Kaley Burns, Ali Chipouras, Kevin Germain, Madison Hausman, Rachel Hergett, Allie Epstein Poalino, Benjamin Alva Polley, Mark Schure, Shannon Steele, Finley Timon CONTRIBUTORS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Since 1978, participants in the Gallatin Whitewater Fest have braved rapids like this one near House Rock in a shared celebration of river recreation. PHOTO BY
CARLI JOHNSON
POLICIES
EDITORIAL POLICY
Outlaw Partners, LLC is the sole owner of Explore Big Sky. EBS reserves the right to edit all submitted material. Printed material reflects the opinion of the author and is not necessarily the opinion of Outlaw Partners or its editors. EBS will not publish anything discriminatory or in bad taste.
EBS welcomes obituaries written by family members or from funeral homes. To place an obituary, please submit 500 words or less to media@theoutlawpartners.com.
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WAVE TRAIN HOSTS GALLATIN WHITEWATER FEST
On Saturday, June 28, fleets of rainbow-colored kayaks descended the Gallatin River for the Gallatin Whitewater Festival. The annual event brought in whitewater kayakers, rafters and spectators for three separate events throughout the day.
LOCAL
GOV. STUDY TO MEET JULY 22
The Big Sky Governance Study will host its third public meeting on Tuesday evening, July 22 to discuss potential governance scenarios for Big Sky, and results from a community survey.
MORNINGSTAR’S
EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE
After the first year of caring for children as young as three months, Morningstar Learning Center reflects on how staffing and addressing community needs contributes to success.
PROFILE: UNCLE DAN’S COOKIES
Uncle Dan’s Cookies has been part of Big Sky tradition for nearly 40 years. In early 2024, the business entered a new chapter when Shannon Hubbard acquired the business and officially took over from founder “Uncle” Dan Wade.
BIG SKY PBR TO HOST TOP CHEF
CONTESTANTS
Former contestants from TV series Top Chef will bring their culinary skills to the Big Sky PBR to cook for VIP attendees. Chefs include Bozeman’s Emily Hahn, who spoke with EBS about her experience on the TV show and her love for locally sourced foods.
SPECIAL SECTION: GUIDE TO BIG SKY'S BIGGEST WEEK
In town for the Big Sky PBR? Check out Outlaw Partners’ guide to prepare for the 11-time Event of the Year, including the full nine days of events around town.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Letters to the editor allow EBS readers to express views and share how they would like to effect change. These are not Thank You notes. Letters should be 250 words or less, respectful, ethical, accurate, and proofread for grammar and content. We reserve the right to edit letters and will not publish individual grievances about specific businesses or letters that are abusive, malicious or potentially libelous. Include: full name, address, phone number and title. Submit to media@outlaw.partners.
ADVERTISING DEADLINE
For the July 24th issue: July 17th, 2025
CORRECTIONS Please report errors to media@outlaw.partners.
In late June, Big Sky Resort hosted its annual Savor Big Sky Food, Wine and Spirits Festival, an event that gathers world-renowned chefs, wineries, breweries and spirits purveyors at Big Sky Resort. PHOTO BY LESLIE KILGORE
BRIEFS
NEWS IN BRIEF
BOZEMAN PUBLIC LIBRARY TO HOST LIVE BLUEGRASS JULY 13
EBS STAFF
On Sunday, July 13 at 6 p.m., the Bozeman Public Library will host bluegrass group Scratchin’ Gravel for the first of two free concerts in the library’s annual series, Music on the Green.
Hailing from southwest Montana, the acoustic band features a variety of stringed instruments, vocal harmony and styles, and decades of experience, according to a press release from the City of Bozeman. The band includes Isaac Winemiller on upright bass, Zander Chovanes on mandolin, Silas Rea on fiddle, Mike Singer on banjo, and Jon Degroot and Kevin Fabozzi on acoustic guitar.
“Music on the Green is a beloved community-building event,” Ben Nielsen, the library’s head of adult programming and outreach, stated in the release. “We love it because we not only get to showcase the incredible talent we have right here in southwest Montana, but we get to gather and enjoy music together with our friends and family. We hope all can join us and appreciate music during this free event.”
The library encourages attendees to bring chairs, blankets and dancing shoes.
Eight-piece ska band Hornbread will play the second concert of the summer on Aug. 17 at 6 p.m.
The library thanked Valley Credit Union for its “generous support” to the Bozeman Public Library and Friends Foundation, which enables the free concert series in downtown Bozeman.
CENTER FOR LARGE LANDSCAPE CONSERVATION FOUNDER AND CEO
GARY TABOR TO RETIRE
EBS STAFF
Gary Tabor, regional conservation figurehead and founder and CEO of the Center for Large Landscape Conservation, announced his retirement in a July 1 press release.
