THURSDAYTHURSDAY lonepeaklookout.com NovemberJuly 19, 201829, 2018 FREEFREE VolumeVolume 1, Issue1, Issue 52 33
BigBig Sky, Sky, LONELONE PEAKPEAK LOOKOUTLOOKOUT MontanaMontana First chair of the season! Teach here, live here Workforce housing effort continues at Big Sky School District via talks with Habitat for Humanity
BY JOLENE PALMER [email protected]
hile the Big Sky School District has been successful in recruiting new instructors to its growing schools, it’s still subject to the sameW issues most Big Sky businesses eventually face— including employee burnout when the commute to and from Bozeman rears its head, often due to the lack of affordable housing options in Big Sky. BSSD Superintendent Dustin Shipman sees the affordable housing issue as a serious challenge for his district, noting that teacher retention is a priority and that he too often sees staff forced to embark on the On opening day at Big Sky Resort, Lookout contributor Mike Coil positioned himself atop the Swift Current Chairlift and captured unsustainable Bozeman commute. Or, if his instructors this shot of the first non-employees to be deposited on the slopes this ski season. Cheers to them and others who got after it on Nov. do find Big Sky rental housing, they’re sometimes stuck 22 and are still charging hard, taking advantage of superb early season conditions. dealing with numerous roommates. “We know sooner or later they are going to be tired of More on page B10 living like they are still in college,” Shipman said of his teachers in a recent email to the Lookout. “We also have a lot of cases when housing situations change over the course of a month (a landlord selling a rental the teacher is in) and this causes a lot of stress for the educator.” This housing dilemma has been a topic of discussion Evicted because of at monthly BSSD school board meetings, where an affordable housing committee was formed earlier this year. The committee, comprised of trustees Loren Bough, Scott Hammond and Stacy Ossorio, along with Shipman, who you are? has been studying ways to remedy the issue, and at the most recent board meeting Shipman seemed pleased to announce that the effort is moving forward at a swift pace. Local billboard raises this and other questions As part of the housing committee’s initial investigation it was determined that the district was within HOA about gender identity and the law guidelines to build employee housing on the school campus property. Additionally, meetings with a real estate lawyer proved hopeful as it seems permitting would be BY KEELY LARSON Michael O’Reilly said relatively easy as the district, a government entity, is this picture, “Captures exempt from county zoning regulations. A fleeting billboard just before the the essence of how I feel Land availability and building permits covered, the gas stations as you enter Four Corners about gender.” A recent next question the committee asked was, exactly how does made an appearance for a stint recently billboard near Four Corners one build affordable Big Sky housing? That’s where talks that was eye-catching because of its raised questions about with Habitat for Humanity come into play. The committee starkness. Commuters on Highway discrimination against recently met Habitat for Humanity of Gallatin Valley 191 were confronted with plain black members of the local LGBTQ Executive Director Dave Magistrelli, who came back to text on a white background—nothing community. the board with preliminary info on what could potentially extraordinary in presentation—but it PHOTO BY MIKAEL be accomplished. aimed to give people pause. BELAND OF LOTUS Magistrelli attended the Nov. 12 board meeting, The text stated: “Imagine being EFFECTS expressing his pleasure in potentially working with the evicted because of who you are.” At the district, noting that this is somewhat new territory for bottom of the billboard, though difficult Habitat in Montana. to see if just cruising by, the words “Beyond I Do” were visible. Teach here, Live here | A3 Turns out, the Beyond I Do campaign works to raise awareness about discrimination experienced by the LGBTQ community, even after CONTENTS the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage on June 25, 2015. Grizzlies near my skin track...... A3 According to the website beyondido. Gear up for the Christmas Stroll...... A6 org, 28 states provide no legal protection New fundraiser at Gallatin River Task Force...... A8 for employment, housing, or public Dave Pecunies moves into Town Center...... B1 A gusher of work around wastewater begins...... B2 Blotter: Abandon bus!...... B11 Evicted? | A2 Big Sky Living: Talk on tourism industry...... B12
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accommodations in regards to. Gender identity is defined to sexual orientation or as, “a person’s deeply-felt gender identity, and three inner sense of being male, states provide incomplete female, or something else in- protection. between,” or the inner feelings Sexual orientation, from a person may have about the website, is described as, what label they do or do not “loosely defined as a person’s identify with. pattern of romantic or sexual Montana is one of the
“The Ad Council has partnered with the Gill Foundation to launch a national campaign to raise awareness about the discrimination LGBTQ people face across the country.“ The campaign recently ran a billboard near Four Corners.”
attraction to people of the 28 states that does not fully opposite sex or gender, the protect LGBTQ citizens in same sex or gender, or more employment, housing or than one sex or gender,” or public accommodations. simply the outward choices Bozeman, along with Butte, people make concerning those Whitefish, Helena and they are or are not attracted Missoula do have local Left: About the billboard spotted recently near Four Corners, Ellyn Fisher, SVP of public relations and social media at the Ad Council, said, “It’s great to see our campaign’s message in a place that will encourage people in Montana to learn more about what’s happening to their LGBTQ friends and neighbors.” PHOTO BY KEELY LARSON Right: From housing to healthcare—the issues raised by recent billboard campaign speaking up for the rights of Montana’s LGBTQ community. PHOTO BY DONNA HOSMER
ordinances prohibiting from discrimination in provides protection against negative is nothing I can’t discrimination based on housing, employment, or discrimination in adoption. h an d l e .” sexual orientation or gender services… This is a non- In regards to health and safety O’Reilly described his identityBig Sky, in these regards. This political, non-partisan laws, there is no law regarding sense that the transgender is displayedMontana by signs at local campaign, as is every sexual orientation or gender community is discriminated LONELONE PEAK PEAK LOOKOUT LOOKOUT businesses announcing there campaign at the Ad Council,” identity that protects against against and their stories need is, “no hate in our state,” or Fisher explained. discrimination in private to be heard in order to help that everyone is welcome at The location of the Four health insurance. LGBTQ people understand the issues this establishment. Corners billboard was mostly youth have no law regarding they are dealing with. Established in 1982 Beyond I Do uses data and chosen at random, said sexual orientation or gender O’Reilly has practiced the BIG SKY, MONTANA materials from the Movement Fisher. Another billboard identity that covers anti- aerial dance arts since he was Advancement Project (MAP) near Helena currently reads, bullying. 12-years-old and has been Publishers: Susanne Hill & Erin Leonard to supplement its website “Imagine being denied “Montana is one of the teaching now for five years. Advertising/Sales Rep.: Cori Koenig, and provide viewers with a healthcare because of who 31 states that currently lacks “I was obsessed with the [email protected], 406.579.6877 plethora of information about you love.” statewide protections for circus from a very young age Editor: David Madison, [email protected] where in the country LGBTQ “All ad space for Ad LGBTQ people, even though and climbed everything. So Reporter: Jolene Palmer, [email protected] people face discrimination— Council campaigns is more than 24,000 Montanans aerial silks were a very natural Designer: Erin Leonard what that discrimination completely donated, and openly identify as LGBTQ,” passion that I feel is strongly looks like, and even contains the organization as a whole continued Fisher. a part of who I am. Dancing Photographer/Columnist: Mike Coil personal stories from couples receives more than $1 billion Michael O’Reilly, a in the air is my favorite thing Editorial Intern: Keely Larson in states around the country. in donated media per year. Montessori teacher, an to do,” he said, adding, “It’s Ellyn Fisher, SVP of The way this works for instructor at Mountain confusing to me that so public relations and social billboards specifically is that Air Dance, and frequent many who vehemently spout Editorial Policy media at the Ad Council, companies who run out-of- participant in various patriotic ideology of freedom 500 Words and other guest editorials are intended to home advertising donate burlesque and drag shows and liberty seek to limit that acquaint our readers with different viewpoints on matters of described what MAP does public importance. Guest editorials and letters to the editor and mentioned the partners available billboard space to in Bozeman, said he felt for others they don’t agree reflect the opinion of the writers and do not necessarily working toward the goal Ad Council ads—as such, we grateful for the acceptance with. That’s not how freedom reflect the opinion of the editor or the staff of Lone Peak of raising awareness about can select general regions he has received living in works. No one is truly free if Lookout. discrimination. where billboards will display, Bozeman after moving from we are not free together.” “The Ad Council has but exact locations are not a small, mountain town in Press Release Policy selected,” said Fisher. Washington state. • Lone Peak Lookout staff will give all press releases full partnered with the Gill consideration, but ultimately retains the authority to Foundation to launch Fisher detailed how “I have always felt determine whether or not to publish releases. a national campaign to Montana has several laws very good about living in • Content must be factual and objective. raise awareness about the that can be harmful to Bozeman,” O’Reilly said. “I • Lone Peak Lookout may edit submissions for grammar discrimination LGBTQ LGBTQ people. Concerning feel secure here. When I’ve and content. people face across the relationship and parental gone downtown dressed up • Lone Peak Lookout reserves the right to make all country, and specifically in recognition, there is no law in gender bending ways after determinations relative to the above policy. the 31 states where LGBTQ regarding sexual orientation shows, the responses I get people don’t have protections or gender identity that are largely positive and the Letters to the Editor Policy Lone Peak Lookout encourages the opinions of readers on public issues and matters of local concern. Letters must be close to 350 words. Please include the writer’s name, address, email and phone number. These letters do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Lone Peak Lookout staff and we reserve the right to edit content for grammar, good taste and libel. We also reserve the right to reject or delay publications.
