respectively, while Mackenzie scored 12th and Madison finished 13th in the slalom competition on day three. The BSSEF Youth Ski Team takes to its home slopes at Big Sky Resort Jan. 24-25. – J.T.O.

Kyle Willis drives around a gate at the Red Lodge U-16 A Qualifiers. PHOTOS BY JEFF LINKENBACH

Annika Linkenbach and Mackenzie Winters rest their legs on the chairlift up.

Sam Johnson crests a rollover against the deep blue sky at Red Lodge.

Maci St Cyr looks ahead as prepares to transition edges.


30 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

HEALTH

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HEALTH

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 31

HEALTH

‘First do no harm’ Using affirmations to change behavior BY JACKIE RAINFORD CORCORAN EXPLORE BIG SKY HEALTH COLUMNIST

Graduating from health coaching school in June of 2013 did not award me a perfectly disciplined diet and lifestyle. I still wrestle with unhealthy habits like drinking too much red wine and coffee, allowing my body to become dehydrated and not managing my time well.

and to get back to a more natural way of eating and living. It’s worth noting that the Latin root of the word doctor is “teacher,” and physician is “naturalist.”

With a constant drive to live life to its full potential, I recently wrote down my shortcomings and what needs to happen to overcome these hurdles. During this writing exercise, the phrase “First do no harm” kept coming up. Not being entirely sure of its origin, I Googled it.

“With regard to healing the sick, I will devise and order for them the best diet, according to my judgment and means; and I will take care that they suffer no hurt or damage.

The phrase “First do no harm” is often mistaken as part of the Hippocratic Oath – an oath often taken by physicians upon graduation of medical school – but appeared in medical literature much later than Hippocrates’ time. The gist of the meaning is that a patient’s wellbeing is a physician’s primary concern. What if physicians prescribed “First do no harm” instead of doling out pharmaceuticals that often have side effects worse than the ailment they’re treating? This would be a game changer. According to a 2009 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study called “The Power of Prevention,” available on its website, the U.S. spends more than 75 percent of its health care budget on people with chronic conditions including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, depression, alzheimers, arthritis and osteoporisis. “These persistent conditions – the nation’s leading causes of death and disability – leave in their wake deaths that could have been prevented, lifelong disability, compromised quality of life, and burgeoning health care costs,” the study reports. Instead of first prescribing a pill for a chronic condition, imagine physicians educating their patients to remove from their diet and lifestyle that which is slowly killing them

Interestingly, lines from the original Hippocratic Oath say:

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“Nor shall any man’s entreaty prevail upon me to administer poison to anyone; neither will I counsel any man to do so.” Clearly, Western medicine has strayed from this advice. As a 45-year-old health coach who wants to stay off medications and prevent chronic disease, I’m forced to look at the decades of accumulated toxins in my body due to poor diet and lifestyle choices. Today, I enjoy a healthy diet of mostly homemade organic meals and I love to exercise. But how long can this lifestyle counterbalance the harm caused by my addictions and habits? So now, posted next to my bathroom sink, is a note reminding me to “First do no harm.” Regularly reading this puts a negative spin on actions that I used to consider “rewards” like coffee first thing every morning and red wine after work. It’s rewiring my brain and psyche to view them as potentially toxic because I have allowed them to become habit forming and addictive. This new perception is gradually helping me make real changes. Jackie Rainford Corcoran is an IIN Certified Holistic Health Coach, an NASM Certified Personal Trainer, a public speaker and health activist. Contact her at jackie@thetahealth.com, or find more at thetahealth.org.

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EVENTS

Explore Big Sky Smash Life1 at Big Sky Resort p.39

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 33

Solid skiing on rocky slopes p.42

Section 3: OUTDOORS & ENTERTAINMENT

'The Last Glacier' p. 48

Celebrate backcountry safety Avalanche Forecasters’ Beer Social Fundraiser is Jan. 27 BY TYLER ALLEN EXPLORE BIG SKY SENIOR EDITOR

BOZEMAN – Montana-made beer will be paired with regionally sourced food for Gallatin Valley gastronomes on Jan. 27, during the Avalanche Forecasters’ Beer Social Fundraiser at Bozeman’s Montana Ale Works. The seventh annual Friends of the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center fundraiser will feature distinctive beer from Bayern Brewing, Bitter Root Brewery and Red Lodge Ales Brewing Company, paired with the imaginative dishes of Ale Works Executive Chef Anthony Calkins. Duck confit crepes with poached pears and mascarpone will match Red Lodge Ullrfest Lager, while the restaurant’s house-made pork sausage with bagel chips and preserved lemon mustard will complement Bayern’s Doppelbock. Calkins uses Montana ingredients whenever possible, he said, and while he has more experience pairing food with wine, a beer pairing just makes sense at this restaurant. “We’re Montana Ale Works, so why not pair [food] with beer?” Calkins said. “In Montana there’s a lot of unique, food-friendly beers and it’s always fun to try something new.” Joe Barnett, the restaurant’s bar manager for the last eight years, is constantly seeking something new for the bar’s extensive tap beer selection. His passion for keeping the brewer’s rotator selections fresh and different has connected him with breweries around the state and Mountain West. “I wanted to get outside of the Gallatin Valley a little bit [this year],” Barnett said. “They were the first three breweries I reached out to and all said ‘yes’ right away.” The intent is to join seasonal beer with seasonal food, Barnett said, who worked with the chefs to showcase flavor combinations, finding beer that is complementary to the sauces featured in each particular dish. All three brewers will be on hand to talk about the beer they’re bringing to Bozeman that night. One of those brewers is Jason Goeltz, general manager of Hamilton’s Bitter Root Brewery, who will release the season’s first keg of Red Dread at the event, a month before it’s sold anywhere else.

