Pray for Snow

Big Sky

Big Sky’s Locally Owned & Published Newspaper

December 10, 2010 Volume 1 // Issue #4

Pray for Snow Featured Big Sky Artists

Ariane Ogburn Coleman & Jill Zeidler

State Ballot Measures How do they affect you?

Ski Bum 101

Photo by Brian NIles

Boot Fitting Tips

[email protected]

Big Sky

Big Sky Weekly

December 10, 2010 Volume 1, Issue 4 CEO, PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Eric Ladd COO & SENIOR EDITOR Megan Paulson CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mike Martins MANAGING EDITOR Emily Stifler GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kelsey Dzintars ASSISTANT EDITOR Abigail Digel Sales Director Hunter Rothwell Distribution Director Danielle Chamberlain VIDEOGRAPHER Brian Niles CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Oliva Cartella, Mike Coil, Sara Hoovler, Sam Isham, Brandy Ladd, John Marshall, Emily Nedved, Eric Paulson, Jill Pertler, Christo Pierce, Kristin Ramirez, Scotty Savage, Katie Smith

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

Paper Distribution Distributed every other Friday in towns across Southwest Montana, including Big Sky, Bozeman, West Yellowstone, Three Forks and Livingston.

Corrections The Big Sky Weekly runs corrections to errors. Please report them to [email protected].

OUTLAW PARTNERS & THE BIG SKY WEEKLY P.O. Box 160250 Big Sky, MT 59716 ExploreBigSky.com (406) 995-2055 [email protected] © 2010 The Big Sky Weekly Unauthorized reproduction prohibited

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Photo by Brandy Ladd

WESTERN SLANG & PHRASES from the 1860s-1880?s Ace-high ~ first class, respected.

According to Hoyle ~ Correct, by the book. A hog-killin’ time ~ a real good time. “We went to the New Year’s Eve dance and had us a hog-killin’ time.” A lick and a promise ~ to do haphazardly. “She just gave it a lick and a promise.” All down but nine ~ missed the point, not understood. (Reference to missing all nine pins at bowling Arbuckle’s ~ slang for coffee, taken from a popular brand of the time. “I need a cup of Arbuckle’s.” -from A Writer’s Guide to the Old West

Letter to the Editor Parameters We print letters to the editor. This is a platform for readers to express views and share ways they would like to effect change. The Weekly will run letters of 250 words or less that are respectful, ethical, state accurate facts and figures, and are proofread for grammar and content. We reserve the right to edit letters. Letters should include: first and last name, address, phone number and title. State your position clearly on one issue, elaborate on the issue with supporting evidence, and recommend action for a unique resolution. Send letter to: [email protected]

Big Sky Weekly

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community Community Library Celebrates Literacy, Life Long Learning Librarian Kathy House and the Friends of the Library team are busy decorating the Big Sky Community Library for the holiday season. They are hosting an open house on December 19 which will showcase of the progress this independent library has made since opening 10 years ago. The Friends are a group of dedicated volunteers who straighten and stock the shelves, cover books, and decorate the library as the seasons change. They breathe life into the organization and work to promote an appreciation of literature and life long learning. “The support for the library has been amazing since the very first day,” says House. “The community truly embraced the concept.” 80% of the library’s funding comes from resort tax, and the rest is raised through membership donations and

book sales; this is unique funding among Montana libraries. In addition to regular book lending, the library dedicates Monday morning to story time with mothers and infants, offers year-round adult programs, and sends used books to soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. Ophir students fill the space during school hours, but 20 hours a week the public can browse adult fiction and non-fiction titles, use one of 16 internet-ready computers, and rent DVDs. Friends of the Library meets the first and third Wednesday of every month at 10 a.m. Show up, bring used books, and contribute to spreading literacy in the Big Sky community. To join, call Roberta Crew at 995-2852. bigskylibrary.org A.D.

Library Hours: Sunday: 1-5 p.m Monday: 10-6 p.m. Tuesday: 4-8 p.m. Wednesday: 4-8 p.m.

Big Sky Weekly

Big Sky Christmas Services December 24: “Festival of Carols Service” Big Sky Christian Fellowship 5 p.m. Big Sky Chapel “Candlelight Service of Carols and Lessons” All Saints in Big Sky. 8 p.m. Big Sky Chapel St. Joseph’s Catholic Mass. Big Sky Resort- Yellowstone Conference Center 5 p.m. Big Sky Christian Fellowship. Big Sky Resort- Yellowstone Conference Center 7 p.m. Christmas Eve Service. Moonlight Lodge 5 p.m. December 25: St. Joseph’s Catholic Mass. Big Sky Chapel 8 a.m.

Ladies’ Bridge Club is Weekly Tradition in Big Sky Community By Abbie Digel

If you leave Thursday Ladies’ Bridge Club with a Sacajawea, “it’s the booby prize. It means you go home with the lowest score,” says Lynne Malpeli, one of founding members of the Big Sky Ladies’ Bridge Club, which meets every Thursday at 10:30 in various locations around town. Membership is currently 40 women who live in or visit Big Sky on a seasonal basis. “When we started, there were no cohesive programs going on that were interested in bridge,” says Malpeli, who began hosting the club in her home. The club then migrated to Buck’s T-4 where they also met for lunch. Interest in the club grew, and now ladies come from the meadow, canyon and even Bozeman. “We are so many now, we find that we are celebrating birthdays, anniversaries. It’s turned into a community,” says Malpeli. “The group has really evolved into getting involved into each and everyone’s lives. If you come out here and don’t know anyone, we are very welcoming.” Ladies’ Bridge Club is a busy bunch. When they don’t feel like cooking, they head out in groups of eight to 28 to share cocktails and dinner. The club goes to any restaurant that will allow reservations and separate checks. “We’ve hit ‘em all,” says Malpeli. All skill levels are welcome. While Malpeli, who grew up playing as a fourth for her parents, is a seasoned player, Ruby Delzer, the co-founder of the club, learned in a newcomers club in Minnesota and has played ever since.

ORGANIC COFFEE, ESPRESSO AND TEA

“It’s a real ice breaker for a lot of people,” says Malpeli. Delzer agrees, and encourages newcomers, seasonal visitors, and veterans of Big Sky to come out for bridge. Call Ruby Delzer at 995-3055 for information about the next location. December 2nd Bridge Results: 1st: Jeannie Graham 2nd: Lynne Malpeli Sacajewea: Gay Hoover

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4 December 10, 2010

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Big Sky Weekly

local news Made in Big Sky By Emily Stifler

Lynne Anderson, proprietor of the Country Market in Big Sky, recently donated a storefront for local artists and artisans to show and sell their work. The 350 square foot space is located on the northwest corner of 66 Market Place in the Meadow Village, where the jewelry store used to be. “It will be like a co-op,” says Marie Rapp, one of 20 participating artists. Rapp makes pillows from recycled fabric samples, and her husband builds barn wood picture frames and log furniture. “We’ll have a book with profiles of each vendor,” she says. “We’ll get to know each other well, so we’ll be able to promote each other’s work.”

“It’s nice to be creating something new, opening an opportunity. There’s been tremendous support and energy.” Artists will pay a fee to be involved and then take turns working in the shop. Other products lined up for inclusion are bead and stone watches, bracelets and necklaces, natural cleaning products and massage oils, herbal salves and oils, watercolor and oil paintings, greeting cards, photography, pillows, Christmas ornaments and JuJu skirts, scarves and hats. “Many talented people in Big Sky don’t have a way to show their work,” Anderson says. “There’s nothing like it here. It’s nice to be creating something new, opening an opportunity. There’s been tremendous support and energy.” She envisions some of the artists involved will rotate with the seasons, creating changeover in the products the shop sells. “We will accept nothing [not made in Big Sky].” The Made In Big Sky store opened on December 10 and will stay open late for the Christmas Stroll and be open every day (12 p.m. - 6 p.m.) until April.

Big Sky Youth Football The Big Sky Vikings, the third and fourth grade flag football team played this fall in the Gallatin YMCA Flag

Football league. The team was made up of Big Sky kids who practiced in Big Sky and played in Belgrade. Coached by Dan Wade and Chris Samuels and assisted by Quinn Johnson, Doug Starz and Kevin Butler, the Vikings ran a wide open shotgun offense that improved over the season. The team was at the top of the league in scoring and ran a 4-4 defense. Despite being outsized in virtually every game, the Big Sky Vikings had champion heart. Team members Frankie Starz, Cody Clack, Max Butler, Austin Samuels, Nicholas Wade, Koyla Bough, Zane Johnson, Gus Hoffman, Lucy Child, Hunter Smith, Isaac Gilmore and Ethan Russell all played a variety of positions and had a lot of fun. Because Lone Peak High will field its first football team in fall of 2011, this youth football program has gained new importance. Additionally, plans are underway to have a seventh and eighth grade six-man tackle football team from Ophir this coming fall. Big Sky had two fifth and sixth graders who participated in tackle football. They played for the Broncos, coached by Doug Starz. Holden Samuels played tight end and safety. Eddie Starz played quarterback and outside linebacker.

Moonlight offering a killer deal on Gold Club Lockers Get ‘em while they’re Hot Until December 31, Moonlight Basin is selling a year round Gold Club membership for $1,000. The lockers are in the lower level of the Moonlight Lodge, and are also available for $800 without club membership. Lockers fit ski gear for four and are literally 50 feet from the base of Iron Horse lift. These price points are available to Moonlight and Biggest Skiing in America pass holders. Non-pass holders receive the same benefits for $1300. The Gold Club membership’s added benefits are access to the pool, hot tub, fitness center, steam rooms, reserved parking and discounts at various retailers. They’ve also added a social feature; every Saturday in the winter a snow sports instructor will meet members at the facility for a complementary exploratory tour of the mountain. “From a family perspective, it’s really nice to have that paved, plowed entrance to the Lodge,” says Alan Poole, membership director. “It’s unique to be able to jump on one lift and have access to the most skiable acres in the U.S. and two resorts. It’s pretty awe-

some.” Poole says four adults can fit gear in one locker, and membership lasts through the summer. E.S.