Since founding CLLC in 2007, Tabor has helped craft national legislation on wildlife corridors and crossings, co-authored the firstever international guidelines on ecological connectivity and created tools for measuring and combating habitat fragmentation—all critical foundations to the work CLLC continues to do to this day.
CLLC, a global nonprofit organization based in Bozeman, advances ecological connectivity for climate resilience worldwide through science, policy, practice and collaboration, according to the release. Current projects in the region include ongoing efforts to reduce vehicle-wildlife collisions on U.S. Highway 191.
“It has been the joy of my professional life to have founded CLLC, to have worked with such inspiring colleagues and to have built together the field of connectivity science,” Tabor stated in the release. “Starting with only two employees, CLLC currently employs around 25 dedicated conservation professionals and operates 10 networks of experts and institutions supporting more than 2,000 conservation practitioners around the world to connect habitat and protect species and ecological systems. CLLC is well positioned to continue to extend its influence and impact in the years ahead.”
Following Tabor’s departure, CLLC will work alongside executive
search firm DSG Koya to lead an international search for a new CEO and ensure a smooth transition to new leadership.
“All of us at CLLC are grateful to Gary for his leadership, drive and service,” stated Mary Pearl, chair of the CLLC board of directors.. “The board will now begin the task of identifying his successor while we celebrate Gary’s contribution to our collective goals in large landscape conservation and ecological connectivity.”
FORMER MONTANA REP. PAT WILLIAMS DIES
BUTTE NATIVE WAS AN ADVOCATE FOR CONSERVATION AND HIS HOME STATE EBS
STAFF
John Patrick “Pat” Williams, Montana’s longest-serving congressman—serving from 1979 to 1997—died June 25 at 87 years of age, his family announced in a press release Thursday. The Butte native taught in the public schools, served as a state legislator, and after retiring from U.S. Congress, he returned home to serve as a faculty member at the University of Montana.
Williams was born in Butte in 1937, during the Great Depression among a colorful Irish family including his cousin Evel Knievel. In 1965, he married Carol Griffith Williams and they had three children.
“During his time in Congress, he was a tireless champion for working people,” the press release stated. “He led trailblazing legislation that assisted middle-class families and ensured educational opportunities for every child.”
Williams sat on congressional committees for budget, natural resources, education, labor and agriculture and was a steadfast advocate for the landscapes he grew up in. His legislation protected the Lee Metcalf Wilderness Area, the Rattlesnake Wilderness Area, and he led the successful effort to save the Bob Marshall Wilderness from oil and gas exploration.
Williams’ body will be lying in state in the Capitol Rotunda in Helena on Wednesday July 2 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursday July 3 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. After which he will be transported to Butte for a private family burial.
The Williams family will host a celebration of life in Missoula on Tuesday July 15 at 4 p.m. at the Dennison Theater at University of Montana followed by a reception at 5:30 p.m. Doors will open at 3 p.m. In honor of Congressman Williams, Gov. Gianforte ordered flags to be flown at half-staff at all State buildings on July 2 and 3.
Memorials can be made to the Pat Williams Scholarship for Artists at the University of Montana or The Williams Family Fund at the Montana Community Foundation.
PUBLIC NOTICE
CALL FOR RESORT TAX FUNDING APPLICATIONS FOR GOVERNMENT ENTITIES
The Big Sky Resort Area District (District) is accepting applications from eligible government entities NOT currently in a 3-year interlocal agreement with the District. Qualified applicants may apply to enter an interlocal agreement for the remainder of the current 3-year cycle, which includes FY26 (7/1/25-6/30/26) and FY27 (7/1/26-6/30/27).
As required by law, an applicant must be a legal entity formed under the laws of the State of Montana. The applicant must be “an entity” that is capable of both “legally and practically” carrying out the purpose of the allocation and located within the boundaries of the Resort Area District. Only governmental units with the authority to enter and be legally bound by an interlocal agreement are eligible to apply.
Applications and supporting documents will be available on Monday, June 16, and must be completed using the online applications portal and must be submitted by Thursday, July 31 to be considered for funding. More information can be found at resorttax.org/funding or by contacting the District Office at 406-995-3234.
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
that as of June 30, 2025, Caliber Coffee has failed to remit Resort Tax to the Big Sky Resort Area District for 180+ days.