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Michael O’Reilly performing. PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL O’REILLY LONE PEAK LOOKOUT A3 November 29, 2018
Teach here, Live there from A1
“There are Habitats describing its mission to “put this Big Sky project would be and energy efficiency in across the country that have people in housing that one, the local Habitat’s first joint- construction.” joint-ventured with school they can afford, and two, is venture with a school board. All this information boards to build housing energy efficient, decent, and “Primarily, because our noted, the BSSD board voted for their employees,” said sustainable.” Gallatin Valley biggest problem is getting and agreed unanimously to Magistrelli, explaining that Habitat for Humanity has property,” Magistrelli told invest $2,000 to continue his organization is currently been around since 1991, and the board. That not being working with Habitat. in a similar phase working over those years 75 homes an issue in this situation, Magistrelli will get with the Bozeman School have been built from West Magistrelli went on to his back to the board in the District in their similar Yellowstone to Gardiner, proposal: To build housing coming weeks with greater teacher housing challenges. Bozeman, Belgrade, for the BSSD using Habitat specifics on what could be volunteers, along with accomplished, and with that contractor discounts offered info in hand, the board will If things move forward, to Habitat. present the findings to the Unlike some other Habitat community. developments in which the “I think the idea of this Big Sky project organization actually holds partnering with such an the mortgage, the BSSD established company as would be Gallatin Valley would own the homes that Habitat for Humanity is are built. really good for us… it seems “We are here to help like a natural fit, and I’m Habitat For Humanity’s facilitate the building to help surprised it hasn’t happened “ get people into housing that before,” said trustee Whitney first joint-venture with is not only affordable but Littman of the school- sustainable,” said Magistrelli. Humanity collaboration. “That’s what we’d like to do “And the idea we can also a school board.” and that’s what we’d like to use our own plan, to try to joint-venture with you folks solve this problem, is really Habitat for Humanity of Gallatin Valley Executive Director Dave Magistrelli touted some Livingston and Three Forks. on .” appealing.” Magistrelli: “One of the interesting things I found out about Habitat of his organization’s work, If things move forward, Trustee Bough in Montana is that we set some of the standards for insulation and was interested in the energy efficiency in construction.” sustainability and quality COURTESY OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY of the homes, “So we don’t have maintenance issues, and surprises down the road, with snow conditions, snow load,” he said. Longtime BSSD teacher Brittany Shirley was at Domestic habitats the meeting, offering her concerns as well, “And power for local teachers bills!” If the board decided to move forward with Habitat, via a Memorandum of The Aspen example Understanding, Magistrelli said the MOU would include a budget and views of what The Aspen Times reported in June how, “Dirt started flying this month the home(s) would look like, in Basalt for an affordable-housing project that will provide 15 homes for including cost-efficient, and teachers and another 12 for workers in Pitkin County.” energy effective structural For the chance to buy rather than rent affordable housing, two lotteries are insulated panels. anticipated, one for the school district and one by Pitkin County for qualified “And we build to code,” applicants. said Magistrelli, who joined The cost to the homeowners will be between $250,000 and $350,000 for the Habitat for Humanity uses volunteers and discounted construction Habitat in 2009. “One of the two-, three- and four-bedroom units, which are being built in duplex and triplex materials to construct houses in the Gallatin Valley area. Since 1991 interesting things I found out configurations. The targeted household incomes are between $60,000 and the organization has built 75 homes in communities all around the about Habitat in Montana $105,000. valley, and talks are now underway to see if Big Sky’s school district is that we set some of the might be able to add Big Sky to that list of communities. standards for insulation Coexisting with grizzlies
In this backcountry zone just south of Big Sky, skiers share the terrain with bison, moose and grizzlies. PHOTO BY AARON TEASDALE On skis in Big Sky’s backyard Open 8am Daily BY AARON TEASDALE and realize that it, too, is prepare myself for a grizzly heading for Indian Creek. I bursting toward me at close Prime Rib Weekends The sun is low when the don’t want to surprise the bear range. grizzly bear appears. I whip at the creek, nor do I want to If I hope to make it out of my skis sideways and stop. go too far off course, which here tonight, or ever, I need to Go Bobcats! It isn’t the first time I’ve would cost precious time and get across before the bear. encountered a grizzly while potentially lead to a deeper, Ninety-six percent of Hiring all positions! Apply in person or online! skiing. Actually, this is the more difficult crossing of Yellowstone National Park fourth one I’ve seen in the snowmelt water. If I hope to visitors come between May [email protected] past half hour. make it out of here tonight, and October, but winter For several minutes, I or ever, I need to get across has long been my favorite watch this latest bear root before the bear. season. Though much of the around in the sagebrush flats So I ski. As fast as I can. park is inaccessible except by of Gardner’s Hole as the day’s Until I reach bare ground, over-snow vehicles, there’s last light gilds the northern where I fumble with bindings, an abundance of wild Nordic mountains. It’s time I don’t adrenaline pulsing, and start skiing here, with plowed have—there’s still a creek to run with skis in hand. I highways in the western and crossing and a few miles of drop into lower, rolling land northern sections delivering skiing between me and the where all I can see are the access to wildlife-rich park road I must reach before hillsides and the sagebrush landscapes. dark. I check my map as the surrounding me. Head My day began shortly after grizzly ambles in the distance swiveling constantly, I try to Coexisting | A3 LONE PEAK LOOKOUT A4 November 29, 2018 LONE PEAK LOOKOUT A5 November 29, 2018 LONE PEAK LOOKOUT A6 November 29, 2018
Coexisting from A3 primarily to protect core into a broad valley a few it, or even to take off my sunrise, at the Bighorn Pass grizzly bear habitat at critical miles from the road. The ski boots, I charge in like Trailhead (around 20 miles Head swiveling times for breeding, feeding forest was unusually quiet. a wildebeest fleeing a lion. south of Big Sky). My plan and cub rearing. Many It just felt like bears were One of wilderness’s many was to ski all day, up and prohibit human entry. Amid there. Sure enough, I benefits is that it teaches us over the Gallatin Range at constantly, I try to an ongoing debate over entered a large clearing to to be humble, to remember Bighorn Pass and then down recreation and conservation, an unmistakable shape and we’re small figures in a the other side to the two-lane prepare myself for a Yellowstone shows us what color in my periphery: the greater community: As ice Grand Loop Road, where I coexistence looks like. first grizzly, standing 100 water surges against my legs, would thumb a ride 10 miles As I climbed through deep yards away. I froze. A second I’m swimming in humility. I to the historic Mammoth grizzly bursting toward “ snow, forest gave way to a bear appeared, running, and harbor no illusions about my Hot Springs Hotel and an white alpine world of perfect grabbed onto the first. I slid place in this world. enormous, indulgent meal. me at close range.” telemark slopes, corniced behind a small tree a few feet Reaching the far bank Skiing here with large ridges and pyramidal white away from me to observe. As isn’t much relief. It’s only mammals—bison, bears, peaks. I cut a pair of fading a third bear appeared and when I gain a low rise, get wolves and moose, among bear tracks and scanned the loped to the others, I realized: back on my skis, and look others—can take some getting gradually closed in, and the trailside sign: “Entering bear surrounding mountainsides a mother with two yearlings. back that I properly exhale. used to. When I set out, pelvis and spinal cord of some management area. No off-trail for telltale holes in the drifts The breeze was perfect; they Around where I came from, bison had left fresh craters unfortunate animal appeared t r av e l .” left by waking grizzlies. didn’t smell me. So I sat alone the grizzly roams into view, in the snow—reminders to along the banks of a gin- Yellowstone has 17 bear The sun-drenched air was in Yellowstone and watched still rooting around and doing stay alert. The mountains clear brook. Then, a small management areas, designed surprisingly still, the sky the mother nurse her young. I bear things—closer now but impossibly blue. wanted to watch them forever, unaware of my presence. Just Just before Bighorn Pass, but the sun was sinking all the way it was meant to be. actual bighorn droppings too quickly and I had miles This article appeared in peppered the snow and a to go. the November/December peregrine falcon streaked It’s a half hour later when 2018 edition of SIERRA overhead. I considered this I see the fourth grizzly and magazine with the headline good medicine. As was the start my sprint to the creek. “Bear Racing in Yellowstone.” view, extending across Swan The trail is leading me See more of Aaron Teasdale’s Flats, Bunsen Peak, Blacktail directly toward this bear, so work at: https://teasdale. Deer Plateau, and the despite the aforementioned smugmug.com. Lamar Valley to the mighty sign, I abandon it, hurtling Absarokas, an alpine wall on through the dense shrubs. the horizon. The creek is deep, but instead Hours later, I emerged of slowing down to assess Big thanks To all those who helped out over the last 12 months
Aaron Teasdale, author of the above story, was twice named “Travel Writer of the Year” by the Society of American Travel Writers Foundation and has Ski it for yourself collected lots of other accolades during his impressive career. At one point, he nearly moved to Big Sky to work as editor of the Lone Peak Lookout. That was just before the paper was sold and brought under the But only if you’re prepared management of the Bozeman Daily Chronicle. It then ceased publishing for a couple of years until a team led by current publishers Susanne Hill and Erin WHERE: Bighorn Pass Trail in Yellowstone National Park. Leonard revived the Lookout. Now, look where we are—issue number 52 of a relaunched and re- GETTING THERE: Access the trailhead from Highway 191 between West envisioned community newspaper for Big Sky. Many thanks to those who’ve Yellowstone and Big Sky. Skiing the ungroomed trail’s first five or so miles, contributed along the way: Ami Barker, Ginger Lynch, Kevin Kelleher, John where it shadows the Gallatin River through open terrain, is a popular out-and- Todd, Mike Coil, Jodee March, Katie Moen, John Taylor, Dustin Jones, Eric back day trip. Other nearby trailheads on the same road offer similar routes, Ossorio, Jill Bough, Tori Pintar, Keely Larson and others who took my calls, including loop options from Bighorn to the Fawn Pass Trail. returned my emails and put up with my love for long anecdotes. I’m stepping down as editor and placing the paper in the skillful hands of BEST TIME TO VISIT: Skiing is typically possible November through April. current staffer Jolene Palmer, who along with new edition Jana Bounds, will Grizzlies begin emerging from hibernation in March. continue to emphasize interesting and important local stories. I’ll remain nearby in Bozeman and you can find me at www.davidwmadison. SURVIVAL TIPS: Winter can be intensely cold in Yellowstone, so pack extra com. layers and survival gear. It’s a good idea to have bear spray accessible on all I wish this generous community all the best. but the coldest midwinter days. Read up on bison behavior and give them and other wildlife a wide berth. Thanks again,
PRO TIPS: Freeheel and Wheel in West Yellowstone offers ski rentals and David route advice for the region. The Bear Den Ski Shop in Mammoth rents skis for use in the park’s northern reaches—where ungroomed skiing is limitless and several groomed routes lead through spectacular terrain.