Bozeman’s Montana Ale Works on Jan. 27 will host its seventh annual fundraiser for the Friends of the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center. PHOTO COURTESY OF MONTANA ALE WORKS

The 8.2 percent imperial red IPA has nine specialty malts along with Montana-based malt, and is “ridiculously dry hopped with Simcoe and Citra hops … [and] has a big, chewy malt body,” Goeltz said. Goeltz is also bringing his 2014 Harvest Ale, brewed entirely with Montana ingredients, including Chinook and Cascade hops from the Bitterroot Valley, with local cider and cherries. While the mountains around Hamilton are not part of the GNFAC forecast area, Goeltz is a level one avalanche instructor, fundraises for his local avalanche center and is excited to support southwest Montana’s avalanche forecasters. “Backcountry skiing and safety is near and dear to my heart,” he said. “The Bozeman community has been incredibly supportive of our beer and the [avalanche] center has been supportive of the ski community there.” Montana Ale Works has a long tradition of supporting causes they’re passionate about, according to managing partner Roth Jordan. The restaurant doesn’t advertise in print or other media; instead, it uses its community partnership series for grassroots advertising, connecting with local nonprofits. Roth sits on the board of the Livingston-based Western Sustainability Exchange, which

connects farms to restaurants, to keep locally made products in the state and encourages restaurants to use them. “One of the reasons we decided to start doing it this way is we can reach more people,” he said. “It’s more ‘friendraising’ than fundraising.” The forecasters’ fundraiser began as a winepairing dinner but shifted to beer two years ago to appeal to a broader range of community members. The Jan. 27 event will have more of a social atmosphere than years past, according to Barnett. The dinner will be hosted in the pool table area at the east end of the building, as opposed to one of the intimate side rooms where it’s been in previous years. “This one’s going to be a big departure from what we’ve done in the past,” Barnett said. “It’s going to feel more like a beer fest than a wine dinner.” Fifty tickets will be sold for two different seatings at 5 and 7 p.m. In addition to the brewers, the GNFAC forecasters will be on hand to socialize and answer questions about this year’s snowpack. Visit mtavalanche.com for more information or to purchase tickets.


34 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

EVENTS

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Snobar: Big Sky Resort’s slopeside outdoor nightclub BIG SKY – Walls of snow, a dazzling array of lights and lasers, bartenders in parkas, and one raging DJ is Big Sky Resort’s famous Snobar. The party got started Jan. 17 and returns to the resort on Saturday, Jan. 24 from 5-9 p.m. This 21-andolder event is held next to Swifty 2.0 Terrain Park, above the base of the Swift Current chairlift. Every year, Big Sky Resort’s terrain park crew changes this venue built entirely out of snow, with a roughly 12 foot, lighted ceiling. Bozeman’s DJ 5 Star pumps the dance music as people show their moves in ski boots, snowboard boots, or any shoe they can get down with on the snow. “Snobar is uniquely Big Sky Resort,” said Anna Husted, Big Sky Resort’s event manager. “It’s one of those signature events you can’t experience anywhere else in Montana, and few other places on earth. It’s a bucket list event for anyone.” The Snobar party heats up at 9:30 p.m. in Whiskey Jack’s, as DJ 5 Star continues pumping the jams indoors, keeping revelers spinning on the dance floor. Visit www.bigskyresort.com/events for more information.

The icy venue was quickly filled with partygoers on Jan. 17, ready to enjoy the stimulating sounds of the DJs’ build-ups and bass-drops. PHOTOS BY WES OVERVOLD

Go-go dancers delighted the Snobar fans with their moon boots and LED-illuminated jump suits.

A number of fire-wielding performers accompanied the DJ’s throughout the night.

The fire performers occasionally took to the top of the wall, above the dancing crowd.


EVENTS

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 35

WANDER AT REST

Ninth annual Big Sky Big Grass Festival at Big Sky Resort BY SHEILA CHAPMAN BIG SKY RESORT PR MANAGER

BIG SKY – Bluegrass slides into Big Sky Resort Feb. 5-8 for the ninth annual Big Sky Big Grass Festival, with Leftover Salmon kicking off the festival on Thursday at Whiskey Jack’s. This long running festival will be held in multiple locations throughout Big Sky Resort.

Opening for Della Mae are Billy Strings and Don Julin. The picking continues on Saturday in the Missouri Ballroom with The Travelin’ McCourys, the sons of bluegrass legend Del McCoury. Della Mae will open for their encore performance. The Grant Farm Band, led by the National Flatpicking Guitar Champion Tyler Grant, will be playing at Whiskey Jack’s with the The Good Time

The Lil’ Smokies perform at Whiskey Jack’s during the 2014 Big Sky Big Grass festival. PHOTO BY TYLER ALLEN

Starting Friday, Feb. 6, through Sunday are free shows beginning at 4 p.m. in the Carabiner Lounge, Whiskey Jack’s, and Chet’s Lounge featuring Two Bit Franks, Driftwood Grinners, The Good Time Travelers, Kitchen Dwellers, Jawbone Railroad, Dodgy Mountain Men, Billy Strings & Don Julin, and Tyler Grant. Headlining Friday night in the Missouri Ballroom is the John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band (J2B2), led by music virtuoso John Jorgenson. Known for his blistering guitar and mandolin licks, which earned him a reputation as a worldclass musician, Jorgenson has collaborated with the likes of Earl Scruggs, Bonnie Raitt, Elton John, Luciano Pavarotti and Bob Dylan, among others. Opening for J2B2 is the famous bluegrass fiddler Darol Anger. The all-female bluegrass band, Della Mae will headline at Whiskey Jack’s that night with their powerful vocals, instrumentals and songwriting talent.

Travelers opening. Darol Anger and the Furies will give an intimate performance in the Talus Room. On Sunday, the festivities will begin at 8:30 a.m. with a Big Grass Gospel Jam in the Talus Room. Closing out the festival in the Missouri Ballroom will be Leftover Salmon, blending aggressive bluegrass, rock, country and Cajun/ Zydeco – or as Leftover Salmon calls it, “Polyethnic Cajun Slamgrass.” Two Bit Franks will open the show. Headlining in Whiskey Jack’s that night will be Pert Near Sandstone from Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minn. Bozeman’s own Kitchen Dwellers will be the opening band. Jayme Stone’s Lomax Project and The Good Time Travelers will play an intimate performance in the Talus Room. Visit bigskyresort.com/biggrass for information on tickets, show times, bundle options, and lodging packages.

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36 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

EVENTS CALENDAR

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PLANNING AN EVENT? LET US KNOW! EMAIL MARIA@THEOUTLAWPARTNERS.COM, AND WE’LL SPREAD THE WORD. FRIDAY, JAN. 23 – THURSDAY, FEB. 5 *If your event falls between Feb. 6 and Feb. 19, please submit it by Wednesday, Jan. 28.