Biggest Skiing in America Campaign Dives into Second Year Public meeting Wednesday, December 15 By Marne Hayes

The marketing and economic development committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, December 15 at 9 a.m. at the Big Sky Chapel to bring the community up to speed on the efforts in place for the second year of the Biggest Skiing in America campaign. The committee, formed under the Chamber of Commerce, has launched headstrong into its second year with the campaign and is building off the foundation laid last year by collaborative community efforts to brand Big Sky as offering the biggest winter experience, anchored by the Biggest Skiing in America. The $300,000 campaign is funded for the second year largely in the form of public resort tax dollars, with a $50,000 match of private funds making up the balance of the total promotional budget. Also,for the second year in a row the campaign is focusing on national and regional market audiences, using the leverage and brand platform of the state office of tourism to propel the Biggest Skiing in America recognition into sectors likely to visit Big Sky. The message is simple: experience the Biggest Skiing in America, and make Big Sky your mountain. Offering a value package of a ‘book one, get one’ concept, all who take advantage of packages with local lodging properties can receive a free night’s lodging and a free lift ticket when they book a Biggest Skiing in America lodging package. The meeting will cover updates on the campaign website, special lodging deals, as well as local, on the ground efforts and information about the partnerships which laid the groundwork for this winter’s effort. A review of the national print and online media plans will be presented, and together with the committee, the Chamber of Commerce will answer questions and accept feedback about this collaborative winter marketing campaign. Don’t miss the opportunity to see how resort tax has partnered with private business funding to create the Biggest Skiing in America buzz.

Big Sky Skating and Hockey Association Sets Up Hockey Boards, Seats Board of Directors Over 20 volunteers braved the cold weather and attended BSSHA’s Board Raising Party on Saturday, November 20. Volunteers gathered to assemble hockey boards trucked in from Grand Forks, ND in front of Center Stage at Town Center Park for the newly named Alpine Ice Rink at Town Center. “We were excited to see the rink come together on Saturday. We started out with nothing, and now we have hockey boards, a recreational rink, and are just a few steps away from hockey and skating programs in Big Sky. It’s an exciting time for the organization,” says Ryan Hamilton, President of BSSHA. BSSHA has sold 15 board sponsorships and has raised over $8,000. Board advertising opportunities are still available at prices ranging from $150 - $750. All sponsors will have their logo or advertisements displayed on the inside of the boards. Money raised from sponsorships will go to lights, equipment, player benches and operating expenses for the rink and Rotherham Construction warming hut. The BSSHA board of directors, which forms the leadership for the development of future hockey and skating programs, are: Ryan Hamilton, Griffin Kilby, Rebecca Baker, Ryan Blechta, Brian Dolan, Kinga Wilson and Gary Hermann. [email protected]

Biggerstaff and ERA Landmark in Big Sky Join Forces Maggie Biggerstaff is pleased to announce she is joining the ERA Landmark Big Sky team. Together, ERA Landmark and Maggie Biggerstaff have over 60 years of experience in providing peak performance for clients. Maggie is a native Montanan and has lived in Big Sky since 1981. She started out as part of the Biggerstaff Construction Company and has both a construction and real estate background. She has had her real estate license for over 18 years. Please contact [email protected] or [email protected].

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Big Sky Weekly

regional Gadd. Bozemanicefestival.com

Splendid Feasts in virginia city

Every holiday season, the Elling House in Virginia City hosts The Splendid Feast, a gathering bringing a magical mix of music, companionship and great food to its warm halls. Come enjoy a feast featuring rusted pork tenderloin, pecan gravy, cranberry relish and stuffing. Sip on wine, mead and cider under the candle light and enjoy good company and hearty conversation. Dessert and coffee will be served

Bozeman Ice Festival

Montana Alpine Guides is proud to announce the 14th Annual Arc’Teryx Bozeman Ice Climbing Festival, December 9-12. Bringing together a collection of experienced winter climbers from around North America, the festival will have a full slate of nightly presentations and daily on-ice instructional clinics in nearby Hyalite Canyon on the Gallatin National Forest, one of North America’s premier ice climbing venues. The Bozeman Ice Climbing Festival began in 1996 and is dedicated to promoting and protecting the worldclass ice climbing in Hyalite Canyon. Evening presentations will include Alstrin Films, avalanche expert Doug Chabot, Bozeman’s Adam Knoff, legendary climber Jim Shimberg and Canadian superstar Will

This season, The Splendid Feast will be produced twice. Don’t miss out on this sold-out event and buy your tickets ahead of time by calling 843-5454. The event will be held on December 17 and 18. Enter for a chance to win a handmade quilt created and donated to the Elling House Arts & Humanitiies Center. ellinghouse.org

Paradise Valley

A few goings on Love good food and furry critters? Need to buy holiday gifts? Get to the annual Last Best Holiday Bazaar on December 11 at Emigrant Town Hall. Complimentary beverages. Food catered is by Chico Hot Springs and proceeds go to Stafford Animal Shelter. Dome Mountain 4H Club is inviting Gardiner’s Senior Citizens to an annual holiday dinner on December 12 at one p.m. in the Community Church basement.

Fish, wildlife and parks Plan to step up Brucellosis Surveillance Efforts State wildlife officials will initiate a federally funded study this winter expanding efforts to determine where brucellosis occurs in elk in southwest Montana. Brucellosis is a contagious bacterial infection in domestic animals, wildlife and humans worldwide. Brucellosis can cause pregnant cattle, bison and elk to abort calves. Over the past 30 years, FWP tested 8,000 elk for exposure to the disease, mostly in the Greater Yellowstone Area north and west of the national park. Test results from the early 90s showed exposure from 0-2%. Recent positive exposure rates ranged from 5-16% north of Gardiner and on the east side of the Madison Valley. Ken McDonald, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks’ wildlife bureau chief in Helena, said the study will help the state understand the risk brucellosis-exposed elk pose to livestock. The proposed study is being designed in cooperation with the Montana Department of Livestock and the federal Animal and Plant Health Inspection

Buy a $2 raffle ticket for a beautiful hand-woven Navajo rug and help a Gardiner local with medical bills. Tickets are available at Kellem’s Montana Saddlery and at North Entrance Food Farm, where you can also see pictures of the rugs and silver jewelry. Raffle is December 15. Gardiner Baptist Church will hold a Christmas Eve Service at 7 p.m. Fellowship will follow with desserts and drinks. Everyone is welcome.

Yellowstone/ Cooke City Roads and Trails

Snowmobile and snowcoach travel in the Park begins December 15. The Old Faithful Visitor Education Center will also reopen.The road from the north entrance at Gardiner through Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Junction, the Lamar Valley, and on to Cooke City is open to wheeled vehicle travel all year. From Cooke City, 212 to Highway 296 to Cody, Red Lodge or Billings, is open. Beartooth Pass is closed for the season. In the Park, Dunraven Pass is closed, and Lamar River Bridge is under construction. Skiing and snowmobiling in Cooke City is on, with miles of groomed snowmobile tracks up to 10,000’. There is already over 50 inches of snow at 9000’.

Christmas for west yellowstone Critters

Wolf Discovery Center is December 15-31. Donate food for bears and wolves (call the center for specific needs). A donation is worth $1.25 off adult regular admission, 10% off gift shop purchases and tons of gratitude. (406) 646-7001 or (800) 257-2570.

Ennis and the Madison Valley

The Madison Valley has a pioneer and agricultural heritage, and today, this community is working together to care for its land, water, wildlife and wide-open spaces. In an effort toward agricultural sustainability and local commerce, many businesses in this area work closely with a Farm to Fork program, and the nonprofit Madison Valley Ranchlands Group. Going to the Madison Valley? Get breakfast at the Pharmacy, take a walk by the Madison River, and then stop by the Norris Hot Springs.

Dillon and the Beaverhead National Forest

While this part of Southwest Montana is quiet in winter, it’s still a great place to be. At 3.32 million acres, the Beaverhead Deerlodge National Forest is the largest in the state.Don’t miss the ski area-hot springs tour this winter: ski Lost Trail and visit Jackson hot springs one day, then do Maverick Mountain and Elkhorn the next. There are also miles of crosscountry ski trails in this area, and the legendary Wise River-Polaris National Snowmobile Trail.

In West Yellowstone, Christmas for the Critters at the Grizzly and

Service. It will capture 100 elk in a different area each year for five years. The testing will be designed in part to answer questions related to brucellosis prevalence, and also to evaluate several common brucellosis testing methods that have produced inconsistent exposure-rate results, McDonald said. “We want to determine if a cow elk that aborts in one year continues to do so or if, as some suspect, or if it only occurs with the first pregnancy,” McDonald said. “We also want to see if elk that test positive in one year continue to do so.” As in past years, with the help of hunters, outfitters and local landowners, FWP has distributed about 3,000 brucellosis test kits in the Madison, Paradise and Shields valleys, the areas near Gardiner, Bridger and the Gravelly Mountains, and in the Greater Yellowstone area, in Carbon County to determine the range of elk exposed to brucellosis. The study area for this winter will include the western portions of the Gravelly Mountains in southwestern Montana, near the Blacktail Wildlife Management Area where 100 cow elk would be cap-

tured and tested for brucellosis exposure. This effort will be replicated in four other areas between 2012 and 2015 if sufficient funding can be secured. The study is estimated to cost about $300,000 a year. About 30 elk a year will be fitted with GPS radio collars in each year of the study and any cow elk that tests positive for brucellosis exposure will be fitted with a radio collar and a radio device that would be expelled upon the birth of a calf or when a fetus is aborted. These “seropositive” animals—those exposed to but not necessarily infected with brucellosis—would be recaptured for testing and fitted with new radio devices for up to five years. Researchers will follow the elk to determine seasonal movement patterns and interactions with other elk and livestock. The project proposes to remove from the population elk that test and remain positive for five years for further study to confirm actual brucellosis infection. “This disease should be a concern to everyone in Montana,” McDonald said. “We all have a stake in pin pointing brucellosis in Montana wildlife and developing the management actions needed to reduce the risks to wildlife and to the livestock industry.”