CALL FOR FY26 RESORT TAX FUNDING APPLICATIONS FOR CAPITAL REQUESTS
The Big Sky Resort Area District is accepting applications from government entities, nonprofit, and other non-government entities for capital requests for the FY26 capital funding cycle (11/1/25-10/31/26) beginning Tuesday, July 1, 2025. As required by law, an applicant must be a legal entity formed under the laws of the State of Montana. The applicant must be “an entity” that is capable of both “legally and practically” carrying out the purpose of the allocation and located within the Resort Area District. The applicant must be a government, nonprofit, or non-government entity with the capability of being legally bound by an agreement.
Applications and supporting documents must be completed using the online portal and must be submitted by Friday, August 15, to be considered for funding. More information can be found at resorttax.org/funding or by contacting the District Office at 406-995-3234.to be considered for funding. More information can be found at resorttax.org/funding or by contacting the District Office at 406-995-3234.
CALL FOR FY26 RESORT TAX FUNDING APPLICATIONS FOR NONPROFIT AND NONGOVERNMENT ENTITIES
The Big Sky Resort Area District is accepting applications from nonprofit and other non-government entities for the FY26 nonprofit funding cycle (7/1/25-10/31/26) beginning Tuesday, July 1, 2025, for administrative and programming requests. As required by law, an applicant must be a legal entity formed under the laws of the State of Montana. The applicant must be “an entity” that is capable of both “legally and practically” carrying out the purpose of the allocation and located within the Resort Area District. The applicant must be a nonprofit or nongovernment entity with the capability of being legally bound by an agreement.
Applications and supporting documents must be completed using the online portal and must be submitted by Friday, August 15, to be considered for funding. More information can be found at resorttax.org/funding or by contacting the District Office at 406-995-3234.
NOW HIRING: WATER & SEWER OPERATOR
Big Sky County Water & Sewer District 363 is seeking a fulltime Collection & Distribution Operator to join our team. This position plays a vital role in maintaining the community’s water distribution and sewer collection systems.
Position Highlights:
• Full-time, non-exempt position with excellent benefits & competitive pay
• Work includes operation, inspection, repair, and maintenance of pipelines, pumps, valves, and related infrastructure
• Use of SCADA and GIS systems, heavy equipment, and tools
• Participation in emergency on-call rotation required
• May need to work extended shifts due to emergencies that could include holidays and weekends
Ideal Candidate:
• 1–5 years of experience in water/sewer utility operations or related trades, no experience, no problem we will train the right person.
• Valid Montana driver’s license
• Certifications in water distribution/treatment or wastewater preferred—or ability to obtain within 2 years
• Strong safety awareness, communication skills, and teamwork
• Work involves physical labor in outdoor and confined space environments, often in extreme weather.
• Join a skilled, supportive team working to ensure safe and reliable water and sewer service for our community.
To learn more, visit: bigskywatersewer.com. Questions or to apply? Email: office@wsd363.com
BUILDER'S DREAM - SOLID AS A ROCK!
Rare opportunity in the coveted Porcupine Park neighborhood. This is a builder's dream! Family move-in ready, and an amazing legacy investment opportunity in Big Sky. Handcrafted log home with sweeping view of the Spanish Peaks to the North, panoramic views of the Porcupine Range out the front door to the East, and rolling hills of forestry land to the South looking towards West Yellowstone. Includes a massive workshop, and an income generating ADU. Geocode: 06-0339-17-2-20-85-000
Main House: Custom built home with 5 bed / 3 bath. 4,000 sq ft. 2,000 finished up, 2,000 unfinished down (2 beds / 1 bath "completed" down, but not trimmed out). Attached 900 sqft framed-out garage with oversized doors. Custom 400 Sq Ft porch with custom elk antler railing facing East to the Gallatin River and the Buffalo Horn fire lookout.
Workshop: Heated 33x41 ft shop with two oversized doors. Two attached open bays on either side at 12ft wide x 41ft. Upstairs is a 1 bed / 1 bath apartment with steady rental income, approximately 800 sqft.
3.97 acres of prime real estate with epic views. This is a rare chance to get into this neighborhood which is located just behind Ophir/Lone Peak schools. Annual HOA dues are low and cover plowing and insurance. Corrals and horses "ok". Room for corrals in front of or behind the main house. Maintained trails. Natural landscape. Septic/Well. $2.7M
Call or text today to schedule a viewing. (406) 209-3023.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Dear Editor,
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated group of Big Sky citizens who fought for the creation of the Big Sky Wellness District. I applaud the Wellness in Action (WIA) board, community members Paul Farrell, Paula Cleary, Whitney and Nancy Peyton, Scott and Amy Smith, and the residents of Silvertip Subdivision. This group stepped up and put themselves on the line for the benefit of our entire community. They showed true courage and commitment, and Big
Sky owes them a debt of gratitude. Because of their persistence, our tax dollars can now stay in Big Sky to support critical wellness needs— from mental health services and the food bank to local medical care.