BIG SKY FRIDAY, JAN. 23 Live Music at Carabiner Lauren Regnier & Jeff Bellino, 4-6 p.m. Julia Roberts, 8:30-11 p.m. Live Music @ Whiskey Jack’s Kent Johnson, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Milton Menasco Band, 9:30 p.m. Mike Haring Chet’s Bar, 4:30-6 p.m. Fish Camp Boys Riverhouse, 6:30 p.m. Lauren Jackson Ousel & Spur, 9-11 p.m. Electric Sunday Choppers, 9:30 p.m. SATURDAY, JAN. 24 Yoga From the Inside Out One-day Retreat w/ Nancy Ruby Santosha Wellness Center, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Live Music at Carabiner Lone Mountain Trio, 4-6 p.m. Two Bit Franks, 8:30-11 p.m. SnoBar w/DJ 5 Star Big Sky Resort, 5 p.m. Tom Marino Choppers, 5:50 p.m. Sugar Daddies Riverhouse, 7:30 p.m. DJ Shawn Black Bear, 10 p.m. SUNDAY, JAN. 25 Worship service – All Saints in Big Sky Right Rev. C. Franklin Brookhart Big Sky Chapel, 9:30 a.m. Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Riverhouse, 4 p.m. MONDAY, JAN. 26 Dan Dubuque Whiskey Jack’s, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Riverhouse, 4 p.m. Montana Exit Carabiner, 4-6 p.m. Diamond Chet’s Bar, 4:30-6 p.m. DJ Mountjoy Black Bear, 10 p.m.

Live Music at Whiskey Jack’s Brian and Ben, 3:30-5:30 p.m. DJ 5 Star, 9:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, JAN. 27 Mike Haring Whiskey Jack’s, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Dos Mayos Chet’s Bar, 4:30-6 p.m.

Live Music at Carabiner Kenny Diamond, 4-6 p.m. Lauren Regnier, 8:30-11 p.m.

Open Mic Night By WOM, 10 p.m.

Nobody Black Bear, 10 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28 Ric & Linda Whiskey Jack’s, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, JAN. 31 Ski Joring 320 Guest Ranch, 1 p.m.

Diamond Chet’s Bar, 4:30-6 p.m. Live Music at Carabiner Kevin Fabozzi, 4-6 p.m. Mike Haring, 8:30-11 p.m. Fashion Show Summit Hotel, 6 p.m. Karaoke Broken Spoke, 10 p.m. THURSDAY, JAN. 29 Load Bearing Walls Whiskey Jack’s, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Milton Menasco Duo Chet’s Bar, 4:30-6 p.m. Live Music at Carabiner Mike Haring, 4-6 p.m. Kevin Fabozzi, 8:30-11 p.m. FRIDAY, JAN. 30 Live Music at Whiskey Jack’s Kent Johnson, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Riot Act, 9:30 p.m. Lauren Regnier & Jeff Bellino Carabiner, 4-6 p.m. Mike Haring Chet’s Bar, 4:30-6 p.m. Fabozzi Riverhouse, 6 p.m. Jeff Bellino Ousel & Spur, 9-11 p.m.

Live Music at Carabiner Montana Exit, 4-6 p.m. John Derado, 8:30-11 p.m. Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Riverhouse, 4 p.m.

Live Music at Whiskey Jack’s Brian and Ben, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Bottom of the Barrel, 9:30 p.m.

Diamond Chet’s Bar, 4:30-6 p.m.

Lone Mountain Trio Carabiner, 4-6 p.m.

TUESDAY, FEB. 3 Free Ski Clinic Big Sky Resort,

Dos Mayos Chet’s Bar, 4:30-6 p.m. Mike D. Choppers, 5:30 p.m. Rocky Mountain Pearls Riverhouse, 7 p.m. Cold Hard Cash 320 Guest Ranch, 8 p.m. One Leaf Clover Broken Spoke, 9:30 p.m. SUNDAY, FEB. 1 Ski Joring 320 Guest Ranch, 11 a.m. Super Bowl Party Whiskey Jack’s, 3:30 p.m.

Karaoke Black Bear, 9 p.m.

Mike Haring Whiskey Jack’s, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Live Music at Carabiner Kenny Diamond, 4-6 p.m. Lauren Regnier, 8:30-11 p.m. Milton Menasco Duo Chet’s Bar, 4:30-6 p.m. Open Mic Night By WOM, 10 p.m. WEDNESDAY, FEB. 4 Ric Steinke Whiskey Jack’s, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Milton Menasco Duo Chet’s Bar, 4:30-6 p.m. John Derado Carabiner, 8:30-11 p.m. Leftover Salmon Whiskey Jack’s, 9:30 p.m.

BOZEMAN

FRIDAY, JAN. 23 Movie Night Bozeman Dharma Center, 7 p.m. Trivia Night: Harry Potter The Ellen, 7 p.m. Young Ah-Tak Recital MSU Reynolds Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m. Bozeman Ice Dogs Hockey Haynes Pavilion, 7:30 p.m. “Take My Wi-Fi Please!” The Verge, 8 p.m. Mighty Flick Eagles, 9 p.m. Lil Smokies Filling Station, 9 p.m.

Super Bowl Party Black Bear, 3:30 p.m.

Live Music at Carabiner John Derado, 4-6 p.m. Mike Haring, 8:30-11 p.m.

SATURDAY, JAN. 24 Rocket Car Day Bozeman Makerspace, 10 a.m.

Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Riverhouse, 4 p.m.

Diamond Chet’s Bar, 4:30-6 p.m.

Aran Buzzas 406 Brewing, 4-6 p.m.

MONDAY, FEB. 2 Free Ski Clinic Big Sky Resort,

Karaoke Broken Spoke, 10 p.m.

Open Mic Night Wild Joe’s, 7 p.m.

THURSDAY, FEB. 5 Ribbon Cutting Horse of a Different Color, 5-7 p.m.

Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face The Ellen, 7:30 p.m.

Dan Dubuque Whiskey Jack’s, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

“Take My Wi-Fi Please!” The Verge, 8 p.m.

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explorebigsky.com Intergalactic Troubadors & Booze Hounds Filler, 9 p.m.

GNFAC Fundraiser Montana Ale Works, 5 & 7 p.m.

Homeless Shelter Fundraiser Various Artists The Zebra, 9 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28 “The Experience and Science of Mental Illness” The Emerson, 7 p.m. Open Mic Haufbrau, 10:30 p.m.

Sweetbacks Haufbrau, 10 p.m. SUNDAY, JAN. 25 Tribal Seeds The Filler, 8 p.m. Open Mic Haufbrau, 10 p.m. MONDAY, JAN. 26 Pints w/Purpose Bridger Brewing, 5 p.m.

THURSDAY, JAN. 29 Al Cooper Lockhorn Cider, 7 p.m. James Reid, Guitar Reynolds Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m. Jeremy Morton Trio Bacchus, 9-11 p.m.

Improv on the Verge The Verge, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, JAN. 30 Celebration of the Arts The Emerson, 6 p.m.

Bridger Creek Boys Colonel Black’s, 7 p.m.

Oscar Nominated Shorts The Ellen, 7 & 9 p.m.

Denine LeBlanc, Piano Reynolds Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m.

Quenby & West of Wayland Eagles Lodge, 9 p.m.