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regional

word from the ski resorts

Friday, December 17, the resort is holding the forthannual Turkey for a Ticket food drive to benefit the Gallatin Valley Food Bank. Don’t miss this chance to help a neighbor and earn a lift ticket. Last year this event donated 17,000 pounds of food (including 554 turkeys). Details: Drop off a frozen turkey or 20 cans of food at the Madison Village Base Area from 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. and receive a free lift ticket. Voucher valid all season long with the exception of resort blackout dates: 12/19/10 – 1/2/10 and 2/19/11 – 2/21/11. Off site drop off is available at Albertson’s in Bozeman, but only for season pass holders and corporate donations. For corporate, minimum donation must equal 80 pounds. All individual donations must be made on the mountain. Moonlight Basin will also raffle off a 2010-11 midweek season pass to day visitors on December 17. The winner will be announced at 1:30 p.m. on the deck of the Headwaters Grille; must be present to win. Gallatinvalleyfoodbank.org Moonlightbasin.com

8 December 10, 2010

Lost Trail Powder Mountain Conner

Lost Trail opened on Thursday December 2 with epic conditions. This family-owned and operated hill sits is the continental divide between Montana and Idaho. Ever been to Lost Trail? If you’re powhunting, go on a Thursday (they’re closed MonWed). The vibe is chill and there is plenty of terrain. As of the December 2 opening, LT’s summit base was 49” inches. Put it on your list. Losttrail.com

Rendezvous Ski Trails West Yellowstone

The Yellowstone Ski Festival over Thanksgiving was a great success to kick off the season. Now, the Rendezvous Ski Trails are open for the season with great coverage and few crowds. Over 35k of skate and classic tracks are groomed regularly. Classic skiers and snowshoers can also try the Riverside Trail and dog-friendly Boundary Trail, all accessible from town. Day and season passes are available at the West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Center, Bud Lilly’s Trout Shop, Freeheel & Wheel and at the trailhead. rendezvousskitrails.com

Discovery Ski Area Phillipsburg

Discovery is open as of Thanksgiving Day. “We had a really great weekend of skiing,” said Ciche Pitcher, VP of resort operations. The base is approximately 25” with 34” of snowfall this year to date. Discovery has 2,388’ vertical and varied terrain from long cruisers, to continuous groomers to rowdy steeps. A new backside chairlift will add 250 acres of terrain this year. Disco hopes to open this new lift over Christmas, but depending on the weather “it could be sooner or later.”Skidiscovery.com

Lone Mountain Ranch

200

since 1995 150

100

Big Sky

Lone Mountain Ranch opened Saturday December 4 with all 100 km open. The skiing was awesome. Rentals, lessons and tours programs are all up and running. The Ranch asks that skiers to a visible day or season pass. The Town Center trails and the BSCC Comunity Park trails are also open, providing 20k of dog-friendly trails. The Crail Ranch Trail and the trail from the Town Center to the Ouzel Falls Trailhead are groomed for multiple users, including walkers. The Town Center Trails are groomed only for skiers. Lonemountainranch.com

% average SWE (snow water equivalent) or “snowpack” as of December 1 *Best start

50

0

2010 110140%

Moonlight is open for the season. Great snow allowed for an early opening December 3-9, allowing skiers access to the Iron Horse area. December 11 is official opening day for the resort, opening up other parts of the mountain.

Maverick is a small, family ski area with nearly 2000’ of vertical. The mountain opened Saturday December 11, and our local correspondent, David Nolt, reports, there’s already really good coverage. Maverick is also almost done building a new website. Stay tuned. skimaverick.com

SW Montana

Moonlight Basin – Fourth Annual Turkey for a Ticket

Polaris

Bohart Ranch is open for the season. 16 miles north of Bozeman up Bridger Canyon, the center has 30k of groomed trails for both classic and skate skiing. Coverage is great. The Ski School is open and offering classic and skate lessons and clinics for youth and adults of all abilities. Season pass holders can ski before and after hours, and can ski with canine friends every Wednesday after three p.m. Bohart is working on its carbon imprint and is very excited about its Italian-made Husky model groomer which is fast, more environmentally friendly, and rated class two for diesel emissions. Also, the Streamline bus will run FREE to Bohart every Saturday and Sunday. The bus arrives and departs Bohart three times a day. bohartranchxcski.com

2010 159%

Now, the Mountain Village is coming alive again, and all restaurants and hotels opened Thursday, December 9. The Summit and Huntley lobbies will be lively with free food and wine tastings, gingerbread house making, and live music on December 11 and 18 as educators and members of the military arrive to ski for free during our Educator and Military Appreciation Weekends (December 10-12 and 17-19, respectively). Every day more and more terrain is opening, and a celebration is in order: join us for the Season Kick-Off Party in the Mountain Village on December 18. - Greer Schott bigskyresort.com

Maverick Mountain

Bozeman

Lone Mountain

But the all of this snow was giving Ski Patrol a run for their money making higher terrain safe for skiing. On the mountain before sunrise, their hard work got the Triple spinning by opening afternoon. By the end of the week, 11 lifts and 2,089 acres were open for skiing.

Bridger Bowl is open seven days a week. Official grand opening ceremony for the new Bridger chair lift will be December 11. Festivities include a ribbon cutting and live music at Deer Park Chalet. The same day, Bridger has scheduled Skadi’s ski and snowboard workshop, a one-day women’s-only program designed to “revive and refine technical skills.” The terrain park will also open that day. Also that weekend, Bridger snow sports will offer a ridge clinic that includes transceiver practice and, weather depending, a tour of Schlasman’s or the Ridge. For advanced skiers/riders over age 13. Uphill traffic at the ski area is now prohibited 24 hours a day. bridgerbowl.com

Bohart Ranch Cross Country Ski Center

107%

The average base for Big Sky’s opening day is 18”, but when the lifts started rolling at 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning, skiers touched down on 45” of mid-mountain snow pack. There were rumors that it was the best opening day snow in a decade, and no one could remember the last time November snow was so skiable. The full coverage of powder and solid wind-packed snow felt straight out of mid-season – it could have been January out there.

Bridger Bowl

Lone Mountain 2009

Big Sky

Big Sky Weekly

SNOWSPORTS Big Sky Youth Camps 2010/2011 By Emily Nedved Big Sky Resort will once again offer some great opportunities for local children to get out and rip around Big Sky in a safe and fun learning environment. Our camps will start after the new year and are designed for a range of kids from age three and older.

LITTLE LOBOS We started this program last season, and it was a huge success. It is designed for three-year-olds who have never skied before. This six-week program runs January 18-February 12, with an option of a second session on demand. For $150 a day your child will receive six mornings (9:45 – 12 p.m.) of safe and fun instruction. Add in lunch for another $108 dollars.

MAD WOLF & CLUB SHRED This program has been around for years. It is open to skiers ages 4-14 and snowboarders ages 6 –14 of all abilities. It is a great opportunity for kids to grow, as they stay with the same instructor and group through-

out the entire session. Session one runs January 8 – February 12, and the second session will be March 5 – April 9. The prices are: $303 for one session without lunch, $411 for one session with a hot lunch, $545 for both sessions paid at once with no lunch and $761 for both sessions paid at once including hot lunch.

BIG SKY RIPPERS Back by popular demand is the Big Sky Rippers Program. It is designed for the teens and tweens who rip around Big Sky, ski comfortably off the tram and Challenger, and sometimes venture into the park or gates. It is open to kids ages 9-14 who ski Big Sky’s black runs with confidence. The sessions and prices coincide with the Mad Wolf and Club Shred Camp. Call the Snowsports School at (406) 995-5743 for any further questions and to register.

What’s Your Focus?

Tips from Moonlight Basin’s Snow Sports School By Christo Pierce; Level III PSIA Certified Alpine Instructor. Everyone who wishes to improve his or her skills needs a technical focus. Lack of a technical focus impairs development. Technical focus is the process of devoting thought and energy to a particular aspect of skiing or riding. All too often, people show up for a ski lesson without a specific goal except, “I just want to get better.” Often, these people have skied many seasons without improvement. Technical focus can be acquired from many sources: ski magazines, ski and snowboard videos, ski manuals, ski and snowboard lessons (group or private), or even a friend.

Once you begin thinking with a technical focus, start on a run that is comfortable for you, so you can think about a specific move while gaining confidence. After this, you can venture off to more challenging terrain. The outcome will be greater comfort and skill. As skills become refined, so should the focus. An expert may be focused on a narrow issue, while a beginner should think about broader issues. Thinking about a technical aspect of skiing or snowboarding is important for all levels, and is especially critical to getting an advanced rider off a plateau.

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montana

Elk tags, taxes and payday loans get voter attention By Mike Coil Montana voters considered four ballot measures in the elections held on November 2. Initiatives addressed out-of-state elk and deer tags, a tax on real estate transfers, payday loans and the need for a constitutional convention.

outfitting business, and a loss of tax revenue for local governments because of a decline in guided hunting trips. The voters favored giving fewer licenses to guided, out-of-state hunters. The measure passed with 53.8% in favor and 46.2% against.

