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Big Sky 

Dec. 14 - 28, 2012 

Volume 3 // Issue #25 

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Dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

Volume 3, Issue no. 25 

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eDItoRIal 

MANAGING EDITOR 

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EDITOR 

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one the cover: go for a sleigh ride at lone Mountain ranch! find out how in the gear and gift guide on p. 49 

ryan walters grateful for deep early december turns in Cooke City. Photo by Max lowe 

i’m grateful 

The holidays are a time to be grateful. 

Eight years ago this time of year became, for me, 

about riding lifts instead of exchanging gifts. because 

I could never afford to fly home, I’ve spent 

only one Christmas with my family since I left 

Vermont for the west. A great day to be on the hill, 

it’s never busy, and since it’s the end of December 

there’s usually a solid base. And some years it 

dumps. 

Growing up, my family would sit around the tree, 

my sister and I charged with distributing gifts. we 

have a big family that sent packages from around 

the country, and soon, my grandmother would be 

the last one with presents beneath the tree. At first, 

big sky weekly distribution 

itching to play with my new toys, I was impatient 

watching her open gifts. Then, gradually, I became 

grateful for the smile that lit my grandmother’s face as 

each one made her think of a loving family member. 

This year starts a new chapter. I’ll be skiing in Cooke 

City during Christmas weekend, with the gears in my 

legs turning and churning me up the hill instead of 

a lift. Cooke has the gift of bountiful snowfall, and a 

remote location that keeps the crowds away. I’ll call 

my family before leaving cell service and tell them 

I’m grateful for the gift of life that allows me to enjoy 

this magical part of the world. 

– Tyler Allen 

BC 

AK 

Anaconda 

Hamilton 

Bozeman Big Timber 

Three Forks 

Livingston 

Wisdom 

Dillon 

Big Sky 

Ennis 

Virginia City Gardiner 

West Yellowstone 

table of Contents 

Community...4 

local news...8 

regional..12 

Montana...13 

yellowstone...15 

real estate...17 

sports...20 

health...23 

outlaw news...24 

business...26 

Classifieds...27 

environment...29 

gallery...33 

outdoors...36 

word from the resorts...38 

gear review...39 

events...40 

entertainment...41 

fun...42 

Column...46 

back 40...48 

gift and gear guide...49

New Year’s Eve 

at Moonlight Basin 

2013 

options to let loose and ring in 

TWO 

For the 

Adults 

Jack Creek Grille at 

Moonlight Lodge features 

a special dinner menu, 

followed by music, dancing, 

party favors, a photo booth 

and a champagne toast. 

Dinner seatings start at 6pm 

• $135 per person* 

Reservations required – (406) 995-7777 

Cash bar available 

LATE NIGHT PARTY ONLY? 

Live band, dancing, midnight 

champagne toast & late night 

appetizers $35 

For the 

Family 

Ring in 2013 with family fun 

for all ages at Headwaters 

Grille at the Madison 

Village Base Area! 

6 - 9 

pM 

moonlightbasin.com · (406) 993-6000 · @moonlightbasin · #moonlightbasin 

Celebrate with karaoke, party favor 

crafts, a balloon drop, and s’mores 

around the outdoor fire pit. 

General Admission includes activities 

• $15 per person 

• Kids 2 and under - FREE 

All Inclusive includes dinner and 

activities 

• $24 for kids 12 and under 

• $30 for adults 

Reservations – (406) 995-7600 

Cash bar available 

* Gratuity not included. All pricing is tax exclusive.

4 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 



Big Sky Weekly 

CoMMunity 

Terrific kids of Big Sky School District 

students honored for positive attitudes in november 

bIG SKY – big Sky School District honored four 

students for their positive attitudes this November 

as part of its Student of the Month/Terrific 

Kids of the Month program. 

Teachers choose two ‘terrific kids’ from kindergarten 

through fifth grades, and two ‘students of 

K-2 Terrific Kid of the 

Month, november 2012: 

logan barker 

Logan was chosen as the K-2 Terrific 

Kid of the Month for her integrity 

and positive attitude. Logan 

is a fun and energetic student who 

chooses each day to be honest and 

respectful. She consistently makes 

positive choices, knows when to 

make people laugh and is overall an 

excellent student and role model for 

her peers. Thank you, Logan! 

school house news 

by jerry house 

big sky school district 

Good schools are just that – schools in the 

middle. The expectation of our community, 

staff and our school board is not to be a 

good school, but rather a great one; a school 

unique in purpose and great in accomplishment. 

In School House News, Superintendent Jerry House shares his view on education, and on 

the Big Sky School District, his favorite place for teaching and learning. This is the home 

of the Ophir Miners and the mighty Big Horns. 

One of my favorite authors, Jim Collins, 

wrote a book called “Good to Great.” I look 

at our school system and see that greatness is 

not a function of circumstance. It’s largely a 

matter of conscious choices and the discipline 

it takes to move forward. with such 

decisions, we are moving toward becoming a 

great school. 

At the cornerstone of our district is quality 

staff. Each instructor is required to maintain 

a cutting edge with best practices for teaching 

our children. without that training, the 

rigors of learning are not possible. In my 

the month’ in middle and high school, recognizing 

them based on a different theme every month. 

An announcement is made over the intercom, 

and the students are called into the office to be 

congratulated. In addition, the K-5 honorees are 

rewarded with a burger from the Corral and the 

3-5 Terrific Kid of the 

Month, november 2012: 

charlotte wilson 

Charlotte comes to school every day 

ready to learn! She displays a positive 

attitude in all that she does, from 

working independently, to collaboration 

with peers, and even participating 

in class. Charlotte is a hard worker 

that takes pride in her work, and she is 

respectful to all her peers. Charlotte is 

a model citizen! She shares her positive 

attitude with all students, her classmates, 

and even older and younger 

students. Her caring heart, respect and 

positive attitude make her a great choice 

for this month’s Ophir Terrific Kid of 

the Month for grades three, four and 

five. 

short time here, I have witnessed staff acting 

as a cohesive unit capable of becoming great 

teachers because they yearn to educate. 

unique to our district is our ability to avoid 

social promotion. Students must earn their 

way through a challenging curriculum, one 

calling on them to produce work that earns 

respect from teachers and peers. but this 

isn’t enough. 

Each day of the school year, we know students 

need our leadership and we need their 

thirst for education. Accomplishments for 

both parties lie within the passion for learning. 

big Sky School District is on the correct 

pathway to move from good to great! 

for me, the best days of week are the days I 

get to wake up and go to school. The bright 

minds that walk our hallways are a true 

pleasure to share the day with. You never 

know who will have a spark that enlightens 

the world. 

Middle school student 

of the Month, november 

2012: sam Johnson 

Sam is the definition of positive 

attitude. No matter where he is or 

what he is doing, he has a smile on 

his face. He is always willing to lend 

a hand whether it be to a friend or a 

teacher. Sam is a representative for his 

6th grade class on the middle school 

student council and his attitude helps 

to get things done! Leadership and 

positive attitude are two characteristics 

that have made him stand out and 

have earned him the honor of student 

of the month. 

middle and high school students chosen get pizza 

from blue Moon bakery. 

Read the teachers’ praises for those honored 

below. 

high school student of 

the Month, november 

2012: Michelle burger 

The staff has chosen Michelle burger, 

as she always has a positive attitude 

in and outside of the classroom. This 

positive attitude seems to affect others 

around her as well. Recently Michelle 

volunteered to be on the planning committee 

for the Veterans Day assembly 

and true to form, her positive attitude 

was witnessed by students, staff and 

our community members including 

the Veterans attending the assembly. 

bottom line, Michelle burger is fun to 

be around and fun to teach. 

holiday hours and deadlines 

at the Big Sky Post Office: 

a friendly reminder from the bsPo’s jean Palmer 

that “we need to get these packages off the 

shelves and into santa’s little helpers’ hands.” 

Mailing deadlines for holiday cards and 

packages: 

friday, dec. 14: Parcel Post 

Monday, dec. 17: first Class (under 13 oz.) 

thursday, dec. 20: Priority Mail 

friday, dec. 21: express Mail 

holiday hours (dec. 1 – 25): 

Monday – friday: 

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

saturday: 10 a.m. 

to 1 p.m. 

extended package 

pick up hours: 

saturday, dec. 22: 

1-3 p.m. 

sunday, dec. 24: 

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

CoMMunity 

ophir scholastic book fair generates $900 

fol to host holiday open house 

by kathy house 

big sky community library 

Teachers, students and community members 

pitched in on Nov. 13 and 14, during the biannual 

Ophir Scholastic book fair and friends of the 

Library used book sale. 

The fair grossed $3,500, while the fOL used 

book sale made $275. Close to $350 worth of 

books were donated off the teachers’ wish list 

table, as well. The library received 25 percent of 

the total profit, which amounted to $900 they’ll 

use for new books and materials. 

get in the holiday spirit with these christmas classics: 

fOL will again take book donations in spring 

2013, as they prepare for summer sales. 

At 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 16, fOL will host 

their annual Holiday Open House, complete with 

holiday treats and refreshments. A special guest 

will appear and the event is free and open to the 

public. 

Several new audio books are currently available 

for check out, including: The Time Keeper, by 

Mitch Albom; Love Anthony, by Lisa Genova, 

The Racketeer, by John Grisham; and NYPD Red, 

by James Patterson. 

Lost December, by Richard Paul Evans 

After Luke Crisp graduates from business school, he refuses to take over his father's business 

and takes his trust fund to live a life of reckless indulgence. but when his funds and friends 

dwindle he secretly takes a lowly job at one of his father's copy centers where, after falling in 

love with a struggling single mother he finally learns what is important in life. 

The Christmas Wedding , by James Patterson and Richard DiLallo 

widow Gaby Summerhill tries to reunite her four children for Christmas when she announces 

her wedding to her secret fiancé. 

Silent Night : The Story of the World War I Christmas Truce , by Stanley weintraub 

Tells the true story of the truce that spontaneously arose between German and british soldiers 

manning the trenches on Christmas Eve 1914, just weeks after the start of the Great war. 

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got miles? 

Make-a-wish Montana offers 

sick kids a chance to travel 

bILLINGS – This holiday season, frequent fliers can donate 

unused airline miles to children with life-threatening medical 

conditions. 

The wishes in flight program, through the Make-A-wish 

foundation, enables those with air miles through Delta, uS 

Airways, Continental or united Airlines to grant travel opportunities 

to kids who might otherwise not get the chance. 

More than 70 percent of the wishes granted by Make-Awish 

last year included air travel for families to reach their 

wish destinations, and miles never expire once they’re 

placed in a Make-A-wish account. 

Make-A-wish – Montana is a nonprofit organization that 

grants wishes to children with life-threatening medical 

conditions. Make-A-wish serves all 56 counties in Montana 

and granted its first wish in 1987. Since then, nearly 

300 wishes have come true with the help of more than 50 

volunteers. 

For more information on donations, referring children or to volunteer, 

please call (800) 676-9474, or visit montana.wish.org. 

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CoMMunity 

bIG SKY – The big Sky Community 

food bank on Nov. 

29 got a boost in the form of 

$100,000. 

During the food bank’s open 

house, big Sky residents Dr. 

George and Kymberly Rapier 

donated the money to the 

new facility, which has been 

distributing food twice a week 

since opening in early November. 

More than 200 guests attended the 

event, and food bank co-founder Anne 

Marie Mistretta called it “a true show 

of community support.” 

“It was awesome,” said Mistretta, appreciative 

and to the point. 

The donation will help the food 

bank pay for rent and purchase food 

through the Gallatin Valley food 

bank. 

The facility distributed nearly 40 

Thanksgiving meals, including 

turkeys, and has also had shoppers at 

its Tuesday and friday distributions. 

More than 50 volunteers have already 


rapiers donate $100,000 to 

food bank 

Photo by kaela sChoMMer 

been involved, including 10 students 

from Ophir and Lone Peak High 

School. 

Since the mid-October, 800 pounds 

of food have been donated to the food 

bank, and a total of $150,000. 

Once organizers finish remodeling the 

space, which is in the big Horn Center 

below the bugaboo, distribution will 

move inside. until then, food will be 

distributed out of a refrigerated truck 

Tuesdays (3 – 7 p.m.) and fridays 

(11 a.m. – 3 p.m.). Donations can be 

dropped at the food bank during those 

hours, or at Lone Peak brewery. 

– E.S.

CoMMunity 

Morningstar launches capital campaign 

hosts holiday gift-wrapping table 

by eMily stifler 

big sky weekly managing editor 

bIG SKY – Morningstar Learning Center 

launched a capital campaign Dec. 1 

that aims to match a $100,000 donation 

contingent on the nonprofit childcare 

center doing just that. 

The Rapier family foundation put the 

initial $100,000 on the table in early 

November, challenging the Morningstar 

board and the big Sky community 

to match it. The Rapier’s donation 

is earmarked to pay off the remaining 

principal on the childcare facility’s 

mortgage; the second $100,000 would 

help cover operational costs, tuition decreases 

and increased teacher benefits. 

“The Rapiers have asked Morningstar 

to challenge big Sky,” said board 

member Tracy Jacobsen. “They want to 

see big Sky come together and support 

[this organization].” 

Through this challenge, the Rapiers are 

encouraging other people to help and 

give, said Kym Rapier. She’s seen this 

style of fundraising help build momentum 

for capital campaigns in the past, 

she said, noting that the foundation 

has done ‘challenges’ numerous times 

wolf hunting 

closed north of 

yellowstone 

GARDINER – Montana wildlife commissioners 

closed the wolf hunting season in some 

areas around Yellowstone National Park on 

Monday, Dec. 10 after several collared animals 

were killed. Many of the park’s wolves are 

fitted with radio collars to track the animals’ 

movements. At least seven Yellowstone wolves 

have been shot – including five with tracking 

collars – since the gray wolf seasons opened in 

Montana, wyoming and Idaho. 

The closures include areas north of the park 

around Gardiner and prohibit hunting or 

trapping of the animals. The first gray wolf 

trapping season in Montana starts Saturday, 

Dec. 15. State officials lifted quotas for wolves 

this year as a reaction to attacks on livestock 

and lower elk numbers in some areas, blamed 

on the predators. fish, wildlife and Parks 

Commission chairman bob Ream indicated the 

closure may not be permanent, but is a reaction 

to the high number of collared animals killed. 

Conservation groups have lobbied the state 

unsuccessfully to put a buffer zone around the 

park in hopes of protecting the Yellowstone 

wolf population. while hunting and trapping 

are prohibited within the park, shooting 

a collared animal that roams across the park 

boundary is legal. This is the second gray wolf 

hunting season in Montana since the animals 

lost federal protection last year. 

Photo Courtesy of Morningstar learning Center 

before in San Antonio, Texas, where 

the Rapiers lived prior to moving to 

big Sky earlier this year. 

To kick off the capital campaign, 

Morningstar is hosting a holiday 

gift-wrapping table in the big Sky 

Post Office lobby on Saturdays and 

wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 

through December. 

The present wrapping – which is in exchange 

for donations – “is not an effort 

to make $50,000 or even $10,000,” 

Jacobsen said. Instead, it’s a way to 

draw attention to the campaign and 

its branding platform: a stack of books, 

each one symbolizing $10,000 raised. 

The board is also planning 

to host a fundraising 

event, and Jacobsen 

mentioned reaching out 

to every business owner 

that’s ever had an employee 

with a child enrolled at 

Morningstar. 

“This is such a need. 

People have to have childcare,” 

she said. “Not only 

that, but stats show children 

that go to preschool 

are automatically higher 

on the bar when it comes 

to the alphabet and numbers.” 

The only licensed childcare facility 

in big Sky, Morningstar opened in 

April 2006 and purchased its current 

building at 659 Spruce Cone 

Drive in September 2011. 

Although the center struggled 

during the economic downturn, 

“we’ve come a long way,” Jacobsen 

said. “we have a new board, and 

we’re focusing on our objectives 

and goals.” 

In addition to paying off the mortgage 

completely, these goals include 

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation president David Allen 

wrote the following letter to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks 

Commission Chairman Robert Ream. The letter was edited 

for brevity. 

we understand that Defenders of wildlife and the Greater 

Yellowstone Coalition are running a campaign against 

Montana fwP for allowing hunting and trapping of 

wolves outside of Yellowstone National Park. These hunts 

are legal, necessary and scientifically sustainable. 

There is no science or rationale to support a special "no 

hunt" zone outside YNP. further, we are not aware of any 

science or rationale to support the attempts of these groups 

to create a distinction between "Yellowstone wolves" and 

wolves that exist within the tri-state region of Montana, 

wyoming and Idaho. 

The attempt to establish a “buffer zone” for YNP wolves 

is in direct contrast to the original goal for the wolf reintroduction 

in the northern Rockies. Never was it planned 

that "Yellowstone wolves" would be granted amnesty from 

management once outside the park. These groups should 

be celebrating a successful recovery of the wolf population. 

A substantial number of wolves throughout the three 

states have come from Yellowstone. Are they to be given 

special protection status as well? Hundreds of animals 

including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, black bears and mountain 

lions are fitted with radio collars for scientific purposes 

and roam the wilds in and around the park, but they aren’t 

excluded from hunting seasons outside the park. when 

harvested, the collars are returned to the management 

agency and the data is utilized. 

During the recent lawsuits over delisting wolves in the 

northern Rockies, Defenders, GYC and others pro- 




implementing a state food program, 

decreasing tuition, providing health 

and other benefits for employees, 

and hiring an executive director. 

The center’s capacity is 43 children, 

which includes infants, toddlers and 

preschoolers. between 40 and 50 

families use the facility, according to 

administrator Lindsie Hurlbut, one 

of 12 staff. 

As a nonprofit, Morningstar is 

funded largely by grants and donations. 

That poses a challenge when 

trying to retain staff. Starting wage 

for a teacher at Morningstar is $10 an 

hour, with no benefits or sick leave. 

“The standard of living is so high 

here, because rent and food is so 

expensive,” Jacobsen said. 

Even with these challenges, Jacobsen 

says, “It’s an amazing asset for 

the children of this community, [the 

children] that are going to be running 

this community some day.” 

The Rapiers have donated nearly $1 

million to southwest Montana area 

nonprofits this year. 

letter: rMef on yellowstone Park wolves 

claimed state borders did not matter when considering 

wolf populations and management. They claimed this 

so they could keep Montana, Idaho and wyoming tied 

together in the lawsuit. Now, all of sudden, the YNP 

border is relevant and any wolf near it but outside of 

the park should be protected. 

These groups simply wish to continue to protest statebased 

management of wolves, thus keeping a "wolf 

controversy alive" for the express purpose of soliciting 

for more donations. 

The reality is Montana, wyoming and Idaho are 

required to manage wolves within a specific set of mandates. 

If those are not adhered to, the states risk having 

their wolf population placed back on the Endangered 

Species List. As it stands today, wolf numbers are well 

above objective and in need of reduction. 

The substantial reduction of the northern Yellowstone 

elk herd requires wolves to travel farther for prey. we 

wish those who claim to "defend wildlife" felt empathy 

for the thousands of elk lost from the northern Yellowstone 

elk herd, not to mention the related economic 

losses. 

we urge you not to alter or reduce the ability to 

continue the legal and ethical management, including 

hunting and trapping, of wolves surrounding the 

Yellowstone National Park border. further, we urge 

our members to communicate their position on this 

important issue with you. 

Thank you for your consideration. 

-David Allen, RMEF President/CEO 

dec. 14 - 27, 2012 7

8 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

loCal news 

what happened to big sky institute? 

this article is part one in a series 

by tyler allen 

big sky weekly staff writer 

bIG SKY – Montana State university 

shuttered its operation of the big Sky 

Institute on June 30, 2011, after 15 

years of educational partnerships and 

outreach in science within the community. 

The program was funded, in large part, 

by grants through MSu, and also partly 

through annual fundraising in big Sky. 

The local monies – raised primarily 

during summer gala events in big Sky 

– amounted to about $625,000, and 

were intended for programming, staff 

and ultimately a facility planned next to 

Ophir School. 

“It is frustrating because it was a great 

idea,” said former bSI board member 

Chris wright. “It was going to be a confluence 

between science and research 

in the ecosystem, the university and 

the big Sky community. It was a great 

ambition, to have the woods Hole of 

the Rockies here in big Sky.” 

Many community members have since 

wondered what became of the organization, 

why it so suddenly closed, and 

where the remaining funds ended up. 

More than $75,000 of the locally raised 

money remains, and is held by the 

MSu Alumni foundation. It can only 

be used for a “like” purpose within 

the community, said Michael Stevenson, 

President and CEO of the MSu 

Alumni foundation. 

“MSu came to us [in 2006] and said 

they wanted to make [bSI] a much big- 

cvb, bsia to merge into visit big sky 

by josePh t. o'Connor 

big sky weekly editor 

bIG SKY – The big Sky Convention and Visitors 

bureau and the biggest Skiing in America community 

marketing campaign have joined forces. The new marketing 

entity will be called Visit big Sky. 