Trivia Night Bacchus, 8 p.m.

Bigsby Jones w/Bent Bones The Zebra, 9 p.m.

Sophistafunk Filler, 9 p.m. Open Mic Haufbrau, 10:30 p.m. TUESDAY, JAN. 27 Cribbage Night Eagles Lodge, 6 p.m.

EVENTS CALENDAR

Explore Big Sky

SATURDAY, JAN. 31 Oscar Nominated Shorts The Ellen, 1-4 p.m. Kane’s River The Ellen, 8 p.m.

Fly Fishing Film Tour The Emerson, 7 p.m.

SUNDAY, FEB. 1 Open Ukulele Jam Bozeman Library, 1-3 p.m.

The Great Gatsby The Ellen, 7:30 p.m.

Open Mic Haufbrau, 10:30 p.m.

Sean Devine Bacchus, 8-10 p.m.

MONDAY, FEB. 2 Pints w/Purpose Bridger Brewing, 5 p.m.

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 37

Bridger Creek Boys Colonel Black’s, 7 p.m.

GrooveWax Chico Saloon, 9:30 p.m.

Tucker Down Chico Saloon, 9:30 p.m.

Snowshoe Walk w/YNP Ranger Visitor Center, 10 a.m.

Trivia Bacchus, 8 p.m.

SATURDAY, JAN. 24 Dan Dubuque Katabatik Brewing,

SATURDAY, JAN. 31 David Lansverk Katabatik Brewing,

Avalanche Awareness Presentation Holiday Inn, 7-8 p.m.

Double Barrel Murray Bar, 9 p.m.

Paul Lee Kupfer Murray Bar, 9 p.m. Tucker Down Chico Saloon, 9:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, JAN. 25 Wild West Winterfest Island Park, 9:30 a.m.

Open Mic Haufbrau, 10:30 p.m. TUESDAY, FEB. 3 Cribbage Night Eagles, 6 p.m.

GrooveWax Chico Saloon, 9:30 p.m.

Dan Dubuque Bacchus, 8-10 p.m. WEDNESDAY, FEB. 4 Celebrating 50 Years of the Craighead Inst. The Emerson, 6 p.m. Muir String Quartet Reynolds Recital Hall, 7 p.m. Brothers Gow + MOTH Filler, 9 p.m. Open Mic Haufbrau, 10:30 p.m. THURSDAY, FEB. 5 Bozeman Ice Dogs Hockey Haynes Pavilion, 7:30 p.m.

LIVINGSTON & PARADISE VALLEY FRIDAY, JAN. 23 Book Reading Elk River Books, 7 p.m.

Someday Miss Pray The Mint, 9:30 p.m.

MONDAY, JAN. 26 Bluegrass Jam Katabatik Brewing, 5:30 p.m. Jay’s Lounge Murray Bar, 8 p.m. TUESDAY, JAN. 27 Taco Tuesday w/Swingley Jazz The Mint, 6:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28 Jacob Lilley & Forest Service Katabatik Brewing, 5:30 p.m. Bingo Night The Mint, 6 p.m.

Tom Georges Bacchus, 9-11 p.m.

Skavocado Murray Bar, 9 p.m.

StrangeWays KGLT Benefit The Mint, 9:30 p.m.

Al Cooper Murray Bar, 8:30 p.m. THURSDAY, JAN. 29 Ladies Night w/DJ Mike Murray Bar, 8:30 p.m. StrangeWays The Mint, 9 p.m. FRIDAY, JAN. 30 Bad Betty Organ Combo Murray Bar, 9 p.m. Hooligans The Mint, 9:30 p.m.

Dirt w/Scotty Nelson The Mint MONDAY, FEB. 2 Jay’s Lounge Murray Bar, 8 p.m. Open Mic Night The Mint, TUESDAY, FEB. 3 Taco Tuesday w/Swingley Jazz The Mint, 6:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY, FEB. 4 Bingo Night The Mint, 6 p.m. Dan Dubuque Murray Bar, 8:30 p.m. THURSDAY, FEB. 5 Ladies Night w/DJ Mike Murray Bar, 8:30 p.m. StrangeWays The Mint, 9 p.m.

WEST YELLOWSTONE FRIDAY, JAN. 23 Wild West Winterfest Island Park, 6 p.m. The Dirty Shame Wild West Saloon, 9 p.m. SATURDAY, JAN. 24 Wild West Winterfest Island Park, 8 a.m.

Snowshoe Walk w/YNP Ranger Visitor Center, 10 a.m. THURSDAY, JAN. 29 Fish Camp Boys Wild West Saloon, 7 p.m. FRIDAY, JAN. 30 SnoWest 40th Anniversary Party Various Locations, 9 a.m. The Kind Wild West Saloon, 9 p.m. SATURDAY, JAN. 31 SnoWest 40th Anniversary Party Various Locations, 9 a.m. Snowshoe Walk w/YNP Ranger Visitor Center, 10 a.m. Afternoon Park w/YNP Ranger Grizzly Wolf & Discovery Center, 2 p.m. Avalanche Awareness Presentation Holiday Inn, 7-8 p.m. SUNDAY, FEB. 1 Snowshoe Walk w/YNP Ranger Visitor Center, 10 a.m. Afternoon Park w/YNP Ranger Grizzly Wolf & Discovery Center, 2 p.m. MONDAY, FEB. 2 “IPSSSDR” Sled Dog Races Yellowstone Ave., 9 a.m.

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38 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

WANDERER AT REST

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Explore Big Sky

Wanderer at Rest A pizza and French fries update: Gnar pow! BY JAMIE BALKE EXPLORE BIG SKY COLUMNIST

It finally happened! I worked up the courage to go downhill skiing in Montana. This is my fifth winter living in Bozeman, and with an illogical fear of downhill skiing in the Rockies, I had avoided it like the plague. It was mostly due to a lack of experience, as well as my technique, which is limited to the pizza and French fry positions typically taught to children. My long avoidance of alpine skiing west of the Mississippi led me to purchase both snowshoes and cross-country skis. For several years now, my brother John has tried to convince me to reconsider my fear and hit the slopes. Using a recent birthday as leverage, John took me skiing at Big Sky Resort as a gift. I prepared by visualizing the many ways I would likely embarrass myself, including falling off chairlifts, and brainstorming funny things that I could say to ski patrollers towing my broken body off of the hill. Optimism has never been my strong suit. Resigned to my impending doom, I jumped in John’s truck and we began the drive to Big Sky. Along the way, we saw three bald eagles feeding on a carcass alongside the road, a deer on an island in the middle of the Gallatin River, and a big horn sheep hanging out in the road. The day was off to a good start. John explained upon our arrival that the Explorer chairlift would be a good place to start. As I

surveyed the area, adults with fear clouding their eyes intermingled with small children taking ski lessons. I was among my people.

that on a few of the steeper areas I found myself narrating pep talks aloud about how it would be okay, and I could just fall over if needed.