Initiative 161 was a proposal asking voters to change state law with respect to the allocation of elk and deer tags for non-resident hunters. It also called for a substantial increase in the cost of a non-resident hunting tag, the proceeds from which would be used to fund more public access and habitat restoration and preservation. Under the proposal, a non-resident, big game combination license would jump from $628 to $897. Under the former law, the hunting outfitters had a total of 15,000 big game licenses allocated to them for use by their guided hunters. Initiative 161 proposed that 5,500 of the non-resident tags be reallocated to general non-resident tags, which could be purchased by non-residents who want to hunt without hiring a guide or outfitter. Proponents of this initiative argued that since the inception of outfitter sponsored licenses, guided hunting has turned into a business that sells exclusive access and promotes high kill rates of the state owned deer and elk herds.

On a topic of equal importance to the greater Big Sky region, voters considered a constitutional amendment that would permanently prohibit any tax on the transfer of real property. CI105 was a peremptory strike by its proponents to head off any attempt by the legislature to pass any sort of real estate transfer tax or RETT. Only 13 states in the country, including Montana, do not have a RETT. CI105 was sponsored and promoted by the Chicago based National Association of Realtors.

Proponents believed by cutting down on the number of outfitter sponsored non-resident licenses there would be less commercialization and privatization of state game herds. Opponents maintained it would destabilize the outfitting industry, lead to a decline in small outfitting businesses across the state along with a decline in employment opportunities in the

Proponents argued the measure would help Montanans avoid double taxation on their real estate. All real estate in Montana is currently taxed through local government and a second tax on the transfer of such real estate would be double taxation, proponents claimed. Opponents maintained that future generations should not be restricted as to the type of taxing scheme that the legislature can use and that specific tax policy should be handled by the legislature and not by amendment to the state constitution. The voters heavily favored the idea of precluding a future transfer tax on real estate and overwhelmingly approved the measure by 72.6% to 27.4%. Also on the ballot was Initiative 164 to prohibit payday lenders from charging more than 36% per year on short-term loans. The danger of

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payday loans is that if the borrower cannot repay the loan when due, he or she takes out another loan and pays additional fees. According to the Center for Responsible Lending, this cycle of constant borrowing can lead to an average of nine loans per year for payday borrowers and result in annual interest rates of to 400%. Proponents also argued that large, outof-state companies that drain money from the poorest of Montana consumers conduct much of the payday loan business in Montana. Opponents of the measure maintained there was already adequate control of payday loans and passing the initiative would cause payday lenders to disappear and cost the state 600-900 jobs. The voters approved this measure by a vote of 71.8% to 28.2%. Also on the ballot as a matter of law was a proposal (CC-2) to convene a constitutional convention to rewrite the 1972 state constitution. This measure is required on the ballot every 20 years to give the voters a chance to decide if a constitutional convention is needed to make changes in the state constitution. The proponents of this measure claimed that the current constitution was flawed and vague and thus led to law suits, which gave the “overzealous courts” a chance to legislate from the bench. Opponents of the measure claimed the current version of the state constitution was fine in that it “let the sunshine in” by giving the public a “reasonable opportunity” to be involved in government, examine public documents and observe the deliberations of state government officials. Opponents also cited the

provision of the current constitution, which requires the Legislature to produce a balanced budget at every session. Of the four measures on the ballot CC-2 drew the lowest number of votes, but was defeated by a vote of 41.5% to 58.5%.

53% in favor of giving fewere licenses to guided, out-of-state hunters

72.6% in favor of permanently prohibiting any tax on the transfer of real property

71.8% in favor of prohibiting payday lenders from charging more than 36% per year on shortterm loans

58.5% against proposal to convene a constitutional convention to rewrite the 1972 state constitution

Big Sky Weekly

sports

Bobcat Season

Ends with a Loss The MSU Bobcat football season came to an end on Saturday, December 4 with a 42-17 loss to the North Dakota State University Bison. On a sunny but chilling early winter afternoon before a sell out crowd of 14,277 at Bobcat Stadium, the Cats were unable to capitalize on their late season momentum. Many Bobcat fans were hoping for a repeat of the 1984 season when the Cats won the Division I national championship. Everything seemed poised for a Cat victory. The Cats finished the regular season with a 9-2 record, their best since the 1984 season. They had defeated their cross state rivals in Missoula 21-16

by Mike Coil

during the last game of the regular season. The Bison brought an 8-4 record into the contest. It was Coach Rob Ash’s first appearance in the playoffs after 31 years as a coach. The Cats had drawn a bye during the first round of the tournament. The Cats held their own with the Bison until midway through the forth quarter when MSU fumbled on their own 47 yard line. The Bison went 3 and out but pinned the Cats deep in their own territory with a towering punt. On the next play MSU’s talented freshman quarterback Denarius McGhee was injured and the route was on. MSU never scored

again, while NDSU racked up 21 points in the last six minutes of the game. The NDSU quarterback, Jose Mohler, was also injured in the game and never returned. Running back D.J. McNorton did much of the scoring for the Bison. He ran for 207 yards and scored 4 touchdowns. NDSU had 376 yards rushing and 56 yards passing. It was a disappointing end for Bobcat fans and players alike. The Cats will be losing 15 seniors next year, but Coach Ash was hopeful that their great season will lead to recruiting gains for next year.

helping owners of rental properties enjoy a pleasant, hassle-free and rewarding second home ownership since 1999. East West considers the relationship with our Big Sky and Moonlight Basin homeowners a partnership. We’ll work together to maintain and improve the condition of your Big Sky/ Moonlight property and its rental performance.

e a s t w e s t bi g s k y. c o m | 8 7 7 . 5 1 2 . 9 7 9 4 December 10, 2010 11

Big Sky Weekly

explore

Andrew Schreiner fits boots for Brenna Kelleher.

If the

Boot

Fits

foot into the shell. Are your toes and heels swimming? They’re too big. Do you have to buckle your boots at the loosest setting? They’re too small. Do your feet ache at the end of only one run? It’s time to re-evaluate your most important pair of winter footwear.

“There are very few shops who By Abbie Digel will go to the photos by john marshall extent that we do for fitting,” Schreiner says. “We offer a lifetime fit guarantee. If They call it Grizzly design. You it’s too small, or if we screwed up, might call it a foot fetish. But the ski we’ll take care of it. We’ll make sure boot technicians at Grizzly Outfityou get what you need, even if it ters, all certified in techniques of means handing you a new boot off adding comfort, warmth and perforthe shelf.” mance, know their stuff. Your ski boot is an extension of your foot, helping to guide you through the snow with grace and precision. Your set up should be synced with your body for optimum performance.

Schreiner and his team know the specs of every boot they offer. This knowledge eliminates the laborious process of trying on multiple boots. They will get it right the first time.

Andrew Schreiner, who has been fitting ski boots at Grizzly Outfitters in Big Sky for 20 years, says “Everyone wants the best skis, but if your feet aren’t good to go, good luck. Boots that fit will improve your skiing.”

The process at Grizzly differs depending on factors including ability, age and experience. Make sure to come to the shop prepared to dish on your skiing timeline, and get ready to expose some leg as the crew will compose a thorough analyzation from the knee down, searching for hot spots, areas on your feet such as bunions, exposed bones, or problem spots that cause consistent pain. Depending on what package you order, you can choose a basic re-structuring of your liner, or go all out for a custom footbed, new liners and new boots. The process goes like this: foot

“Remember when it was fashionable to go into a size seven boot with size nine feet? We used to cut the end of our liners with kitchen knives and cover them with duct tape.” Now, he says, “Boots have made such great improvements.” So, do your ski boots actually fit? Take out your liner and slip your

12 December 10, 2010

“You shouldn’t miss powder days because your feet hurt.” Get the Grizzly guarantee from one of seven boot fitters at the shop, and walk away with happy, warm feet and ski with stunning technique.

scan, needs assessment, fabrication of orthotics, custom liners, and an optional boot heater. The mill used to carve custom liners has a scanner that records 540 points on your feet in 10 mm increments. It is one of only two such machines in Montana. Once the footbed is complete, an adhesive top sheet is glued to it for easy insertion of the foot.

Call Grizzly and schedule a consultation with a specialized boot fitter: (406) 995- 2939.

Then comes the life-changing step: the mold. Grizzly uses convection ovens heated at 250 degrees to heat-moldable boot liners. “It’s like baking bread,” Schreiner says as he pulls out the shells and liners using his gloves as oven mitts. He determines how long the boots cook based on how gnarly your feet are. Once your feet are in the smoldering boots, you feel instant heat and pressure, but for good reason. Since ski boots come with floppy footbeds and liners made for the masses, a custom footbed and mold is key. The end result should be a boot with a snug fit and no “zinging” or biting,” says Schreiner.

Last te minu tips

•Thin socks are the way to go. Your liners, not your socks, should keep you warm. Forget thick wool — it bunches up in your boot and grinds into your feet.

•Buckle ‘em up. Take the time to buckle your boots after you take them off. Don’t stash them in the truck either. Bring them inside. You won’t regret it in the morning.

•Skiing with brand new boots? Unbuckle them on the lift. Your feet won’t feel as stiff and won’t chill with all the wiggle room. •Never, ever, ski in “walk” mode (on AT or telemark boots). When you’re hiking or cruising the parking lot however, flip the buckle up for an easier ride. •In a shop, if the clerk puts you in a boot without putting you in the shell first, he’s wrong. For a proper fit, remember to size the shell first.

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Big Sky Weekly

pray for snow party at Choppers photos by Brian Niles


Big Sky Weekly

outdoors

Olympians and Kids Ski Together The Yellowstone Ski Festival’s Kuzzy Kids Camp a Success By Sara Hoovler The Yellowstone Ski Festival brought West Yellowstone’s cross-country ski trails to life on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. On the last day of the official festival, the most competitive skiers had just completed three days of intense races. By late afternoon, many teams were hurrying out of town before the next storm. However, two professional athletes and incredible young men gave their time and energy to the first ever Kuzzy Kids Clinic in West Yellowstone, which was sponsored by the SISU skiers of Saint Paul, Minnesota. Garrott Kuzzy and Brian Gregg are professional cross-country ski racers. Kuzzy was a member of the 2010 U.S. Olympic Team, and both are part of the elite CXC racing team. Together, they led 30 kids from

Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Great Britain through 90 minutes of pure fun on skis. Kuzzy and Gregg divided the 6-12 years olds and taught them to warm up, run drills, ski backwards, and how to pose on the podium. At the end of the clinic, kids’ faces beamed with laughter as they took a group photo. Kuzzy and Gregg took a knee and addressed the young skiers. They explained that no U.S. cross-country skier has ever earned an Olympic gold medal. Kuzzy leaned in toward the kids. “You know,” he said, “I think one of you just might be the first.”