MORE: bit.ly/bighorn-pass
Gearing up for The 2018 Christmas Stroll A Community Holiday Tradition
Flames dance and crackle of "How The Grinch Stole at the fire pit, a warm comfort Christmas" and a magic show complementing the scent of will entertain young and old spiced cider and baked treats alike, while neighbors make provided by the neighboring the rounds to mingle, shop, businesses. The clip-clop of and enjoy a variety of treats! snow-muted hooves draws As the night wears on, a sleigh into the heart of a patrons can wander to West cozy town. In front of Blue Fork Meadows and Town Ribbon Builders, harmonies Center. Children will not from the Lone Peak High want to miss writing letters to School Carolers fuel the Santa at Sugar Buzz. All are excitement of children welcome to fashion holiday waiting for the arrival of wear as they participate in the Big Man himself. For the Parade of Lanterns —free twenty-one years, residents lanterns are provided to the and visitors have looked first 100 strollers. Additional forward to the opening event events consist of live music, of the holiday season—The sweets and spirits, and a Big Sky Christmas Stroll. spectacular firework display! What started in Meadow Official schedules Village as an intimate festivity can be found at www. for friends and families has bigskytowncenter.com/ grown into a community bigskychristmasstroll/ and holiday tradition as Westfork on the 21st Annual Big Sky Meadows and Town Center Christmas Stroll Facebook add their marks to the Event page. For additional celebration. information, contact JoDean This year’s Christmas Bing at 580-6262. With the Stroll is set for Friday, Dec. 7 holiday spirit filling the air from 5:30-9:30 p.m. To kick- with music, lights, and magic, off the event, Santa will make this year promises to be as his arrival via horse-drawn spectacular as any! sleigh and is eager to hear gift requests and grant holiday - Big Sky Christmas wishes at the original First Stroll Committee Security Bank in Meadow Village Center. A projection PHOTO COURTESY LOVE STREET MEDIA LONE PEAK LOOKOUT A7 November 29, 2018
LONE PEAK LOOKOUT A8 November 29, 2018 Community Corner a focus on the good stuff
Feast on Gallatin River Task holiday spirit Force welcomes
The Arts Council of Big Sky is proud to present the 22nd annual Madrigal Ryan Newcomb as Dinner, slated for Monday, Dec. 3, at 5 p.m. in the Montana Room at Buck’s T-4 Lodge. This event a production of the Montana State University School of development director Music and is considered by many as the traditional opening of the Christmas season and is one of the highlights for the Big Sky community. Newcomb to be first full-time Tickets ($60) for the Madrigal Dinner can be purchased in advance, and include a fantastic three-course dinner prepared by the chefs at Buck’s, as fundraiser for the GRTF well as festive music from the Montana State University Montanans, the MSU Brass Quintet and the MSU Chorale. The event is usually sold out so tickets Ryan Newcomb are by advanced reservation only. This event is sponsored in part by Buck’s stepped into his role as T-4 and Karst Stage. For more information call 995-2742 or visit www.bigsky- the first full-time devel- arts.org. opment director for the Gallatin River Task Force on Nov. 15. The new position was supported through a capital cam- paign contribution made possible by a public-pri- vate partnership between the Yellowstone Club and Madison County. Newcomb joins the Task Force from Wash- Meet Ryan Newcomb, Gallatin River Task Force’s new full- ington, D.C. and brings time development director. PHOTO COURTESY GRTF 10 years of experience fundraising for diverse zation and ultimately the future of the organizations including the Boys Gallatin River.” Scouts of America and American The Yellowstone Club partnered Foundation for Suicide Prevention. As with Madison County to fully fund the a member of the Task Force leadership position through the Gallatin River team, he will create and implement Forever Campaign. Gallatin River For- fundraising strategies to support the ever is a campaign to monitor, repair, Task Force mission and strategic plan. and improve the Gallatin River and The holiday fun really kicks into gear on Dec. 3 with the annual Madrigal Dinner held at “We are absolutely thrilled to have its tributaries to ensure the long-term Buck’s T-4. The evening includes live music as well as a three-course meal with such delights as a young green salad with toasted almonds and apples, wagyu steak with fondant potatoes and Ryan join our team in a role that the health of the watershed. veggies and warm chocolate cake topped with ice cream and a salty caramel sauce. PHOTO Task Force has needed for quite some The Gallatin River Task Force is COURTESY OF ACBS time,” stated Kristin Gardner, Task a nonprofit, watershed group head- Force executive director. “And we are quartered in Big Sky with a mission to incredibly grateful for the visionary gift partner with our community to inspire from the Yellowstone Club and Madi- stewardship of the Gallatin River Wa- son County that will undoubtedly have tershed. Local real estate a long-lasting impact on our organi- boom continues —GRTF U.S. Ski & Snowboard The Gallatin Association of Realtors recently released its residential real estate market statistics for October 2018, revealing increases in closed sales and sale prices and a tightening inventory of available homes. SuperTour Freestyle Sprint “The Gallatin area continued to see an active, competitive seller’s market through October,” said Steve Candler, CEO of the Gallatin Association of This top cross country ski event comes to the Rendezvous Ski Trails in Realtors. “Sale prices are up once again, while the inventory of available West Yellowstone starting on Saturday, Dec. 1. Learn more at http://www. homes remains tight. The market remains in solid shape as we move into skirunbikemt.com/supertour.html. Winter.” The number of new single-family listings increased slightly from 133 in October 2017 to 135 this October, a 1.5 percent increase. The number of units sold increased 14.9 percent, from 148 last October to 170 this year, while the median sale price saw a 20.9 percent spike, jumping from $372,361 to $450,000. The average number of days on market was 62, a 26.5 percent increase from 49 last year, and the months supply of inventory decreased 7.7 percent, from 3.9 to 3.6. The median sale price in the condo/townhouse market jumped 20.2 percent, from $248,700 in October 2017 to $299,000 last month. The number of closed sales decreased 23.6 percent, from 72 to 55. New listings decreased 12.7 percent in October 2018 compared to the same period last year, falling from 63 to 55, while the months supply of inventory fell 22.9 percent, from 3.5 to 2.7.
—GAR The upcoming SuperTour event in West Yellowstone is a chance to see outstanding cross country skiers in action, like Montana State University’s Anna Fake. PHOTO BY ADRIAN SANCHEZ-GONZALEZ sponsored by LONE PEAK LOOKOUT B1 November 29, 2018 Arts Sitting, waiting, snapping Big Sky photographer Dave Pecunies opens shop in the Town Center
BY JOLENE PALMER Turning to some of the prints on the wall [email protected] of his newly opened store in the Town Center, Pecunies explained that some of his wildlife efore local photographer Dave and landscape photos were actually taken from Pecunies began snapping photos home sites where he’d been initially taking real professionally, he found himself on estate photos. the flip side of the photo. It’s mainly those themes capturing the WhileB working at Sunday River ski resort natural beauty of the region that line the in Maine, Pecunies skied for a number of walls of the combined office of Dave Pecunies photographers, and that’s where he got to know Photography and Stay Montana. From the “the other side of the camera.” He’d always had classic looks at Lone Mountain to Ousel Falls a passion for photography, so when some of the and the iconic bighorn sheep and mountain photographers recognized that, they took him goats, Pecunies’ prints are a showcase of under their wings, showing him the ins and Yellowstone National Park and Big Sky’s outs of getting a great photo. splendor. “I’ve been fortunate to work with some Having Yellowstone basically in his backyard really great photographers,” Pecunies said, has been a perk for Pecunies, who heads to the recalling the days when he’d worked as a photo park year round. assistant. “And, some really great photo editors “It doesn’t matter what time of the year you as well. Those people helped me find my eye, go, as long as you get there early enough,” he and what to look for.” said, describing successful sunrise shoots where That love of the art of photo taking he’s done getting his images and heading out of blossomed during the time digital video was the gate as the crowds are just pouring in. emerging. Seeing opportunity in the new form To get those snow-white mountain goat of media, Pecunies decided to take his passion photos, Pecunies said he talks with resort ski for photos and focus it toward the growing patrol for intel as to where the brave animals are video venue, going on to run a TV station for from day to day. Sunday River for 13 years. “I’m chasing goats around all the time,” he Pecunies still does videos, ones for Big Sky said. “It’s about having the patience, going up Resort come to mind, as well as with his two there, and just walking around and looking. It’s sons, 10 and 11. the same thing with other wildlife—you’re not “Skiing, and the way they look at the just going to pull up, get out, and snap a great mountain, is just a little different than the way picture. It’s about sitting around and waiting, an adult would,” said Pecunies, recalling their watching.” fun during the recent opening weekend at the Ski photos also remain a staple for Pecunies, resort. from capturing kids on the slopes to extreme Pecunies and his family relocated to Big skiing a little further up the mountain. To Sky about four years ago—as Boyne resort secure that fleeting image in time, he said he employees they came to Big Sky to take an comes to the shoot with a plan, and setting affordable ski trip with that employee benefit. things up quickly. They fell in love with the skiing and the “It’s also about spending time on the hill, community, deciding to make it their home— and knowing the location, so that when you’re selling their house, quitting their jobs, and out with people you can bring them to these starting anew. spots,” he said. “I’ll have skied in the area “Coming from a small New England before, and thought, ‘Ok, I’ve got to get this community, we knew this was where we wanted photo, have someone ski though on a powder to be,” he said. day.’” Insider tip: it also helps to have a really Pecunies’ career as a photographer fast camera. continued when he got to Big Sky, initially Before the opportunity to showcase his work freelancing and traveling before he honed in a shop came about, Pecunies said he sold things in, and he’s now able to say he’s a full- many of his images online or through social time photographer. His wife Callie was a broker media interest. So when his friends Chris and for Sotheby’s, so she carried that expertise with Jen Torsleff—owners of the vacation rental her to Big Sky. business Stay Montana—asked if he wanted One of the subjects Pecunies gravitates to line the walls of their store with his prints, toward is architecture, “I’ve always been into it was a no-brainer decision. “It’s been a really carpentry, although I’m not a great carpenter, great opportunity,” said Pecunies.4 I appreciate it, and one of the things I love is shooting architecture.” From Top to Bottom Right: That comes into play in his career via real estate photography, which keeps his schedule Real estate photography keeps Pecunies busy, happily busy nowadays. “Plus, I get to hang out and satisfies his love of architecture. PHOTO at some incredible places around here.” BY DAVE PECUNIES
Dave’s wife Callie enjoys some turns in the “white room.” PHOTO BY DAVE PECUNIES
Bighorn sheep are icons of Big Sky and Yellowstone, and make for a fine print on the walls of Pecunies’ new showroom in the Town Center. PHOTO BY DAVE PECUNIES
Visitors can take home a piece of Big Sky with this shot of Ousel Falls. PHOTO BY DAVE PECUNIES