During the big Sky Resort Tax board’s monthly meeting 

on Dec. 5, Kitty Clemens, big Sky Chamber of 

Commerce Director, announced the collaboration in a 

briefing to the five-member board. 

“we feel the time will be better used this way,” Clemens 

said in the update. “It will be a more efficient use 

of volunteer efforts.” 

The Chamber plans to iron out the details of the 

merger in a Dec. 19 meeting. 

The CVb, a summer marketing arm of the Chamber, 

was historically funded by Montana bed tax and bSIA 

and was put in place four years ago as a Chamber marketing 

sub-committee with funds through the RTb. 

ger deal,” said bSI board member Loren 

bough. “but the community would 

have to step up.” The board obtained 

a donation of two acres next to Ophir 

School and found local developers 

interested in bidding on a new facility. 

“we launched an effort to raise more 

money, we successfully met the goal 

stated by MSu, and raised more than 

$100,000 for several years,” bough 

said. 

The Resort Tax board in 2008 allocated 

$47,000 for architectural drawings of 

the planned facility, and $57,000 in 

2009 to fund the initial MSu and big 

Sky Community Education Partnership, 

funding earmarked for bSI and 

the MSu Extended university. 

but the facility was never built, the 

partnership never came to fruition, and 

there has been no indication – to the 

community or the board of directors – 

where the university intends to spend 

the remaining $75,000. 

“Any balance will be held by the foundation 

until [MSu] decides whether to 

dissolve the program, since there is no 

outreach going on right now,” Stevenson 

said. The university considers 

bSI an operating institution, although 

no programming or staff is currently 

active. 

In 2011, the same year MSu closed 

bSI, the university began the Montana 

Institute on Ecosystems in partnership 

with the Montana university System, 

resulting in a $20 million National Science 

foundation grant. The IoE, according 

to its website, is a group of scholars 


and partners with a shared vision to 

advance integrated environmental sciences 

and related fields. 

“The university was using its resources 

. . . to partner statewide for the creation 

of the federally funded IoE,” said Tracy 

Ellig, Director of the MSu News Service. 

“The IoE’s work will benefit the 

state as a whole and is one of the first 

such state-wide enterprises of its kind 

nationally.” 

Although the privately raised funds 

from bSI didn’t go to the IoE, MSu essentially 

decided to spend its own time, 

research efforts and state and federal 

grant money there instead. 

“The bSI was a great experiment,” said 

Todd Kipfer, former bSI staff member 

and current IoE Assistant Director. “It 

linked a university and a community, 

but it was meant to be much larger and 

link the Greater Yellowstone, to create 

something world-class.” 

bSI lacked the statewide funding appeal 

that grant applicants like IoE have, 

and the faculty and staff of university 

departments and colleges. It did not, 

however, lack a community of scholars. 

MSu professors Ed Adams, Jordy 

Hendricks, wyatt Cross and Mark 

Skidmore all still have active research 

projects in the area. bSI’s closure hasn’t 

changed this ongoing work, Kipfer said. 

None of this has been communicated to 

the bSI board, bough said. 

“The board members are equally in the 

dark about bSI as the community is. 

There has never been any official com- 

The Chamber created bSIA in 2008 as a winter marketing 

department and had an agreement with RTb 

through the end of 2012 for funding, based on the 

number of skier days logged by big Sky Resort and 

Moonlight basin. 

with crossover in both the groups efforts and in their 

boards of directors, a merger made sense. 

“we kind of looked around and said, ‘this is ridiculous,’” 

said David O’Connor, president of the Chamber’s 

board of Directors. “It seemed really inefficient 

to us, and there was a lot of duplication. [Combining 

CVb and bSIA] will allow us to serve the community 

better.” 

The CVb receives on average, according to O’Connor, 

a total of $110,000 per year from the state. bSIA receives 

$200,000 annually through resort tax, and also 

$40,000 through private partner contributions. 

Through Visit big Sky, the funding requests will be 

streamlined, Clemens told the resort tax board. The 



munication in writing with the board 

by MSu.” 

The MSu Alumni foundation also 

holds the land once slated for the bSI 

headquarters, which abuts the big 

Sky School District property line. 

The school district, one of the fastest 

growing in the state, is currently in 

the process of facilities planning for a 

second building, which would house 

elementary students. 

“Myself and [bSI] board member 

Taylor Middleton have approached the 

foundation about getting that land,” 

bough said. “we’re not clear why they 

refuse to commit to putting the land 

back into community use.” 

“use of the land falls under our strategic 

plan for the colleges and institutes 

like bSI,” Ellig said. The first phase 

of MSu’s strategic plan was recently 

finished, he added. “How that land 

gets used will be part of the second-tier 

process. I don’t have a timeline [for that 

process] right now.” 

while MSu has no plans to build a bSI 

facility on that property, this may not 

be the end of the institute in big Sky, 

according to Ellig. 

“The big Sky region is important to 

the university and we want to move 

forward in a deliberate, thoughtful and 

strategic manner with the institute,” he 

said. “The next chapter on the institute 

has not been written, but we don’t 

anticipate it being the last.” 

new marketing entity will remain eligible for 

state bed tax dollars and can also apply for funding 

through RTb. 

“The state doesn’t care whether we call ourselves 

the CVb, bSIA or Visit big Sky,” Clemons said. 

They just need to account for state funding. 

Montana requires the group keep state money 

separate from all other funding and Clemons says 

Visit big Sky will comply, while simultaneously 

placing efforts where they belong. 

“The Chamber needs to be in the business of 

helping people grow and start businesses,” she 

said. “Visit big Sky will be selling business to the 

outside world.” 

Clemens said the new collaboration allows one 

unified group to provide year-round service, with 

marketing as the primary focus.

loCal news 

big sky resort honors epic 

Passes for second year 

big sky weekly staff writer 

bIG SKY – Yet again, the Northern 

Rockies have been blessed with snow, 

snow and more snow. 

In an attempt to draw skiers from other 

parts of the country not faring so well, 

big Sky Resort for the second year in a 

row opened its doors to skiers with Epic 

Passes and any unlimited pass holder at 

any resort in the world, for that matter, 

to ski for free, through Christmas Day. 

Epic Passes allow skiing at all Vail 

Resorts – Vail, beaver Creek, breckenridge, 

Keystone, Arapahoe basin, 

Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood. 

“It was Epically successful last year,” 

wrote big Sky Resort Public Relations 

Director Chad Jones in an email. “we 

got coverage in the wall Street Journal, 

CO Public Radio, The Vail Daily, the 

San francisco Chronicle and a whole lot 

more.” 

To take advantage of this deal, pass 

holders must book lodging with big 

Sky Central Reservations and ask for 

the Gift Package. The resort is also 

extending its bring a buddy Coupon, 

allowing friends in their reservation 

without unlimited passes to ski at a 

discounted rate. 

Initially, the idea was “as much about 

getting people to change their plans 

and come to big Sky in January as it 

was to get them to come in february or 

March,” Jones said. “So many people 

look to Colorado as a bellwether to 

indicate snowfall. The assumption is if 

Colorado doesn’t have it then no one 

does, and we all know that’s not the 

case.” 

At press time, big Sky was 43 percent 

open, with 1,661 acres, and opening 

more each day. This weekend, they 

expect to be near 100 percent open, 

with the Lone Peak tram, Shedhorn and 

Dakata chairs running. 

“It is about sharing the love, no snow 

any place is not good for anyone in the 

industry. Let’s show folks that skiing 

and riding are still fun and there are 

places with snow.” 

Consistent snow drew skiers to hit 

big Sky in record numbers last season, 

and while most resorts in the Rockies 

struggled, big Sky and Moonlight both 

did well. 

Buying or selling 

a property? 

We want to help you. 

Tell us your dream 

We’ll show you where it lives. 

liveTHEDREAM. 

Craig Smit, Broker 

406.581.5751 

Craig@BigSkyRealEstate.com 

Kevin Butler, Broker 

406.570.3890 

Kevin@BigSkyRealEstate.com 

Real local knowledge that works for you. 

Almost 20 years serving the Big Sky market.

10 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

“ 

Big Sky Real Estate – A New 

Margin of Safety 

The Big Sky market is up across the board, 

and clearly on the mend. One segment 

showing noticeable signs of improvement 

is residential vacant land sales. There is no 

question of the direct correlation between 

the health of the vacant residential land 

sales and that of the overall real estate 

market. We have been patiently waiting 

four (4) years to see the land component 

shift and recover in order to determine 

true replacement value of the structures 

whether condo or home. 

Without referencing our previous 

reports, it goes without saying that the 

distressed properties are still controlling 

some segments of our local market and 

cash is still king in all segments. Both 

issues or factors continue to create 

challenges for our Sellers and remind all 

that it is a bid/ask process. It is evident 

the listing prices must be perceived 

as aggressive in order to sell in short 

order. Over fifty (50%) percent of the 

transactions thus far in 2012 have been 

cash deals. 

NEXT WEEK: 

Pro le and status updates 

for local resorts 

VIEW MORE PHOTOS AND VIDEOS 

at bigskysir.com 

Inventory is down 29% 

from 3rd Quarter of 2010 


Inventory absorption rates have increased 

dramatically in rst three quarters of 2012. 

Inventory has decreased by thirty (30%) 

percent from third (3rd) quarter of 2010 

to third (3rd) quarter of 2012. Inventory 

by units has been depleted from 644 to 

455 respectively. ere will no doubt be a 

shortage of inventory for 2013, speci cally 

in Moonlight Basin. If you want a list of 

sold properties over the last six (6) months 

in any speci c development, please e-mail 

or call me directly at 406-539-0121. 

Looking Ahead 

We are predicting a steady recovery 

through 2013. Based on the current 

number of listings, we are predicting a 

twenty ve percent (25%) depletion of 

inventory by the mid-2013. If you are one 

of the seller’s in the market, be sure to price 

your property to compete. Remember, to 

be a successful seller in this market you 

need to think like a buyer. e #1 desire of 

all buyers in today’s market is to nd great 

value. Call us to create both an e ective 

marketing plan and pricing strategy to help 

demonstrate the value of your property. 

HELMS 

JAMISON 

KULESZA 


J E F F HELMS 

“ 


When you are pricing your property to sell 

in this competitive market, or deciding when 

the right time to buy is; rest assured that 

when you are our client, you will have current 

market statistics, an impeccable level of 

service and personal attention that will give 

you the upper hand. 

We hope this report will give you a snapshot 

of the market trends. We pride ourselves 

on creating the most accurate market report 

in Big Sky. Our ability to track every single 

transaction and then turn the data into 

historical knowledge has made us the most 

sought a er real estate experts in Big Sky. As 

always, I would be glad to discuss details of 

our local market with you. If you plan to list 

your property this ski season and would like 

a more in depth analysis of speci c areas, 

please call me directly at 406-539-0121. 

Jeff Helms 

Je Helms, Broker 

Big Sky Sotheby’s International Realty 

je .helms@sothebysrealty.com 

bigskysir.com 

FOR A COMPLETE 

LOOK AT THE 2012 

MARKET REPORT - 

CALL ME DIRECTLY 

AT 406.539.0121 

Jeff Helms 

Big Sky Town Center O ce 

M: 406.539.0121 

E: je @sothebysrealty.com 

All information is derived from MLS sources and deemed reliable, however, is not guaranteed. Data is subject to error, omissions, prior sales, price change or withdrawal without notice and 

approval of purchase by Seller. We urge independent veri cation of each and every item submitted, to the satisfaction of any prospective purchaser.

loCal news 

spanish Peaks set to go 

on sales block 



bIG SKY – The Club at Spanish 

Peaks may finally be up for sale, 

after more than a year of gridlocked 

debate and fears of continued 

delays or foreclosure by secured 

lenders. 

Entities owning the club filed for 

Chapter 7 bankruptcy in October 

2011, and the resort closed at that 

time, laying off more than 100 

employees. On Dec. 4 of this year, 

a lawyer representing some 140 

members of a Spanish Peaks ad hoc 

group sent an email explaining the 

news of the sale. 

The secured lenders, consisting 

mainly of a consortium of banks, 

filed on Dec. 3 documents with 

Montana’s bankruptcy court, according 

to the email by attorney J. 

Thomas beckett. The filing included 

a plan to sell The Club at Spanish 

Peaks to the highest bidder. 

“The car is out of the garage,” said 

a member of the ad hoc group’s 

12-member steering committee, 

who wished to remain anonymous. 

“After a year, we finally have a 

process outlined.” 

This process, described in court 

documents attached to the email, 

highlighted agreements between 

Ross Richardson, the Chapter 7 

trustee, and the secured lenders. It 

included an estimated timeline that 

set June 1, 2013 as a closing sale 

date. 

The lenders recommended appointing 

Eastdil Secured, an international 

real estate investment company 

based out of New York City, to market 

for and represent the property 

moving forward. The bankruptcy 

court approved Eastdil on Dec. 6, 

and interested parties have two 

weeks to file an objection, according 

to court documents. 

Eastdil will begin sending out teasers 

to potential buyers in January. 

This list, or pitch book, will include 

between 100 and 200 interested 

parties. 

“we don’t know who is going to 

bid on this,” the steering committee 

member said, adding that hedge 

funds and some wealthy individuals 

will be listed in the pitch book. 

Individuals in the Spanish Peaks ad 

hoc group, who each paid $1,000 

to fund legal council and to keep 

abreast of developments, want to 

have a say in who walks with the 

final purchase. 

“we want a viable club,” the source 

said. “That’s what people bought 

into.” 

Ad hoc members anticipate fewer 

than five serious bidders by the 

proposed bid deadline in mid-february. 

Richardson, the trustee, is 

expected to select the best offer in 

early March. 

The face value on the Spanish Peaks 

debt is more than $122,000,000, 

and the club will go to the highest 

bidder, but if a potential client approaches 

lenders with $20 million, 

cash in hand, they will accept it, 

according to the source. 

because of longstanding issues 

surrounding the bankruptcy, “[the 

secured lenders] are willing to take 

their lumps.” 

The $20 million was set as a floor 

price and, according to court documents, 

Richardson will receive a 

$750,000 “carve out” from the 

secured lenders once a sale is finalized. 

The carve out will come out of 

the total sale of the property, and 

will pay court and lawyer expenses 

and administrative costs, as well as 

Eastdil for its work initiating a sale. 

If the property sells for more than 

$20 million, secured lenders will 

add 2 percent to any additional sale 

money to go toward the carve out. 

If no one bids at least that much, 

the lenders can accept the lower bid 

or retain the property. 

News of the potential Spanish 

Peaks sale is a relief to many involved 

in the process. 

“This [sale] could have been three 

or five years [out],” the source said. 

“It’s nice there is a resolution [coming]. 

It may not happen until next 

October, but at least there’s light at 

the end of the tunnel.” 

This is an ongoing story in the 

weekly, which will feature subsequent 

installments as information 

becomes available. 

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egional 

bOZEMAN – Montana State 

university researchers who study 

short-term memory say their findings 

may someday help people 

whose brains are not functioning as 

they should. 

The scientists recently published 

their latest discoveries in Science, a 

leading journal for original scientific 

research, global news and 

commentary. 

About the same time, Charles Gray, 

professor in MSu’s Department 

of Cell biology and Neuroscience, 

learned that he was one of four 

u.S. scientists to receive a prestigious 

award that will help fund his 

research for three more years. 

The McKnight Endowment fund 

for Neuroscience awarded Gray a 

$300,000 Memory and Cognitive 

Disorders Award, which will give 

him $100,000 each year from 2013 

through 2015. The other awards 

went to researchers at Stanford university, 

Columbia university and 

Carnegie Mellon university. 

12 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

“It was a good week,” Gray said. 

for his paper, published Nov. 23 in 

Science, Gray was principal investigator 

of a five-year research project, 

funded by the National Institute 

of Mental Health (NIMH) and the 

National Institute of Neurological 

Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), 

where researchers studied how 

visual objects were held in shortterm 

memory. 

focusing on two key regions in the 

cerebral cortex – the prefrontal and 

posterior parietal areas that are critically 

involved in cognition, attention 

and short-term memory – the 

scientists discovered that signals in 

both regions synchronized with one 

another when objects were held in 

short-term memory. 

“The discovery demonstrates that 

the two regions closely coordinate 

their activities in a manner that 

depends on what is being held in 

memory,” Gray said. 

This process occurs even when 

the cortical regions are widely 

separated from each other and their 

connections are relatively weak, he 

added. Each region contains billions 


of nerve cells, but the number of 

nerves connecting them amounts to 

a tiny fraction of the population. 

“The Holy Grail of neuroscience 

has been to understand how and 

where information is encoded in the 

brain. This study provided more 

evidence that large-scale electrical 

oscillations across distant brain 

regions may carry information for 

visual memories,” said NIMH Director 

Thomas R. Insel, M.D. 

Gray, referring to the possible 

communication between the two regions 

of the brain, said, “we don’t 

fully understand the communication.” 

The new study provides key insights 

into the details of the process, 

however. 

“The brain is extraordinarily 

complex, and the signals that move 

between regions are very sophisticated,” 

Gray said. “Historically, 

it has been very difficult to make 

sense out of them.” 

The cerebral cortex alone has approximately 

100 regions for which 

researchers are beginning to determine 

their function, Gray said. The 

regions sometimes act alone and 

other times cooperate and function 

together. They are responsible 

for nearly all cognitive and mental 

functions, ranging from perception 

and voluntary movement to attention, 

reasoning and memory. 

“when we pay attention, remember, 

make decisions or feel certain 

emotions, our cortex is critically 

involved,” Gray said. 

As a result of the brain’s complexity, 

studying it is a long, slow 

process, Gray continued. but 

understanding the communication 

process could help scientists develop 

strategies for treating people 

where communication within the 

brain is believed to be disrupted. 

Those conditions include Parkinson’s 

disease, autism, depression 

and schizophrenia, among others. 

Gray, who has worked with neurosurgical 

teams in California where 



Msu team publishes brain research, receives $300,000 to continue work 

by evelyn boswell 

msu news service 

he helped measure brain activity 

in patients being treated for Parkinson’s 

disease, co-authored the 

paper that was published in Science. 

The work was produced together 

with lead author Rodrigo Salazar 

and Nick Dotson, both in MSu’s 

Department of Cell biology and 

Neuroscience; and Steve bressler, 

a neuroscientist at florida Atlantic 

university and long-time collaborator 

of Gray’s. 

Science is published weekly by 

the American Association for the 

Advancement of Science (AAAS), 

the largest general scientific society 

in the world. 

The Memory and Cognitive Disorders 

Awards support innovative 

research by u.S. scientists who are 

exploring new ways to diagnose, 

prevent and treat neurological 

and psychiatric diseases, especially 

those related to memory and 

cognition. The awards encourage 

projects that link basic and clinical 

neuroscience, with the long-term 

goal of helping to translate laboratory 

discoveries into diagnoses and 

therapies for brain disorders. 

In Gray’s case, he is seeking a deeper 

understanding of the physiology 

of short-term memory, attention 

and decision-making. During the 

three years of his McKnight Award, 

Gray plans to measure neural activity 

from large areas of the brain to 

obtain a broad perspective on how 

and where information is encoded 

when something is held in shortterm 

memory. 

“understanding just how the brain 

creates and retrieves memories, and 

how brain systems can go awry, is 

the foundation for development of 

therapies for human brain diseases,” 

said Eric Nestler, chairman 

of the McKnight awards committee. 

“These research efforts seek to 

advance understanding of the brain 

and bring new insights to bear on 

this important quest.” 

This piece was adapted from one 

originally written by Evelyn Boswell. 

gallatin canyon billboard 

hearing postponed 

bOZEMAN – Due to the resignation of a board member, the Gallatin 

County Consolidated board of Adjustment no longer has a sufficient number 

of members and can no longer meet to hear the Saunders matter regarding 

Saunders Outdoor Advertising’s appeal to relight the billboard in Gallatin 

Canyon. The hearing was scheduled for Dec. 18. The County was informed 

of the resignation on Dec. 10.

Montana 

New film “Nebraska” good for 

Montana’s economy and tourism 

by Maria wyllie 

big sky weekly editorial assistant 

bILLINGS – Academy-award winning 

director Alexander Payne (The Descendants, 

Sideways) is pouring money into 

Montana with the filming of "Nebraska," 

a lighthearted comedy telling 

the story of a father and son (played by 

bruce Dern and will forte) travelling 

from billings to Lincoln, Neb. to collect 

a $1 million sweepstakes prize. 

filming for the opening scene of "Nebraska," 

which took place in billings in 

late November, brought business to the 

community’s hotels, restaurants, and 

shops during the winter months, a time 

when tourism is slow. 

Production groups such as Payne’s 

typically spend about $25,000 a day, 

according to research from the Montana 

film Office, which works to secure 

film projects across the state. 

“It’s really critical and great to have 

that kind of economic impact on the 

community,” said MfO film Commissioner 

Deny Staggs. “we look at it like 

a mobile manufacturing company that 

comes in and builds its product, drops 

off money, and packs up its stuff and 

goes. It’s pure money with a strong, 

direct, economic impact.” 