Kids roared and parents choked back tears. In that moment, Olympians and beginners shared the same snow, and each left with a lifetime of inspiration.

“In that moment, Olympians and beginners shared the same snow, and each left with a lifetime of inspiration.”

For some, the five day cross-country ski festival was a time to brush off the storage wax and ski for the first time this season. For professional racers, this

was a chance to earn valuable points toward the World Cup. For others, it was an opportunity to demo new gear before the holiday season, and it was a funThanksgiving for all.

December 10, 2010 15

Big Sky Weekly

BSW


Big Sky Weekly

gallery

This aprés ski show features artisan jeweler Ari O and ceramic sculptor Jill Zeidler. All are welcome for wine and appetizers.

Meet Big Sky Artists

Gallatin River Gallery, Sunday December 19, 4-7 p.m. Ariane Ogburn Coleman

Mostly I learned about cold connections, which are still in my jewelry today. Those are way of joining metal without the use of solder. In an Italian museum I saw jewelry from the Etruscan civilization (800-500 BC). It’s amazing we can study that culture through the relics they used to adorn their bodies. [In my own jewelry], I like to use rivets as a decorative element. I’ll take threefour layers of different patters and rivet them. Then I can control the finish on each layer. Making jewelry is therapy; it’s my passion. It’s a job I enjoy going to, and it’s a living, but really, it’s an outlet for everyday stress. I put all my happiness, sadness, all my passion into it.

Originally from Billings, artist Ariane Coleman earned a Fine Arts degree with emphasis on metalsmithing from from MSU Bozeman. She has lived in Big Sky for nearly 14 years. Through her business, Ari O Jewelry Design, Coleman makes one of a kind jewelry that she describes as “relics…objects that withstand the test of time.”

Jill and I encourage each other in our art. We like to get our work out there and let people see it, but this show is also a collaborative effort to support each other.

I have a lot of creative people in my family. A couple of aunts are potters, and my mom does stained glass.

In addition to her wall hangings, Jill makes huge gourd bowls. They’re like two feet long. I like how she can turn delicate clay into large pieces. Her vibrant colors make these beautiful pieces stand out. She’s getting bolder.

I did a semester abroad in Italy for the metalsmithing program. We studied renaissance art, and spent two months in a huge house in the middle of wine country making jewelry.

My new style takes that layered look and pops it out. I’m using solder instead of rivets, so it’s more threedimensional. I’ve been doing a lot of earrings.

Jill Zeidler A native of the Northeast, ceramics artist Jill Zeidler has lived more than a decade in Big Sky. Zeidler is fond of a print process called xerography transfer, in which she “inks up” a photocopy and presses it onto wet clay. Her work shows an appreciation for simplicity and for the natural world. I love the challenges and unpredictability of shaping the clay into my forms. It’s a new lesson every time I create a piece. I could explain it best as a love-hate relationship, but most of the time love wins. A few years ago I became intrigued by xerography, [which is] the print process on clay. I had a lot of trial and error before I learned the process well enough to see successful results. I’m drawn to the combination of images from nature, and to the mystery of the vintage text I print onto clay.

I primarily make art for a living. I create it for art lovers. Ariane and I both have young children and juggle our art careers around raising our kids. The idea of a show together was always something we wanted to do, but we couldn’t figure out when we’d be able to pull it off. When the opportunity to have a holiday show at Gallatin River Gallery became a possibility, we both decided to go for it. Ariane’s work is organic and not overmanipulated, which is a quality that I am drawn to. I enjoy her stylistic approach to her designs using multi-color metals. I am also a big fan of circles, and her shapes are often circles.

Gallatin River Gallery is above Lone Peak Brewery in the Big Sky Meadow Village Center. The gallery exhibits contemporary paintings, sculpture, photography and jewelry. Artist Julie Gustafson started the gallery 11 years ago in Gallatin Canyon, and has since moved into this new, elegant location. The gallery’s current feature is The Earth and Sky XI, an annual group theme show with different mediums reflecting “the beautiful place we live.” This show runs through January 2011. Hours: Monday-Saturday 12-6 p.m. or by appointment gallatinrivergallery.com (406)995-2909


Big Sky Weekly

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health & wellness

Mental Health by Eric Ladd

Humans average over 70,000 thoughts per day, with at least one thought per second. We were not raised with the skills to process the immense amount of information we take in. When coping with this overload of information and stress, many of us are taught to “burn off some steam” or to fall into a pattern of overeating and drinking. Very few humans are able to live in the present moment.

in that void. It’s focusing time and energy on the mental gaps and allowing our bodies to disarm from all the tension that haunts us. The practice is simple: 20 minutes a day, two times a day. Find a calm spot to relax in silence and focus on your breath. The Chopra Center taught me a meditation technique called primordial sound where a mantra is used to help focus your mind on ‘nothing’. Within days I witnessed amazing transformations in myself and in the others practicing meditation at the Center. Urges escaped, sleep returned and calm and peace settled to its normal, natural state. As motivation, I witnessed a student who was accustomed to smoking 25 cigarettes a day quit smoking seven days after beginning meditation.

“As a western society, we

spend too much

“As a western society, we spend too much time living in our heads and not our hearts,” says Deepak Chopra M.D., founder of the Chopra Center for Well Being based in California.

time living in our heads and not

Big Sky Weekly

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In pursuit of a personal way to cope with stress, I sought out The Chopra Center. There, I discovered meditation, an art that has been practiced for thousands of years. Over the last three decades, Deepak and his team have mastered the art of mental health. They’ve also developed programs to share his methods with us wired westerners. The act of meditation is finding the gaps between thoughts and spending more time

Meditation acts as a battery recharge for the human spirit and body. It allows us to be more present in the moment, not dwell on the past or worry about the future. Meditation is not an instant fix, but a practice that takes dedication and planning. The payoff can be life changing. It may not sound as fun as a G&T after work, but it could be worth a try. chopra.com/namaste/may07

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slice of life

Big Sky Weekly

A new baby and the art of improv By Jill Pertler It’s been nearly a decade since we welcomed a new baby into our house. I’d forgotten how topsy-turvy life becomes with late night feedings, the baby crying, poo and pee in unlikely places and, of course, sleep deprivation. After four kids and two decades on the job as parent, I’ve decided having a baby in the house is akin to a stand-up comedy routine; it involves a lot of improvisation and thinking on your feet. A new baby will take your ordinary and organized adult life and turn it into an unpredictable and rather messy affair. In the last few days, our new baby (we named her Gertrude) has reminded us of this. Like all babies, she is cute, cuddly and hasn’t yet learned to sleep through the night. Unlike our other babies, she won’t enter kindergarten in five years. Gertrude is a kitten. My husband and I decided to surprise our youngest son with the tiny feline as a gift for his ninth birthday. We rationally discussed the logic of a kitten and what it would bring to our lives. We explored specifics, so we’d recognize the perfect one when the time came. “It has to have short hair,” my husband said. He made a sweeping motion with his hand, gesturing toward the dog hairs (courtesy of our yellow lab) permeating every crack, crevice, flat surface and piece of furniture within our house. I understood his logic. We’ve been cat owners before. The one female we had was painfully shy and much too timid. The male cats we’ve known possessed bolder personalities and were less likely to be afraid of living with a large yellow Labrador retriever. We reasoned a male cat would be best for our household. “Gray would be a nice color, or calico,” my husband continued. “We don’t want a black cat.” I nodded in agreement, thinking about how all our furniture is light brown. Black cat hairs would stand out like a beacon. And so it went, until we had a specific recipe for a new kitten down pat. Written in ink (blue, not black). The permanent kind.

The next day I made a trip to the animal shelter, to take a preliminary look at the kittens. I brought along a box – with blanket and lid – just in case. You know. I don’t need to tell you how this turned out. I already let the cat out of the bag about our new kitten’s name. You don’t have to be a veterinarial linguist (yeah, I made that up) to realize Gertrude is clearly not male. I don’t need to add that one of the kittens available for adoption – crying in her cage, begging to be taken out and held (and not the least bit timid) – had fluffy, medium length fur that just happened to be… well… black. When I lifted her in my arms, she nuzzled into my sweater and it was love at first purr (for me at least). After a quick call to confer with my husband about the slight discrepancies between the kitten we were looking for and the kitten I’d found, I went out to my car to get the box. Gertrude is not what we planned. In fact, in some ways, she is exactly the opposite. Life can be like that: the more you grapple for control, the more unpredictable it becomes. I learned this the hard way. When I was expecting my first child, I remembered – as an eldest child myself – always wanting an older brother. So, I hoped for a boy; I got a girl. Once I had a daughter, I longed to give her a sister. Instead I delivered three (consecutive) brothers. One could say I never got what I wanted. Truth is, I got exactly what was right. I can’t imagine wanting anything different now. To make a short story long, our family has a new black kitten named Gertrude. She’s nothing like we envisioned, but that’s okay because in lots of ways she’s even better. After years and years of practice, I think I’ve finally realized that’s what life and family (and improv) are all about. Jill Pertler is a syndicated columnist and author of “The Do-It-Yourselfer’s Guide to Self-Syndication.” Email her at [email protected]; Follow Slices of Life on Facebook, or check out her website at marketing-by-design.home.mchsi. com/.