Left:
Big Sky photographer Dave Pecunies took the day off after skiing opening weekend with his family and spent time in his newly opened showroom across from Fire Pit Park in the Town Center. He shares the space with Stay Montana. PHOTO BY JOLENE PALMER LONE PEAK LOOKOUT B2 November 29, 2018
Avoiding wastewater woes Big Sky’s water and sewer district looks into treatment plant upgrade options
BY JOLENE PALMER of pumping 70 million gallons “We are at our capacity,” current system, but ultimately time discussing the reuse and above current costs. That boils [email protected] up to the Yellowstone Club, as he said, noting the age of the recommended pursuing a new discharge alternatives that come down to a hike in BSW&SD well as more water later on to a current plant. “I imagine this system known as a membrane with the higher level of treated customers’ quarterly bills, with In what turned out to be a previously unwatered area near effort is going to take a few bioreactor, or MBR. As Buecker water the MBR would create, the sewer base rate potentially five-plus hour discussion, the the Big Sky Golf Course, that years, which puts us up pretty explained, this system was but as the meeting reached the rising 60 to 70 percent. Big Sky County Water & Sewer spillage scenario was averted. close to that 20-year life cycle. seen as the winner since it four-hour mark Cronin and However, that increase in District board of directors, led By the fall of 2018 the ponds I think the responsible thing to would double the capacity of fellow board member Mike taxes to pay for the plant would by consultant Scott Buecker, had finally dropped to more do is to stay ahead of the curve, the current plant, as well as fit DuCuennois made it clear the only be effective through 2023, held a community meeting on manageable levels. and fine tune this now especially within the restrictive location first step, Phase 1, would be at which time the BSW&SD’s Nov. 27 to discuss the brass In fact it’s irrigation, namely given the places we found where the current system sits. to simply get the MBR plant, two other loans will be paid tacks of the recently-completed of Big Sky’s golf courses, that ourselves in last spring, so The MBR would also treat with its Class A-1 wastewater in full. Even with that price wastewater treatment plant keeps the wastewater retention improve our capacity and ability wastewater at a higher level, in place, before the decision of drop on the horizon, the board upgrade study. pond system afloat, so to speak. to treat wastewater.” discharging treated water to the what would be done with the wondered if its users would The district’s current plant, And it’s not an easy task. It was retaining ponds with nitrogen water (Phase 2) would come to vote to approve these initial cost a 14-year-old, sequencing noted at the Nov. 27 special a decision. increases, however long they’d batch reactor with zero liquid meeting that in 2018, nearly “People need to understand be around. discharge, may not have reached 200 million gallons of treated this this is not a black and white, “There is a cost that goes its shelf-life as far as age goes— wastewater was pumped 2,000 There is a cost that there is not going to be one with this. It’s very real, and plants of that type last about 20 feet uphill to Big Sky’s private goes with this. It’s very disposal method chosen above it’s a big part of what needs years—but as population and club courses—some of it via a all,” said DuCuennois, vice to be looked at, and what the visitation continue to rise, the 7.2 mile pipeline, charged at 450 real.”—BSW&S District president of the Yellowstone community is willing and not plant has seen recent water levels PSI. Club. “We are going to keep willing to do,” said Edwards, pouring in that bring it to its It was these max levels of General Manager Ron Edwards, irrigating our golf courses. I’m recalling success in past years maximum functioning capacity. input and output that motivated discussing the realities of water going for a snowmaking permit with other similar efforts. In addition, the three ponds the W&S department along with now. We are doing things as a The aforementioned costs that store the treated wastewater its board to see what could be “ district to treat water to make are assuming that the BSW&SD and sewer in Big Sky. coming from the plant also done differently, from treatment any or all of these options or some other source, like have been maxed out. Earlier to discharge. AE2S Engineering available. This is not a one- the Big Sky Resort Area Tax this year the W&S department of Bozeman was commissioned decision thing.” District, did not foot some of watched with bated breath as the to perform the much-discussed the $21.7 million bill. storage ponds inched towards study, which was released to the The chosen plant and its and phosphorus levels that Money matters “Everything we build is spillover by the spring of 2018. public in September. wastewater options would qualify the liquid for the The cost of the MBR is bigger than what’s needed for High visitation and precipitation Early in the public meeting, Buecker’s report looked EPA standard known as Class loosely estimated to be about our resident population,” said were likely to blame. BSW&SD Board President at several types of wastewater A-1. Big Sky’s current treated $21.7 million for Phase 1. Just Edwards. “And it’s because But thanks to creative Packy Cronin described the treatment plants, as well as water qualifies as Class A, which how that bill would be footed of that mountain… we have irrigation usage, which consisted “why” of the study. potential upgrades to the means it can only be reused for was addressed towards the end to build to take care of the irrigation, under of the meeting by BSW&SD demand that the mountain the assumption General Manager Ron Edwards. puts on it. So is it fair to have the plants The district has already spent the residents subsidize that… being watered nearly $30 million on various knowing that the visitor impact would digest wastewater treatment and is significant?” the unwanted drinking water upgrades using With Edward’s point in nutrients in the low-cost federal loans pegged mind, BSW&SD Vice President water. specifically for water treatment Tom Reeves continued the But a Class infrastructure. These 20-year discussion. A-1 designation loans currently have a 2.5 “That’s the whole logic would open up percent interest rate. of resort tax,” said Reeves. a whole new Once the loan is secured “The logic is that you have an world of treated via the Department of Natural infrastructure base to support wastewater Resources & Conservation and a much bigger population than reuse options— the DEQ, the BSW&SD will the resident community.” including the likely go to its users requesting The lengthy, informational much debated a general obligation bond, as it meeting was just that— direct discharge has done in the past, but only informational only, and the into the Gallatin if the voters approve the bond. board did not make any River. That also This money would be collected decisions as to how to proceed. includes the through a mill rate increase. Community input on the plan less-controversial With users paying off of a 52.06 is still being accepted, and option of mill rate, the $21.7 million loan could help the board decide snowmaking with to cover the new plant would up what they’ll ultimately pursue. the wastewater, that by 58.02 mills, effectively To view the plan, visit www. as well as several doubling the water and sewer bigskywatersewer.com and click other venues. tax rate. on Helpful Links. Scott Buecker of AE2S Engineering (at podium) spelled out his recommendations for an upgrade to Big Sky’s wastewater The board, Operating costs also treatment system on Nov. 27 during a lengthy meeting that detailed the benefits of a new type of plant that would utilize Buecker and come into play with the MBR the Big Sky County Water & Sewer District’s current plant location, would double treatment capacity, and pump out a meeting attendees plant—estimated at an uptick See Trailhead Briefs | B5 cleaner product that opens the floodgates to more disposal options. PHOTO BY JOLENE PALMER spent plenty of of nearly $1 million per year NONSTOP HEALTHCARE
Big Sky Medical Center 334 Town Center Avenue Emergency Department 24/7/365 Family Medicine Clinic Weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Retail Pharmacy Weekdays 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
406-995-6995 | BigSkyMedicalCenter.com LONE PEAK LOOKOUT B3 November 29, 2018 CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES
SERVICES
Handyman Services, Big Sky Lone Peak Handyman more info online www.lonepeakhandyman.com Justin 406-539-1420
A.A. Big Sky Community Food ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Bank HOURS: Have you sometimes Tuesdays 3-7 p.m. & Fridays 11 wished you could spend a.m. - 3 p.m. a holiday sober? We can Big Horn Shopping Center on help. Call 888-607-2000 HWY 191 to talk to a member of (406) 995-3088 AA. or go to aa.montana. org for meeting times and Emergency Food and Social locations. Services. Donations Welcome. HEADS
GET A UP Check out the Lone Peak High School sports’ schedules for the 2018/2019 school year on Facebook@lonepeaklookout.
LIKE US on Facebook! Answers on page B9
YELLOWSTONE CLUB 2018 - 2019 WINTER SEASON
- HIRING ALL POSITIONS -
Join Yellowstone Club for the largest season in YC History with the opening of the new Village Core!
Visit the hiring page, YC Careers at yellowstoneclub.com or visit https://harri.com/yellowstoneclubcareers LONE PEAK LOOKOUT B4 November 29, 2018
M I N E R EVENTS • DECEMBER 2018 OF THE WEEK ★ ★ MON - FRI Drop-In Downtown (Drop the kids off for a 8:30 AM - fun-filled day with Dino Drop-In, relax and 5 PM immerse yourself in the Big Sky Life. Open Sundays 9:30 AM - 5 PM. Evenings available upon request. Call 406-624-6150.)
DEC 7 21st Annual Big Sky Christmas Stroll (Join all
of Big Sky for an evening of family friendly
5:30 - 9:30
PM events, entertainment, and holiday cheer. Visit: bigskytowncenter.com/bigskychristmasstroll for more information
DEC 18 Monthly Open House at 33 Lone Peak Drive, 9 - 11:30 #204 (Meet with the Town Center team to AM share ideas and discuss how we can better support you)
Find more of the Big Sky Life @BigSkyTownCenter
Charles Distad
Charlie is a remarkable young man in so many ways. The seventh grader has been described as mature, independent and thoughtful, which accurately describes him both in and out of the classroom. He has a natural curiosity that is evident in his actions toward helping others. He always has a positive attitude and contagious smile at Ophir Middle School. Thank you Charlie for modeling such mature and encouraging behaviors.
—BSSD
MINERS AND BIG HORN OF THE WEEK IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
• LEAVE THE DRIVING TO US • The Yellowstone Club Community Free shuttles daily at SKYLINEBUS.COM Foundation serves as a resource for nonprofits in the greater Big Sky and Gallatin Valley area. LONE PEAK LOOKOUT B5 November 29, 2018
TRAILHEAD BRIEFS
any fur-bearing power grid issues this holiday Mountain top voter season when the 21st Big Sky Community turnout Christmas Stroll kicks off on Dec. 7 starting at 5:30 p.m. Of the 251 active voters in the Madison Blue Ribbon Builders is sponsoring Santa at County portion of Big Sky, 204 received their the old First Security Bank Building in Meadow ballots by mail this year. Of those 204, reported Village Center. Santa will arrive on a horse-drawn the Madison County Elections Office, 137 actually sleigh or buggy (depending on weather). returned their ballots by Election Day. Come warm up by the fire pit with s’mores, There are 90 inactive voters in this area of drinks and treats while touring local businesses Big Sky and only one of them reactivated their holding open houses. registration and voted at the polls. Ten of the active voters not receiving their —DM ballots in the mail trekked down the mountain to vote at the polling place in the fire hall just north of Ennis. Also, said Madison County Clerk and Recorder Kathleen Mumme, “We had 10 people from Big Sky come to our office (in Virginia City) on Election Day, late register and vote!”