The "Nebraska" crew spent roughly 

$250,000 over the course of production, 

said John brewer, president of the 

billings CVb and Chamber of Commerce. 

while the economic impact of a 

production is felt most directly where 

it’s filmed – in this case billings – the 

money trickles down in the form of 

taxes, helping the state run and do 

business. 

The MfO’s big Sky on the big Screen 

Act, which was established in 2005, 

has helped Montana compete in the 

state launches mt.gov redesign 

new site has responsive web design for multiple platforms 

HELENA – The state on Nov. 29 

launched a major redesign of its official 

website, mt.gov. The new site uses 

responsive web-design technology, allowing 

it to adjust the content layout for 

varying sizes of digital screens, including 

mobile devices. 

The new site also has an increased emphasis 

on searching capabilities, which 

will make it easier to navigate with a mobile 

device like a Smartphone or tablet. 

“This will enable the state website to 

have greater functionality for more 

people,” said Gov. brian Schweitzer in 

a press release. “we’ve seen how the industry 

is changing and knew we needed 

to adapt to all new platforms available to 

Montanans.” 

industry by giving tax incentives to 

production firms shooting in Montana. 

The tax cuts incentivize the firms to 

bring projects to Montana and consequently 

to hire locals and spend more 

money in the state. 

when it comes to deciding where to 

shoot a film, companies are typically 

concerned with startup costs, Staggs 

said. “The number one question 

productions firms ask is what the tax 

incentives are and what the crew base 

is.” 

without a tax incentive, he added, 

there would be no film production in 

Montana, unless a specific location was 

needed. 

According to Staggs, the value of film 

production is threefold: It has a strong 

economic impact; it allows people all 

over the world to see how beautiful 

Montana is; and it can create and spark 

more tourism, which brings money 

into the state. 

However, it is difficult to measure how 

many people visit Montana after seeing 

films shot across the state, and most of 

what the state'S Department of Tourism 

knows is anecdotal. 

“Montana is a state of such impactful 

visuals that any numbers would underestimate 

the amount of people traveling 

to Montana to see these places for 

themselves,” said Sarah Lawlor, public 

information officer for the Montana 

Department of Tourism. 

Even so, having a film shot by an 

award-winning director that is locationspecific 

is an invaluable public relations 

tool in the long run, brewer said, noting 

that it will help keep billings and 

Montana in the forefront of a very large 

audience. “It’s nice to be represented as 

we truly are.” 

Industry experts have predicted that 

mobile devices will overtake desktop 

devices for Internet usage as soon as 

2014. Site statistics for mt.gov show that 

mobile device usage has increased from 

3 percent in March 2011 to nearly 20 

percent in October 2012. 

The latest in web technology detects 

the kind of device being used (such as a 

Smartphone, tablet, traditional laptop 

or desktop computer) and presents that 

device with a suitable content layout. 

The state is encouraging visitors to give 

feedback on the new site using the “Contact 

Us” link at the bottom of the mt.gov 

page. 




welch withdraws application for recount 

Juneau officially reelected as Supt. of 

Public instruction 

HELENA – Republican Sandy welch officially withdrew her application for a 

recount of the State Superintendent of Public Instruction race on Dec. 12, unable 

to pay the $115,000 to cover the cost of the recount. 

welch trailed incumbent Denise Juneau by 2,231 votes after the official statewide 

canvass. Montana statute allows candidates to request a recount when 

their margin of victory is one-half of 1 percent or less, and Juneau won by approximately 

0.48 percent. 

welch’s attorneys argued voting machine errors and improper voting procedures 

affected the tally, and a flathead County judge on Dec. 7 ordered the 

statewide recount. 

Secretary of State and Chief Elections Officer Linda McCulloch expressed 

disappointment that there would not be a recount in her official statement 

released Dec. 12. 

“we are confident that a recount would not have changed the race results, but 

we were ready to do one. A lot of public time and resources has been spent 

preparing for the huge task of conducting a statewide recount of more than 

468,000 ballots cast in the race." 

McCulloch agreed with the court's finding that no harm to the state could 

result from recounting the ballots in the race when welch was paying for it. 

"Montana voters can be confident that their vote counts." 

welch was required by the court to post cash to cover the costs as estimated by 

the counties of the statewide manual recount by 5 p.m. on Dec. 12. 

THANK YOU 

TO OUR CLIENTS 

FOR 15 YEARS 

OF SERVICE IN 

BIG SKY! 

We sincerely appreciate 

your business. 

dec. 14 - 27, 2012 13

Montana 

bIG SKY, HELENA – Meg O’Leary 

spent the last two decades telling the 

big Sky story to the nation and the 

world. Now she gets to tell Montana’s 

story. 

Governor-elect Steve bullock on 

Nov. 30 appointed O’Leary, big Sky 

Resort’s Sales and Marketing Director 

for the past 12 years, as Director of the 

Montana Department of Commerce. In 

that role, which will start Jan. 7, 2013 

with the legislative session, O’Leary 

will be a key player in developing jobs 

statewide. 

“[bullock] ran on three priorities: job 

creation, the economy and education. 

The first two are something I’ll have 

whole lot of involvement with,” she 

said. 

A large agency with broad impact, the 

Montana Department of Commerce 

acts as an information broker for businesses 

and communities in the economic 

and community development areas. 

14 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

A Helena native, O’Leary graduated 

from the university of Montana with a 

degree in business administration and 

management. She started at big Sky in 

1989, handling group logistics through 

the reservations department. In 1991, 

she moved into group sales, and in 

2000 assumed the director role. 

“It’s a natural progression for Meg to 

be asked to head Montana’s important 

Department of Commerce,” said big 

Sky Resort General Manager Taylor 

Middleton. “She understands how to 

listen, how to lead, and how to hold 

herself and others accountable to big 

goals.” 

If O’Leary brings her drive and enthusiasm 

to Helena, she’s bound to make 

an impact. In big Sky, she has also 

served on the big Sky Convention and 

Visitors bureau, the big Sky Transportation 

District, and the big Sky Lodging 

Association, and was a key leader 

in securing new direct flights into the 

bozeman Yellowstone International 

Airport, including the non-stop flight 

from New Jersey. She was named the 

Tourism Person of the Year by the State 

of Montana in 2012. 


“what we’re excited about is that Meg 

has experience not just in tourism but 

in growing business,” said bullock’s 

deputy chief of staff Kevin O’brien, 

calling both O’Leary and big Sky Resort 

“Montana success stories." 

“She’ll be able to help business there 

grow and expand and help attract other 

businesses to the state – everything 

from manufacturing to energy development 

– both traditional and renewable – 

tourism, to the incredible opportunities 

we have in high tech fields… I think 

every city in our state has businesses 

that have room to grow… Meg will be 

at the forefront of making that happen.” 

O’Leary knows she has a lot to learn 

in the new role, but said her networks 

will serve her well. Growing up in Helena, 

she’s connected to many people in 

state government – she ran high school 

cross country with bullock. Through 

her work with the resort, particularly 

the professional conferences, she’s met 

people from many Montana industries. 

“It will be a challenge and really fun, 

and I’m going to be able to bring a lot of 

value because of that network.” 

Tourism, her area of expertise, will also 

inform her new role. 

“bullock really wants to do this tourism 

thing right,” O’Leary said. “He 

respects the industry and he gets it. He 

believes there’s going to be some good 

interaction between the No. 1 industry 

of [agriculture] and No. 2, tourism. 

These two top industries – what can we 

do to collaborate further?” 

In O’Leary’s mind, this spells sustainable 

jobs. 



o’leary appointed director of commerce for Montana 

leaves big sky resort after 23 years 



This is how Big Sky gets 

into hot water. 

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We service what we sell! 

Spa sales to fit your budget 

Pool and spa care after the sale 

Custom maintenance plans 

Spa covers and custom lifts 

Lots of accessories for your spa 

Special orders available 

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Meg O'Leary in the North Summit Snowfield 

“I am looking forward to taking what 

I know about telling the big Sky story 

and applying it across the state, bringing 

in the right kind of jobs for the right 

kind of areas so we have sustainability.” 

but it’s a change for a woman who’s 

skied on lunch break for 23 years – one 

O’Leary and her husband blaire Heinke 

didn’t take lightly. 

“I’m going to Helena, and I’m all in for 

four years – for my professional life. I 

will still be skiing and riding bikes [in 

big Sky] and drinking coffee at the bakery… 

It’s taken us a lot of really careful 

soul searching.” 

Other members of bullock’s cabinet 

include Mike batista as the Director of 

the Department of Corrections, Pam 

bucy as the Director of the Department 

of Labor, Tim burton as Chief of Staff, 

Dan Villa as budget Director, and 

Ali bovingdon and Kevin O'brien as 

Deputy Chiefs of Staff. 

Said bullock of these appointments: 

“I’m excited to hit the ground running 

with some of the best and brightest our 

state has to offer and I look forward to 

working with them to put Montanans 

first.” 

The Department of Commerce helps 

maintain and improve community 

infrastructure in Montana; finances 

homeownership and rental assistance; 

provides technical assistance and 

training for entrepreneurs, businesses, 

communities and development groups; 

promotes Montana as a place to visit, locate 

business, and film motion pictures; 

and finances businesses that generate 

financial and economic return for the 

state. 

tim fox announces first appointments to new administration 

helena – Montana attorney general-elect tim fox on friday dec. 7, announced 

the first round of appointments to his upcoming administration at 

the department of justice. all appointees are Montana natives. 

Chief of staff: scott darkenwald 

Chief deputy attorney general: Mark Mattioli 

solicitor general: lawrence vandyke 

deputy attorney general: jon bennion 

executive assistant: julie james

yellowstone 

yellowstone winter season begins dec. 15 

Yellowstone National Park will open 

to the public for the winter season as 

scheduled on Dec. 15. 

beginning at 7 a.m. Saturday morning, 

visitors will be able to travel to the 

park’s interior roads on commercially 

guided snowmobiles or snowcoaches 

from the North, west and South Entrances. 

Travel through the park’s East 

Entrance over Sylvan Pass is scheduled 

to begin Dec. 22. 

The road from the park’s North Entrance 

at Gardiner through Mammoth 

Hot Springs and on to Cooke City, outside 

the park’s Northeast Entrance, is 

open to wheeled vehicle travel all year. 

At Old faithful, the Geyser Grill, the 

bear Den Gift Shop, and the Old faithful 

Visitor Education Center open for 

the season on Dec. 15. The Old faithful 

Snow Lodge and Cabins and the Obsidian 

Dining Room open on Dec. 18. 

The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, 

dining room and gift shop will open 

for the season on Dec. 20. The Yellowstone 

General Store, the medical 

clinic, campground, post office and the 

Albright Visitor Center at Mammoth 

Hot Springs are open all year, as are the 

24-hour gasoline pumps at Mammoth 

and Tower Junction. 

All communities around and on the 

way to Yellowstone are open year- 

round, with local businesses offering a 

range of winter recreation opportunities. 

Extensive information and assistance 

for planning a visit to Yellowstone 

during the winter is available at nps. 

gov/yell. 

Park staff members will continue to 

closely monitor road conditions and 

weather forecasts that can have an impact 

on roadways and guided oversnow 

travel operations. weather during the 

winter season is extremely unpredictable 

in Yellowstone and road closures or 

delays can occur with little or no warning. 

The NPS reminds visitors to come 

prepared with personal emergency 

survival equipment in their vehicles 

and dressing appropriately for outside 

activities in extremely cold weather. 

winter use in Yellowstone this season 

is being managed under an operating 

plan much in the same manner as has 

been permitted the last three winters. 

under the rule, up to 318 commercially 

guided, best Available Technology 

snowmobiles and up to 78 commercially 

guided snowcoaches will be allowed 

into the park daily. 

In early 2013, the National Park Service 

intends to issue a final Supplemental 

Environmental Impact Statement and 

a proposed rule to guide long-term 

winter use in Yellowstone, which will 

take effect in time for the 2013-2014 

winter season. 

• Pediatrics • Chronic Conditions 

• Women’s Health • Prenatal Care 

• Osteopathic Manipulation 

Prescheduled and same-day appointments available 

Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays 

Taking most local insurance carriers including 

Medicare and Medicaid 

Maren Dunn D.O. 

Board Certified in Family Medicine 

18 Meadow Village Drive, Big Sky, MT (across from the post offi ce) 

Phone: 406-995-3111 | After hours: 406-599-5848 

gallatinfamilymedicine.com 




dec. 14 - 27, 2012 15

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This property is listed for sale by RPRT Real Estate, Inc. (D145538) dba Winter and Company Real Estate (A169316), PO Box 161794, Big Sky, MT 59716, (406) 995-2093. Concierge Auctions, LLC is the provider of auction marketing services, is not a brokerage, and is not directly involved in selling real property. The services referred to herein are not available to residents of any state where prohibited by applicable state law. Concierge Auctions, LLC, its agents 

and affiliates, broker partners, Auctioneer, and the Sellers do not warrant or guaranty the accuracy or completeness of any information and shall have no liability for errors or omissions or inaccuracies under any circumstances in this or any other property listings or advertising, promotional or publicity statements and materials. This is not meant as a solicitation for listings. Brokers are protected and encouraged to participate. See Auction Terms & Conditions for full details.

section 2: 

business, health and environMent 

real estate 




Dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

Volume 3 // Issue No. 25 

housing market beginning to turn the corner 

sales up in big sky, gallatin valley 



bIG SKY, bOZEMAN – Reports of 

growth on the national housing market 

are reflecting a local trend in big 

Sky and the greater Gallatin Valley. 

while overall gains are modest, some 

local real estate authorities are feeling 

optimistic. 

big Sky local Jamie Daugaard, the 

principal architect for Centre Sky Architecture 

since 1998, has witnessed 

the housing rollercoaster “from the 

front seat” in the last decade, he said, 

watching the real estate world go 

from 60 to zero. 

“It was like [the market] ran a marathon 

from 2002 to 2008,” Daugaard 

said. “Then in 2009 [in big Sky], it 

just stopped running.” 

Much of the country felt the recession’s 

effects a year earlier, in 2008, 

after sub-prime mortgages crippled 

the u.S. market, putting homeowners, 

real estate agents, builders and 

supply companies on their collective 

ear. 

Subsequent federal bailouts failed 

to right the economy, forcing widespread 

foreclosures and leading the 

country, indeed the world, into the 

Great Recession and the greatest economic 

downturn since the Depression 

of the 1930s. 

“Now, in 2012, water is flowing 

again,” said Daugaard, who moved 

to big Sky from Denver 10 years ago. 

“I’m feeling good about the market.” 

beginning this spring, more people 

called Daugaard to move forward 

with building on recently purchased 

land. Compared to 2010, when only 

10 percent of inquiring clients actually 

hired Centre Sky to design their 

future home, a recent upswing in 

contracts has him looking forward. 

“Since April or May, 50 to 60 percent 

[of potential clients] are committed.” 

The architect sees a number of reasons 

for this positive trend, including 

a change in family dynamics. People 

are tired of waiting for the market to 

show them it’s okay to invest again. 

They want to own a house, he says, 

even if that means cutting a few 

corners. 

single family residences - gallatin county 

sales through oct. 31, 2012 

“The majority of people [we’re seeing] 

want quality spaces,” Daugaard 

said. “but are thinking, ‘how can we 

make it smaller.: 

“Maybe they’re not asking for [us 

to design] an 8,000 or even 6,000 

square-foot house,” he added. “They 

might not need a media room or a 

second dining room. They’re trying 

to be more frugal with their construction 

dollars.” 

Others in the industry are seeing 

similar trends in the low to middlecost 

housing market, as well. Peter 

Lee, president and owner of Teton 

Heritage, a custom home construction 

company with offices in 

Jackson, wyo., as well as Gallatin 

Gateway, has watched the area market 

fluctuate based on differences in 

housing costs. 

“The high end of the Gallatin Valley 

is still looking pretty soft,” said Lee, 

referring to the excess of supply over 

demand. “but the low end (under 

$700,000) is doing okay.” 

In bozeman, Tom Simkins, part 

owner of Simkins-Hallin, one of the 

largest building supply companies 

in the state, took note of a slightly 

improved market over the last year. 

“It’s getting better,” said Simkins. 

“The rental market is saturated, 

and there is a noticeable increase 

in middle income and starter-type 

homes.” 

Some of this success, Simkins said, is 

due to the bakken oil boom in the williston 

basin, N.D., part of which spills 

into Montana. bozeman construction 

workers, out once plentiful work, 

joined the boom in droves, driving 

seven hours to williston for work. 

Every boomtown undergoes a transformation 

requiring services from contractors 

and workers, and williston 

was no different. In 2000, its population 

was 12,512. by the 2010 census, 

the number had risen to 14,716; 

however, estimates including workers 

living in temporary housing put 

the population closer to 30,000. Some 

claim it’s now as high as 50,000. 

“It kept a lot of people alive during the 

Recession,” Simkins said, indicating 

Montana construction workers could 

drive to the bakken, work two weeks 

straight, then return home to their 

families, and increasingly their new 

homes. “They can make $100,000 a 

year driving a truck.” 

Oil and natural gas extraction account 

for 35 percent of the town’s job 

market. 

Those who found work in the Gallatin 

Valley during the recession stayed 

Courtesy of gallatin assoCiation of realtors 

put, many roofing homes after a string 

of strong hailstorms in 2010 damaged 

houses around the Gallatin Valley. 

These storms also allowed Simkins- 

Hallin, which opened its doors in 

1946, to weather the housing squall, 

Simkins said. Other construction 

supply companies incurred massive 

losses. 

Simkins contends that the uptick he 

sees in bozeman’s low to mid-range 

housing market is due mainly to 

this export of Montana carpenters, 

laborers and contractors to fulfill the 

surging need for apartments and commercial 

buildings around williston. 

Eric Ossorio, a broker for Prudential/ 

Ossorio Real Estate in big Sky thinks 

this demographic may be pulling up 

bozeman’s housing market. 

Ossorio, who has lived in big Sky for 

30 years, says the real estate market 

in the area reflects the national trend 

in a less convincing manner – people 

are buying smaller homes in generally 

busier hubs, closer to essential 

needs such as groceries. 

“People are coming back to the center 

of the market,” he said. “If you live 

Continued on p. 18 

dec. 14 - 27, 2012 17

Continued from p. 17 

real estate 

out in beaver Creek, you’re a half 

hour away from butter. You have to 

change the recipe.” 

“The good news in big Sky, is there 

are sales,” he added. “we had 10 

firelight condos on the market this 

summer, and now there are four. but 

the national trend is people are still 

nervous.” 

The numbers reflect this consumer 

apprehension, but the market appears 

to have turned a corner – one for the 

better. 

Statistics from the Gallatin Association 

of Realtors for Gallatin County 

indicate by the third quarter of 2011, 

262 units sold, whereas by the 2012 

third quarter, 345 units were gone. 

These statistics show only the numbers 

through October 2012. 

GAR’s annual report for the county 

since 2004 shows housing numbers 

trending positive in the last two 

years. In 2009, 688 units sold, as 

compared to 1,224 in 2005. but since 

that low year, it’s looking better. 

“There’s a bit of a bell curve from 

2005 until now,” said Mike Lake, 

technology coordinator at GAR, who 

18 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

called the current scenario “a buyers’ 

market. we could potentially see 

more than 1,000 single-family homes 

sold by the end of the year.” 

GAR statistics show 896 homes sold 

by Oct. 31 of this year. 

“buyer confidence in big Sky is between 

8 and 10,” said Ryan Kulesza. 

He pointed to low interest rates, a 

saturated rental market, and property 

prices below replacement costs, as 

incentives. 

“It’s a perfect storm to buy in,” he 

said. “If you haven't found the perfect 

deal by now, you might have missed 

the boat.” 

Many agents believe big Sky has an 

edge over other parts of the country. 

Even The Yellowstone Club, which 

has seen financial squalor in recent 

years and filed for bankruptcy protection 

in 2008 when the market was at 

its worst, has seen a light turn on. 

“we see a firming up of the market,” 

said bill Collins, vice president of 

sales at the Club. “There’s more 

velocity [now] than we’ve seen in the 

last five years.” 


Sales are up 30 percent at The 

Yellowstone Club, according to 

Collins, and there are currently 25 

homes under construction. 

“Smart guys like buying stuff on 

sale,” he said. “I’m excited [about 

the positive housing trend]. As we 

are successful, so is the community.” 

Ossorio sees big Sky as an isolated 

pocket, one that can bring in buyers 

from the outside market. 

“we have a bit of a refuge community,” 

Ossorio said. “from LA 

to Houston … people are sitting 

in traffic for three hours a day. 

[They’re thinking], ‘why not live in 

big Sky and visit Houston?’” 

Lee delved deeper, saying we’re 

living the “third industrial revolution,” 

a convergence of the Internet 

with renewable energy systems. 

with this advanced form of communication 

through online technol- 



“it’s a perfect storm to buy in. if you 

haven't found the perfect deal by now, 

you might have missed the boat." 

ogy, people can live wherever they 

want. 