BIG SK BEST P Y ’S I Big Sky Weekly

ski bum 101

&CALZ ZZA ONES

by eric Paulson

406-995-7175

Delivery Take Out Take-N-Bake

Big Sky is a secluded ski town in a corner of reality. This column is for those who are here or in other Montana ski towns to live, party (optional), ski, snowboard or telemark every possible day, and for those who want to bike, fish, camp, hike, or climb all summer. I’d like this to be a guide for surviving issues like broken skis or broken cars, and a guide to feeding yourself properly so you don’t expire in the middle of the Big Couloir. This column is for those who desire a better life, and for those of us who don’t want to go back to where we came from. In this column, I will do my absolute best to help the Big Sky ski bum succeed in living the dream.

I grew up on the shores of Lake Superior. My childhood revolved around water, snow and ice. Night skiing in -20 temps on 700 vertical feet was fun, even if the snow was bulletproof. My friends and I all lived, breathed and ate skiing. We even had powder days, although most hills weren’t quite steep enough for the deepest days. And no amount of powder could save us from the flat landings. After graduating from high school, I moved to the city, dabbled in college for a while, and eventually got a decent job. But skiing was always there. ‘Psssst’, it whispered. ‘Move West. You need to go skiing.’ After a couple years I gave in. I decided to move someplace bigger. Someplace different. Someplace completely made of bliss. I’m guessing you heard that same voice whispering in your ear too. #1 You need a place to live. Couch surfing is a viable option if you have friends, but if you want to keep those friends, get your own space. This requires legwork. Ask around, check the classifieds and call property management companies. There is always a place to live in Big Sky. #2 Get a job. Unless you have a money tree, you are going to need employment. Big Sky is a service industry town, so a smile is really the only quality you need. Smiles come easy, especially if your job includes a ski pass. Also, remember to keep your job. This is a small community. Don’t burn bridges. #3 You need skis or a snowboard. If you are from somewhere warm and flat and haven’t

decided what to ride, you’ll have to weigh the benefits between modes of downhill transportation. Renting from a local shop is a good place to start. Remember, if you don’t have money for new equipment, some shops offer layaway. Also, the pawn shops in Bozeman are full of skinny skis and old boards. #4 You’re going to need food. Contrary to what you may believe, you can afford such a luxury. During the winter of 2000/01, I lived off of pancakes, spaghetti, pickles and Cheeze-Its. Pancakes filled me up, spaghetti gave me energy for the next day of riding, and pickles and Cheeze-Its went great with beer. Now, I don’t condone such a horrible diet. However, I did ski 130 days that winter. #5 Pay attention. Lone Peak, the mountain where Big Sky and Moonlight Basin reside, is extremely rocky. Always follow someone who knows the way, and buy yourself a helmet.

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#6 Speaking of beer… It’s no secret skiers like to drink adult beverages. So, I’ll spare you the “stay out of the bars if you want to save money” speech. While this statement is probably true, no powder day is complete without reliving it with your friends bellied up to the bar. Yes, you’ll have more money for skis and food if you stay away, but that defeats the purpose of being a ski bum, doesn’t it? Eric Paulson, owner of Lone Peak Auto Detailing, moved to Big Sky in 1999. He grew up skiing Spirit Mountain in Duluth, Minnesota. Besides enjoying the outdoors, Eric spends the rest of the year focused on work, fishing, hunting and fixing up old cars.

B A L D FA C E . N E T I N F O @ B A L D FA C E . N E T 250-352-0006


EVENTS

Big Sky Weekly

Planning an event? Let us know! Email [email protected] and we’ll spread the word.

Big Sky

livingston

west yellowstone

bozeman

December 10: Big Sky Christmas Stroll

Big Sky Resort Dec 10: Big Timber Christmas Light Parade. 5 p.m. Downtown

December 1-25: Christmas for the Critters. Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center.

December 11-18: Artist DG House.16th Annual Holiday Open House and Art Sale. 10-4 p.m. Big Medicine Art Studio.

December 10-12 : Educator Appreciation Weekend. Big Sky Resort December 17-19: Military Appreciation Weekend. Big Sky Resort December 18: Season KickOff Party. Big Sky Resort December 19- Friends of the Library Holiday Open House. 2:00 p.m. Big Sky Community Library December 22: Big Sky Community Choir Winter Concert. 7 p.m. Big Sky Chapel.

December 11-20: Crazy Mountain Productions. Felix Navi-Vaude, a Holiday Vaudeville Variety Act. December 11: Yellowstone Ballet Co presents “Clara’s Tea Party.” 3 p.m. Livingston Depot Center December 12: Community Choir Concert. 3:30 p.m. Holbrook Church. December 16-17 United Blood Drive. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.

December 24: Christmas Eve Activities.

December 8-12: National Guard Biathlon December 16: West Yellowstone Christmas Stroll December 16-18: West Yellowstone Sled Dog Races 9:00 a.m. both days. December 17: Smores & More. 6-9 p.m. West Yellowstone Ice Rink December 17-18: Kids “N” Snow December 18: Spam Cup #1 Classic Race. Rendezvous Ski Trails.

December 11-12: The Bozeman Symphony. The Many Moods of the Holidays. 2:30 p.m. December 11: The Dirty Shame. 9:30 p.m. Pour House. December 12: Carrie Underwood. Brick Breeden Field House. December 19: Yellowstone Ballet Co. “The Nutcracker.” Willson Auditorium.

are you a

Big sky hoMeoWner? Don’t forget to purchase your $50 Lone Mountain ranch season pass (retaiL $275)

Makes a great christmas gift!

Lone Mountain Ranch Big sky Montana


stop at Bsoa office to purchase - located next to Willow Boutique and La Luna, look for green awning call us 995-4166

Big Sky Weekly

scene

MUSIC Outlaw Country is Alive and Well By Hunter Rothwell Everyone has heard of Hank Williams and his son Hank Williams, Jr. We are now blessed with a third generation carrying on this proud outlaw country tradition. Hank Williams III is as innovative and outrageous as his father and grandfather were in their days. Music critics have described III as obscene for his flagrant cursing and for the drug and booze themes in his music.

fiddle, steel guitar and dobro, these guys fuse with III’s weathered and soulful twang. Together, they roll off hard-core rockabilly and country ballads with ease.

On his newest album, Rebel Within, Hank III continues to buck the establishment by staying well outside the parameters of popular country music. This is certainly no children’s album, however his songwriting is vivid and personal. It would be a mistake to claim that a song like “Gettin’ Drunk and Fallin’ Down” is just another drinking song. His band is stacked with talented musicians. With plenty of

“I listened to my grandfather’s music when I was four years old, but at the same time, by the time I got to 10, I was listening to KISS, AC/DC and Ted Nugent, too,” stated Hank III.

Hank III’s albums are all country. Always a nonconformist, III played bass in a heavy metal group called Superjoint Ritual with Phil Anselmo [from Pantera] in the early 2000s.

His love of metal music gives some of his best songs a hard edge. In keeping with his forefathers’ style, Williams isn’t afraid to try new things—much to the chagrin of his record label.

After five releases, this album is his final contractual obligation to Curb Records, who have consistently refused to release many of his songs. In his powerful song “Tore Up and Loud”, III screams that he’s he’s finally free—the artist is clearly looking forward to taking creative control of his work. “I just like real hard country music that sort of punches you in the face,” he has stated throughout his career. “I don’t like that pretty boy stuff.” This album overflows

with outlaw country themes: hard partying, treacherous women, dealing with the devil, loneliness of the road, heartbreak, being broke and, of course, redemption. Hank Williams, Sr. introduced racy themes in his honky-tonk music, and Hank Williams, Jr. gave country a hit of rock and roll. With his die hard outlaw spirit, Hank Williams III is living up to his father’s song and “just carrying on an old family tradition.”

Pine Creek

Lodge A good place for a chilly winter night By Emily Stifler It’s dark as you drive home from Chico on a cold winter weekend, hungry and parched. Turn north on the East River Road, drive 12 miles and pull off at the historic, 20-foot tall neon sign. Walk up the steps into the warm Pine Creek Lodge café. A band is setting up to play for the evening and woodstoves keep the small dining room warm in the 60-year-old log building. Order a beer and a quesadilla, or a glass of wine and a trout taco from chef/ owner Dan Shapiro. Four nights a week through the winter, the lodge features live entertainment. Wednesdays are book and poetry readings by local authors and discussions by public radio personality Chrysti the Wordsmith about word and phrase origins. ThursdaySaturday nights is live music, starting at 8 p.m.

“We have all different types of music,” says owner Ned Shapiro. “The Thursday night bluegrass is probably the most energetic. I love music and love to dance, so I thoroughly enjoy seeing other people enjoying themselves.”

IN LIFE’S GREAT ADVENTURE EVERYONE COULD USE A HAND.

On Thursday nights, the café opens their tiny stage for an open bluegrass jam. Sometimes when the musicians are hot and the crowd is into it, these jam sessions go into the wee hours.

WE’RE COMMITTED TO HELPING YOU MOVE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.

Upcoming presenters include blues artist Benny Earnest from Trail Creek and local band Archer’s Mob for new years. In January, Little Jane and the Pistol Whips will play, as will country band Wave Montgomery and the popular local group, the Fossils. pinecreeklodge.com (406) 222-3628 Open Wednesday-Sunday

At First Security Bank, we know that you have individual goals, and our products and services are designed to help you reach them – faster. And, with a friendly staff of experts always willing to lend a hand, you’ll never feel like you’re alone in the wilderness. Stop by the branch in Meadow Village or call us for more information.

www.ourbank.com

(406) 993-3350 Member FDIC


Big Sky Weekly

business

Year-end Tax Moves for Businesses Business advice from Neil & Company, P.C., Certified Public Accountants The end of the year can be pretty hectic, but before 2010 comes to a close, take the time to look at potential tax-saving opportunities for your business. With proactive moves like reviewing your current financial situation and adding taxplanning strategies, business owners and individuals can create drastic beneficial results.