—DM
Don’t want to smell like Big Sky? No problem because fragrance maker Abbott NYC also offers a scent called Telluride, which promises notes of “suede, sandalwood and tonka bean.” IMAGE COURTESY ABBOTT NYC
Wow, what’s that scent? Big Sky?
For the Big Sky resident who not only wants to Bozeman District Ranger Corey Lewellen. live the dream but also smell like it, there’s a new PHOTO COURTESY USFS splash-on scent from Abbott NYC. The fragrance maker recently unveiled “Big Sky,” describing it as Coffee with a ranger “a clean unisex scent that also marks the brand’s fifth scent overall. The name is derived from the Did you know the Big Sky Medical Center popular ski resort, Big Sky, located in the Rocky has a really nice public meeting space on the Mountains of Montana.” second floor? Come check it out on Dec. 4, when How did Abbott NYC bottle up Big Sky’s representatives from the Custer Gallatin National smell? Did it mix one part pine sap, one part Forest host a “Coffee with a ranger” event from sweaty ski sock, two parts stale PBR? 4-6 p.m. The smell maker didn’t reveal all its secrets This is a chance to meet local forest service in a recent press release, saying only, “Big Sky is staff, including Corey Lewellen, ranger for the vegan, cruelty free and non-toxic. It’s composed Bozeman district. of 15 percent eau de parfum concentration as “I greatly value the importance that National well as high quality natural ingredients. Notes of Forest System lands provide to our communities. grassy dried vetiver, cool spice marine and fresh The Bozeman Ranger District includes a very green cypress are utilized to evoke Montana’s diverse spectrum of both natural resources and mountains, glaciers and ranch lands. In addition, recreational opportunities. I look forward to the brand intended to capture the state’s working on the many projects that are occurring abundance of water with its lakes and glaciers, across the district and forest, as well as working through a semi-translucent bottle design to exude with the long list of important partners in the that liquid essence.” community,” said Lewellen in a welcoming A 50 milliliter bottle costs $65 and a portion statement back in March. of the proceeds go to support the Montana Now is a splendid time for Big Sky residents Wilderness Association. to check in about the ongoing revisions to the local forest plan and specific projects, like future —DM improvements to the Deer Creek Trailhead. These include regrading the parking area, stream bank re-vegetation stabilization measures to reduce runoff to the Gallatin River, improving parking delineation and rebuilding the fishing platform. HEADS All are still in the works and will unfold in partnership with the Gallatin River Task Force. 21ST ANNUAL “We’re really focusing on that balance of providing really good recreational access while GET A UP also trying to improve the riparian areas,” said Check out the Lewellen. Big Sky Lone Peak High —DM School sports’ Dreaming of a weasel-free schedules for the 2018/2019 ChristmasChristmas StrollStroll Christmas stroll Friday, December 7 Remember last year when the power went school year on out right before the start of the annual Christmas Facebook@lonepeaklookout. 5:30-9:30 PM stroll? The outage was caused by a weasel, which climbed into the Meadow Village substation, got Big Sky Town Center, electrocuted and knocked out power. Meadow Village Center & Westfork Meadows A crisis was averted when electricity returned in the nick of time. Fingers crossed we don’t have Enjoy photos with Santa, sleigh rides, tree light- ing, lantern parade, fi reworks and more!
For Information Visit bigskytowncenter.com/bigskychristmasstroll
WESTFORK Mead s LONE PEAK LOOKOUT B6 November 29, 2018 The gift of giving Two ways to support Big Sky kids this holiday season
Christmas Giving Tree returns ingredients to whip up a holiday feast. Ah, the pure, childhood joy of opening up a colorfully wrapped Christmas present. The suspense, the excitement, the glee! But for some Purchase and decorate a wreath, benefit families, purchasing all those hopeful holiday requests from young ones Morningstar Learning Center is easier imagined than afforded. The holidays have that special way of bringing The Rotary Club of Big Sky, as it has done in the past, hopes to ease out the creative side of people. Decorating sugar the pricey present burden some Big Sky families face via the Christmas cookies with frosting and sprinkles. Donning the Giving Tree, which provides presents and a holiday meal to local Christmas tree with lights, ornaments, and tinsel. families who might not be able to afford it otherwise. Creating snowmen with coal eyes and carrot noses… Families who would like to participate in the program are invited and so on. to pick up a Santa Letter from either American or First Security banks Well, here’s another creative outlet—Morningstar or the Country Market, have their kiddos fill out what they’d like under Learning Center, in partnership with Big Sky the tree this year, and then mail the confidential request in the self- Landscaping, is holding a wreath decorating addressed envelope no later than Dec. 7. fundraiser on Dec. 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the From there, the requests will be translated onto ornaments that Big Sky Landscaping greenhouse located behind will be hung on the Giving Tree at the Big Sky Post Office, where Caliber Coffee. community members can select an ornament, which they’ll purchase For $40, attendees can purchase a pre-made, the listed gift, dropping it back off, unwrapped along with the request 100 percent evergreen wreath, prime for decorating. ornament, at the post office. Interested gift-givers without time to shop There will be plenty of festive fodder to adhere to These books were just a few of the many gifts donated to Big Sky kids via the Big Sky can also pick up a donation slip to offer money the Rotary will use to the wreath, from boughs to ribbons, red berries, Rotary’s Christmas Giving Tree program last year. The annual program is back again buy any gifts not yet purchased once Christmas nears. pinecones, and poinsettia flowers. Poinsettia plants this year, and the community will soon be able to drop by the Big Sky Post Office to Then, near the end of December the Rotarians gather at a gift also will be on hand for purchase, the price varying check out the Christmas tree decorated with ornaments describing the Christmas gift wrapping party before hitting the streets as Santas, of sorts, dropping depending on size. wishes of a local youngster. PHOTO BY JOLENE PALMER off gifts at the homes of the families in need along with a full spread of Not into decorating a wreath, but still want one for your home? Just contact towards Morningstar curriculum and classroom supplies. Morningstar at sbyam@ BSL owners Alan and Danielle McClain have supported the center morningstarlearningcenter.com for years. Projects facilitated by BSL include assisting in the build out with an order prior to Dec. 1 and of the Center’s playground, as well as the landscaping around the new the center’s employees will be happy infant center, and Danielle serves on the board of directors. to whip one up during the Dec. 1 “Though our children are long past pre-school age, we have creative gathering to be picked up at employees with children that age,” said Alan. “And, ultimately, we the event or at the center later on. believe a quality pre-school is an important element of our community.” Proceeds from the wreath will go
VOLUNTEER OF THE WEEK IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
Montana Owned and Operated
Decorative wreaths have been popping up 2017 Recipient of the around town lately—think you can do better? MSU Family Owned Business Award Head to the Big Sky Landscaping greenhouse in Dedicated to our customers and our community since 1947 the West Fork on Dec. 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 1700 Lone Mountain Trail | 406-995-7111 PHOTO BY JOLENE PALMER EQUAL HOUSING Member FDIC americanbankmontana.com LENDER
87 Lone Peak Dr. Big Sky, MT 59716 406.995.3670 bigskybuild.com LONE PEAK LOOKOUT B7 November 29, 2018 Elevate Big Sky 2023 FACILITATING LOCAL GOVERNANCE Join Us! ECONOMIC IMPACT OF TOURISM Eggs& Issues WED, DEC 5, 2018 | 8:30 - 10 AM LONE PEAK CINEMA (Breakfast Provided) Join the Big Sky Chamber and special guest, Dax Schieffer with Voices of Mon- tana Tourism to discuss the economic impact of the 12.5 million non-resident visitors who spent $3.4 billion in Montana supporting 53,380 jobs in 2017 and what that means for the Big Sky community. ◆ ◆◆ ◆◆ (Immediately to Follow) Gallatin-Madison JOINT COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING 10 AM - 12 PM
BigSkyChamber.com/events | 406.995.3000
OUR COMMUNITY. OUR BUSINESS.
The Big Sky Chamber of Commerce is a 501 (c)(6) nonprofit, membership organization LONE PEAK LOOKOUT B8 November 29, 2018
MARTHA JOHNSON CONTACT MARTHA FOR ANY OF YOUR Vice President of Sales | Founding Broker BIG SKY REAL ESTATE QUESTIONS: THE BIG SKY REAL ESTATE CO. (406) 580-5891 Martha, a full time Big Sky resident since 1988, is [email protected] the Co-Exclusive listing broker for Spanish Peaks Mountain Club and Moonlight Basin.