“It’s a quality of life [issue], as opposed 

to a proximity to trading partners,” 

said Lee, who moved from 

Jackson to bozeman in 2003. “All 

these rich guys don’t have to live in 

California anymore.” 

Kulesza understands this train of 

thought. 

“big Sky is like Starbucks coffee,” 

he said. “Nobody needs it, but it’s 

nice to have.” 

Although things are beginning to 

look up, consumers shouldn’t expect 

to see recovery in the economy 

or the housing market overnight 

– consumer confidence has not yet 

fully recovered. 

“People are still nervous about the 

economy,” Ossorio said. “And they 

need confidence. If people can get 

comfortable again, and hold and 

maintain a job, we will continue on 

an upward trend.” 

BIG SKY’S FULL SERVICE GROCERY STORE 

Hand-cut meats • Fresh baked goods • Gourmet items • Beer & wine 

LOCAL 

Delivery available - have your rental unit 

stocked upon your arrival! 406-995-4636 

Open 7 days a week, 6:30am to 8pm 

Extended hours 6:30am to 10pm December 15-April 15 and July 1- Labor Day 

Located in the Meadow Village Center next to Lone Peak Brewery 

FRESH

LAND 

Land is the last segment of the market to recover from the economic downturn. 

Time is your friend in getting the best price on your property if you’re a seller 

- but if you’re a buyer, NOW is the time to close as I don’t think this will last 

much longer - the basic laws of supply and demand are changing and the A grade 

properties are getting swooped up. Contact me directly to discuss options and 

strategy on buying or selling. 

$4,995,000 

HOMES 

The distressed inventory is being cleared out and prices are starting to both 

stabilize and grow in the home segment of the community. Homes that are 

amenitized by ski in/ski out, golf course, hiking trails and water as well as in the 

Club communities of Yellowstone Club and Spanish Peaks are quickly stabilizing as 

even the most sophisticated and luxurious homes have reacted to the economy 

and are priced to align with the current market. Call me directly for an update on 

Spanish Peaks bankruptcy status and to review home opportunities. 

$1,599,000 

Martha Johnson, Broker 

406.580.5891 

Martha@BigSkyRealEstate.com 

Acreage - Call for Pricing 

Martha Johnson, Founder, Broker & Owner of Montana 

Living ~ Big Sky Real Estate, is a life long entrepreneur and 

die hard, passionate fan of Big Sky, Montana. Since 1995 she 

has been a highly successful real estate professional known 

throughout Big Sky and Southwest, Montana who, even 

throughout the real estate downturn, has consistantly been 

a top producer. Martha’s deep roots and longevity in the 

community, along with her real estate success and proven 

launch experience in all facets of real estate, strategically 

create a winning combination for both buyers and sellers – 

there’s no substition for Martha’s extensive experience and 

knowledge of Big Sky. 

Scott and I would like to thank you for your dedication and 

loyalty through the building of our new business: Montana 

Living ~ Big Sky Real Estate. We have a better and stronger 

SEO, Social Media and Marketing strategy than ever and our 

team has remained the leader in the industry through the 

transition - we’re very proud! 

CONDOMINIUMS 

Condo’s are the fastest moving segment of the 

community. Distressed, Bank owned and short sales 

have driven the prices down to a level of which have 

attracted buyers back to the market. The value and ease 

of owning a condo where the association takes care of 

everything combined with a great sales price are bringing 

2nd property owner’s back to our community and 

weeding out the spec inventory. 

THE BIG SKY COMMUNITY 

The Big Sky community is an emerging world class 

destination supported by world class ski mountains, 

world class rivers and great non stop air service into 

Bozeman/Yellowstone International Airport. I first 

moved to Big Sky in 1988 and worked on a dude 

ranch - I fell in love with Big Sky because there’s still a 

cowboy influence. The Gallatin River corridor known 

by locals as the “canyon” still has cowboys and sheep 

herders that frequent the local canyon bars/watering 

holes while their herds of cattle and flocks of sheep 

summer in the neighboring mountains. That combined 

with, in my opinion, the greatest skiing in the West ~ Big 

Sky/Moonlight make Big Sky the perfect place to hang 

your hat. My experience and longevity in the Big Sky 

community are your key to a successful experience in 

purchasing or selling real estate. 

This information is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change, withdrawal and approval of purchase by owner. All information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed by 

Montana Living - Big Sky Real Estate, independent investigation is recommended. For properties being purchased at The Club at Spanish Peaks approval for membership is required prior to 

closing. If you are currently working with another real estate agent, this is not intended as a solicitation.

sPorts 

lone Peak high school varsity basketball 

teams prepare for winter season 

story and Photos 



bIG SKY – The Lone Peak High 

School boys’ and girls’ varsity 

basketball teams have been preparing 

for this winter’s season and 

continuing to build the relatively 

new programs. 

This is the fourth year for the 

LPHS boys’ varsity team, and 

Coach Al Malinowski has high 

expectations. with nine returning 

players, Malinowski says the 

team’s experience and depth will 

be their biggest assets. Having 

20 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

good team chemistry and 16 players 

to choose from will also be an 

advantage for the big Horns this 

year. 

The girls’ varsity team, in its 

second season, has seven players, 

with six sophomores and one 

freshman. It is a very young team. 

Coach Adam Olson, also assistant 

coach for the boys’ team, will use 

this season as a building year and 

focus on improvement. 

“basketball is very new to them, so 

I just want to teach them about the 

sport and get them going,” Olson 

said. 




lone Peak high school 

boys and girls basketball schedule 2012-13 

Two games played per date: Game No. 1 – LPHS Girls’ Game No. 2 – LPHS boys’ 

dec. 14 home vs harrison/willow Creek 5:30 p.m./7 p.m. 

dec. 15 home vs ennis 4 p.m./5:30 p.m. 

dec. 18 away @ shields valley 4:30 p.m./6 p.m. 

jan. 4 home vs gardiner 5:30 p.m./7 p.m. 

jan. 5 away @ twin bridges 5:30 p.m./7 p.m. 

jan. 10 home vs sheridan 5:30 p.m./7 p.m. 

jan. 11 away @ west yellowstone 5:30 p.m./7 p.m. 

jan. 12 home vs lima 3 p.m./4:30 p.m. 

jan. 17 away @ ennis 6 p.m./7:30 p.m. 

jan. 19 away @harrison/willow Creek 5:30 p.m./7 p.m. 

jan. 25 away @ gardiner 5:30 p.m./7 p.m. 

jan. 26 home vs shields valley 2 p.m./3:30 p.m. 

feb. 1 away @ white sulphur springs 5:30 p.m./7 p.m. 

feb. 2 home vs Manhattan Christian 4 p.m./5:30 p.m. 

feb. 7 home vs west yellowstone 5:30 p.m./7 p.m. 

feb. 9 away @ lima (boys’ Play first) 5:30 p.m./7 p.m. 

basketball district tournament MaC Center, butte, Mt, february 13-16, 2013 

basketball divisional tournament, hamilton, Mt, february 20-23, 2013 

basketball state tournament girls’ –belgrade, Mt, february 28-March 2, 2013 

basketball state tournament boys’ – Msu-bozeman, Mt, March 7-9, 2013 

basketball awards banquet – week of March 11-15 – day & time tbd 

bobcat season ends 

with loss to bearkats 

story and Photo 

by Mike Coil 

big sky weekly contributor 

bOZEMAN – The 

MSu bobcat football 

season came to 

an end friday night, 

Dec. 7, with a 34-16 

loss to the bearkats 

of Sam Houston 

State, at bobcat stadium. 

It was a bitter 

defeat for the Cats 

(11-2), who were 

also eliminated 

from the tournament 

last year by 

the bearkats. 

MSu never led. 

while the halftime 

score was 20-3, the 

Cats rallied at the start of the third with a defensive stop and then marched 

the length of the field to make the score 20-9. but the Cats couldn’t manage 

to get any closer as Sam Houston made big plays and played great defense. 

MSu was held to just 72 rushing yards. DeNarius McGhee was the leading 

rusher with 36 yards. 

Sam Houston had 458 yards of total offense while the bobcats had 292. The 

remaining teams in the tournament are Sam Houston State, Georgia Southern, 

North Dakota State and Eastern washington.

sPorts 

Photo by torsten bolten (CC) 

the end of Kickoffs 

by brandon niles 

big sky weekly sports columnist 

NfL Commissioner Roger Goodell 

recently floated the idea of ending 

kickoffs in pro football. Many of the 

gruesome injuries in the sport occur 

during kickoffs, as players run full 

speed down the field towards each 

other causing violent collisions. with 

Goodell’s pledge to make the game 

safer, this is being touted as the next 

step in reducing injuries, specifically 

concussions suffered by the players. 

This is not the first time Goodell 

has recommended a change to the 

NfL rulebook in regard to kickoffs. 

Only a year ago the league voted to 

have teams kickoff from the 35-yard 

line rather than the 30-yard line, to 

encourage more touchbacks. This 

followed a history of the league trying 

to increase kickoff returns, beginning 

with the movement from the 40-yard 

line to the 35-yard line in 1973, then 

to the 30-yard line twenty years later. 

However, last year the league brought 

kickoffs back to the 35-yard line and 

predictably, there were more touchbacks. 

So many in fact, commentators 

have opined this has further softened 

the sport. 

The rule change in 2011 also limited 

the wedge formation (a popular blocking 

scheme on kickoff returns) and 

reducing the head start players on the 

kickoff team can obtain prior to sprinting 

downfield to make a tackle. Players 

known as wedge-busters, who hurl 

themselves into the wedge to break up 

the initial blockers, are also limited in 

how they can break the wedge. 

These rule changes have been very effective 

at limiting the number of kick 

returns. In 2011, the first year of the 

new rules, touchback percentage increased 

from 16.4 percent the previous 

year, to a startling 43.5 percent. 

However, the rule change has led 

many to question the purpose of even 

having kickoffs, with such a dramatic 

change in the number of returns. 

Goodell seems to agree and likely 

believes that getting rid of kickoffs 

entirely will increase player safety. 

Goodell has mentioned considering 

a plan such as the one brought up by 

bucs Head Coach Greg Schiano. Teams 

would start with the ball on the 30yard 

line and could choose to either 

punt the ball or go for it with a fourth 

down and 15 yards to gain a first. 

I like this plan. I love kickoffs. I think 

they produce some of the most exciting 

plays in the game of football. However, 

it is hard to argue with anything 

that reduces the number of violent 

collisions. while kickoffs would 

certainly be missed, and losing such a 

traditional aspect of the game would 

draw heavy criticism, times change 

and the sport needs to evolve with the 

size and athletic ability of the athletes 

who participate in it. 

The idea is not yet fully fleshed out. I 

don’t like the potential for a blocked 

punt in one of these situations, and 

this could certainly put a team with a 

great defense at a significant advantage 

if they can dominate the other team 

by converting on these 4th and 15 opportunities 

consistently. 

However, I do think player safety is 

arguably the most important factor 

to consider in sports, and if this can 

prevent some of the countless injuries 

that occur each year, particularly 

concussions, I think the plan is at least 

worth considering. while I would 

miss kickoffs, I would rather see a 

healthy 53-man roster punting from 

the 30-yard line than another player 

on the ground with a head injury. 

Brandon Niles has done online freelance 

writing about the NFL since 2007. His 

articles range from NFL news to teamspecific 

commentary. A Communication 

Studies graduate student at the University 

of North Carolina Greensboro, 

Niles is also an avid Miami Dolphins 

fan, which has led to his becoming an 

avid Scotch whisky fan over the past 

decade. 



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• convenient to all of Big Sky 

spanish peak CLuB - #22 e 

$495,000. • #186079 • Call stacy or eric 

• 3 bd, 3 ba, 2495 +/- sf 

• gourmet kitchen, dwnstrs bonus room 

• private clubhouse w/ pool, workout facility 

• $595,000 furnished 

gaLLatin river front 

$250,000 • # 184841 • Call Brooms 580-4290 

• .6 +/- acres, back to the Gallatin River 

• 4 bd septic installed, 25 GPM well drilled 

• between Bozeman and Big Sky off Hwy 191 

• a rare opportunity, build dream home here 

Low dog road 

$1,295,000 • #184968 • Call stacy or eric 

• 3 bd, 3.5 ba, 4,181 +/- sf custom home 

• ski-in/ski-out, beautiful furnishings 

• great rental history, immaculately maintained 

• includes: www.bigskyvacationrental.com 

north fork rd, traCt 8 

$950,000 • #180527 • Call stacy or eric 

• 20 acres Triple Triangle Ranch 

• cross country ski trails to lot 

• desirable, private enclave 

• contiguous to tract 2 to create 40 acres 

diamond hitCh, Lot 31 

$599,000 • #186861 • Call don 

• 1.01 acre +/- building lot 

• one of the most beautiful sub lots 

• great mountain views and privacy 

• excellent ski-in/ski-out lot 

spanish peaks CLuB 17e 


• 3 bd, 3 ba, 2,495 +/- sf, end unit 

• custom kitchen, granite counters 

• lovely furnishings, popular E floor plan 

• 2 car heated garage, private clubhouse 

CasCade Lot 69B 


• .86 acre lot 

• unique, wooded parcel, corner lot 

• cross country ski accessible w/views 

• could be combined with adjacent lot 

Don Pilotte, Broker, GRI, RRS, SFR, 406.580.0155 

Eric Ossorio, Broker, 406.539.9553 

Stacy Ossorio, Broker, 406.539.8553 

CraiL ranCh townhome 


• Unit #90, 4 bd, 4 ba, 3500 +/- sf 

• 2 car heated garage, hot tub, wet bars 

• designer furnishings, plus artwork 

• creekside with spectacular views 

10 rising Bear road 


• 20 parcels comprising 20 +/- acres 

• both parcels can be subdivided 

• located between Meadow and Mountain 

• close to Big Sky and Moonlight Resorts 

430 spruCe Cone drive 

$598,000 • #186619 • Call marc 

• 2 bd, 3 ba, 3,200 +/- s loft, additional rooms 

• rock fireplace, clerestory windows, large deck 

• vaulted ceilings, wood floors, custom lighting 

• .32 +/- acre lot, 2 car garage, Agent owned 

skyCrest Condo #1704 

$320,000 • #184925 • Call don 

• 2 bd, 2 ba, 1604 +/- sf 

• remodeled like new 

• furnished, lower level unit 

• fireplace, indoor hot tub 

gaLLatin CaBin 

$190,000 • #183761 • Call Lynn 581-4268 

• 406 +/- sf dry cabin, outhouse 

• 1 +/- acres, picnic area, fire pit 

• 150’ Gallatin river frontage 

• borders USFS, great access 

84 Lazy t-4 road 


• 9 bd, 8 ba, 3500 +/- sf 

• 5.5 +/- acre lot 

• Det. barn, 47’ RV storage w/ 11.5’ door 

• fully fitted apartment above 3 car garage 

Lost traiLs Lot #8 

$780,000 • # 178440 • Call don 

• 20 +/- acres sunny, south-facing building sites 

• between Mountain and Meadow Villages 

• views of Yellowstone Mtn and Spanish Peaks 

• community water system with fire flow 

33 arrow head Condo 

$589,000 • #181216 • Call tim 

• condo unit #1659, 3 bd, 4 ba, 1950 +/- sf 

• ski-in/ski-out upgraded free standing condo 

• great furniture package, indoor hot tub 

• Spanish Peak views, agent owned 

71 eagLe head drive 

$243,000 • #186875 • Call toni 

• 4 bd, 2.5 ba 1700 +/- sf 

• newer flooring, bathroom countertops 

• private sauna, complex pool/hot tub 

• completely furnished unit 

PRiCE REDUCTion 

BLaCk moon road 

$119,000 • #186042 • Call marc 

• 1.86 Cascade subdivision lot 

• outstanding Spanish Peaks views 

• ski Big Sky/Moonlight - short drive 

• great priced lot for Cascade Sub. 

Toni Delzer, Sales Associate, 406.570.3195 

Marc Lauermann, Sales Associate, 406.581.8242

health & wellness 

ask dr. dunn 

by Maren dunn 

big sky weekly health writer 

How do you prevent and treat frostbite during 

montana’s frigid winters? 

- margerie, from texas 

It’s wintertime in Russia, 1812. Napoleon’s army 

is retreating from Moscow, crossing frigid rivers 

and snowy valleys. The troops survive by building 

fires at night and marching by day in subzero 

temperatures. Enter baron Dominique Jean Larrey, 

Napoleon’s military surgeon. 

He noted that troops suffered injuries due to 

cold that worsened with each episode of refreezing. 

while historically known as the pioneer of 

battlefield first aid, Jean Larrey was also the first 

to described frostbite. 

when body tissues are exposed to below-freezing 

air, water or metal for a prolonged period of 

time, the fluid between the cells of those tissues 

freezes. As this takes place, the blood vessels in 

the area constrict reducing the blood flow to the 

area. ultimately, these cells die. 

The dying cells set off an immune system reaction 

causing inflammation and further damage. 

If a frostbite injury thaws but undergoes another 

DPHHS reports increase in influenza activity 

Officials say it's not too late to vaccinate 

HELENA – Local and state public 

health officials are reporting an 

increase in influenza activity and 

reminding Montanans that it’s not 

too late to vaccinate. 

Influenza season typically peaks 

in february and can last as late as 

May, according to Montana Department 

of Public Health and Human 

Services Director Anna whiting 

Sorrell. "we are encouraging people 

who have not yet been vaccinated to 

get vaccinated now." 

Each year, millions of people are 

infected with influenza, more than 

200,000 people are hospitalized, 

and thousands die from its complications. 

Public health officials stress that 

every Montanan aged 6 months and 

older should receive the influenza 

vaccine each year. Getting vaccinated 

protects the person getting 

the vaccine and the community. 

The influenza vaccine is available in 

two forms: a shot and a nasal spray. 

The nasal spray is for use in healthy 

people ages 2 to 49 years who aren’t 

pregnant. 

Anyone can get influenza, but 

some are at greater risk for serious 

episode of freezing, the wound becomes more 

severe. 

frostbite, like burns, can be divided into two 

categories: superficial and deep. As with burns, a 

frostbite injury can worsen quickly if not treated 

properly. Rewarming is the primary method of 

treatment and outside the hospital setting, this 

can be accomplished with warm water or body 

heat. Do not rub frostbitten areas and try not to 

move them. Also, do not rewarm if the affected 

body part will undergo refreezing before receiving 

permanent rewarming, as this will worsen the 

injury. 

In the hospital, rewarming is done quickly while 

other methods are used to restore blood flow. 

Like burns, dressing changes and frequent cleaning 

of the wounds are performed. Sometimes 

amputation is necessary. 

complications. These can include 

pneumonia, hospitalization and 

even death. Getting the flu vaccine 

is especially important for those at 

greater risk for complications. 

People at greater risk include: 

• Children younger than 5 years 

old, especially those younger 

than 2 

• Pregnant women 

'when it comes to frostbite, the 

best management is prevention. 

when planning a cold weather 

outing, watch weather reports, 

dress appropriately and have an 

emergency plan in case you become 

detained." 

• People with certain medical 

conditions like asthma, diabetes, 

or heart and lung disease 

• People 65 years and older 

It's also important to get the vaccine 

if you care for or live with anyone at 

greater risk. It is especially important 

for those caring for infants 

younger than 6 months to get vaccinated 

because infants less than 6 

months old cannot be vaccinated. 

Vaccines are available from your 

doctor, local health department, 

and at many retail pharmacies. for 

more information about influenza 

or the vaccine, talk to your doctor 

or nurse, visit cdc.gov/flu or call 

the CDC at (800) CDC-INfO. 




when it comes to frostbite, the best management 

is prevention. when planning a cold weather outing, 

watch weather reports, dress appropriately 

and have an emergency plan in case you become 

detained. Always dress in layers so wet ones can 

be removed. when traveling in remote areas, let 

someone else know your plans and make sure to 

eat enough calories to sustain your energy. If you 

think you’ve suffered frostbite, see your doctor to 

make sure you heal properly. 

Maren Dunn, D.O., is owner of Gallatin Family 

Medicine, a medical clinic in the Big Sky Meadow 

Village. Gallatin Family Medical offers reduced cost 

and free mammogram screening. Have a question? 

Email her at inquiries@gallatinfamilymedicine.com. 

gallatinfamilymedicine.com 

seasonal affective disorder 

by Megan obert 

big sky counseling clinic 

This time of year our exposure to 

daylight decreases until Dec. 21, the 

winter solstice, when daylight starts to 

increase again. 

Research indicates sunlight exposure 

levels can negatively impact a person’s 

mood, because sunlight affects serotonin 

levels. Serotonin, a chemical in 

the brain that helps regulate mood, is 

found to be lower in people who suffer 

from depression. People show higher 

serotonin levels on sunny days than on 

darker days, indicating that decreased 

light can increase chances of depression. 