Right off the bat, I somehow missed getting on the same chair as my brother, and awkwardly made it on the one behind him. From this vantage, I was able to survey the fairly mellow looking hill, and was relieved to observe that I wouldn’t be alone in my heavy reliance on the pizza wedge. It was a beautiful snowy day, with fog moving dramatically around the mountain.

As the day went on, I discovered my fear of downhill skiing in Montana was mostly unwarranted, and had a fantastic time hanging out with my brother on a breathtakingly beautiful mountain. The next time something freaks me out, I won’t wait years to give it a go.

I made it off the chairlift without too much fuss, and began the descent. I was pleasantly surprised to hear the lift attendant shout that I shouldn’t worry because skiing is like riding a bike. It was kind of true. The limited skills I picked up on a few ski days in Wisconsin and North Carolina came back, and before long I was actually having fun. After a couple runs with my fellow “Explorers,” John suggested we ski green runs on other areas of the mountain. It went pretty well, except

Balke hopes to “shred the gnar” on some green runs again soon.

After honing her skills on the Explorer chairlift, Jamie Balke braved some of the steeper green runs at Big Sky Resort. OUTLAW PARTNERS PHOTO

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Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 39

Smash Life! tears up Big Sky Resort

A competitor races past spectators on his way towards the finish line during the fourth annual A-Rob’s Smash Life! Banked Slalom, which took place Jan. 10-11. Friends of late snowboarder Aaron Robinson founded the annual event to spread his love of snowboarding and good vibes. Smash Life! is a fundraiser for A-Rob’s Plant A Seed Project, which helps the youth of Montana’s Flathead Valley get a snowboard under their feet. Big Sky was the first stop on this year’s tour, and the event drew 126 competitors. PHOTOS BY WES OVERVOLD

Mitch Casey is all smiles between linking turns.

Skiers and snowboarders alike cheered as racers flew by in Freemont’s Forest.

A racer carves along one of the course’s many berms.


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THE EDDY LINE

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Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 41

Nymphing: fly fishing’s misunderstood art BY PATRICK STRAUB EXPLORE BIG SKY FISHING COLUMNIST

This might sound like the beginning to Norman Maclean’s treatise in “A River Runs Through It and Other Stories,” but in my family there was no clear line between work and outdoor recreation. I grew up in the foothills south of Bozeman where I fished with my brothers and watched my parents help others enjoy the outdoors – my mom as a career ski instructor and my father as a camp manger in Paradise Valley. Summers were spent bloodying shins on the rocks of small creeks and winters picking lines off Bridger Bowl’s ridge.

Fish fluorocarbon leaders and tippets. For more than 20 years now, fluorocarbon has been responsible for landing a lot more fish because its chemical structure makes it sink. With this material you can also fish a heavier breaking-strength line than with conventional monofilament. For example, you can fish a 4X fluorocarbon instead of 3X monofilament and have similar strength yet thinner diameter, which helps attain a better drift. Also, some argue that fluorocarbon is invisible under the surface. I’m not totally sold on this, but I can say from experience that when fishing subsurface, fluorocarbon out-fishes conventional mono. Weight and good things will come. Having some weight – split shot or moldable putty for example – on your leader will help sink the flies to the proper depth. I don’t like to use weight if I don’t have to, but in my kit bag I have three assortments of various sizes of split shot. It’s annoying as heck, but it helps me consistently catch fish whether I’m nymphing out of my boat on the Missouri, sight fishing on DePuy’s spring creek, or in a deep run south of Big Sky. I start with as little weight as possible, but if I’m not catching fish it’s often time to add weight. Conversely, if I know I’m in the fish but not catching them, I might take off weight or change flies. Use nontoxic split shot whenever possible and when required by local angling regulations.

Fishing nymphs requires adjusting your focus – using weighted flies, fluorocarbon leaders and tippets, and learning a few new tactics. This Gallatin River rainbow trout fell for a dead-drifted beadhead firebead. PHOTOS COURTESY OF GALLATIN RIVER GUIDES

I learned to fish dry flies at a young age and when the fish would not eat a Coachman Trude or a Royal Wulff, I would occasionally throw a woolly bugger. It wasn’t until college when I finally understood and appreciated the subtleties of fishing flies sub-surface. This progression is not unique to my angling background, as many of us started with single dry flies and have progressed to long leaders with strike indicators, split-shot, and two-weighted flies on fluorocarbon tippets. Why did things get so complicated? Because we like to catch fish, that’s why. It took me a while to successfully fish nymphs. Few things in angling top watching a fish eat your dry fly on the surface, but the more you can successfully fish flies under the surface, the more fish you’ll catch. Here’s some help that I never had.

Use a strike indicator. If the weighted flies and split shot aren’t enough to bungle-up your cast, then add a strike indicator to make things even more interesting. Joking aside, a strike indicator is essential to catch more fish (Fish can be caught without the use of a strike indicator, just as you can ski off the Lone Peak Tram with a pair of 220 cm skis). I like to adjust the size of the indicator to match the size of the water I’m fishing. On a spring creek I will use a tuft of yarn or a very small foam pinchon. On the Gallatin River I often use a medium-sized plastic bubble. Generally speaking, your indicator should be placed at a distance from your flies approximately twice the depth of the water you’re fishing, but be prepared to change depth often. I like to place my indicator as close to my flies as possible and adjust it to fish deeper if I’m not getting any takes.

Fishing deep requires imagination. To be a good nympher you must grasp the technical parts – proper leader weight, leader material, and detecting strikes are the biggies. Success in nymph fishing truly comes with getting out there and doing it. Despite what our fathers and grandfathers might have thought, sometimes it’s OK to cut off the single dry fly and bring out the heavy artillery. Pat Straub is the author of six books, including “The Frugal Fly Fisher,” “Montana On The Fly,” and “Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Fly Fishing.” He and his wife own Gallatin River Guides in Big Sky and along with a partner owns a guide service on the Missouri River.

Look at the big picture. Fishing nymphs requires an in-depth – pun-intended – look into the angling scene. When fishing dry flies you’re often focused only on the surface. Nymphing adds the elements of current speed, underwater structure and depth to the equation. You must determine the proper amount of weight on your leader, fly size, getting a proper drift, detecting the strike, and setting the hook. Not easy things to accomplish all at once, but by observing and imagining what is happening under the water’s surface, you’ll be in the right mindset. Rock bottom. Nymphing is the down-and-dirty way to catch fish. Most fish spend the bulk of their life near the bottom of the river and a nymph floating by is easy to eat. Fish on the bottom also exert a lot less energy than fish near the surface, so if you can get your fly down to them you’re going to catch more.