GALLATIN PRESERVE 80 TIMBER RIDGE Spanish Peaks Mountain Club Moonlight Basin 9 Tracks with outstanding views of Lone Peak and Gallatin Range Custom log home + guest cabin, pistol range & trout pond. SPMC Golf Membership comes with the purchase of property, but not required. 4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Baths Homesites 160 +/-Acres 20+ Acres From $4,300,000 $4,600,000
2005 CHIEF JOSEPH ELKRIDGE 58 Sweetgrass Hills - Big Sky Meadow Spanish Peaks Mountain Club Wine cellar, indoor lap pool & gorgeous trout filled pond. Ski-in/Ski-out, Adjacent to Yellowstone Club. 5 Bedrooms | 5.5 Baths 5 Bedrooms | 6 Baths 7,690 SF | 22 +/- Acres New Construction $4,800,000 $5,750,000
SPRING CREEK RESERVE 180 THOMAS MORAN DRIVE Spanish Peaks Mountain Club Big EZ Estates Mountain setting with spectacular views of Lone Peak and the Spanish Peaks. Ultimate Montana home with resident elk and wildlife. Homesite Golf Membership to Spanish Peaks available. 27.77 Acres 4 Bedrooms | 5 Baths $1,900,000 5,209 SF | 20 +/- Acres $3,995,000
CHARLIE RUSSELL LOOP ROAD MOUNTAIN LAKE Big EZ Ranch 2 Big Sky Mountain Village in the mix of Yellowstone National Park, Gallatin National Forest, and America’s New Construction. Amazing views of Lone Peak. largest combined ski resorts with spectacular views and ubundant wildlife. 2 Bed/Flex Rm to 4 Beds | 3-4 Baths 37.1 Acres 1918-2417 SF $599,000 From $794,300
MARTHA JOHNSON VIce President of Sales | Founding Broker (406) 580-5891 | [email protected]
All information contained herein is derived from sources deemed reliable; however, the content contained herein is not guaranteed by Lone Mountain Land Company LLC or its affiliated or parent companies, subsidiaries, officers, managers, employees, agents, brokers or salespersons and none of the foregoing make any representations regarding the accuracy of such information. Any floor plans, square footage, photos, illustrations/renderings, maps and features and amenities described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are subject to change without notice. Offerings are subject to error, omissions, prior sales, price changes or withdrawal without notice. Prospective purchasers are urged to independently investigate the property. No governmental agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. This material shall not constitute an offer to sell in any state or other jurisdiction where prior registration is required and shall not constitute a solicitation if you are working with another real estate agent. © 2016 The Big Sky Real Estate Co.. All rights in and to the content are owned or controlled by The Big Sky Real Estate Co.. Any unauthorized reproduction is expressly prohibited. LONE PEAK LOOKOUT B9 November 29, 2018
OBITUARY
Gretchen Gerhardt Sewell
Gretchen Gerhardt Sewell, 81, of Reno, Nev., 1976 Winter Olympics in Innsbruck, Austria. Gretchen thoroughly loved seeing the joy they passed away peacefully on Nov. 17 with family The couple volunteered at numerous ski races brought to so many children and adults. and friends by her side after a courageous battle as gates-keeper timers and always encouraged Gretty is pre-deceased by her husband Buster with breast cancer. Born in Tecumseh, Neb., kids of all ages to ski. Gretty loved the Atlantis and her daughter, Randy Ryan Sundquist. She is “Gretty” was raised in Reno, where she met Casino, where you could always find at her survived by her sister Barbara Gallaway (Ron) her husband (the late) A.W. “Buster” Sewell. favorite machines. of Reno; her daughter Kimi Hinkel (Gordon) of They were high school sweethearts, who later To say that the couple were super fans of Reno; her step daughter Vicki Erickson of Reno. married. the Nevada Wolfpack football team is putting Lovingly known as “Mimi” to her surviving Standing a mere 5’2”, Gretty had a vibrant, it mildly. As season ticket holders, “Go Pack!” grandchildren: Ryan Sundquist (Nicole) of entertaining personality and truly was the was regularly heard in the Sewell homes in both Austin, Texas; Lauren Filsinger (Colin) of Reno; hostess with the mostess. Known for her lively Reno and Big Sky, Mont. And what homes she Morgan Dusek (Shay) of Reno; Blake Hinkel of fondue parties, sumptuous bundt cakes and made. You see, the most important thing to Reno and three great granddaughters: Kaylee, late-night dinners (because she was so busy Gretty was family. She was the matriarch and Cadence and Amelia as well as numerous socializing that she wouldn’t get the meal brought love, joy and happiness to raising and friends and family in Reno and Big Sky. started on time), Gretty was generous, kind and loving her children and grandchildren. The family would like to acknowledge the fun. True to her spirit, her time in Big Sky, Gretty staff of the third floor oncology unit of St. Growing up, she attended Reno High School, and Buster regularly gathered friends together Mary’s, the St. Mary’s Hospice staff and her where she was a Huskiette in the marching to celebrate birthdays, golf tourneys, bowling personal home-care givers. band playing piccolo and flute. For 33 years, tournaments, dances and pretty much life in Private services will be held. Donations she was employed by Nevada Bell (Ma Bell). general. Known for over 30 years to donate her can be made in Gretchen’s name to Susan G. She married the love of her life, Buster. They time and efforts towards the annual Easter Egg Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and St. Jude’s travelled the world together to destinations Hunt at the Corral Bar and Grill, she provided Children’s Hospital. An online guest book is such as Australia, China, Hong Kong, Bali and hundreds of Big Sky children with bunnies to available through the O’Brien-Rodgers & Crosby Thailand. Being avid skiers, they attended the take home each year at Easter time. Buster and Funeral Home: waltonsfuneralhomes.com.
GUEST OPINION Critiquing Kerry White Big Sky’s rep in the Montana House should not be making public land policy
BY L.M. CAINE, TOM ROSS As a supporter of the Bundy also featured radicals who the Utah-based group leading 70,000 jobs and $286 million AND DICK SHOCKLEY clan and as a legislator who advocate for terminating the charge for disposing of in state and local tax revenue. has introduced bills aimed at Indian treaty rights and public lands—something If White had his way, the Given how much transferring and selling off eliminating tribal sovereignty, Montanans across the state foundation for this economy— Montanans value public lands, American public lands, White as well as those who peddle resoundingly reject. public lands—would be it’s reasonable to expect the has repeatedly shown that the “deep state,” Agenda 21 According to the 2018 broken. Montana Legislature would he’s more aligned with the and other conspiracy theories University of Montana Public Additionally, White has elect someone as chair of the radical fringe than he is with meant to sow paranoia Lands Survey, 90 percent of made the preposterous claim House Natural Resources Montanans. White recently and divisiveness in our Montanans see the protection that too many trees in the Committee who shares those demonstrated this again when communities. White is no of public lands as being an forest are to blame for drought, values. But that didn’t happen he spoke at a conference stranger to the Agenda 21 important part of “maintaining and that if we would greatly with the recent appointment of in Whitefish that featured conspiracy theory. In 2013 what is best about Montana.” increase the harvest of trees we Rep. Kerry White. Cliven Bundy’s son Ammon, he spoke at an event that Eighty-seven percent of wouldn’t have to worry about In 2014, more than who in 2016 led the 44-day drought or wild fires. 200 heavily armed, anti- armed occupation of Malheur White’s irrational, illogical government militants answered National Wildlife Refuge in and extremist views are Cliven Bundy’s call to help Oregon. “If White had his way, dangerous for Montana’s public him fight against federal During the Malheur lands and should automatically The recently re-elected Rep. and local law enforcement occupation, White again came the foundation for this disqualify him from holding Kerry White (HD 64). PHOTO officials, who were rounding to the defense of the Bundy any position, especially one of COURTESY THE MONTANA up Bundy’s cattle as payment clan, calling on a local sheriff economy—public lands— leadership, in any committee LEGISLATURE for the $1 million in grazing “to stand up and protect that makes public land policy. fees he owed—and still owes— those people at the Refuge… would be broken.” As we head into the 2019 L.M. Caine, Bozeman, American taxpayers. White against federal soldiers.” To legislative session, we need owns and operates the Firehole also answered the call. White’s way of thinking, an “ to make sure that our elected Ranch in West Yellowstone. “I will be going down to armed gang that trashes public officials are serving public Tom Ross, Gallatin Gateway, Nevada, leaving tomorrow to buildings, vandalizes ancient lands, not working against is a retired civil engineer who stand with Mr. Bundy,” White American Indian sites, and organizers billed on Facebook Montanans say that public them, as White has done for worked for 28 years in the announced on his Facebook tears down fences needed and as “Agenda 21 Opp with Kerry lands have a positive impact several years now. If we want forest products industry. Dick page at a time when Bundy’s deserved the local sheriff’s White.” on our overall quality of life. to see the science-based, Shockley, Gallatin Gateway, is militants were threatening protection from federal law In addition to supporting One of the largest sectors of bipartisan legislation that a U.S. Army Vietnam veteran, the lives of local and federal enforcement. the Bundy clan, White has Montana’s economy, outdoor Montanans deserve, we’ll need third-generation Montanan, and law enforcement officials and The Whitefish conference served as a representative of recreation accounts for $7 to keep a very close eye on how a lifelong hunter and angler. public land managers. at which White spoke recently the American Lands Council, billion in consumer spending, White leads this committee. Buffalo Horn-Porcupine–The Lamar Valley of the Gallatin Range
BY GEORGE WUERTHNER one of the few bighorn sheep designated under S. 393 as West.” these organizations, along WSAs. Yet GYC, MWA, TWS populations that have never the Hyalite Porcupine Buffalo The acquisition of these with the Montana Wilderness and other groups are willing The spectacularly glaciated been extirpated. Mountain Horn Wilderness Study Area private checkerboard parcels by Association and others have to eliminate wilderness study Gallatin Range stretches goat, wolves, cougar, wolverine, (HPBH), including the Buffalo the Forest Service was always signed on the Gallatin Forest status for the BHP portion of south from Bozeman into lynx and many other wildlife Horn-Porcupine area, in part assumed to be a step in the Partnership (GFP) that the Gallatin Range. Yellowstone National Park. species also call the BHP to protect these critical wildlife eventual designation of these promotes eliminating WSA While I am pleased with The 250,000-acre roadless home. And it is the best values. lands as wilderness under the status for the Buffalo Horn and the outstanding effort of these area is the largest unprotected place in the northern Greater During the initial 1964 Wilderness Act. Porcupine drainages. organizations to counter wildlands left in the northern Yellowstone Ecosystem outside legislative efforts in the early For instance, in 1993 While the GFP supports Daines and Gianforte’s attempts Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. of Yellowstone Park for the 1980s to create a Lee Metcalf testimony before Congress 102,000 acres of the high to reduce protection for these WILDLIFE VALUES restoration of wild bison. Wilderness, the Gallatin Range on behalf of the Greater elevation “rocks and ice” wildlands, it should not come The Buffalo Horn and Besides charismatic was part of the proposal, but Yellowstone Coalition portion of the Gallatin Range at the expense of the wilderness Porcupine drainages (BHP) megafauna, the Montana dropped primarily due to and Wilderness Society, for wilderness designation, designation of the BHP. that flow into the Gallatin River Heritage Program lists 18 bird checkerboard ownership of Wilderness Society Northern the GFP proposes eliminating The GFP proposal does