If you find yourself feeling moody or 

depressed during winter months and 

happier in spring, you may be suffering 

from Seasonal Affective Disorder, 

or SAD. Almost half a million people 

experience this each winter between 

September and April. SAD occurs more 

frequently in women than men, and 

people typically start to show symptoms 

between ages 18 and 30. 

Symptoms of SAD usually build up in 

the late autumn and early winter and 

are similar to other forms of depression. 

They may include feelings of sadness, 

hopelessness, loss of energy, oversleeping, 

irritability, restlessness, social 

withdrawal and increased appetite. 

These symptoms can range in intensity 

depending on a person’s susceptibility 

to depression and where he or she lives. 

If you experience symptoms of Seasonal 

Affective Disorder, you don’t 

have to tough it out until spring – there 

are options to help elevate your mood. 

first, spend time outdoors in the sunlight. 

Participating in outdoor physical 

exercise will also help increase your 

energy and manage other symptoms of 

depression. In addition, making sure 

you’re eating nutritiously and getting 

enough sleep is recommended, both of 

which are often overlooked in terms of 

their importance. 

Another option is to purchase a phototherapy 

box, or light box. A light box 

mimics natural light from the sun and 

can produce the same chemical changes 

in your brain as sunlight. Phototherapy 

boxes are generally used 30 minutes a 

day and require you to sit near the light 

with your eyes open. 

Light therapy may be effective on its 

own, but in more serious cases, is most 

effective when combined with antidepressant 

medication and counseling. If 

you or someone you know experiences 

symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder 

and are interested in counseling, or 

if you have questions or concerns about 

SAD, the MSu Human Development 

Clinic is available to help. Call 

(406) 570-3907. 

dec. 14 - 27, 2012 23

24 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

outlaw news 

congratulations 

by tyler allen 

big sky weekly distribution director 

Here at Outlaw’s publications, we explore life, land 

and culture in the Greater Yellowstone region. The 

stories, photographs and people we’ve found are 

intriguing and inspiring. 

You’ll find that inspiration, too, in the pages of 

the winter 2013 Mountain Outlaw magazine. we 

have the fortune to work with talented writers, 

photographers, mountain enthusiasts, politicians, 

artists and businesses that love this part of the 

world. Their hard work and devotion to this community 

proves it. 

On Dec. 1, 2012 Mountain Outlaw’s parent company, 

Outlaw Partners (also the publisher of this 

newspaper), threw a party at Choppers in big Sky, 

Mont. to celebrate that hard work. Grizzly Outfitters 

gave away piles of merchandise, bad betty 

rocked their high-tempo blend of jazz and funk for 

three hours, and Outlaw provided free beer until 

the keg ran dry. That’s how it’s done in big Sky. 

“Congratulations,” is the most common response 

I’ve heard from those who’ve touched this magazine. 

from the three college students on the stoop 

of Pub 317 in bozeman, to the countless readers in 

our big Sky home, to the skiers hungrily waiting for 

the first tram of the season at Jackson Hole Mountain 

Resort in wyoming. 

“Thank you,” is my feeble and humble response, 

followed by, “we worked hard on this one.” 

we are grateful to every person who opens this fifth 

rendition of Mountain Outlaw. They gaze at the 

photo gallery with a stunning landscape of Paradise 

Valley in the fall, at Taylor Lyman flying over 

pristine powder in Cooke City, and at the portrait of 

local jazz artist Jeni fleming. 

They smile at Kelsey Dzintars’ info graphic about 

the Gallatin National forest Avalanche Center, bemused 

by the caricature of GNfAC Director Doug 

Chabot and caption, “30: Gallons of coffee downed 

by Doug.” 

They salivate over the Outdoor Athlete’s Guide to 

Office Survival and the new products we’ve had the 

opportunity to use and review. 


If they’ve had time to read the stories, they convey 

to me how strong our editorial staff and the gifted 

group of contributing freelance writers are. I hear 

about which stories struck them, from “under the 

spell of Lone Peak: 40 years down the road” by Marcie 

Hahn-Knoff, to “A postcard from Chilkoot Pass” 

by Corrie Parks, or “brian Schweitzer: A Governor 

and his plan to change the world” by Editor Joseph 

T. O’Connor. 

Amber wiatt, employee at big Sky Exxon told me 

her favorite is “Man and beast: How a grizzly bear 

attack in big Sky reflects the health of a species” by 

Managing Editor Emily Stifler. 

“I tell people they should grab a copy of the magazine 

to read that story if for no other reason,” wiatt 

said. 

Some people leaf through it and immediately say, 

“this is really well produced.” Others hesitate before 

they open the pages and stare at Paul O’Connor’s 

cover shot of architect Michael Reynolds. Depicting 

him in front of one of his Earthship homes in Taos, 

N.M., O’Connor captured Reynolds’ flowing gray 

hair, scruffy beard and sunglasses reflecting a peak 

that looks eerily like 

Lone Mountain. 

tyler allen gets the crowd going at the mountain outlaw release party at Choppers 

Photo by Mike Coil 

This lauding feedback 

about Mountain 

Outlaw from 

people throughout 

the Yellowstone region 

encourages our 

staff to keep striving 

for high-quality 

content. It seems to 

be what the people 

want. 

The praise hasn’t 

only come from 

readers. It’s come 

from our advertisers, 

clients and associates 

around the 

region and world. 

And also from one 

right next door. 



Mountain outlaw magazine is on stands now throught the greater yellowstone region. Photo by tyler allen 

jackson hole get their mitts on the new mountain 

outlaw Photo by tyler allen 

“Thank you for all you do for the arts,” said Colin 

Mathews, owner of Creighton block Gallery in big 

Sky Town Center, in his speech during the magazine 

release party. Mathews has been an Outlaw client 

since 2011, and his gallery is across the parking 

lot from our office. 

Mathews then presented an original oil painting 

by Gary Lynn Roberts to Outlaw CEO Eric Ladd. 

Roberts is a classical western oil painter who lives 

in Hamilton, Mont. and some of his work hangs 

at Creighton block. He was also the subject of a 

feature story by Ryan Dorn, and a depiction of his 

painting, “Go with Pride,” graces the back cover. 

Mountain Outlaw magazine can be found throughout 

southwest Montana, in all of the gateway communities 

surrounding Yellowstone National Park 

including Jackson and Cody, wyo., and is mailed to 

subscribers around the world. 

we appreciate the kind words of congratulations. 

we worked hard on this one.

usiness 

ari o jewelry moved to new location 

on dec. 5, local jewelry maker arianne Coleman opened the doors to her 

new shop, ari o & Co., which is located behind the wrap shack on aspen leaf 

drive. from home décor to clothing and accessories all made by Montana artists, 

ari o & Co. has something for everyone. Photo by Maria wyllie 

Winter Season 

lunch, aprÈ s s K I 

anD DInner 

A special Montana-themed dinner 

menu & live music. 

EVERY wEdnEsdaY aT JaCK CREEK GRILLE 

sTaRTInG dECEmbER 19 


Children’s 

menu available 

RESERVATIONS 

(406) 995-7777 

Soak up the alpine views in the elegantly casual 

Jack Creek Grille, where seasonal gourmet cuisine 

meets MONTANA PERSONALITY. 

Montana 

Night 

Winter means 

powder days, 

snowflakes on 

the tongue, 

DISCOUNTED PRICES ON GUIDED TRIPS 

Learn to fly fish or rest your ski legs 

Two-hour, half-day, full-day walk-wade and float trips 

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Fine Purveyors of WINTER Fly Fishing Awesome-ness. 

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THOMAS LEE PHOTOGRAPHY 

...and fly fishing 

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dec. 14 - 27, 2012 25

usiness 

creighton block adds third gallery room 

“Private Collection” upstairs 



bIG SKY – Colin Mathews is on a mission to 

help make big Sky an art cultural center and 

destination. 

Mathews and his spouse and business partner 

Paula Craver moved their Creighton block 

Gallery from Virginia City to Town Center in 

2010; now two years later, Creighton block 

is expanding, leasing the Charsam Room (for 

display of large canvases) in the neighboring 

RJS building, and opening a new private gallery 

upstairs from its main space in the Market Place 

building. 

The gallery represents distinguished western 

masters including Tom Gilleon, frank Hagel, 

Todd Connor, John DeMott, Gary Lynn Roberts 

and Laurie Stevens – all of whom command five 

figure prices for their work at the annual C.M. 

Russell Auction in Great falls. 

On Dec. 15, Creighton block will open its 

third space, an upstairs private gallery with 

works starting at $10,000. for the opening, the 

Altamira Gallery in Jackson, wyo. is sending 

three oils by R. Tom Gilleon, including two of 

the Cascade, Mont.-based artist’s iconic teepees 

(offered at $24,000 and $60,000), as well as 

bronzes from utah sculptor Greg woodard. 

“The idea is a room that’s top shelf exclusive,” 

Mathews said. “It’s a model that works for many 

art galleries and should work well here.” 

R. Tom Gilleon and several other artists represented 

by the gallery are expected at the opening. 

In addition, Creighton block aims to continue 

bringing work by new artists, selling both the 

"ricochet" bronze by greg woodward 

26 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 


"Mother Moon" by r. tom gilleon 

“Dom Perignon or the Prosecco,” as Mathews 

described it. 

The main gallery will be a bridge between the 

private gallery and Charsam – a space to show 

Kevin redstar 



mid-range work by artists who typically command 

top dollar, and also an anchor for Creighton 

block’s mission to foster the development of 

new artists, and offer art education throughout 

the community. 

Creighton block will also show four kevin redstar originals at the 

dec. 15 opening. the works, originals from the late 1980s and early 

1990s, include one of the Crow indian artist’s abstract teepees – 

“a genre that’s both artistically fabulous and also very collected,” 

Mathews says. 

redstar’s art career began when his grandfather gave him crayons 

and made him draw, continued through a residency at the institute 

of american indian arts in santa fe and a stint in san francisco in 

the ’60s. his work now hangs in the smithsonian. 

“he was one of the handful of native american painters who revolutionized 

Western art,” Mathews said. “With his work, and the influence 

of fritz scholder and his students at the iaia, native american 

paintings became a real force in western art, not just something 

sold to tourists.” 

redstar’s paintings tell his people’s history, Mathews said – how a 

nation of only 5,000 controlled the heart of buffalo country. to their 

west, the sioux were 25,000, and the blackfeet to the east were 

30,000, but the Crow were the great tacticians and horse warriors 

of the plains. 

“he’s is the greatest interpreter for anglo culture about the Crow 

indian people.”

Classifieds/business direCtory 

helP wanted 

The River Rock Lodge is now taking 

applications for front deskp/t 

positions-midnight to 8am. So work 

at night and ski all day! 

And, perfect for students who need study 

time. Apply in person at the River Rock 

Lodge, 88 big Pine Dr, big Sky. Call 

Susie 995-4455 for an interview. Email 

resumes to 

Susie@rpmbigsky.com 

Phonebook delivery. Experience preferred, 

bozeman area. Contact directadllc@aol.com 

with inquiries 

Office manager/Executive Assistant 

position available with local Real Estate 

company. Must have great organizational 

and communication skills, high proficiency 

in database management and excel. 

Pay DOE, please send resume and cover 

letter to bigskyryan@gmail.com 

for sale 

LIKE NEw - burton 154 farm 

Snowboard. $160 ObO. Call 

Tyler (406) 249-8252 

for rent 

RENTALS 

ATV'S, Polaris RZR side by sides, 

RV's, Driftboats & SNOwMObILES 

when the snow flies! 

bigboystoysrentals.com 

406-587-4747 

Bailey Paving 



Attn: 

$450/mo. Call 406-763-4361 

This is a copy Miscellaneous 

of your advertisement which (605) 431-2178 will appear • kelsey@theoutlawpartners.com 

in the 2009-2010 edition of the Big S 

Looking to buy high end used furni- 

Directory published by Statewide Publishing - Montana under the heading(s) of: 

ture and kitchen cabinets. 

Call 406-220-6124 

Paving Contractors 

goes up, over, and through anything. Its speedy ride preserves 

VERIFICATION COPY OF YOUR ADVERTISEM 

1. Is spelling and ad information correct? ................................................................................... 

2. Is your phone number and address correct? .......................................................................... 

3. I understand that colors in my ad may vary due to differences in printer inks & pape 

4. Please mark the necessary corrections directly on the ad as neatly as possible. 

email advertising and/or 

advertising requests to 


or call (406)995-2055 

for SalE 

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environMent 


wolverine trapping halted in Montana 

Court grants temporary restraining order before season opens 

HELENA – Less than 24 hours 

before the start of the wolverine 

trapping season, a Montana District 

Court in Helena put a halt to it as 

the underlying case makes its way 

through state courts. 

Environmental activists call this 

an important step toward protecting 

the animal from extinction in 

the Lower 48, because the species’ 

population suffers when even one 

of the animals is killed. 

On Oct. 11, the western Environmental 

Law Center, on behalf of 

eight community groups and one 

local resident, filed a lawsuit to 

halt wolverine trapping in Montana 

until the species’ population has 

recovered. 

In the decision, the Court opined, 

“balancing the loss of a ‘recreational 

harvest opportunity’ against 

the possible damage to a potentially 

endangered species, the Court finds 

equity lies in favor of issuing a 

temporary restraining order.” 

PLAY VIDEOS TO 

LEARN MORE AT 

FLATHEADLAKETIMBER.COM 

Montana’s wolverine population is estimated at 100 to 175 animals. 

On Dec. 14, 2010, the u.S. fish 

and wildlife Service determined 

that the wolverine deserves federal 

protection under the Endangered 

Species Act, yet they remain a ‘candidate’ 

species awaiting protective 

status. 

Montana is the only state in the 

Lower 48 that still allows wolverine 

trapping, which are trapped 

for their fur. The state’s current 

quota allows five wolverines to be 

trapped and killed each season. 



Montana’s wolverine population is 

estimated at 100 to 175 animals. 

Since being designated a ‘candidate’ 

species for ESA protection, residents 

have submitted extensive comments to 

the Montana fish, wildlife and Parks 

Commission asking the agency to end 

the trapping of wolverines. The Commissioners 

did not respond or otherwise 

address these comments. 

In one study spanning a three year 

period, in the Pioneer Mountains, six 

wolverines were killed in traps, including 

four adult males and two pregnant 

females, killing half of the estimated 

population there. 

The wELC is representing Helena 

Hunters and Anglers Association, 

friends of the wild Swan, Montana 

Ecosystem Defense Council, Native 

Ecosystems Council, the Alliance for 

the wild Rockies, the Swan View 

Coalition, wild Earth Guardians, 

footloose Montana and Mr. George 

wuerthner. 

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dec. 14 - 27, 2012 29

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environMent 

montana fish, wildlife and parks 

bOZEMAN – Montana wildlife officials 

are still seeking comment on 

three overarching elk management 

objectives for populations near 

Yellowstone National Park, aimed 

at reducing the risk of transmitting 

brucellosis infections between elk 

and livestock. 

The focus of the objectives, developed 

by an agency-appointed working 

group, is to reduce the risk of 

disease transmission through various 

elk redistribution techniques. 

The comment deadline is 5 p.m. on 

Dec. 20. 

Over the past 12 months, the working 

group of a dozen local landowners, 

stockgrowers and hunters led 

the effort to examine effective elk 

management options and risk-prevention 

efforts in several southwestern 

Montana hunting districts. 

These hunting districts generally 

border, or are near Yellowstone 

National Park. 

The group will meet Dec. 18 from 9 

a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Montana fish, 

wildlife and Parks bozeman office 

Picture 

life 

here 

(1400 S. 19th St.) to review comments 

received so far, and take additional 

public comment from noon 

to 12:30 p.m. 

brucellosis is a contagious bacterial 

infection found in domestic 

animals, wildlife and humans 

worldwide. In Montana, brucellosis 

has been detected in elk, bison and, 

several years ago, in cattle in areas 

surrounding the park.The disease 

results in miscarriages in some 

pregnant animals, including domestic 

cattle, bison and elk. 

The proposed objectives, recently 

approved for public comment by 

the fwP Commission, are exclusively 

focused on keeping elk away 

from high-risk areas where they 

could commingle with cattle, or in 

unusually high concentrations that 

might increase transmission. 

Some action items or tools that 

could be considered under the 

guidelines include hazing elk away 

from livestock, hunting, potentially 

reducing the size or density of some 

wintering elk herds, and erecting 

fences to keep elk out of specific 

Representing distinguished properties and 

buyers in Big Sky, backed by an international 

network of sales & marketing professionals. 

locations like small scale feed areas. 

Details and specific management 

actions will be developed by local 

working groups and then presented 

for fwP Commission approval, 

which would include additional 

public comment opportunities. 

Officials stressed that a program to 

test elk and then cull those exposed 

to brucellosis is not under consideration. 

"These guidelines are aimed directly 

at keeping elk on the move and 

away from high risk areas," said Ken 

McDonald, chief of the wildlife bureau 

for Montana fwP in Helena. 

"Test and slaughter is not going to 

be considered now or in the future." 

Officials are also seeking comment 

on the working group's issue statement, 

which reads, in part: 

"Tools for reducing the prevalence 

of brucellosis in elk could not 

only reduce the risk of transmission 

to cattle, but could also help 

restore traditional movement and 

distribution of elk. Eradication of 

brucellosis in elk is not currently 

TALLIE JAMISON 

Associate 

406.600.8081 

reallyBIGsky.com 



comment period for elk management, brucellosis risk guidelines ends dec. 20 

feasible; management tools need to 

be endorsed by the fwP Commission 

that will reduce, and if possible 

eventually eliminate the risk 

of transmission between elk and 

livestock, in a manner that considers 

the interest of livestock owners, 

landowners, wildlife enthusiasts, 

recreationists and hunting groups." 

The working group prepared 

several additional strategic objectives 

and offered examples of how 

fwP could carry out risk reduction 

guidelines, but the fwP Commission 

only approved the three "fundamental 

objectives," "Issue Statement" 

and example action items for 

public comment. 

To comment and find more details, 

visit fwP’s website at fwp.mt.gov. 

Click "Elk Management Guidelines." 

Send written comments 

to: fwP–wildlife bureau, Attn: 

Public Comment; P.O. box 200701; 

Helena, MT 59620-0701. for more 

information, call (496) 444-2612.

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section 3: 

life, land and Culture 

gallery 




Dec. 14-27, 2012 

Volume 3 // Issue No. 25 

george bumann: gardiner sculptor, naturalist 

by sean forbes 

big sky weekly contributor 

while many people probably imagine sculpture as 

a relatively sedentary, even tame art – meticulous 

hours spent molding and shaping in a studio – George 

bumann isn’t like most sculptors. 

The Gardiner-based artist does spend time in his 

studio, but bumann, 36, isn’t shy about chasing his 

subjects in and around Yellowstone National Park. 

Even if every once in a while, those subjects end up 

chasing him. 

being treed by an angry moose, for example, just added 

details to his work, which bumann hopes strikes a 

note of truth and captures the myriad elements that 

make the natural world so remarkable. 

He teaches education and art classes through the 

Yellowstone Association, gives lectures for other 

nonprofits and organizations around the region and 

country, and has been on episodes of Animal Planet 

and the Travel Channel. 

bumann’s work is on display at Astoria fine Art in 

Jackson, wyo., Goodnight Trail Gallery in Mancos, 

Colo. and Insight Gallery in fredericksburg, Texas, 

as well as at various national shows and exhibitions – 

the next being the Coors Art Exhibit in Denver. His 

studio in Gardiner can be seen by appointment. 

Recently bumann stepped away from his clay to 

answer a few questions for the Big Sky Weekly. 

Q&a 

BSW: Could you tell us about yourself and how you 

ended up in Gardiner? 

GB: [I grew up] in upstate New York on Oneida Lake, 

where my mother was sculptor and dad was a computer 

networks specialist. I was surrounded by the 

"familiar ground" grizzly bear sculpture by george bumann 

bumann sculpting with assistance from his son. Photo by j. golding 

natural environment, art and history – my mother’s 

father started a cultural history museum covering 

10,000 years of human history in our area. At age 

12, I began to help curate and lead tours, [which] led 

to subsequent jobs in living history interpretation, 

taxidermy, illustration, timber framing, commercial 

fly tying. 

I sought formal training at the College of forestry in 

Syracuse, New York in wildlife ecology and fisheries, 

and subsequently pursued a master’s degree in the 

same field at Virginia Tech. 

I ended up in Gardiner and Yellowstone Park largely 

through my wife (Jenny Golding) and her previous 

work in Yellowstone on a coyote research project. After 

I finished defending my thesis, she recording her 

first CD, and getting married, we sold most of what 

we owned and drove out to Yellowstone for seasonal 

jobs. She was managing the field school campus in 

Lamar Valley for the Yellowstone Association, and I 

was teaching ecology and art. She has since become 

the director of education, and my work has expanded 

to offering educational programs for regional organizations, 

the park service, Xanterra – and there is my 

fine art work. 