This fish went after a Pat’s Rubberlegs dead-drifted five feet beneath the surface of the Gallatin.


42 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

OUTDOORS

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Ski tips from Dan Egan Solid skiing on rocky slopes BY DAN EGAN EXPLORE BIG SKY CONTRIBUTOR

In big mountain skiing you often have to get through bad snow to find the good snow. Here in Big Sky, there are often rocks above or near the surface of the snow waiting to trip up skiers and snowboarders. This calls for a strategy and using specific tactics to ski the slopes. Here are a few ways I break down a run when it appears rocky. The entrance. If the entrance is not perfect, simply side step down until you can make turns. Make sure to have a good solid stance on your side step with your shoulders square to the hill, and don’t be afraid to use your poles for balance and as braces. Move quickly down the slope because taking too long with a difficult entrance can throw off your mental game for skiing the slope below. Have a plan. I like to ski rocky areas in sections. I move from snow pod to snow pod with a clear vision in my mind of where I’m going to stop and start. This allows me to link a few turns together with confidence before I stop again.

When skiing a rocky slope, sometimes the best route is going straight down the fall line. PHOTO BY JOHN ARNOLD/MINDFULMOUNTAINS.COM

Speed. Once you have a plan and are through the entrance, move at a steady pace with a focus on two to three turns at a time. You don’t want to move too slowly through the rocks, as a bit of speed will help you avoid obstacles, but don’t move at a reckless pace. Power slide. If you can power slide past the obstacles, do it. Execute a good power slide with your feet shoulder width apart, hands and poles facing down the mountain and with your eyes looking down, not across the slope.

Keep your eyes looking down the fall line and concentrate on the snow, not the rocks. PHOTO BY JOHN ARNOLD/MINDFULMOUNTAINS.COM

Turning. When skiing though rocky areas, keep your skis in the fall line. If you’re going to nick rocks it’s better to be in a skiing position than with your skis sideways. I like to use hop turns in these situations. Finding the way. Your eyes are key to navigating through a minefield of rocks. Remember: you go where you look, so look where you want to go. Keep your eyes focused down the fall line, concentrate on the snow and try not to look at the rocks. Repetition. Skiing the same runs several times has many advantages. The first time you ski a run, you learn where the rocks are and what path to take. The second time you can gain a bit of confidence, and by the third of fourth time you can start to really ski the slope. More importantly, going back to the same run the next day or later in the week you can see how the slope has been changed by skier traffic as well as new snow and wind. This will give you more and more confidence throughout the season. Extreme skiing pioneer Dan Egan has appeared in 12 Warren Miller Ski films and countless others. Today he teaches clinics and guides trips at locations around the world including Big Sky, where he’ll be teaching Feb. 26-28, March 5-7 and March 12-14. Find more ski tips from Dan Egan at skiclinics.com/education/skitips.

Move quickly through a steep entrance – like this one in Val d’Isére, France – and sidestep down it, if necessary. PHOTO BY DAN EGAN


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OUTDOORS

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 43

PHOTO COURTESY OF BIG SKY RESORT

Olympian Martin Bell teaches free-ski clinic at Big Sky Resort Former British Olympian Martin Bell will teach a free-ski clinic Feb. 2-3 at Big Sky Resort. Participants must be able to ski difficult blue and expert black diamond runs, and the two-day clinic will focus on improving skiing skills to tackle the entire mountain with confidence. Bell competed in four Winter Olympics from 1984 to 1994 and five World Championships from 1985 to 1993. He holds the best result for a male skier in British Olympic history, placing eighth in the downhill at the 1988 Calgary Games. “[Big Sky Resort is] a large, rugged mountain with any type of terrain imaginable,” Bell said. Visit bigskyresort.com/clinics for registration information.

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44 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

WORD FROM THE RESORTS

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Explore Big Sky

Giving you the news directly from the region's top ski resorts

BY SHEILA CHAPMAN

On Jan. 31, Bridger Bowl’s grueling mountaineering event, the Skin to Win Randonee Rally, returns to the ski area’s slopes. Competitors will circumnavigate Bridger’s ridge terrain with rec division racers gaining 2,000 vertical feet and the pros ascending 5,000 vertical feet, as they traverse the ridge from boundary to boundary.

BIG SKY RESORT PR MANAGER

With above average snowfall, Big Sky Resort’s groomers, glades and steeps are waiting for you, and fun abounds when you’re off the slopes too. Limber up before hitting the slopes Monday through Saturday at the resort’s wellness center, which offers yoga, kettlebells, pilates, and cardio conditioning classes. For a schedule of classes, visit bigskyresort.com/wellness. Walls of snow, a dazzling array of lights and lasers, bartenders in parkas, and one raging DJ are all a part of Big Sky Resort’s famous Snobar on Saturday, Jan. 24. The 21-and-over venue is located next to Swifty 2.0, above the Swift Current chairlift near the Mountain Village. The après ski fun goes from 5-9 p.m. Super Bowl Sunday is Feb. 1, and the broadcast will be playing on the big screen at Whiskey Jack’s starting at 3:30 p.m. Enjoy amazing nachos and plenty of beer, with cheers and jeers depending on which team you’re rooting for! The following week, bluegrass music slides into Big Sky Resort for the 9th annual Big Sky Big Grass Festival, with Leftover Salmon kicking off the festival Thursday, Feb. 5 at Whiskey Jack’s. Various bands will continue to play at venues around the resort through Sunday night. Visit bigskyresort.com/ biggrass for the artist lineup, full schedule and ticketing details. As always, Big Sky Resort offers free après ski music Monday through Saturday at Whiskey Jack’s, Carabiner Lounge, and Chet’s Bar & Grill.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the male and female pro division winners, with medals given to the top three male and female finishers in both divisions. The awards ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. in the Jim Bridger Lodge, followed by free music by Milton Menasco. The Skin to Win begins at 8:30 a.m. and racers must be ages 16 and older to participate. Pre-registration is required by 4 p.m. on Jan. 28 and a mandatory pre-race meeting will be held at the Beall Park Recreation Center in Bozeman on Jan. 30 at 5:30 p.m. With a 54-inch base as of EBS press time on Jan. 21, the steep chutes and couloirs on Bridger’s ridge terrain are filling in and new lines are opening up every time there’s a fresh dump of snow. Get up there on a powder day and you might find yourself on the Bridger Bowl Daily Video, featured every afternoon on the ski area’s website. – T.A.