Domestic production activities deduction

Prepay expenses and defer income.

Inventory

Consider prepaying expenses before the end of the year in order to benefit from the tax deduction on the current year return. Also, if your business uses the cash basis method for tax purposes, consider asking customers to make payment after the end of the year so the income can be deferred to 2011.

Machinery, equipment, furniture In 2010, the Section 179 expensing election is available for as much as $500,000 of asset purchases. If you’ll have enough taxable trade or business income to benefit from the 179 election, consider buying qualifying assets and placing them in service before year-end. Another strategy is to check if you can benefit from the recently extended 50% bonus depreciation provision.

Bad debt If your company has old billings lingering in accounts receivable because you can’t collect the money owed, this money may be deductible as bad debts. Be sure to review these and take the deduction if you’re eligible.

Deliveries If your business uses the accrual method for tax purposes, you can designate lateyear shipments of products FOB destination rather than FOB shipping point, so title won’t pass until 2011. The corresponding revenue won’t be realized until title passes.

You can deduct 9% of qualified production activity income if your business is engaged in manufacturing, construction, and certain other domestic production activities. The deduction is limited to 50% of W-2 wages allocable to domestic production gross receipts.

Clear out slow-moving items before the end of the year. Regular C corporations may claim an enhanced deduction for a contribution of inventory to an eligible charitable organization that uses the items solely for the care of the ill, the needy, or infants.

Office supplies To boost your tax-deductible expenses for 2010, stock up on frequently used items before year-end.

Retirement plan If annual employer contributions to your company’s retirement plan are discretionary, determine whether a 2010 contribution will be made. Any employee deferrals from payroll are due by December 31.

Vehicles Consider having repairs and maintenance done before year-end so you can deduct the expense. Also, be sure to deduct vehicle expenses using either the standard mileage rate or using actual expenses including depreciation. A year-end tax review may help your business minimize taxes. Please contact us at Neil & Company CPAs P.C. at (406) 587-9239 soon so we can review your financial status and create a tax planning and saving strategy.

FOREST HEALTH SPECIALIST

5TH ANNUAL

FREE CHRISTMAS TREE PICK-UP WILD FIRE FUEL REDUCTION • FOREST CLEAN-UP TREE CARE • FOREST MANAGEMENT & CONSULTING STUMP REMOVAL • DEFENSIBLE SPACE • FIRE WISE FOREST HEALTH & BEAUTIFICATION SERVICES

406.581.9675

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from our crew!

Please leave your tree at the end of your driveway or in a convenient pick-up location visible from the street. Please remove any non-organic materials, string, wire of tinsel, as this may clog our equipment.

January 3-7, 2011

Mountain Village • Moonlight BasinCanyon (North to Karst and South to the Corral Bar) Beaver Creek

January 10-14, 2011

Meadow Village • West Fork • South Fork • Fire Light • Hidden Village Aspen Grove • Sweet Grass HIlls Spanish Peaks

If we missed your location or if you need more information, call us at 406.581.9675


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Agency Insurance Division Protecting Your Assets

Call us today at 993 9242 or visit us on the web at www.ins-agency.com

Business Profile of the Week Nordic Hot Tub By abbie digel Looking for a way to warm up this holiday season? Nordic Hot Tub, Big Sky’s locally owned and operated dealer of hot tubs, spa products and accessories has been providing the community with spas, support and service since 1982. Dale and Gayle Palmer, proud owners of the business, are equipped with the knowledge to help customers find the right hot tub to fit budget and lifestyle. The Palmers specialize in energy efficient hot tubs, spas and swim spas designed for harsh winter climates. Their provider, Dimension One Spas, has over 20 models of tubs designed to withstand Montana’s cold temperatures and harsh conditions.

AUTHENTIC THAI & ASIAN CUISINE

“We recently brought in a line of ‘Tuff Tubs’, which feature a roto molded cover that you can stand on, and snow loads won’t affect it. That means only one cover for the entire life of your spa,” says Dale. Nordic also helps hot tub owners with regular care and questions: what chemicals are needed to treat the water? How often do you need to replace the water? Where is the filter?

Open for the Winter Season! Come try our NEW MENU and celebrate a new season

Nordic provides everything to care for spas and prevent wear and tear. The team is dedicated to keeping tubs working through the cold winter months. They offer customized maintenance plans to ensure your tub will always be bubbling and hot. They’ll even show up in your backyard to show you how to install, maintain and keep your spa performing at its best. Stop by the shop and check out their latest eco-friendly spa products. bigskyhottubs.com

3090 Pine Drive #2, Big Sky 406-995-2728

TREE REMOVAL 995-7852

FIREWOOD

Split/Delivered/Stacked $170 A CORD Tom Newberry:

995-7852

[email protected]


Big Sky Weekly

� PILATES � YOGA � MASSAGE � PERSONAL TRAINING

� HEALTH COUNSELING

This is how Big Sky gets into hot water.

Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine www.greatturninghealing.com 81 W. Kagy Blvd, Bozeman, MT 406-922-2745

Nordic Hot Tub We service what we sell!

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

TEAR IT UP LLC On-Site Document Shredding Service

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

www.BigSkyHotTubs.com (406) 995-4892 • [email protected]

www.tearitup.biz 406-581-9612 PO Box 40, Three Forks, MT 59715

47520 Gallatin Rd. • Big Sky, MT 59716

GET YOUR

ROOF SHOVELING

FIX

Sports Medicine, p.c. Working To Keep You Playing

JEFF SAAD 995-4050 BIG SKY, MONTANA

581-9675 BIG SKY AREA


Big Sky Weekly

T h e w e s T m ay b e w i l d , but it’s not uncivilized

N e w m e N U ! Featuring • Roasted Locally Grown Organic Beets, Arugula, Amalthea Dairy Chevre, Orange Supremes, Fine Herb Vinaigrette • Asian Barbecue Glazed grilled Quail, Braised Greens, Fingerling Potato, Blood Orange Gastrique • Braised Szechuan Spiced Rubbed Bison Short-ribs, Parsnip Potato puree, Broccolini, Braising Jus

december Th 16-18 Buy one entree get one free New resTaUraNT maNaGemeNT

Steve Kuntz & Matt fritz

raiNbow raNch resTaUraNT 8 0 0 - 9 3 7 - 4 1 3 2 • 4 0 6 - 9 9 5 - 4 1 3 2 • F ive m i l e s s o u t h o f B i g S ky e n t r a n c e o n H w y 1 9 1 w w w. r a i n b ow r a n c h b i g s ky. c o m 28 December 10, 2010

Big Sky Weekly

Big Sky Weekly

didate must live in the Big Sky area and be able to fulfill on-call duties as needed. Submit cover letter and resume to: employmentinfobigsky@ gmail.com. EEO

home of the

10

$

ad and application online at www. ophirschool.com

FOR SALE

--------------------------By Word of Mouth Restaurant is hiring a FT night line cook. Please call or email to set up a interview - 406-995-2992 or bwombigsky@ montana.net

Classifieds!

--------------------------Need some extra money? Come share your passion for the Big Sky area as a Driver for Shuttle to Big Sky & Taxi. Must be at least 25 yrs of age w/ clean driving record and able to lift 50 lbs. FT & PT positions avail. Please submit resume to [email protected]. EEO. The River Rock Lodge is now taking applications for front desk personnel -full or p/t positions - day, evening & night shifts available. Apply in person at the River Rock Lodge, 88 Big Pine Dr, Big Sky. Call Susie at 995-4455.

$15 with photo

Each Ad can be up to 4 lines (Maximum of 30 words). Additional lines are $5 per line, Maximum of 8 words per line. Email classifieds and/or advertising requests to:

---------------------------

[email protected] (406) 995-2055

HELP WANTED Engineering Tech (Part time) The successful candidate will possess basic maintenance skills as they relate to the maintenance and upkeep of household and condominium environments. The ability to diagnose and repair common maintenance items such as simple plumbing issues, heating problems, small appliance repair, are required. Any experience with satellite TV repair or troubleshooting is a plus. Candidate must be able to use simple hand tools and lift up to 50 pounds. The successful candidate will be a self-directed and active problem solver able to work under pressure with tight deadlines. Can-

Reservationist (Part Time) Successful candidate will have reservations experience selling lodging over the phone for hotel or condominium properties. Ability to verbally communicate features and benefits of different properties to sell inventory is required. Familiarity with the Big Sky area is a plus. Must be able to learn and use computer software to book reservations. A high level of professionalism is required for this position selling luxury accommodations. Please send cover letter and resume to: [email protected]. EEO --------------------------Ophir School: Ophir School District #72 seeking a route bus driver. CDL w/”S” endorsement required. Please see full

Southfork, 3 Bedroom, 3 1/2 bath plus office $1600 a month furnished or non NS but 1 dog ok Please contact Shana at 406-580-0113 TYM Tractors--the only tractor with the standard5 YEAR WARRANTY, starting at $13500 Yellowstone Tractor Co. 406-3882423 “Your snow removal headquarters”

SERVICES

REAL ESTATE Small cabin in Gallatin Canyon. Available now. 1 person only, NS/ NP, 1st, last and deposit. $450/ month. Call 763.4361

For rent 2 Bedroom Cabin with Loft Available Dec. 1 Dogs welcome. Located in Dudley Creek area; Call Jim McEnroe at 995-2777 or 580-6615 --------------------------Want to Open a Business? Commercial Space in Town Center – owner is prepared to make deals happen for lease or ownership. Amazing spaces range from 1200sq/ft to 2000sq/ft. Owner, Sam Sammis - (PH) 802-522-8500

ARE YOU READY FOR THE SLOPES? Pilates/Yoga fusion class EVERY Sunday at 9:00 am @ BENTLEY BODIES studio in Big Sky. Increase strength, flexibility & balance. All fitness levels welcome. WWW.BENTLEYBODIES.NET 406.570.9154

Lost

--------------------------HILL STUDIO with Lone Peak view. Furnished. W/S/T/cable pd. NP/NS. $695/m. Call 587-7622 Want to advertise? Contact Outlaw Partners at (406) 995-2055 or [email protected]

Missing since 11/17: Blk&White Malamute named Polar. Last seen on Gallatin Rd. near Karst. Large, Friendly, trained. $1000 Reward for any info leading to his return. Lenny at 406-548-7499.