BSW: Is there a reason why you picked sculpture as a 

mode of expression? 

GB: Sculpture made sense to me. I grew up with it in 

my mom’s studio, and creating things like armatures 

was second nature. Although I have worked with 

two-dimensional media for a long time, there is something 

very satisfying about being able to grab a hold 

of the medium in three dimensions – to just get your 

hands literally into it. 

I also came back to art because there were just certain 

things I wanted to share that did not fit into my educational 

programs or any other outlet of expression. 

BSW: What’s your inspiration, or what are you trying 

to capture? 

GB: I’m inspired by a deeper sense of the natural 

world. Skeletons, animal anatomy, behavior and communication 

have always fascinated me and although 

Continued on p. 34 

dec. 14 - 27, 2012 33

Continued from p. 33 

gallery 

my sculptures are quite recognizable 

for what they are – say a bison, 

elk or wolf – what I try to do is use 

the subject matter to address more 

timeless ideas in our own human 

nature. 

what I mean by this is 

using the subject matter 

to address the ‘true’ 

subject of all great art, 

which is ourselves, by 

way of universal ideas 

like innocence, curiosity, 

pride, fear, sadness. 

BSW: Do you have any 

stories from working in 

the field? 

GB: Sure do. I’ve been 

chased back into the 

truck by charging 

buffalo, had elk chew on my 

sculptures, treed by moose, battled 

frozen fingers, dodged screaming, 

rampaging bull elk. I’ve had 

sculptures thrown to the ground by 

strong winds, and spent days pulling 

works in progress in and out of 

the truck while trying to keep up 

with mobile subjects. 

34 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

BSW: How long does a sculpture 

take to complete? 

GB: Each sculpture is its own thing. 

Some done in the field can be completed 

in as little as a couple hours while 

"a ton of Momentum" bison sculpture by george bumann 

others, especially those in the studio, 

can be months or even years – mind 

you, this is all on top of over 30 years 

of studying my subjects and the medium 

from the inside out to make such 

'relatively' short completions possible. 

Like a surgeon, you don't get charged 

for the time it takes them to remove 

your wisdom teeth, but the time they 

spent learning how to get it right. 

A lifetime OF SKIING, 

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Memberships Available $5,000 

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while studying moose in the tetons, bumann climbed into a tree to get a better 

view of a bedded bull, meanwhile, a cow and her calf decided to graze underneath 

his perch - keeping him 'suspended' for over half an hour Photo by kyle siMs 

ANNUAL SKI PASSES for members, spouses, and immediate family DISCOUNTS on Moonlight Basin owned retail and dining facilities 

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Purchasing an 

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YOUR SUPPORT MAKES OUR 

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Expanding our 

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children and 

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Beginning 

work on the 

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Meadow trail, 

over 6 miles 

of new trails 

Together, we will continue 

to build the Big Sky 

Community in 2013! 

UPCOMING BSCC PROJECTS 

Expanding 

trails near the 

Big Sky Town 

Center, over 

18 miles of 

new trails 

Beginning a 

new phase of 

construction 

at the Big Sky 

Community 

Park 

Building an 

equestrian 

trailhead near 

Ousel Falls 

Changing 

the name of 

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Ranch to 

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Museum 

Donate Online: 

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/BSCCMT

outdoors 

MOONLIGHT bASIN – This is how 

opening day should be. 

Moonlight basin Ski Resort opened to 

season pass holders on friday, Dec. 7 

with seven inches of new snow, and 

lifted the rope for hikers shortly after 

10 a.m. to boot pack up to the Headwaters. 

Pass holders jammed the parking lot, 

seeking powder they’ve been waiting to 

ride since the end of last season. 

“I was stoked for opening day!” said 

Kruin Seibert, a native of west Yellowstone, 

booting up in the lot. “And then 

we had fresh snow on top of it – this is 

going to be one of the better opening 

days.” 

Seibert’s friend Cam Carlsley, also from 

west, gave a thumbs-up. 

“The first thing I did this morning was 

check the snow report. Then I smiled,” 

Carlsley said. 

The mountain opened with Iron Horse 

and the Pony lifts, and 23 terrain park 

features were available to session. but 

access to the Headwaters had everybody 

talking. 

“we got lucky the way the snow fell,” 

said Kevin Retchless, a ten-year veteran 

of Moonlight’s ski patrol. “It’s filled in 

up there.” 

36 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

“we’ve had teams [in the Headwaters] 

for the last week doing control 

routes,” he added, saying on opening 

day patrollers completed full routes. 

“It’s not bottomless, but it’s good.” 

In Moonlight Lodge, Ryan Gosse, a 

game warden in Ennis, was stretching 

his legs, waiting for the lifts to 

spin. 

Gosse said it felt early for Moonlight 

to open Headwaters, the rugged, 


north-facing terrain to customers, 

but knew ski patrol wouldn’t open it 

unless it was safe. 

“They do a hell of a job up here,” he 

said. “And that’s the truth.” 

Pass holders waited patiently for 

Iron Horse lift operators to begin 

loading chairs, and Shawn Orloff 

from bozeman was first in line. This 

is his fifth year owning a pass at 

Moonlight. 

This early in the season, rocks 

abound, but most folks weren’t worried. 

“we’ve heard reports of more [than 

seven inches of] snow, but we can’t 

disclose where it is,” said John 

Stebbins, a fourth-year pass holder 



Moonlight basin clears headwaters for hikers on opening day 



work? the author catches air between interviews Photo by Chris davis 

To get the goods: first chair at Moonlight Basin's opening day. Photo by Chris davis 

in line for the second lift chair. “It’s 

looking good though. There’s a potential 

for face shots!” 

for Earl and Patty Randall from 

Placerville, Calif., this was there first 

opening day experience at Moonlight 

basin. Each year they move to a different 

ski resort for the season. 

“we’ve gone from Heavenly (Calif.) 

to Deer Valley (utah) and now we’re 

here,” Patty Randall said. “Maybe we’ll 

go to Colorado next.” 

She glanced up the chair line, as lifties 

loaded Orloff and his friends on the 

first chair, and the crowd gave a howl. 

“Or maybe we’ll stay here forever,” she 

said, smiling, and poled her way up a 

few spaces. 

kruin seibert and Cam Carlsley get their stoke on. Photo by josePh t. o'Connor

outdoors 

16th annual 

arc'teryx 

Bozeman Ice 

climbing festival 

Photos by ryan day thoMPson 

rdtPhotograPhy.CoM 

kyler Pallister and aaron Montgomery face off in the 

speed competition of the bozeman ice festival while 

commentator Conrad anker looks on. 

becca skinner takes in the astonishing hyalite landscape near sunrise. 

will gadd, whit Magro, and jason nelson celebrate making the podium of the 

north face invitational while Conrad anker commentates. gadd secured a narrow 

victory over whit Magro. 


Margo Talbot instructs clinic participants in the finer points of pick placement in Hyalite Canyon. 



Clinic participants enjoy world class instruction at one of the bozeman ice festival's clinics in hyalite Canyon. 

will gadd leaves "the Cave" on the ice tower during the north face invitational. 

dec. 14 - 27, 2012 37

word froM the resorts 

Moonlight basin pass holders had an 

epic opening day with 7 inches of fresh 

snowfall on friday, Dec. 7. 

The opening of the Headwaters was 

a highlight for many, and continued 

snow since has allowed patrol to open 

even more terrain. 

Changes since last season include 

improvements to beginner runs made 

by expanding and widening the terrain; 

the creation of an intermediate gully 

run called flyrock Gully, located between 

Cinnabar and wagon Trail; and 

38 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

by Maria wyllie, big sky weekly editorial assistant 

Moonlight basin 

the bag jump will be open thursdays - sundays throughout 

the season. Photo Courtesy of Moonlight basin 

a new bag jump at the Madison Village 

base Area.The bag jump arrived on 

friday, and Moonlight terrain park and 

ski patrol staff are training and preparing 

for a season of big airs. Once open, 

standard days of operation for the jump 

will be Thursday through Sunday for 

the entire season. A Moonlight basin 

lift ticket or season pass is not required 

for bag jump participation, but non-pass 

holders must purchase jump cards or 

tickets. 

Moonlight is 

hosting a number 

of holiday events, 

from skiing with 

Santa on Christmas, 

to celebrating 

the New Year 

with live music 

and a special dinner 

menu at Jack 

Creek Grille. find 

event listings on 

page 41, on the 

Big Sky Weekly’s event calendar, and 

more details under the activities tab on 

Moonlight basin’s website, 

moonlightbasin.com. 

BUCKHORN RANCH 

Wallowa County, Oregon / $18,200,000 

®, and SM are licensed trademarks to 

Sotheby’s International Realty Affi liates 

LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. 

Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Offi ce Is 

Independently Owned And Operated. 


Powder to the people! 

Christmas has come 

early in big Sky, bringing 

piles of snow for skiers 

and snowboarders. 

It’s starting off to be a 

great season, and ski 

patrol is working hard to 

open more terrain each 

day. 

free week for frequent 

Sky Holders took place 

from Nov. 26 – Dec. 2 and was a huge 

success. The resort saw higher skier 

counts than last year nearly every day. 

big Sky is hosting a number of different 

events in the next couple of weeks. 

Aside from Christmas festivities, the 

resort is preparing for the first annual 

Tony Horton fitness weekend, which 

takes place friday, Dec. 21 – Sunday, 

Dec. 23. 

Tony Horton, the creator of P90X, will 

instruct morning workouts as well as 

teach yoga and an upper body workout, 

flexibility and balance training, ski 


big sky resort 


logan schaetzel-hill at big sky resort on friday, dec. 7. 

Photo by Chris kaMMan, big sky resort 

technique training, and a stretching and 

leg workout. 

Locals and visitors can also look forward 

to the way Alt west fest, a four-day 

music festival, taking place Saturday, 

Dec. 29 – Tuesday, Jan. 1. The lineup 

includes special guest Rich Hall of 

Saturday Night Live, the ben Rice band 

and Keegan Smith, among others. 

Stay updated with current conditions 

and daily events via big Sky’s new 

smartphone app for the 2012/2013 

season. The app will also track total 

vertical feet, max speed, and number of 

laps completed. 

snowfall (as of press time): Moonlight: new snow: 14" base depth: 35" big sky: new snow: 14-20" base depth: 36" 

Buckhorn Ranch is the largest premiere operating cattle ranch in Wallowa 

County. e Ranch Headquarters are located in some of the best deer and bird 

hunting in the area, as well as home to an elk herd of over 300 head. is Ranch 

has it all; irrigated farm ground, ample water for cattle and working facilities. 

is Ranch is surrounded by three pristine wilderness areas and several worldclass 

shing rivers. Includes main house, 2 guest houses, & other outbuildings to 

sustain ranch. e Buckhorn Ranch could truly be an amazing legacy. 

Deb Tebbs, President 

Cascade Sotheby’s International Realty 

Cell: 541.419.4553 

Broker, Licensed in State of Oregon 

www.debtebbsgroup.com

gear reviews 

the big sky weekly/explorebigsky.com staff is a group of outdoor-loving 

men and women who play hard almost every second we’re not in 

the office. Some of the gear seen here is brand new, and some of it’s 

stuff we’ve had for ages—we think it’s worth the ink to tell you about 

some of the gadgets, gizmos, gear and garb that make our lives even 

more fun. 

g3 love glove 

They look gimmicky, but they’re cool... and they’re made of Spandex. The 

Love Glove, as its name suggests, will give sweet love to your climbing skins, 

your gloves, and the connective tissue in your shoulders. Never peel stuck 

skins apart again! No more gluey gook on your gloves! Like flipping a t-shirt 

inside out, put your arm in the glove, grab the middle of your skin, and retract. 

from there, they’ll fold up in your jacket or pack, without sticking to themselves. 

Also good for hiding your transceiver for beacon drills. One qualm: It’s 

one more thing to remember to pack. E.S. 

$35 

For more new gear from 2013, check out our Holiday Gift and Gear Guide in 

section four. 

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dec. 14 - 27, 2012 39

Peace of Mind 

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• Oil & Filter Change • Tire Rotation • 19-point Inspection 

24/7 Roadside Assistance: 

• Tire Change • Lockout Protection • Towing 

ToyotaCare covers normal factory scheduled service. Plan is 2 years or 25k miles, whichever comes first. The new Toyota vehicle cannot be part of a rental or commercial 

fleet or a livery or taxi vehicle. Other restrictions may apply. See local participating Toyota dealer for coverage and details. 

40 nov. 30 - dec. 13, 2012 explorebigsky.com 

Toyota of Bozeman 

INSERT DEALER INFO HERE 

866-623-5535 

events 

The earTh and sky XIII 

thoMas lee, "big hole river, Montana," 2012, PhotograPh, 1/25, 24"x36" 

bIG SKY – Gallatin River Gallery 

will host an opening reception during 

the big Sky Christmas Stroll, Dec.14, 

from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., serving up art, 

refreshments and treats. 

This is the gallery’s annual show, 

entitled “THE EARTH & SKY XIII.” 

The show will feature works in diverse 

mediums from select artists referencing 

the earth and sky, including 

local favorite painters Jennifer bessen, 

Shawna Moore and Tom Thorton, plus 

local photographers Michael Haring 

and Thomas Lee, as well as many other 

artists. 

“Contemporary individual perspectives 

united in theme from inspired Montana 

artists and beyond reflect the spirit and 

power of our natural world,” wrote GRG 

owner Julie Gustafson in a press release. 

A special treat, Gustafson noted, will 

be a recent Russell Chatham original oil 

painting depicting the quiet solace of a 

Montana winter twilight. 

The gallery, which moved to a new space 

in the big Sky Town Center this year, exhibits 

sculpture, paintings, photography 

and one of a kind jewelry in group theme 

and solo shows.

friday, dec. 14 

big sKy 

Military Appreciation 

big Sky Resort, 9 a.m. (thru Sun.) 

Images of America: big Sky book signing 

Creighton block Gallery, 4 p.m. 

CHRISTMAS STROLL 

Meadow Village and Town Center, 

5:30-8:30 p.m. 

bozeMan 

Energy workshops 

Montana weatherization Training, noon 

A Christmas Carol (thru 12/23) 

Ellen Theater, 7:30 p.m. 

Sister Mary Ignatius explains it all for you 

Equinox Theater, 8 p.m. (and Sat.) 

Saddle Tramps 

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

Cowboy Elvis Xmas Party 

filling Station, 9 p.m. 

livingston & Paradise valley 

Dan Dubuque 

Pine Creek Café, 7 p.m. 

Montana Rose 

Chico Hot Springs Saloon, 9 p.m. 

(and Sat.) 

west yellowstone 

Rodeo Run Dogsled Races 

Old Airport, thru 12/16 

saturday, dec. 15 

big sKy 

Pancakes with Santa 

big Sky fire Department, 9:30 a.m. 

barbara Pierce Trunk Show & 

“Private Collection Salon” 

Creighton block Gallery, 10 a.m. 

bozeMan 

bert & Charlie’s unconventional 

Christmas Carol 

Equinox/Verge Theater, 2 p.m. 

Ashley Holland 

Ted’s Montana Grill, 7 p.m. 

Storyhill 

Gallatin Gateway Inn, 7 p.m. 

Christmas Contra Dance 

Eagles uptairs, 7:30 p.m. 

David boone 

Peach Street Studios, 7:30 p.m. 

Kopecky family band 

filling Station, 9 p.m. 


Speakeasy Christmas 


west yellowstone 

events 

Yellowstone’s west Entrance 

Open for Oversnow Travel 

sunday, dec. 16 

big sKy 

Advent Candle Lighting 

All Saints Chapel, 9:30 a.m. 

bozeMan 

west Coast Swing 

baxter ballroom, 6 p.m. 

Improv on the Verge 


Open Mike 

Haufbrau, 10 p.m. 

free Pool! 

Every Mon. at the Eagles 

Monday, dec. 17 

big sKy 

Kenny Diamond 

Carabiner, 4 p.m. 

bozeMan 

west Coast Swing 

baxter ballroom, 6 p.m. 

Improv on the Verge 


Open Mike 


free Pool! 

Every Mon. at the Eagles 

tuesday, dec. 18 

bozeMan 

bike Kitchen Open to the Public 

bozemanbikeKitchen, 6 p.m. (every Tues!) 

Tango Montana 

beall Park Art Center, 7 p.m. 

Open bluegrass Jam 

Pub 317, 7 p.m. 

wednesday, dec. 19 

big sKy 

Shuffleboard wednesday (every week) 

Lone Peak brewery, 8 p.m. 

bozeMan 

bob britten, 6:30 p.m. 

Sizzling Salsa Christmas Party, 8 p.m. 

baxter ballroom 

Judy fjell 

Emerson weaver Room, 7 p.m. 

uke Group 

wild Joe’s, 7:30 p.m. 


writer’s Night 


thursday, dec. 20 

big sKy 

business After Hours 

GAS & Santosha, 5:30 p.m. 

bozeMan 

MSu bobcats vs. Sacramento State 

brick breeden fieldhouse, 7 p.m. 

Kenny Diamond 

ferraro’s, 7 p.m. 


blues 2 

Livingston bar & Grill, 7 p.m. 

friday, dec. 21 

big sKy 

Tony Horton weekend 

big Sky, 9 a.m. 

bozeMan 

Sister Mary Ignatius Explains it All for You 

Equinox Theater, 8 p.m. (and Sat.) 

Archer’s Mob 

Eagles, 9 p.m. 


Prairie windjammers 


10 foot Tall & 80 Proof 

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

Strangeways End of world Party 

Murray bar, 9:30 p.m. 

saturday, dec. 22 

big sKy 

2nd Annual bSSEf fundraiser 

buck’s T-4, 5 p.m. 

bozeMan 

winter wonderland 

Children’s Museum of bozeman, 11 a.m. 

bert & Charlie’s unconventional 

Christmas Carol 


MSu bobcats vs. N. Arizona 

brick breeden fieldhouse, 2 p.m. 

Tumbledown House 

Ted’s Montana Grill, 7 p.m. 


Dos Mayos 


sunday, dec. 23 

big sKy 

Advent Candle Lighting 


bozeMan 

Christmas Tea 

Gallatin Gateway Inn, 2 p.m. 

Kostas 

Kountry Korner Café, 5:30 p.m. 

Irish Music Sing 

Pub 317, 7 p.m. 



Monday, dec. 24 

big sKy 

Kenny Diamond 

Carabiner, 4 p.m. 

Carol & Candlelight Service 

All Saints Chapel, 8 p.m. 

bozeMan 

library closed 


Planning an event? let us Know! eMail tyler@theoutlawPartners.coM, and we’ll sPread the word. 



Open Mike 


tuesday, dec. 25 

big sKy 

Eucharist worship Service 


bozeMan 

library closed 


Community Christmas Dinner 

Civic Center, noon 

wednesday, dec. 26 

bozeMan 

bob britten 

baxter ballroom, 6:30 p.m. 

uKE Group 


Vette w/ Leif Christian 

Peach St. Studios, 7:30 p.m. 

Sizzling Salsa 



writer’s Night 



big sKy 

Shuffleboard wednesday 

Lone Peak brewery, 8 p.m. 

bozeMan 

uKE Group 


Sizzling Salsa 



big sKy 

Eagle Mount Demo Days 

Moonlight basin, 10 a.m. 

bozeMan 



The Stringjumpers 

The Mint in belgrade, 7 p.m. 

dec. 14 - 27, 2012 41

42 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

entertainMent 

in Montana, on Men’s Journal 

“Remote and Refined” filmed at Montana guests ranches 



MONTANA, NEw YORK – A new 

video series on the Men’s Journal website 

is showcasing some of Montana’s finest 

digs, and a top talent is hosting the show. 

In its first two segments, “Remote and 

Refined,” a four-part series shot on location 

across the American west, features 

Triple Creek Ranch and the Resort at 

Paws up, two working Montana guest 

ranches. 

The idea is to “show off these beautiful 

ranches that you never knew existed,” 

said Ryan Van Duzer, the show’s host 

and a nationally acclaimed adventure 

personality. “Each has their own charm 

and beauty.” 

In the latest video, released on Dec. 3, 

Van Duzer visited Triple Creek Ranch, 

tucked into the bitterroot Mountains in 

Darby, Mont. One of 475 worldwide 

members of the exclusive Relais & 

Chateaux hotel collection, Triple Creek 

treated Van Duzer to the goods: fly fishing 

on the bitterroot River. 

He bagged a cutbow trout, and the 

resort’s chef taught him how to prepare 

his catch in style. 

The first segment in the series, shot at 

the Resort at Paws up in Greenough, 

Mont., 30 miles east of Missoula along 

the blackfoot River, introduced Van 

Duzer to glamping (glamorous camping). 

“Paws up is nicer than a hotel room in 

Manhattan,” Van Duzer said. 