near Big Sky are a miniature species, two amphibians, one private lands that were mixed Rockies Regional Director Wilderness Study Area status advocate for restrictions on ecological equivalent of the reptile, three fish and eight in among the public Forest Michael Scott proclaimed for the low elevation lands in mountain biking and ORV use Lamar Valley of Yellowstone. mammal species considered Service sections, as well as “The consolidation of the the BHP drainages. Instead, to protect wildlife, however, These lower elevation to be at risk due to declining recognition that the 1977 checkerboard in the Hyalite- GFP espouses designation whether these restrictions drainages contain a mix of populations that may reside in designation of the HPBH WSA Porcupine-Buffalo Horn of a 31,290-acre Buffalo would be implemented or meadows, aspen groves, and the Gallatin Range. status provided some interim Wilderness Study Area within Horn-Porcupine “Wildlife enforced is unknown. Plus the conifer forest and support PROTECTION EFFORTS protection. the Gallatin Range sets the Management Area” to facilitate proposal would allow non- some of the most important Protecting this landscape Staring in the 1980s stage for future consideration recreational use, particularly commercial logging (all recent wildlife habitat in the Gallatin has been recognized of critical through the 2000s, the private of the WSA and surrounding mountain biking. (The GFP Forest Service timber sales Range as well as the entire importance for decades. checkerboard lands in much of lands for wilderness.” also proposes a similar WMA are justified for other reasons northern Greater Yellowstone Beginning in 1909, Gifford the Gallatin Range were traded GALLATIN FOREST designation for the 25,000 like forest health or wildfire Ecosystem. Pinchot, head of the newly out or purchased for lands PARTNERSHIP acre West Pine area, a critical prevention, so this prohibition The densest grizzly bear created U.S. Forest Service, around what is now Big Sky That is why it is particularly wildlife corridor, on the does not necessarily protect the populations in the entire petitioned to have the southern Resort. ironic given this past support northeast corner of the Gallatin area). northern Yellowstone area Gallatin Range in the BHP This loss of public lands in and recognition of the high Range.) Promoting something other occur here. The BHP is also a area set aside as a game range. the Big Sky area was justified in wildlife and wilderness values This is particularly ironic than wilderness designation for major elk migration corridor, In 1911, the state of Montana part due to the wildlife values of the Buffalo Horn-Porcupine given that all these groups the Buffalo Horn-Porcupine and also important in its established a wildlife reserve of the BHP, which the MDFWP drainages in what is essentially have been criticizing U.S. Sen. area denigrates the true own right as a winter range there. testified contained “… some of the ecological equivalent Steve Daines and Rep. Greg wildlands values of this area. It for elk as well as moose. The In 1977, a 155,000-acre the most important wildlife/ of the Lamar Valley of the Gianforte for their efforts to Gallatin Range is also home to core area was congressionally biological corridors in the Gallatin Range that today remove WSA status for other More guest opinion | B10 LONE PEAK LOOKOUT B10 November 29, 2018
Guest opinion from B9
puts recreational use ahead of wildlands and wildlife values in an area that for decades has been recognized as some of the most exceptional wildlife habitat in the entire Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Imagine what wildlands advocates would say today if there were a similar debate over the boundaries of Yellowstone National Park. If conservation groups conceded to remove the Lamar Valley from park protection to permit recreational use by mountain bikers, snowmobilers, and others, it would be viewed scandalous. Members of the GFP argue that proposing wilderness designation for these areas is politically difficult given the opposition from mountain bikers and other recreationalists. However, I would remind all wilderness advocates that a similar situation existed at the time when the Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness was created in 1978. At that time, snowmobiles, dirt bikes, and even jeeps traveled between the Boulder River and Cooke City in what was known as the Slough Creek Corridor. During the debate about the boundaries of the Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness, some wilderness advocates made exactly the same argument against support for a more expansive wilderness (what we actually got) in favor of a The elusive and rarely seen wolverine is one wild diminutive proposal that would only protect the resident of the “Lamar Valley of the Gallatin high-country area east of the Boulder River as Range” near Big Sky. PHOTO COURTESY FWP wilderness, suggesting that a more expansive wilderness was “politically impractical.” seek full wilderness protection for all roadless But politics isn’t a straight line, and there lands in the range, especially for the Buffalo is much serendipity to all conservation efforts. Horn-Porcupine drainages or what could be One cannot know what may be politically called the Lamar Valley of the Gallatin Range. feasible until you try. Fortunately, the advocates If you are a member of any of these for a more comprehensive Absaroka Beartooth organizations, I urge you to contact them and Wilderness won out and today we have a nearly compliment them for making protection of the million-acre wilderness that is one of the gems Gallatin Range a priority but request them to of the national wilderness system. advocate for wilderness designation for all of the ADVOCATE FOR WILDERNESS roadless lands in the Gallatin Range. Until conservationists advocate for Keep in mind these are lands owned by all wilderness designation for the entire Gallatin Americans, as well as internationally significant. Range, one cannot know what may be politically The Buffalo Horn and Porcupine drainages lie possible. just north of Yellowstone National Park which There are other issues with the GFP that was designated International Biosphere Reserve needs remedy including greater wilderness in 1976, and a World Heritage Site in 1978. advocacy for areas in the Hyalite Canyon Therefore, the Gallatin wildlands deserve region such as South Cottonwood Canyon and the best protection possible and wilderness Chestnut Mountain, but suffice to say that it is is the Gold Bar for conservation status. my hope that wilderness advocates including Conservationists should be advocating nothing organizations like the Montana Wilderness less. Association, The Wilderness Society and Greater George Wuerthner is an ecologist and former Yellowstone Coalition reassess their promotion hunting guide with a degree in wildlife biology. MAP COURTESY USFS for the halfway measures of the GFP and instead SPORTS In the beginning Feed thy lift-line neighbors
BY MIKE COIL much cheering as the lifties On the first day of skiing Adult ticket prices on mountain with significantly to the second overflow lot and took down the ropes and for 2018-19, Swift Current, opening day were reduced better coverage on the higher there was limited food service With whoops of joy from started loading skiers. Explorer, Powder Seeker, to $79 because of the limited runs and more snow in the at the base area at the cafeteria the assembled skiers and a Some of the local hardcores Challenger and the Tram were number of chairs that were forecast. The temperature was and the Hungry Moose. Other steady snowfall, the Big Sky waited for more than two all in operation. No lifts were running. Adult day tickets will 25 degrees, but warmed some eating establishments are lifts spun into action at exactly hours to catch the first chairs. operating on the Moonlight eventually increase to $145 as the day progressed. expected to start up over the 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving day. Eric Lovold of Big Sky arrived side. The new Ramcharger once more lifts come online. The crowd grew next couple of weeks as the Patrollers, lift operators, park at about 6:20 a.m. and cooked 8 pack is still under It was reported that the throughout the morning and rest of the mountain opens. crews and an avalanche dog up over 30 elk burritos with construction. It is scheduled Bowl, Challenger and the Lone eventually the line was about It was an auspicious start along with a group of hardy his portable stove for those to open on Dec. 15. It will be Peak all had good coverage five minutes. The singles line for the season and skiers and locals were at the front of the standing in line. Many of similar to the Powder Seeker with few rocks. The average was the best bet for making riders were looking forward to line to catch the first chairs those waiting brought hot lift with heated seats and a reported base as of Nov. 22 fast laps. a cold, snowy winter. out of the base. There was drinks for the wait. weather bubble. was around 25 inches at mid The parking lots were full
Three cheers for Eric Lovold (red jacket) for setting up a wild game chow line while the masses waited for Fourth chair up this season—a patroller and his best friend/avalanche emergency sidekick. the season to begin at the bottom of the Swift Current Chairlift. PHOTO BY MIKE COIL PHOTO BY MIKE COIL LONE PEAK LOOKOUT B11 November 29, 2018
BLOTTER HIGH-SPEED INTERNET 99 BEST OF THE BLOTTER $ From /mo. MBPS A captain never abandons his ship $14.99 monthly49 lease fee for equipment and Wi-Fi modem. Internet speeds Two Skyline bus employees reported that a bus broke down left unattended. He advised the Skyline employees they and availability may vary based on location and are not guaranteed. on a blind corner in the westbound lane of Lone Mountain could not leave a bus unattended. An employee was sent to Trail near mile marker six at around 3:30 p.m. on Nov. 20. the scene to assist with traffic control. The road was cleared A tow service was requested and traffic safety cones were for traffic by 5:25 p.m. deployed. When a deputy responded he found the bus was GET DISH TV 2-YEAR PRICE GUARANTEE November 20, 2018 November 23, 2018
g A broken pipe set off a burglar alarm on Crail Ranch Drive just g A snowboarder accidentally dialed 911 via a cellphone quick Call Eagle Satellite! after 9 a.m. tap emergency feature at 2:45 p.m.
g A woman reported she had received a call from someone g A woman stopped by the Big Sky Sheriff’s Office to discuss (800) 386-7222 claiming to be with the IRS, stating a warrant would be issued with a deputy suspicious items she had found in a home she Restrictions apply. Call for details. for tax evasion. The woman provided her information and gave cleans. Those items included multiple computer monitors and the caller the requested money via a Google Play card. Anyone firearm ammo. receiving calls of this type should contact law enforcement to confirm their legitimacy before providing any information or g A deputy was unable to contact the owner of a black Saab payment. that had been parked at Ousel Falls for three days. MONTANA REVERSE MORTGAGE SPECIALIST Draw out all eligible cash out of your home and g A new Moonlight Basin employee was reported missing. At 12:30 p.m. a deputy checked the residence the employee should November 24, 2018 make no mortgage payments EVER! be staying at but no one was around and the residence was • You retain the title • Tax free cash • Live in your home secure. g Just before 1 a.m. a Town Center store employee reported • In home service • FHA Gov. issued • Must be 62 or older that people have been camping in the business’ parking lot in g A temporary order of protection was served. a van. The campers were instructed by a deputy to find a more Call Today for a FREE Catalog (406) 219-8407 appropriate place to spend the night. ALL ISLAND MORTGAGE & FUNDING CORPORATION g A caller reported an RV with Illinois plates was swerving all 496 Smithtown By-Pass • Smithtown, NY 11787 over Lone Mountain Trail at around 3:50 p.m. No deputies were in g A skier waiting in a lift line accidentally dialed 911 with his NMLS • 3740 Registered Mortgage Broker NY, NJ, FL, CT, PA, MT, WA, AK, ME, CO, CA, TX the area to respond. Apple watch at 1:30 p.m. He told dispatch he has now figured out Montana Division of Banking and Financial Institutions. Loans arranged through third party provider. how to disable the side button which causes misdials.