Is a New Computer on Your List?

If you’re planning to buy a new computer this year, you may find that your old dial-up connection just can’t deliver everything your new computer can. Want to watch YouTube? Download music? Stream movies? If you want your new computer to work as advertised, now’s the time to upgrade to 3 Rivers High Speed Internet—sign up today, speed up your connection and save! $39.95 per month for 12 months!* Save $120!

Call today! 1.800.796.4567 ● 467.2535 * New customers only. 12 months commitment required. After 12 months, cost is $49.95 per month. Speeds are not guaranteed. Not available in all areas. Call for details and qualification.


Big Sky Weekly

fun

People on the street What is your most essential piece of winter gear?

From left to right: Steve Kohlheppn, Ennis Michael Hayes, Big Sky “Warm hat because I don’t have any hair.” “Definitely gloves”

Nick Wolcott Bozeman “I’d move if I didn’t own a pair of skis.”

Justin Walker Gallatin Gateway “Heated seats in my car”

What do you get when you cross a shark with a snowman? frostbite! Zach Arnold Big Sky “My skis and boots, for sure”


What did one snowman say to the other? I smell carrots!

Big Sky Weekly

The Weekly’s fresh perspectives section is an opportunity for young adults from schools around Southwest Montana to share stories and opinions about local community events. For more information, or to contribute, please have your teacher contact us at: [email protected]

Winners of the Black Tie Ski Pass Essay Contest Announced Students in good standing at Lone Peak High School had the opportunity to submit creative essays describing their love for skiing or snowboarding. The essays contained original artwork and accompanying one-page essays. First Place: Tucker Shea (Grade 10) Season pass to Big Sky Resort sponsored by Black Tie Ski Rentals. Second Place: Gunner Freeman (Grade 9) Pair of goggles from Black Tie.

Gardiner Says Farewell By Olivia Cretella Gardiner High school says goodbye to four-year math teacher, David Hunter. Mr. Hunter announced to his classes last week that in an unexpected turn of events, he would be moving to the East Coast to work for his former engineering company in robotics. “This opportunity came up and I couldn’t let it pass by, ” he said. David Hunter was noted for not only his teaching abilities, but his warm, friendly manner with students. “I‘ve always tried to create an atmosphere in my class of openness and comfort, where students want to learn and enjoy learning,” he said. “I guess the response from my students tells me I’ve had some measure of success.”

“I‘ve always tried to create an atmosphere in my class of openness and comfort, where students want to learn and enjoy learning,” - DAVID HUNTER Upon hearing news of his leaving, sophomore Forrest Reinhart commented, “I will miss Mr. Hunter’s stories the most, like the time he accidentally put his dog into a paper shredder.” Freshmen Austin Dreyer said that he will miss Mr. Hunter’s jokes the most. “At times he made up jokes that didn’t make sense but somehow made us laugh.” Gardiner High School has yet to find a replacement, but students hope that person will freshen up the atmosphere as Mr. Hunter did. “My advice is to appreciate these kids,” says Hunter. “Show them respect and love them, and they will respond in kind.”

The Ophir Miners seventh and eighth grade basketball team played Heritage Christian at their end of season tournament on December 3 and 4. Ophir won with a final score of 40 to 19.

Shakespeare Company to Perform at Ophir Montana Shakespeare in the Schools will be performing Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night at Ophir School/Lone Peak High School in Big Sky on December 15. The students in grades 6-12 will be participating in Shakespeare workshops following the performance. The group will perform in front of approximately 15,000 students in communities throughout Montana and Wyoming as part of its annual fall tour. The 10-week tour is the first of two educational outreach programs being offered by Montana Shakespeare in the Parks during this academic year. The program which is based out of MSU, is now in its 18th year of bringing a shortened version of an entire Shakespeare play to students who otherwise have few, if any, opportunities to experience a quality live performance produced by a professional company. montana.edu/shakespeare

Ophir Middle School and Lone Peak High School Announce Honor Roll: Ophir Middle School

Lone Peak High School

High Honors

High Honors

Honors

(3.75+): 9th Grade Parris Rogers

(3.53.74):

10th Grade Tucker Shea

9th Grade Ambros Locker Anna Middleton

(3.75+): 6th Grade Bridger Babcock Daria Bough Isabella Butler Evynn Gibbs-Cook Bianca Godoy Luisa Locker Jenna McKillop Emma Sundeen 7th Grade Christopher Samuels 8th GradeTehya Braun Harry Child Gabrielle Michel

Micah Robin Anthony Savoy

Honors

(3.5-3.74): 6th Grade Jordan Arnold Dakota Perry 7th Grade Frances Cronin Soby Haarman Griffin Schumacher Christopher Tompkins 8th GradeHaven Fry Zoe Ross Dennis Schultz

11th Grade Emily Chambry Chris Goode

10th Grade Grayson Bell Amanda Dehlendorf Haven Morris Kaela Schommer Thomas Tosic 12th Grade Diego Ramirez


Big Sky Weekly

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

For the Big Sky Weekly, the Back 40 is a resource: a place where we can delve into subjects and ask experts to share their knowledge. Topics include regional history, profiles of local artists and musicians, snow and avalanche education, and how-to pieces for traditional or outdoor skills.

fit for human consumption by Scotty Savage “It’s been dumping lately – why the %^*! is that run closed?” Skiers ask this question at ski areas across Southwest Montana every year, and big snow years like this year bring out the conspiracy theorists. So what really goes on before ski areas drop the ropes for the first time of the year? Fact: Most ski areas operate under the “open it if it’s remotely ready for human consumption” theory. This works out well, as early season skiers generally don’t mind bouncing off of logs and rocks, but they hate having “the goods” withheld. Why else do ski areas love watching guests shredding runs as early as possible?

Skiers and snowboarders compact slopes, creating a supportable base on ungroomed terrain. Additionally, riders break up layers in the thin early season snowpack – this helps reduce future avalanche hazard within the ski area. So it is in both ski areas’ and skiers’ best interests to open terrain as early as possible. You’ve got to love a win-win situation! How do ski patrols determine when a slope is ready to open? Snow stability must be assessed. This may be as simple as having a couple patrollers ski cut a moderate slope below treeline. Or it could involve multiple explosive missions and stability assessments over several days. Once ski area avalanche specialists are comfortable with the snow stability, the run is

checked for significant hazards. Next, the focus turns to determining how the snowpack will hold up to hundreds of riders. Many ski patrols ask a simple question: will the snow conditions allow them to access and transport an injured skier in a reasonable amount of time? If the answer is yes, then let ‘em have it!

three days to get the part and make the repair.

What can possibly go wrong? Mother Nature and Murphy’s Law. Everything can be going according to plan, only to have a nuclear windstorm trash good ski conditions and/or create never-ending avalanche activity. And Murphy’s Law means the day before a scheduled opening, the lift that’s been running oh-so-smoothly since it was maintained in June will blow some obscure seal that requires

Scotty Savage is currently studying his and others’ avalanche related mistakes in an effort to reduce avalanche workplace accidents. Scotty is an avalanche educator for the Friends of the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center. His measurements are 42-31-36, he enjoys long walks on the beach, and he hopes to eliminate world hunger if crowned Mr. America.

SELLERS Wanted BUYER 102 LOOKING FOR SKI-IN SKI-OUT DIAMOND HITCH HOME. Older couple from Florida, who have come to Big Sky multiple times and are looking for a family vacation home at a great price

BUYERS 304 & 305 LOOKING FOR GLACIER / YELLOWSTONE / SILVERBOW CONDO. 2 couples, one from Wisconsin now have a kids in the area and another from SD looking to relocate to Big Sky NEGOTIATIONS PENDING BUYER 106 LOOKING FOR TAMARACK CONDO (preferably off of Ousel Falls Road) Couple relocating to Big Sky who want to get out of the rental market. BUYER 003 LOOKING FOR 3 TO 4 BEDROOM HOME IN MEADOW, CANYON, GATEWAY. Couple from Bozeman looking to be closer to Big Sky, qualified and ready to buy. NEGOTIATIONS PENDING


BUYER 146 LOOKING FOR MEADOW HOME. Couple that currently owns a condo in Big Sky and is looking for a larger property. BUYERS LOOKING FOR INCOME PRODUCING 2 BEDROOM CONDO. Multiple cash investors if you’re seeing good occupancy with your units. NEW BUYER 100 LOOKING FOR 2 BEDROOM CONDO UNDER $200K. Newlyweds relocating to Big Sky need quick occupancy... quick closing! NEW BUYER 214 WANTS FOR 3+ BEDROOM MOUNTAIN PROPERTY. Frequent vacationers looking to put their money to work for them in a second home.

NEW BUYER 198 IN AN INVESTOR SEEKING HIGHLY MOTIVATED SKI-IN SKI-OUT BUILT PRODUCT. Cash buyer looking for Powder Ridge, Moonlight Mountain Home or Chalet. Quick closing.

Next time you’re longing for that roped off run, know the ski area and ski patrol want you schralping it as badly as you do. If it’s closed, it’s likely closed for good reason. The ski areas and patrols are doing their best to provide powder for the people!

RYAN KULESZA | BROKER

406.539.4666 CELL

[email protected] TALLIE JAMISON | ASSOCIATE

406.600.8081 CELL

[email protected]