At this working cattle ranch, which sits 

on 37,000 acres, glampers are treated to 

heated slate floors, king-sized beds and 

a camping butler, while having the opportunity 

to run cattle drives and dine 

at barrel-racing event dinners. 

what stunned Van Duzer, however, 

was Montana’s landscape and its 

sunsets. It was his first visit to big Sky 

Country. 

“I totally fell in love with Montana,” 

the boulder, Colo. native said. “I love 

small town Americana.” 

for Van Duzer, the adventure film segments 

are nothing new. 

The 33-year-old video journalist and 

filmmaker has hosted and produced 

more than 70 videos, appearing on the 

Travel Channel, the History Channel 


and National Geographic. He is currently 

found on the Discovery Channel, 

working on “Out of the wild,” an 

adventure reality show shot in Venezuela. 

but Van Duzer, who has a broadcast 

journalism degree from the university 

of Colorado-boulder, had to cut his 

teeth like any journalist. In 2006, he 

launched his first show, an adventure 

program called “Out There,” on boulder 

Public Access TV, Channel 54. 

“I was living in my mom’s basement and 

wasn’t making any money,” Van Duzer 

said. “but all I needed was money for 

Doritos and a few beers.” 

The show, which aired three times a 

day around the flatirons, caught the local 

newspaper’s eye. The Boulder Daily 

Camera asked Van Duzer to produce a 

weekly adventure series for the paper’s 

website, and it set his career in motion. 

In 2007, after a two-year stint in the 

Peace Corps in Honduras, Van Duzer 

set out on a trip that marked both his 

sense of adventure and his success: 

He rode his bicycle from Honduras to 

boulder. 



Afterward, he sent a short video 

about the 4,000-mile bike ride to the 

Travel Channel, which aired on the 

station’s “what’s Your Trip,” hosted 

by television personality Andrew 

Zimmern. The Travel Channel then 

began showing Van Duzer’s work 

regularly. 

“I want to make people happy,” Van 

Duzer said. “I don’t do this stuff to 

show off, it’s so I can inspire people.” 

The ‘out there guy,’ as he is affectionately 

known in boulder, plans to keep 

on trucking and get people off their 

couches and into adventure. 

As he’d say at the end of each show 

on Channel 54, pointing into the 

camera: “Get out there!” 

The third episode of “Remote and 

Refined” was filmed in Wyoming and 

will air in January, while the final 

segment has yet to be shot. Van Duzer 

said the plan is for Colorado or Utah, 

and it will hit the website in February. 

For more on Ryan Van Duzer and 

to view “Remote and Refined,” visit 

mensjournal.com/adventure/remoteand-refined. 

Sleigh ride dinnerS 

Featuring... 

Sleigh Ride Dinners 

Day Sleigh Rides 

Heated Sleighs 

Fun for the entire family! 

cache creek outfitterS 

Big Sky, Montana • 406-995-3888

fun 



find out what tunes we’re bumping! In “Powder Playlist,” Big Sky 

Weekly staff and guests suggest a soundtrack for a day on the mountain, 

and local riders have a chance to share what they listen to when they 

shred. Keep in mind it’s important to be aware of your surroundings 

while skiing, and listening to music too loudly can be dangerous. 

guest picks 

staff picks 

originally from kansas City, Mo, snow- this issue’s staff picks showcase a vaboarders 

derek Cummings and www.VectorOpenStock.com 

Cody riety of music. whether you’re suiting 

and austin budelouich throw you up to shred or riding down the bowl, 

some fresh, electronic beats and a these songs will make you want to 

metal track for those extra long days. point your tips and charge it. 

new to big sky, Cummings and the 

budelouich brothers work as lift opera- 

song, artist: 

tors for big sky resort and are ready to 

get to know lone Mountain. 

1. breezeblocks, alt-j 

2. Wildfire (Paper Diamond Remix), SBTRKT 

song, artist: 

3. Callin’ out, lyrics born 

1. buzzin’, overwerk 

4. lez go, Cypress hill & rusko 

2. spectrum (feat. Matthew koma), Zedd 5. Caribou lou, tech n9ne 

3. killin’ it, krewella 

6. daddy’s lambo, yelawolf 

4. shadow in the rose garden, the M 7. Mondrian, andre legacy 

Machine 

5. another day, the album leaf 

6. arrive beautiful leave ugly, dada life 

7. i never wanted, as i lay dying 

8. starchaser, Coyote kisses 

9. the sun, the naked and famous 

10. free (the stratos spaced out remix), 

twin atlantic 

-ELK RIDGE RANCH- 

LIVINGSTON • $2,100,000 

640 +/- acres (4 parcels), spectacular elk, deer and antelope hunting, 

borders USFS land, Yellowstone River access, minutes to town 

More Fine Ranch & Recreational Offerings: 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROAD • BELGRADE • $4,300,000 

719 +/- acres, 3,622 +/- sf home, primitive cabin, borders USFS land, 

Mill Creek runs through, water rights, productive hay ground 

ROCK CREEK SECTION • GARDINER • $2,700,000 

640 +/- acres, log cabin, meadows, creeks, springs, trees, 

borders USFS land for 3.5 +/- miles, excellent recreational property 

T BAR Z ROAD • WHITEHALL • $1,450,000 

237 +/- acres, 6,048 +/- sf home was lodge for the historic 

T Bar Z Ski Area, Locati designed addition, trees, alpine meadow 

Don Pilotte RanchMT.com 

Broker, GRI, SFR 

Resort & Recreation Specialist 

(406) 580-0155 


dec. 14 - 27, 2012 43


We’d like to take this opportunity to thank our amazing team, family and clients for 

their dedication and loyalty through the building of our new business; 

Martha Johnson, Broker 

406.580.5891 

martha@bigskyrealestate.com 

Michael Schreiner, Associate 

406.580.5624 

michael@bigskyrealestate.com 

ELKRIDGE 32 

The Club at Spanish 

Peaks, 5bd, 7 bath, on 

the golf course/ski in/ 

ski out. Gorgeous 

views. 

$3,485,000 

240 TROPhy BuLL 

3 bd + bunk room, 

5 bath on 20 acres. 

Borders National 

Forest with top of 

the world views. 

$1,950,000 

Ducks Pond Estate 


Peaks, 4 bd, 4.5 

bath, timber framed 

construction, 20 acres. 

$1,599,000 

ontana Living ~ Big Sky Real Estate 

Craig Smit, Broker 

406.581.5751 

craig@bigskyrealestate.com 

Karen Davids, Associate 

406.580.5700 

karen@bigskyrealestate.com 


Warmest Wishes for a Happy & Healthy 2013! 

Martha & Scott Johnson 

Owners | ontana Living ~ Big Sky Real Estate 

Suzanne Schreiner, Associate 

406.570.4935 

suzanne@bigskyrealestate.com 

Kevin Butler, Broker 

406.570.3890 

kevin@bigskyrealestate.com 

John Bauchman, Associate 

406.570.1920 

john@bigskyrealestate.com 

The Pines Condominium 

4 bd, 4 bath, centrally 

located, huge views of 

the Spanish Peaks, 

model unit. 

From $429,000 

Snowcrest 8512 

Ski-in/ski-out, heart of 

the mountain village. 

Best ski location in Big 

Sky, solid rental history. 3 

bd, 3.5 bath. 

$1,399,000 

ELK RIDGE #69 


Peaks, 4bd, 5.5 bath, 

5,000 sq ft. Ski-in/ski-out, 

.96 acres, great views, 

fabulous decking and hot 

tub. 

$3,050,000 

This information is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change, withdrawal and approval of purchase by owner. All information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed by Montana 

Living - Big Sky Real Estate, independent investigation is recommended. For properties being purchased at The Club at Spanish Peaks approval for membership is required prior to closing. If you 

are currently working with another real estate agent, this is not intended as a solicitation.

BigSkyRealEstate.com | 406.995.6333 | Located in Big Sky Town Center 

GREAThORN K 

RANCh #3 

Fabulous 20 acres 

located only minutes to 

Big Sky Town Center. 

Resident wildlife 

& gorgeous views. 

$649,000 

ESSENTIA 

CONDOMINIuMS 

2 units, 2 great 

floorplans, central 

location in Big Sky Town 

Center. Strong long 

or short term rental 

history . 

$405,000 & $480,000 

1620 ChIEF JOSEPh 

Generational estate. 

7,500 sq. ft. 4 Suites, 

elevator, office and 

workout room. 8.3 

acres with amazing 

views of Big Sky. 

Broker owned. 

Call for price. 

3079 TwO MOONS 

Spacious home 4 Bd 

& 4 Baths. Great 

location w/easy walk 

to Town Center and 

Golf Course. Granite 

counters, slate and 

hardwood floors. Hot 

tub. Motivated Seller. 

$699,000 

BLACK EAGLE 

CONDOMINIuM S 

Ski-in/Ski-out. In the 

Mountain Village. 3 

to choose from. One 

finished and furnished. 

3-5 bdrm. New 

construction. Great 

rental history. 

From $895,000 

POwDER RIDGE 

CABIN #126 

Ski-in/ski-out, 5 bd, 4 

bath, 3,064 sq. ft. hot tub 

and single car garage. 

Big views from multiple 

decks. Great rental 

history. 

$895,000 

This information is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change, withdrawal and approval of purchase by owner. All information from sources deemed reliable, but not guaranteed by Montana 

Living - Big Sky Real Estate, independent investigation is recommended. For properties being purchased at The Club at Spanish Peaks approval for membership is required prior to closing. If you 

are currently working with another real estate agent, this is not intended as a solicitation.

46 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

wanderer at rest 

how do i unlike? 

by jaMie balke 

big sky weekly ColluMnist 

Normally I write this column about misadventures, 

realizations, or my love affair with the west. Today, 

if you don’t mind, I would like to rant. 

In my humble opinion, facebook may be out of 

hand. I’ll admit to posting my share of moody song 

lyrics and carefully selected photos on my old page, 

but those days are gone. 

I am happily deactivated, having decided I’m better 

off if I don’t see the statements people make online. 

Also, the constant need to stay ahead of new privacy 

concerns creeped me out. I am not advocating this 

decision is for everyone but I haven’t looked back, 

except for missing the birthday reminders, which 

were super-handy. 

At first, I had a “live and let live” facebook philosophy. 

However, it didn’t take long before this most 

pervasive of mediums infiltrated my face-to-face 

conversations. 

The following interaction has transpired often 

enough to give me pause: 

Me: “Hey friend, how goes it?” 


friend: “Hey! Oh … I guess you 

don’t know.” 

Me: “Know what? Is everything 

okay?” 

friend: “Everything’s fine, but 

since you’re not on facebook 

anymore, you probably didn’t see 

my post.” 

This last part is usually accompanied by a pitying 

look and mild annoyance at the inconvenience I’ve 

caused by forcing my friend to repeat him/herself. 

I acknowledge that facebook is successful. It is a 

remarkable way for people to share, connect, and 

express themselves, and I respect that. Rock on with 

your bad self. 

Post the pictures that help distant loved ones feel 

closer; Tell people what you are thinking and what 

is important to you; Receive words of support and 

encouragement. 

I find it disconcerting we prefer sharing information 

with an online audience, rather than having a 

discussion, in which we gradually unravel details of 

our lives in a dynamic give-and-take exchange. Call 

me old-fashioned, but that wierds me out. 

Discover the north side 

of the biggest skiing in america® 

at moonlight basin resort 



My intention is not to rally for a false simplicity of 

times past. being twenty-something, I recognize 

this column could border on blasphemy – I appreciate 

the incredible opportunities of a world connected 

online. 

Then again, I hope investment in carefully constructed 

online personalities doesn’t lessen our 

investment in meaningful personal connections. 

Or maybe I’m reading too much into this and need 

to get over myself. 

End rant. 

Unlike 

I hope I have not angered The facebook. 

Jamie Balke moved to Bozeman in the fall of 2009. 

She can generally be found behind the cover of a book, 

meandering down a trail or desperately trying not to 

kill houseplants. 

New this winter! 

BAGJUMP 

Come check it out and get ready to 

LAUNCH! 

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@moonlightbasin · #moonlightbasin

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48 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

noun: wild or rough terrain 

adjacent to a developed area 

origin: shortened form of 

“back 40 acres” 

Preparation and execution: 



for the big sky weekly, the back 40 is a resource: a 

place where we can delve into subjects and ask experts 

to share their knowledge. topics include regional 

history, profiles of local artists and musicians, snow and 

avalanche education, how-to pieces for traditional or 

outdoor skills, and science. 


tips for a great season in the backcountry 

by eriC knoff 

gallatin national forest avalanche center 

Heading out for a day in the hills is easy and 

rewarding. but we must follow a few simple 

preparations that if not practiced routinely can 

result in drastic consequences. 

1. BeFoRe you Go 

being prepared starts at home, with making 

sure your equipment is operating correctly and 

knowing how to use it. 

Beacon, shovel, probe 

One often-overlooked detail is the lifespan of your 

avalanche transceiver batteries. Replace them at 

the start of every winter season, no matter how 

much use they received the previous winter. Know 

how to check the transceiver battery power, and 

when it drops below 50 percent, change them out. 

Never use rechargeable batteries in a transceiver 

– they wear out quickly and do poorly in the cold. 

In addition, an avalanche shovel and probe always 

accompany your transceiver. Make sure these 

important rescue tools assemble properly and 

weren’t damaged during their hibernation in the 

gear closet. 

Practice 

before heading into avalanche terrain, do at least an 

hour or two of avalanche transceiver practice with 

your backcountry partners. being familiar with 

all your equipment before you leave the house is a 

great way to ensure you make it home for dinner. 

education 

Gathering valuable backcountry information only 

takes a minute and is easily done at home. Know 

the phone number and website address of the 

local avalanche center (see footer). Stay updated on 

current local avalanche and weather conditions. 

Check the schedule of avalanche education classes 

offered in your community, and take at least one 

course geared toward avalanche education and safe 

backcountry travel. 

2. at tHe tRaIlHeaD 

Preparation continues once you reach the 

trailhead. 

make a plan 

Communicate with your partners and make a plan 

for that specific day. This plan should be made 

around each individual’s riding ability and from 

the information you received at home concerning 

weather and avalanche conditions. Know if the 

area you are riding in has cell phone coverage and 

which members of the team are carrying a cell 

phone. Communication between partners is often 

neglected and can play a huge role in the outcome 

of the day. 

Beacon check 

when a plan has been made and everyone is 

comfortable with the agenda, a transceiver check 

on every member needs to be conducted. This 

simple procedure only takes a minute. Turn all 

transceivers to transmit. One member then turns 

his transceiver to receive and checks for the loud 

beeping and blinking lights as he gets close to each 

individual. After transceivers have been turned on 

and checked, they are strapped to the body under 

at least one piece of clothing. They must always 

be turned on at the car and should never go into 

packs or on the outside of riding apparel. Other 

equipment checks on probes, shovels and first aid 

kits should also be done at the car. 

3. HaVe a Fun, saFe Day out 

use your preparations and knowledge to make 

it a safe day on the slopes. Terrain recognition 

and good route finding are essential skills for 

backcountry travel. Venturing into avalanche 

terrain requires clear communication and a team 

mentality. 

one at a time 

Exposing only one skier/rider at a time on 

avalanche prone slopes is imperative. Putting more 

than one person on a slope dramatically increases 

the chance of triggering an avalanche. with one 

rider on the slope, the rest of the team must be 

in a safe zone, with a clear view of the rider at all 

times. This will allow a rapid response in case an 

avalanche does occur. 

understanding of terrain 

Recognition of potentially dangerous slopes, 

terrain traps and islands of safety are also integral 

to traveling in avalanche terrain. 

Weather 

weather influences daily planning and 

preparations. Rapid weather changes can rapidly 

change the stability of the snowpack. Consistent 

temperature observations, wind direction and 

precipitation should be routinely noted. It doesn’t 

need to be snowing for the avalanche hazard to be 

increasing. Strong winds can load slopes quickly, 

making them unpredictable and dangerous. 

Staying focused and aware of your surroundings 

will allow you to make safe decisions throughout 

the day. 

Applying simple preparations to a well-tuned 

baseline of skills is an effective way to ensure a 

safe and fun backcountry experience. 

Eric Knoff is a forecaster with the Gallatin National Forest 

Avalanche Center. Visit GNFAC at mtavalanche.com, or call 

(406) 587-6981. This piece was adapted from one originally 

written for the Montana Snowmobile Association.


clothing • jewelry • accessories • gadgets • skis • snowboards • baselayers • outerwear

Gifts 

tyler allen toting his kletterwerks kurier to a happy hour meeting at aleworks 

Photo by tiM gates of kletterwerks 

50 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 


Kletterwerks Kurier 



looking to do your last minute shopping? here are some recommendations, from lone mountain ranch’s 

authentic montana sleigh ride, to the hottest touchscreen compatible gloves from black diamond. 

If you haven’t heard of Dana Gleason, you should probably crawl out from 

underneath the rock where you’ve been living and buy one of his packs. 

The founder of Dana Design and Mystery Ranch cut his teeth making Kletterwerks, 

which went bankrupt in 1983 after Gleason sold his stake. Kletterwerks 

remained bozeman lore until 2012, when Gleason’s son D3 resurrected the 

business, bringing back the timeless look and functional designs. 

I use the Kletterwerks Kurier every day. It holds my computer, camera, documents 

and all the necessary accessories for a mountain journalist. My fly reel is 

kicking around in there, too. It’s comfortable, essential and the rust orange color 

turns heads all over town. Available at Schnee’s in Bozeman. – Tyler Allen 

kletterwerks.com $299 

aleworks 

gift certificates 

rugged urban mountain tech 

Retro yet modern, the Kletterwerks Nobel Pocket should probably win the Nobel gear prize. Simple in design but ultra-functional, 

the padded pouch safely holds an ipad; a padded internal divider and pockets help organize smaller items like power cords, iphones 

or ipods. – Megan Paulson 

$59 

black diamond digital liner glove 

I admit, I’m one 

of those people – I 

constantly have 

my iPhone out. I’m 

either switching 

my playlist, trying 

to locate my ski 

partner, or faking 

I’m in the office by 

answering emails 

on the chairlift. 

The black Diamond 

digital liner gloves 

are perfect for 

Photo by tyler busby 

any cold weather 

touch screen activity. They are light enough to comfortably fit under my snowboarding 

mittens, and warm enough to wear on their own every day. The touch 

screen compatible finger pads are practically undetectable, so I can be a tech geek 

without actually looking like one. The index finger pads work like a charm, even 

through my hard shell phone case. The slightly bulkier thumb pads make composing 

texts a little cumbersome, but nothing that autocorrect can’t fix (just make 

sure you proofread). These gloves would make a great gift for any touch screen 

user in your life. – Kelsey Dzintars 

blackdiamondequipment.com $49.95 

Montana Ale works in bozeman 

is forking over good deals 

this holiday season, notably, its 

gift cards. buy a $25 gift card for 

your loved ones, employees or 

associates until Dec. 23 and get 

a free $5 gift certificate thrown 

in for yourself. want a holiday 

bonus? A $100 gift card purchase 

will get you a $25 certificate. The 

gift cards are treated like cash, 

and the certificate is for one-time 

use between Dec. 26 and March 

31. use it to get yourself a pint of 

beer from one of their 40 taps and 

toast to the giving season. - T.A. 

sleighride dinner 

wrap a heavy wool blanket around you and breathe in the cold night air. The 

sleigh moves slowly behind the team of draft horses, and spruce and fir trees 

are silhouetted, dark against the night sky. Lone Mountain Ranch has hosted 

sleigh ride dinners for 33 years, pulling guests to the candlelit North fork cabin 

for Montana-raised prime rib dinners cooked on a wood-fired stove, live music 

and cowboy poetry, and wholesome fun. Vegetarian and kids meals available. 

lonemountainranch.com $63 - $98 - Emily Stifler 

Photo by brian niles

shelly bermont 

custom jewelry 

Jeweler Shelly bermont believes 

if you have a special 

piece of jewelry, you should 

be able to wear it every 

day – even with jeans. “It 

shouldn't stay in a jewelry 

box because it’s too fancy to 

wear,” she says. 

with 25 years of experience, bermont might transform 

formal pearl earrings into a custom leather lariat, 

or perhaps set diamonds into a hand-hammered fine 

sterling bracelet with a matte gold cap. Her signature 

line specializes in raw diamonds, large South Sea and 

Tahitian pearls, and 18 and 22 carat gold. She sells 

wholesale in Montana, and she’ll wrap and deliver. 

– E.S. 

Call Bermont for a private appointment – (406) 548-4477, 

or find her at shellybermont.com. starting at $750 

vintage winter 

Vintage winter has 

a large collection of 

antiques, home decor and 

other ski and alpine-related 

gifts that make great 

presents for any winter 

sports enthusiast. Experienced 

antique dealers Jeff 

Hume and Nick Thomas 

started the company 

because they love skiing, 

they love big Sky, and 

they love powder. 

“we are always looking 

for unique items to fit 

into our alpine lifestyle and high-end resort cabins,” Hume said. 