November 21, 2018 g Nothing was reported during patrol checks on Michener Creek Road at 8 p.m. and Ousel Falls Road at 9 p.m. g A caller reported they’d seen a truck hit a dog near mile LIKE marker 53 at around 8 a.m. A deputy responded but did not November 25, 2018 locate the driver or the dog. US g During a foot patrol in the Town Center at around 2 a.m. a g A civil standby was performed in the Ramshorn subdivision deputy located a business with an open door. No one was found just before 9 a.m. on Facebook! inside and the store owner was contacted so they could secure the premises. g A semi and a Toyota Camry were involved in a non-injury accident in a Big Sky roundabout at around 8:30 a.m. The g A fender bender occurred outside the Cedar Creek Condos. roadway was partially blocked. g A driver was stopped and warned for a moving violation and g A deputy assisted a citizen in tracking down the owner of a for having expired registration on Lone Walker Road at 4:30 p.m. trailer and boat that had been left in the Hill Condos overflow lot. g Per the owner’s request a deputy shredded a lost credit card g A woman reported she had been recorded without her that had been found. knowledge and that she might need to speak to the FBI. She wanted to speak with a deputy regarding her rights. g A deputy checked on an abandoned vehicle parked near Lone Mountain Trail at 11:20 p.m. It was disabled and the driver was g A vehicle slid off of Rose Bud Loop at around 12:30 p.m., no longer on the scene. coming to a stop on rocks. Hours. Visit. Sunday 1-5pm Located at the north end g A caller reported their neighbors’ dog has been chasing moose November 26, 2018 Monday 10am-6pm of Lone Peak High School in the Andesite Road neighborhood. (Toddlers Storytime g A driver was stopped by a deputy and warned for speeding on 10:30am) g A call to the Big Sky Sheriff’s Office detailed a “spill of some Lone Mountain Trail at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday: 4-8pm Announcement. type” on Gallatin Road near mile marker 13. The witness was Wednesday 4-8pm Volunteers Meet unsure about how to properly report the finding. A deputy g A man who crashed his vehicle on Lone Mountain Trail was Closed Thursday-Saturday Wed 12/5 10:00 am contacted the West Yellowstone Ranger District Office and given a ride back to the vehicle by a deputy so he could retrieve Public Computers Available. learned that there was a motor vehicle accident on Nov. 19 that his cellphone at 9:45 a.m. created the oil spill, and that Yellowstone National Park was All Are Welcome. aware. g A man who had recently purchased land had questions for a deputy about shooting firearms on the property. The deputy g A smaller, grey, white and brown malamute was reported advised him there were no local ordinances against shooting bigskylibrary.org missing at around 5:30 p.m. Big Sky deputies had not received there, as long as it is done in a safe manner that does not any information on the lost dog, but passed the info on to the endanger others. next shift in case something came up. g Thinking they were answering a call from the pharmacy,
43 g While responding to a burglar alarm at an Ousel Falls View hospital staff accidentally dialed 911 at 3:45 p.m. Road residence at 7:25 p.m. a deputy found two unsecured doors, but no signs of disturbance. He secured the doors and g A motorist was warned for parking in front of a fire hydrant on advised the owner. Town Center Avenue just before 5 p.m. NEWSPAPER ASSOCIATION PARTICIPATING PARTICIPATING NEWSPAPERS
g A man on his couch butt-dialed 911 at 8:30 p.m. JOIN MONTANA’S EFFECTIVE November 22, 2018 SCAM ALERT Statewide Online Advertising Program (SOAP) g Nothing was reported during am 8:40 a.m. patrol check at Big he Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office has received Sky Resort. numerous calls of a scam involving a caller identifying himself as deputy or Detective Gilbert Lopez with the g Moonlight Basin security found no tracks in the fresh snow , GallatinT County Sheriff’s Office. He states there is a warrant for 250000 leading to home where a burglar alarm was sounding at 10:30 your arrest due to missing a court date. The caller further states IMPRESSIONS FOR a.m. It was determined to be a false alarm. that bail or payment must be made by purchasing Google Play g A property manager requested a deputy for a civil standby at a cards, Green Dot cards, etc. This is a scam. Do not respond to any $1,499 property where an aggressive female tenant has not been paying requests. The scammer is aggressive, convincing and persistent. rent. As a friendly reminder the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office does not contact people asking for money. g Three dogs on Black Eagle Road were attempting to attack someone at 1:40 p.m.
g A false alarm went off at Ophir School at 4 p.m. CALL: 406.443.2850 DETAILS: mtnewspapers.com
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LIKE For the SMP near you, contact: US 1-800-551-3191 on Facebook! Montana SMP is a program coordinated by Missoula Aging Services and partnered with local Area Agencies on Aging. This project was supported, in part by grant number 90MP0233, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy. LONE PEAK LOOKOUT B12 November 29, 2018
Have you gotten your tree yet? Thanks to the plethora of public land surrounding Big Sky, tree searchers can simply pick up a $5 Custer Gallatin National Forest Christmas tree permit at the Big Sky Conoco or Ace Hardware, then head to the national forest to harvest (away from designated wilderness areas, trailheads and campgrounds). Be sure to respect the privilege—no cutting within 50 feet of a stream or body of water, only trees less than 15 feet can be cut, cut them as low to the ground as possible, attach the permit to the trunk, and keep watersheds and scenic values in mind when selecting that perfect tree. PHOTO BY JOLENE PALMER
BIG SKY i ing Big Sky, welcomes guestL artists Rachel Vanv Cheer on your youth b-ballers. Fifth and sixth Thursday Buskirk and Christian Clark, principal dancers graders hit the court at 4 p.m. and seventh and November 29 Saturday with the Atlanta Ballet. MBC's production eighth at 5 p.m. December 1 of “The Nutcracker,” set to a live orchestra 4 p.m. Al-Anon at Big Sky Chapel performance of Tchaikovsky's beloved score, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays Downtown in Al-Anon is for people who are worried about 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fundraiser for is one of the largest artistic collaborations in the Town Center someone with a drinking problem. Morningstar Learning Center: Wreath the region. Tickets range from $15 to $35; Stop working for the weekend and immerse making at the Big Sky Landscaping purchase at www.warrenmillerpac.org. yourself in the Big Sky life. Head to the Town 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. Youth sports: Ophir Greenhouse Center to enjoy specials, events and more. Miners take on Monforton at home MLC is a non-profit early childhood education Cheer on your youth b-ballers. Fifth and sixth facility that has served Big Sky’s families for graders hit the court at 4 p.m. and seventh and over 10 years. This holiday season, MLC and Big Sky Landscaping have teamed up for the Wednesday eighth at 5 p.m. December 5 “Wreath Decorating Fundraiser,” 24” wreaths are $40, 24” pre-made wreaths are $60, and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Art Harvest at the 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Eggs and Issues: poinsettias will be available for sale as well. Warren Miller Performing Arts Center The Business of Tourism at Lone Peak Email [email protected] Cinema if you’re interested in purchasing a pre-made Join the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce and wreath. Light apps and warm beverages will Dax Schieffer from Voices of Montana Tourism be served! The greenhouse is located behind to discuss the business of tourism as an Caliber Coffee at 272 Snowy Mountain Circle. economic driver for our region. This early morning presentation will be accompanied 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Winter Kickoff by a breakfast, so please register with the Party at Santosha Wellness Center chamber at 995-3000 to ensure they can Join the Santosha team for their winter kick off provide food for all! Stick around following and holiday celebration! They’ll be serving hors Eggs and Issues for the joint county d'oeuvres, drinks (for kids and adults), and will commission meeting. announce the winner of their Raffle. There will also be having a trunk show with a variety of Get that holiday cheer cracking by attending the “Flight,” a 5x3 wall hanging created by Big 10 a.m. to noon: Community local vendors to help folks get a jump on your annual performance of “The Nutcracker” at the Sky fifth graders will be available along with Warren Miller Performing Arts Center on Dec. 2 engagement: Joint Madison and Gallatin holiday shopping. All are welcome! Santosha County Commission meeting at Lone a number of other unique pieces to purchase is located at 169 Snowy Mountain Circle. at 4 p.m. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ARTS via silent auction at the Nov. 29 Art Harvest Peak Cinema COUNCIL OF BIG SKY Big Sky is uniquely positioned as a non- being held at the Warren Miller Performing incorporated community straddling two Arts Center. Proceeds go to support the Big Sky Sunday counties, meaning its representation comes School District’s art program. December 2 Monday at the county level. This bi-annual meeting PHOTO COURTESY LIZ MCRAE December 3 is a valuable opportunity for Big Sky leaders 8 a.m. Worship: St. Joseph’s of Big Sky to showcase their projects and needs to the Catholic Mass at Big Sky Chapel Come see what incredible pieces of art have 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Holiday tradition: dual county commissioners. The community been created by Big Sky School District’s Annual Madrigal Dinner at Buck’s T-4 is invited to attend this event and meet their immensely talented students at the guidance 9:30 a.m. Worship: All Saints of Big Sky The Arts Council of Big Sky is proud to representatives and learn about future plans. of our new full-time art teacher, Julie Edwards, - a shared ministry of the Episcopal and present the 22nd annual Madrigal Dinner in This includes updates from the Big Sky plus a crew of parent volunteers. The event is a Lutheran churches at Big Sky Chapel the Montana Room at Buck’s T-4 Lodge. For Chamber of Commerce, Visit Big Sky, the fundraiser to support BSSD’s art program. In more information call 995-2742 or visit www. Big Sky Resort Area Tax Board, as well as addition to the art show, there will be a silent 11 a.m. Worship: Big Sky Christian bigskyarts.org. on projects including the TIGER grant, the Fellowship at Big Sky Chapel auction, appetizers and the opportunity for NorthWestern Energy mid-mountain sub- donations to the program. station, and more. 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Live music: Tuesday Stumpy Sundays at Scissorbills Saloon December 4 7 p.m. Free class: Awareness Après-ski at its finest with local musician Wednesday at Santosha Wellness Friday 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Community November 30 Brian “Stumpy” Stumpf. Can’t make this one? Center He’ll be performing every Sunday through engagement: Gallatin County Join instructor Crystal Rader for a free lecture Commission weekly meeting 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Community the ski season. Scissorbills is located in the on different meditation types, techniques, The commissioners meet every Tuesday at 9 engagement: Big Sky Resort Area Tax Arrowhead Mall in the Mountain Village. misconceptions, and offer a guided practice to a.m. and the meetings are streamed live and District Third Annual Resort Tax Summit all who join. This bi-weekly event will be held recorded online at their website located at The community is invited to listen in as the tax 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Live performance: again on Dec. 19. Santosha is located at 169 www.gallatin.mt.gov. Older meetings are also board discusses legislative issues for the 2019 “The Nutcracker” at the Warren Miller Snowy Mountain Circle. available to check out online. session, taxation for online retailers, short-term Performing Arts Center rentals, luxury versus tourist tax, and more. Kick off the Christmas season with Montana 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. Youth sports: Ophir The BSRAD office is located above Grizzly Ballet Company's production of “The Miners take on Harrison/Willow Creek Outfitters in the Town Center. Nutcracker.” This fourth annual Big Sky tradition, sponsored by the Arts Council of at home