BY PAUL ROBERTSON

LONE MOUNTAIN RANCH GENERAL MANAGER

BY KATIE SMITH LONE PEAK PR

We’re enjoying this crazy winter weather here at Bohart Ranch, whether it’s skiing new snow or enjoying sunny, spring-like days. We invite you to come up Bridger Canyon and enjoy our groomed trails and great snow. Lessons are offered daily for skate and classic skiing and we’ve just begun our first series of clinics for the season. Sunday, Jan. 25 is the first biathlon race at Bohart in many years, and we can’t wait to bring this fun sport back. Those that want to see what biathlon is all about can participate in the Try It Biathlon clinic after the race. Visit bridgerbiathlonclub.org for more information. UPCOMING EVENTS: Sunday, Jan. 25: Bridger Biathlon Club Race Bohart will host biathletes from around the state. Categories are offered for most ages and abilities. Beginners are provided biathlon rifles and must complete an introduction and safety clinic. Sunday, Feb. 8: Bohart Bonus Day Ski Bohart at reduced prices. Discounted trail fees and ski rentals will be extended to adults and children, with kids ages 6 and under skiing free. There will also be a drawing for a free 2015 season pass. Warm up at the trail shelter, or bring a picnic lunch for a fun day with family and friends.

Lone Mountain Ranch has had an exciting start to the New Year. Nordic ski conditions are great with 75 km of trails open. There are also 30 km of snowshoe trails open to the public, which is a fun, alternative way to explore the ranch property along with the adjacent wilderness area. Due to unseasonably warm temperatures, the fishing is superb for this time of year, both on the Gallatin and Madison rivers. The ranch has a knowledgeable team of fly-fishing guides, so why not take a break from skiing for your chance to land a trophy trout? Lately, nymph fishing has been the most consistent way to put fish in the net on the Gallatin. Over on the Madison you can find some pods of rising fish when the midges are hatching and when the wind isn’t blowing too hard. Call the ranch’s outdoor shop to schedule a guided day of fishing. After spending a day on our trails, or downhill skiing at Big Sky Resort, visit the saloon for drinks and après snacks. We have a craft cocktail and beer list, and a variety of wines by the glass. The fireplace will be roaring alongside live music Monday – Saturday, which starts at 6 p.m. on Mondays and 4:30 p.m. the rest of the week. Chef Nick Steen has created a saloon menu offering local fare and hearty snacks to help you refuel after an active day outdoors. The dining room is also open to the public for breakfast, lunch and dinner – call (406) 995-2783 to book your reservation. And, if you haven’t had a chance to explore our sleigh ride dinner, it’s a must – it’s the original Big Sky sleigh ride. Whether you visit the ranch for the trails, the unique dinner sleigh ride, the experienced fishing guides, or the food and drinks, winter at Lone Mountain Ranch is a magical place. This year LMR celebrates its centennial anniversary, so stay tuned for an announcement about special events and festivities for the Big Sky community and those who love to visit.


ENTERTAINMENT

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 45

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$239,900 • #197313 • Call•Bethany 580.2384 $225,000 • #202413 Call Marc bd,12ba, bath 868 ±Village s.f. condo 22bd, 800furnished +/- s.f., Meadow condo Wonderful views Palmer from living roomgolf of course Lone Peak Adjacent to Arnold designed Includes appliances, hot area, tub pool access Wood F/P;allpatio extends living OwnertheisTown licensed Real Estate Agent groceries Enjoy Center, close to restaurants,

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DON PILOTTE BROKER, GRI, RRS, SFR 406.580.0155 | STACY OSSORIO BROKER 406.539.8553 | ERIC OSSORIO BROKER 406.539.9553 TONI DELZER SALES ASSOCIATE 406.570.3195 | MARC LAUERMANN SALES ASSOCIATE, ABR, SFR 406.581.8242 An independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates, Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and Rock symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no other affiliation of Prudential. Equal Housing Opportunity. All information contained herein is derived from sources deemed reliable; however, is not guaranteed by Prudential Montana Real Estate, Managing Broker, Agents or Sellers. Offering is subject to error, omissions, prior sales, price change or withdrawal without notice and approval of purchase by Seller. We urge independent verification of each and every item submitted, to the satisfaction of any prospective purchaser.


46 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

GEAR REVIEW

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Oakley Prizm A-Frame 2.0 The A-Frame 2.0 answers the question goggle manufacturers have been asking for years: How do we make a comfortable goggle with universal qualities? By keeping the same triple-layer foam and dual vents the A-Frame has always offered, Oakley changed the game in two major ways with the 2.0: a broader field of vision and the revolutionary Prizm lens. By giving riders wider peripheral vision, the A-Frame 2.0 reduces the chances of being broadsided by that snowboarder railing a heelside turn, the skier who’s French frying when they should be pizza pie-ing, or that pesky fir that can sideswipe you in tight trees.

Oakley’s Prizm lens is a product built on decades of research, and by adjusting to varying light conditions, you can keep riding rather than changing your lens out with every passing cloud. Add an anti-fog coating and 100 percent UV protection, and you have an unstoppable lens. The weather in Montana can shift quickly from bluebird to gray and cloudy. Pack the A-Frame 2.0, and you’ll have the only goggle you need to get by. – J.T.O. Frame: Jet black; Lens: Prizm B-32. $130


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FUN

Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015 47

big sky beats BY MARIA WYLLIE EXPLORE BIG SKY ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Find out what tunes we’re bumping! In “Big Sky Beats,” Explore Big Sky staff and guests talk soundtracks for winter in the Rockies, and guests have a chance to share what they listen to when they shred. Mitch Hamel, a local firefighter and friend of mine, recently asked why I never feature country music in this column. I didn’t have a good answer, so I felt it was about time to make a playlist in Hamel’s honor. You won’t see many country classics on here though. Rather, these songs fall within the pop-country genre and all have fun lyrics and melodies to sing along with. om

k.c Tim McGraw were some of my favorite councand The Dixie Chicks, Shania Twain, Jewel Sto n e Op There was just something so satisfying about singing try artists when I was in my tweens. tor Vec A Woman!” as a 12-year-old girl. .Like w Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel ww