Vintage winter’s toboggan wall shelf and snowboard coat rack are two of the 

company’s most popular items and are both crafted by hand, one at a time with 

quality hardwoods to ensure durability and functionality. 

The toboggan shelf is the perfect addition to any home needing some winter flair. 

It was designed with the classic American western toboggan in mind and features 

steam-bent slats combined with aged wood. The shelf comes in two different 

sizes priced at $289 for the smaller shelf and $379 for the larger. 

The vintage snowboard coat rack is a well-made replica of the early wooden 

snowboards inspired in part by the classic brunswick Snurfer made by Sherman 

Poppen in 1967. On sale for $79, this is one coat rack that won’t disappoint. 

Visit vintagewinter.com to purchase some lasting Christmas gifts. Outlaw readers 

get 15% off their entire order by entering promo code OuTLAw. – M.W. 




Krimson Klover 

andora sweater 

The Krimson Klover Andora sweater 

is made from lightweight, tightly 

woven, supersoft merino wool – 

something not often found in such 

a fashionable piece. The draping 

boatneck, dolomite sleeves and 

slimming waistband all add to the 

allure of this sweater, which is perfect 

for the winter chills. Its versatile style 

makes it ideal for a casual day around 

town or a dinner date in the throes of 

January. There is no reason to resort to 

turtlenecks to stay warm this season. 

-Katie Morrison 

$166 krimsonklover.com 

sanuk torrey boots 

The Sanuk Torreys may be made by SoCal surfers, but my redneck boyfriend calls them mule skinner 

boots – obviously a compliment. I say they’re stylish enough to wear with a dress, grippy enough 

for walking in the snow and on the SlackRack, and comfy enough to wear with jeans. The back zipper 

makes on/off easy, and I’m crazy for the fluffy faux shearling lining. – E.S. 

$149 sanuk.com 

dec. 14 - 27, 2012 51

Gifts 

Photo by brian niles 

exotac nanostriKer 

fire starter 

You dropped your lighter in the river and lost your 

matches. It’s cold and damp, and you’ve got to 

spend the night out. Luckily, you’ve got molten 

lava in your kit: a bag of dry tinder and your Exotac 

Nano Striker. be warned, throwing sparks with 

this tiny tool takes a bit of practice, as does making 

a backcountry fire. but when you get it, it might 

save your life. – E.S. 

exotac.com/nanostriker-xl $32.95 

52 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

Bringing you closer to 

Santosha (contentment) today... 

yoga 

massage 

acupuncture 

chiropractic 

ayurveda 

thai massage 

Bringing you closer to 

Santosha (contentment) today... 

yoga 

massage 

acupuncture 

chiropractic 

ayurveda 

thai massage 


goPro hero 3 black edition 

The new GoPro Hero 3 black Edition is a game 

changer on the video front and in the action sports 

arena. A trimmer size with twice the power of the 

Hero 2, the new unit is equipped with resolutions 

and frame rates only found in rigs 10 times its 

size and price. The image of the 2.7k resolution at 

30 frames per second is astonishing, and the 120 

frames per second at 720p yields smooth slow-mo 

playback to rival any camera. If you don’t have one 

yet, get in line – the Hero 3 black Edition sells out 

quickly. Sit back and watch GoPro take over the 

world. – Brian Niles 

gopro.com $399 



exotac freeKey 

we found batman's keychain. The 

freeKey is a traditional key ring with 

a crease in it. Pinch the crease, the ring 

opens, the keys slide on or off. Just like 

that. No more busted fingernails. The 

matte-gray stainless gives the freeKey a 

look that’s simple and refined. -E.S. 

exotac.com $6.49 

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

santoshabigsky.com 

Join us - Holiday Party & Open House, Dec. 30th, 5:30-7:30pm

Rob Akey 

Greg Alexander 

Jim Barrett 

Susan Blackwood 

Diana Brady 

Dot Brandt 

Lynn Cain 

Todd Connor 

WINE TASTINGS 

EVERY THURSDAY AT 4:30 PM 

Creighton Block 

 

Tom Dean 

John DeMott 

Jerral Derryberry 

Flavia Eckholm 

Edd Enders 

Thomas English 

Howard Friedland 

provided by UPCOMING EVENTS 

Mark Gibson 

R. Tom Gilleon 

Don Grant 

Mimi Grant 

Frank Hagel 

Ott Jones 

Harry Koyama 

Artwork also displayed at 

Outlaw Partners and Lone Mountain 

Ranch Dining Room 

David Lemon 

Asha MacDonald 

Mike Patterson 

Paula Pearl 

Jacqueline Rieder Hud 

Gary Lynn Roberts 

Daniel San Souci 

Deb Schmit 

Kevin Red Star 

Laurie Stevens 

Ezra Tucker 

Jack Waller 

Shirle Wempner 

Greg Woodard 

DECEMBER 14, 4:00 - 9:00 PM 

Christmas Stroll and Book Signing in the Charsam Room 

Celebrate the season at the Gallery to include holiday food and drink and a book signing in the Charsam Room, 

located across the hall from Grizzly Outfitters. 

DECEMBER 15, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM 

Barbara Pierce Jewelry Trunk Show 

Join us for the trunk show of this amazing jewelry and bead work by Montana resident, Barbara Pierce. 

DECEMBER 15, 12:00 - 7:00 PM 

Grand opening celebration of “Private Collection Salon” 

the cave 

Spirits & Gifts 

BIG SKY TOWN CENTER 

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM // TUESDAY THRU SUNDAY 

MONDAYS BY APPOINTMENT 

Please visit the gallery to view our 

extensive collection of fi ne works of art 

in the Main Gallery, the Charsam Room, 

and the new Private Collection Salon.

alPine Gear 

54 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 



here, the weekly editorial staff has chosen some of our favorite gear for 2013. 


ripping powder at baldface lodge, nelson, b.C. Photo by niCk diaMond 

Mens: wagner Customs 

After 36 years of skiing, I was skeptical a small boutique custom ski shop in Colorado 

could create a ski that really was that much better. 

when I conducted my ski design phone interview with company founder Pete wagner, I 

told him I wanted boards that could handle everything from the deep bC powder to the 

steeps of big Sky – something solid on fast groomers, yet tough enough to endure collisions 

with Montana rocks. 

The end product had an early-rise design and stiff tail that was a custom match for me, 

with showstopper graphics. It blows any other ski I’ve ridden out of the water. The only 

problem with wagner skis: I’m not sure what to do with the balance of my ski quiver 

gathering dust in the garage. Congrats, Pete wagner. bravo! – Eric Ladd 

wagnerskis.com starting at $1,750 

womens: nordica la niña 

Like their namesake weather pattern, you can ski the Nordica La Niñas bigger than 

you think. 

Although these lively sticks are designed for pow, they handle chop and hard-pack 

surprisingly well. At 113 mm underfoot the La Niñas are fat; however, the high rise 

tip and tail combined with traditional camber underfoot makes them versatile for 

tight trees or super-G turns down Marx. 

Nordica’s “women’s i-CORE,” or “wi-CORE,” technology trims weight, so these 

boards are 25 percent lighter than traditional wood core skis. Even so, the sandwich 

sidewall construction is burly – go ahead, whack some andesite. This ski rips. Available 

in 169, 177 or 185 cm, at Chalet Sports in bozeman. – Emily Stifler 

nordica.com $749

nordic 

snowboard 

Photo Courtesy of freeheel and wheel 

classic: atomic skintec Classic ski 

Old timers may remember an era when nordic skis utilized mohair strips in the 

kick pocket for easy uphill travel. with the Skintec Classic, Atomic has brought 

back this technology in the form of magnetic inserts. Attaching to the base, the 

inserts allow for an extremely short climbing zone, which in turn allows the ski 

to glide like the wind. Two different sizes allow customization of your grip for 

the conditions. 

These skis are ideal for performance classic skiing, with stable and secure grip. 

Each of the four lengths is offered in a medium or hard flex to allow a superb fit 

based on skier weight and ability. Available in 184, 191, 198 and 205 cm. 

– Melissa Alder, Freeheel and Wheel 

atomic.com $489 

Park: never summer evo 

The Never Summer Evo is an awesome park/jib board. unlike most 

reverse camber snowboards, the Evo is super stable at high speeds, 

because it’s a hybrid cambered snowboard, meaning it’s reverse camber 

between the bindings, and cambered from the binding out. This gives 

you four points of contact instead of two, like most other boards. The 

Evo has a buttery, soft ride, which helps with pressing on park features 

or schmearing down the mountain. because Never Summer boards are 

a little thicker than most other companies’, they can take some abuse, 

whether rock dodging on the tram or bonking features in the park. Available 

at Gallatin Alpine Sports in big Sky. – Brent Mach, Moonlight 

Basin Terrain Park Manager 

neversummer.com $499 

e-Mo showing the method to his madness Photo by erik Morrison 


skate or classic: 

rossignol x-iuM wCs 

If you want a light, fast, high-performance 

setup, check out the Rossignol X-IuM wCS 

(world Cup Series) skis and boots. These skis 

have already racked up multiple podiums on 

the world Cup Circuit and have new features 

for 2012-2013. 

The skate boots, 50 grams lighter than previous 

models, have a stiffer sole for better 

power conversion to the ski. The classic boots 

have a new look and are 30 grams lighter than 

before. both have a low volume option and 

are Thermo-moldable to find that perfect fit 

for any foot shape. 

Designed for competitive skiers, the X-IuM 

wCS skis feature a Nomex Honeycomb core 

and Control Edge AbS sidewalls. On the 

skate skis, the tip is lower and shorter for better 

maneuverability and swing weight. The 

wC1 model has stiffer flex and lower camber 

height for high speed on firm snow, and the 

wC2 has a higher camber height for universal 

snow types. 

Having the right ski and flex is crucial to 

enjoying nordic skiing. Nordic Ski Source, 

a bozeman shop, does a wonderful job of 

fitting you with the right gear. Now get out 

there and start enjoying winter! – Andrew 

Kastning, head nordic coach at University of 

Alaska-Anchorage, former MSU assistant 

coach 

nordicskisource.com. $660 



all Mountain: venture helix 

all Mountain twin 

with its K.G. Libbrecht crystal snowflake design and poppy neon 

colors, this deck might seem suited for big Mountain barbie or 

fisher Price: My first Snowboard. but don't be fooled. The Helix is 

a predator posing as a house pet. 

with an aggressive flex and quadratic sidecut wrapped into a no 

nonsense chassis, this twin goes where few of its kind will follow. 

Stable at speed, it holds a solid edge and is at home in the steeps. 

These features, combined with the subtle rocker and twin shape, 

made for a poppy little jib stick that stomps landings and rides big. 

It is a little heavier than its peers, but what it loses in weight it 

makes up for in durability. I smoked more rocks than Tyrone biggums 

last season and still couldn't break this board. In the end, this 

pretty little shred machine rode her way into my heart and found a 

permanent place in my quiver. – E-Mo 

venturesnowboards.com $895 

dec. 14 - 27, 2012 55

hats 

Gear 

vintagewinter.com 

A collection of Alpine Home Decor and Chalet Style Antiques 

Vintage Ski Posters 

$19 

Ski wall sconce 

$229 

56 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 

collectable ski sets 

starting at $325 

three pane ski frame 

$359 

any items at 

VintageWinter.com 

off 

15% 


active: wizbang 

being a long-time wizbang fan, I never thought the 

product could get even better. However, this fall 

new owner Kim Scurry introduced a micro-fleece 

lining and ponytail compatible hats, taking wizbang to 

another level of greatness. best part: the thin micro-fleece 

is on the lower hat band, so the fit is still trim and the material 

is highly breathable. with sizing for kids and adults and 

more than 25 patterns and colors like Desert bloom and 

Meteor Shower to choose from, there is something for 

everyone. I use my wizbang year-round, but in winter they 

are my go-to for ski touring, nordic, under my ski helmet on 

extra cold days and of course, aprés. Made in the u.S., wizbang 

hats and headbands are available locally at Grizzly 

Outfitters, Schnee's, Northern Lights Trading Co. and 

free Heel and wheel. – Megan Paulson 

wizbanghats.com $28-$30 

use promo code: 

Outlaw 

bindings 


style: tilley tec-wool winter hat 

No one will ever question your authority while you’re wearing the 

Tilley Tec-wool Hat. This hand-sewn lid is comfortable, stylish 

and sensible. Tuckaway ear warmers keep you warm; rain and snow 

repellency keep you dry; and SPf 50 offers sun protection. Tilley’s 

C_Change membrane lining reacts to changing body temperatures, 

causing it to 'close' when exposed to cold air and 'open' in 

response to warmth, allowing air to escape. Escape like Indyin-a-hurry 

with the crushable and packable design, and 

rest well knowing Tilley products are guaranteed 

for life. Available in Bozeman at Bob Ward & 

Sons, R.E.I., Schnee's, The Bozeman Angler 

and Wholesale Sports. – Sean Weas 

tilley.com $105 


backcountry: Dynafit Radical ST 

The Goldilocks of tech backcountry bindings, the Radical ST is just 

right. “They’re selling like crazy hotcakes,” said Dynafit PR guru 

Eric Henderson. Like the Vertical ST – which is Dynafit’s tried and 

true original model – the Radical ST is super light (2 lbs., 5 oz/pair). 

And like Papa bear, the Radical fT, Goldilocks has power towers, 

which make it easier to step into the binding handsfree, 

and gives them more lateral strength. The 

Radical ST’s are lighter, however, since they 

have a slightly narrower toe footprint, and 

no carbon strip underfoot or brakes. 

Available at Gallatin Alpine Sports 

in big Sky. – E.S. 

$500 dynafit.com 

in-bounds: Marker jesters 

Lone Mountain has every type of terrain: open bowls, tight chutes, 

bumps, groomers and trees. It also dishes out every snow condition 

known to man... powder, wind-buff, chalky, carvy, rocky, slidefor-life, 

corn, crust, more powder. The binding I choose to keep 

me attached to my sticks and tackle this terrain: the Marker Jester. 

Mounted flat to my wagner custom skis, the Jesters allow 

direct energy transmission from boot to binding to 

ski, something I appreciate. I've never pre-released, 

and the DIN is easily adjustable for 

extra-sketchy conditions. The 2013 

model includes a colorful white/ 

blue/yellow combo. – M.P. 

$359 markerusa.com 

Photo by Chris davis

aselayers 

Photo by erik Morrison 

bottom: bergans fjellrapp lady 

3/4 tights 

A great balance of warmth without bulk, the bergans 3/4 Tights are the 

perfect base layer for alpine activities. The three-quarter length eliminates 

sock bunch in your boots, and the paneled flatlock seams mean 

they move with you for any variety of winter pursuits. – K.M. 

socks: darn tough over-the-Calf 

Cushion socks 

I believe a good pair of socks is one of the best things in life. 

warm socks are the only thing I ask for every holiday season, and 

I'm a self proclaimed sock connoisseur. Specifically designed for 

snowboarding, the Darn Tough Over-the-Calf Cushion socks have 

kept my feet warm and comfortable on the hill and on pre-season trail 

runs this fall. Their construction is unmatched: They contour in exactly 

the right places and they stay in place no matter what. They have usurped 

all others in my dresser and earned a starting position for ski season. Available 

at Northern Lights Trading Co. in Bozeman. – Chris Davis 

darntough.com $24 




top: Patagonia Capilene 4 

expedition-weight ¼-zip hoody 

The wind gusted into the 30s near the top of Swifty. That morning I considered adding 

a lighter capilene base layer but opted instead for the Cap 4 and a mid-weight under my 

shell. No problem. The Cap 4’s brushed fleece lining and snug fit kept my core warm, 

while its breathability staved off that uncomfortable clammy feeling some capilene can 

give you. when the wind picked up, I zipped up the tall collar and donned the anatomical 

hood beneath my helmet to block out the breeze. It worked, plus it made me look 

like a ninja. Patagonia’s Cap 4 hoody just earned its place in my base layer rotation. Available 

in black, grey and molten lava. – Joseph T. O’Connor 

patagonia.com $119 


BEST OF BIG SKY 

20 12 

V O T E D B Y 

Y O U 

Photo by Chris davis 

dec. 14 - 27, 2012 57

406. 995. 3830 

OPEN AT 11 A.M., LUNCH AND DINNER 

LOCATED IN THE BIG SKY TOWN CENTER 

BIG SKY, MONTANA

outerwear Gear 

backcountry: 

arc’teryx gamma sk pants 

Made of burly, double weave softshell, the Gamma SK’s are 

stretchy and way comfortable, waterproof, breathable, plenty 

warm, and roomy enough for layering. The cuffs are ski boot 

compatible, and the sleek, built-in gaiters are bomber enough for 

tromping around in snow pits. besides, they’re flattering (and 

available in plum!). Look out, Gallatin Peak. Men’s and women’s 

sizes and colors, available at Northern Lights in Bozeman. – E.S. 

arcteryx.com $245 

warmth: 

flylow ice Man down jacket 

The northern Rockies can get frigid, and flylow’s Ice Man down 

jacket is made for serious mountain weather. The 700-fill goose 

down is cozy, and the fully-taped, two-layer waterproof shell 

doesn’t let in an ounce of water, even while I interviewed snowmakers 

on-scene. Tack on a removable powder skirt and massive 

underarm vents, and the Ice Man is surprisingly versatile. flylow’s 

website claims the jacket is as tough as Val Kilmer in Top Gun. I 

agree. It can be my wingman anytime. Available in black, navy and 

tarmac. – J.T.O. 

flylowgear.com $400 

in-bounds: 

dakine throttle jacket, rPM Pants 

Remember when you had to be careful asking ullr for endless amounts of snow? Your jeans got all 

soggy and uncomfortable. but then you ditched your snowblades and decided to step up your game 

and find some real outerwear. Now, if you're set up with the Dakine Throttle Jacket ($359) and 

RPM Pant ($249), you'll be ready for nasty weather, as well as some kind eyes from the bunnies. 

Your new setup will handle anything Mother Nature throws at it – fully insulated with Primaloft, 

it keeps you plenty warm, and with Teflon DwR finish and 15k/10k laminate, you'll stay fresh and 

dry, whether you're throwing down in the backcountry or you spill salsa on yourself in the lodge. 

A few of my favorite features are the zip-off hood, the zippered underarm and leg vents, the stylin’ 

micro-check pattern, the chin-protector flap and the stretch hand gaiters on the Throttle, and the 

articulated fit on the RPM’s. Some colors are even available in recycled polyester – way to think ecofriendly, 

Dakine. - C.D. 

dakine.com 




headgear: smith gage 

helmet and i/ox goggles 

Smith’s new products for 2013 are proving to be high 

quality and totally rad. (we’re not surprised.) Looking 

for a domepiece? Check out the Gage. Designed for park 

riders, it’s low profile, so it stays out of the way while 

you’re riding, and vented for the hike back up. At $80, 

the price matches the style. The new I/OX goggles 

($174) are about bigger real estate: larger lense, larger 

fit on the face and larger peripheral vision. The quick 

release lens system lets you swap on the go, and the 

vaporator technology adjusts air pressure and prevents 

fogging. All of Smith’s helmets and googles are built to 

mix and match. – E.S 

smithoptics.com 

dec. 14 - 27, 2012 59

DINING ROOM & SALOON 

406-995-2782 

Breakfast & Lunch Open Daily 

Breakfast: 7am-9am, Lunch: 11:30am-1:30pm 

Saloon Open Daily 

Saloon: 4pm-10pm 

Dinner: Sunday-Th ursday 

5:30pm-9:00pm, Reservations appreciated 

Live music in the Saloon several nights a week. Check out 

facebook.com/LoneMountainRanch for the latest information! 

NORDIC CENTER 

406-995-4734 

• 85km of groomed cross country ski trails (25km are 

dog-friendly!) & 30km of snowshoe trails 

• Rentals, Private & Group Lessons 

• Locals Women’s Weekday Clinics 

• Backcountry ski and snowshoe tours 

• New! Kids Program over the Holidays 

• Open daily 8am-6pm 

60 dec. 14 - 27, 2012 


LONE MOUNTAIN RANCH 


ADVENTURES & FINE DINING 

PH: (406) 995-4644 | LoneMountainRanch.com 

Reservations@LMRanch.com 

SLEIGH RIDE DINNER 

406-995-2783 

• Big Sky’s Original Sleigh Ride Dinner for over 33 years 

• Montana Raised Prime Rib Dinner and Live Entertainment 

• 2,000 lb. draft horse teams 

• Day Sleigh Rides available 

LODGING 

406-995-4644 

• Sleigh & Stay packages 

• Authentic Montana log cabins 

• 4 to 7 night all-inclusive packages 

FLY FISHING 

406-995-4734 

• New! Snowshoe & Fly Fishing Adventures 

• New! Ice Fishing Trips 

• Day trips on the Gallatin & Madison Rivers 

WINTER SEASON 

December 7, 2012 - March 30, 2013 

OPEN HOUSE 

Wednesday, December 12, 5-7 p.m. 

PUBLIC WELCOME 

Big Sky Weekly

winter - Explore Big Sky

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