They aren’t my go-to songs anymore, but I’ve listed a few of my favorite blast-from-thepast country tracks, as well as some newer songs by popular country artists like Jason Aldean, who’s coming to Bozeman this spring, and Dierks Bentley who recently inspired me to enjoy some cocktails on a plane. Whether you’re a country fan or not, you’ll have no problem getting into some of these songs. 1. “Drunk on a Plane,” Dierks Bentley 2. “That Don’t Impress Me Much,” Shania Twain 3. “American Kids,” Kenny Chesney 4. “She’s Country,” Jason Aldean 5. “Drunk on You,” Luke Bryan 6. “Need You Now,” Lady Antebellum 7. “Gunpowder & Lead,” Miranda Lambert 8. “Something Like That,” Tim McGraw 9. “Before He Cheats,” Carrie Underwood 10. “I Hope You Dance,” Lee Ann Womack 11. “She’s in Love With the Boy,” Trisha Yearwood 12. “These Are My People,” Rodney Atkins 13. “Six-Pack Summer,” Phil Vassar 14. “Chicken Fried,” Zac Brown Band 15. “Neon Light,” Blake Shelton

American Life in Poetry: Column 513

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BY TED KOOSER, U.S. POET LAUREATE

Kwame Dawes is the editor of Prairie Schooner publication and one of my colleagues at the University of Nebraska. Had I never had the privilege of getting to know him I still would have loved the following poem, for its clear and matter-offact account of a sudden loss. Coffee Break By Kwame Dawes It was Christmastime, the balloons needed blowing, and so in the evening we sat together to blow balloons and tell jokes, and the cool air off the hills made me think of coffee, so I said, “Coffee would be nice,” and he said, “Yes, coffee would be nice,” and smiled as his thin fingers pulled the balloons from the plastic bags; so I went for coffee, and it takes a few minutes to make the coffee and I did not know if he wanted cow’s milk or condensed milk, and when I came out to ask him, he was gone, just like that, in the time it took me to think, cow’s milk or condensed; the balloons sat lightly on his still lap. American Life in Poetry is made possible by The Poetry Foundation (poetryfoundation.org), publisher of Poetry magazine. It is also supported by the Department of English at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Poem copyright ©2013 by Kwame Dawes, “Coffee Break,” from “Duppy Conqueror: New and Selected Poems,” (Copper Canyon Press, 2013). Poem reprinted by permission of Kwame Dawes and the publisher. Introduction copyright © 2015 by The Poetry Foundation. The introduction's author, Ted Kooser, served as United States Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress from 2004-2006. We do not accept unsolicited manuscripts.

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48 Jan. 23 - Feb. 5, 2015

BACK 40

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For Explore Big Sky, the Back 40 is a resource: a place where we can delve into subjects and ask experts to share their knowledge. Topics include regional history, profiles of local artists and musicians, snow and avalanche education, how-to pieces for traditional or outdoor skills, and science. Noun: wild or rough terrain adjacent to a developed area Origin: shortened form of “back 40 acres”

‘The Last Glacier’: An artistic collaboration BY NANCY MAHONEY EXPLORE BIG SKY CONTRIBUTOR

“The Last Glacier” project is a collaboration of three artists seeking to capture the fading majesty of the remaining glaciers in Glacier National Park. At the time of its founding in 1910, the park contained 150 glaciers; today only 25 remain, and the U.S. Geological Society predicts that these will be gone by 2045. Before the park’s name becomes a tragic irony, Todd Anderson, Bruce Crownover and Ian van Coller decided to spend three summers hiking into 15 of the park’s glaciers to create artworks that challenge conventional representations of glaciers as sublime and stoic landscapes. The three artists have produced reductive woodblock prints and large-format photographs that convey complex stratigraphy within the ice masses, as well as a sense of perpetual motion. Though the works are aesthetically beautiful, “The Last Glacier” series invokes a contemplation of wonder and loss in the face of seemingly powerful and pristine landscapes, ones that have revealed themselves as inherently fragile and more subject to human impact than we had imagined. Ian van Coller, the photographer in this collaboration, has contemplated why glaciers are so notoriously difficult to photograph. “They possess immense size and depth, yet have a deceivingly subtle and monochromatic surface architecture,” wrote van Coller in his research, adding that this makes them an artistically formidable technical and intellectual challenge. With the help of his collaborators, van Coller carries 50 pounds of gear 20-plus miles into the backcountry to get close to the retreating masses of ice, ultimately creating panoramic photographic prints that capture more detail than the human eye can absorb. Unlike landscape portraits by

“Jackson Glacier,” 2013. PHOTO BY IAN VAN COLLER

Ansel Adams and Galen Rowell, which are meant purely as poetic contemplations of nature and the sublime, van Coller’s work physically connects the viewer with the terrain. His work is minimalist, often eliminating the horizon and sky so that we have to engage with the piece to decipher the depth and scale of the landscape. Printmakers Todd Anderson and Bruce Crownover use woodblock techniques to make original lithographs inspired by the glaciers in the park. They created layered landscapes that go beyond realistic presentations. Their prints portray a larger truth about the glacial texture, mass, and subtle colorations, as well as their antiquity, than can be captured in scientific prose. Anderson and Crownover reconstruct what they witness first hand from memory and imagination. Their original imagery for the project is loosely sketched and colored in the field, and then painstakingly transferred and carved out of woodblocks.

“Blackfoot Glacier,” 2014, reductive jigsaw woodcut, six runs and eight colors, 20” x 30,” WOODCUT BY TODD ANDERSON

“Woodblock prints are like jigsaw puzzles,” says Anderson, whose prints typically require two days of carving, then up to two weeks of inking and printing the various layers of colors in multiple runs.

The glaciers themselves are evoked in the reductive nature of the medium, as well as the slow and repetitive woodcut process itself, which –like retreating glaciers – are carved and recarved, resulting in a block that cannot be printed again. The final prints portray subtle shifts in line and color that convey texture and accentuate light, allowing us to contemplate details we might otherwise miss. This collection of work will come together in a large-scale, limited edition artist book. With the help of master book binder Rory Sparks, the three artists will make 15 editions that are 24 inches by 37 inches when open, the monumental scale of the book referencing the monumental scale of Glacier National Park’s landscape. The work in “The Last Glacier” project challenges our perceptions that glaciers are remote and irrelevant, or merely obscure curiosities as the last remnants of a distant ice age. But rather than creating art that serves as scientific documentation or political bludgeon, Anderson, Crownover and van Coller effectively translate our understandings of the impacts of global climate change into a comprehensible, human scale. Many of us in Montana have made the magnificent hike to Grinnell Glacier and felt awed by its beauty, but most of us will not make the trek to the more distant glaciers. With this work, we can contemplate their waning grandeur, and why it is that we should care about them. Nancy M. Mahoney is an adjunct professor of anthropology at Montana State University and a doctoral student in American studies. She is a contributing writer and researcher for the “Last Glacier Project,” as well as other collaborative projects involving climate change and geographical remoteness.


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