Their efforts led to the passage of Senate Bill 260, which resolved the legal disputes and created a path for Big Sky to form its own hospital (wellness) district. This gives our community the power to direct wellness funding where it’s needed most—right here at home.
I urge every Big Sky resident to support the new district and follow the example set by these citizens. Get involved, stay engaged, and help build the future of our community. Big Sky is stronger because of people like them. They truly exemplify: “A small group of committed citizens can change the world— indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
Sincerely,
Kevin Germain Chair, Big Sky Resort Area District Big Sky, Montana
Wellness In Action’s clinic in Big Sky. PHOTO BY JACK REANEY
RESORT TAX GRANTS $400K FOR VISIT BIG SKY MARKETING LOCAL
BY JACK REANEY
BIG SKY—After receiving annual Resort Tax grant awards of $200,000 for fiscal year 2024 and $253,618 for fiscal year 2025, Visit Big Sky was approved on July 9 to receive $400,000 for fiscal year 2026 to support marketing to potential Big Sky visitors.
The larger grant does factor in an additional four months, as the Big Sky Resort Area District opted to move its fiscal year 2026 nonprofit grant allocations to late October. Visit Big Sky, destination marketing arm of the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce, applied early—bringing their annual grant request to the July 9 BSRAD board meeting—based on urgent need for funding to continue marketing Big Sky to visitors.
“As we go into the winter season, we have to kind of prime the pump and get our marketing machine up and running,” explained Brad Niva, CEO of Visit Big Sky and the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce, in a presentation to the BSRAD board. “And if we were to wait for that Nov. 1 allocation, then we’d be too late into the market.”
BSRAD Executive Director Daniel Bierschwale said Visit Big Sky was the only organization with time-sensitive needs to warrant the 16-month “special request” as BSRAD shifts its grant allocations to the fall.
On a per-month basis, the 2026 request was roughly 33% higher than last year’s, although Niva noted an increase in state funding meant its current ask was still lower than the original forecast of $350,000 for 12 months, which would have converted to $466,666 for a 16-month request.
The Resort Tax board voted unanimously to approve the 16-month request.
The grant request was met with public comment in support from nine individuals representing Lone Mountain Land Company, the Arts Council of Big Sky, The Wilson Hotel and affiliated Town Center businesses, Lone Mountain Ranch, Rainbow Ranch, Boyne Resorts and Big Sky Resort.
“Marketing funds that we’re asking for is to enrich our organization, enrich the community, to generate occupancy in our hotels, to generate more demand, to support our restaurants, our retailers, our outfitters, our guides,” Niva told the board. “The funds are public funds and we take great pride in making sure that we’re taking care of those funds.”
Niva believes that Big Sky needs to improve its seasonal “roller coaster” of visitation. He showed a graph of occupancy rates in Airbnb and Vrbo shortterm rentals by month over the past three years, including consistent valleys in April, May, October and November.
“Part of our goal is to actually take those dips and start trying to reinvest... so we can keep people employed, keep businesses running... get that roller coaster out of our lives,” Niva said, adding that it can be tough to attract visitors in months like October, when resort amenities are closed and weather can vary dramatically.
Board member Kevin Germain noted that Montana’s recent property tax policy changes,
which increased rates for second-home owners without the “homestead exemption” for primary residences, will likely impact many Big Sky homeowners and short-term rental operators.
“I’m concerned that that is going to start negatively impacting our community, as people become extremely cognizant of their carry cost on their homes,” Germain said.
Niva responded that Visit Big Sky and the chamber are actively working to understand the actual impacts of the new tax policy.
“It’s coming in so fast that we’re still trying to figure out, what is this, and how is it going to affect our homeowners,” Niva said. “... I feel like this is kind of sneaking up on us.”
He added the chamber will host another dozen or so state legislators this September, building off the success of a similar convention in September 2024 aimed at building an understanding of Big Sky’s challenges and economic role in Montana.
Visit Big Sky is the destination marketing arm of the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce. PHOTO BY JACK REANEY
HIKER SUCCUMBS TO CARDIAC ARREST AT OUSEL FALLS TRAIL IN BIG SKY
EBS STAFF
BIG SKY—On Monday afternoon, June 30, a 66-year-old male hiker experienced cardiac arrest near the Ousel Falls trailhead in Big Sky, ultimately succumbing despite life-saving efforts from bystanders and first responders.
A bystander was performing CPR when local
volunteers from Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue, sheriff’s deputies, and Big Sky Fire Department firefighters arrived to the scene, on the Ousel Falls trail roughly one-half mile from the trailhead and parking lot.
“When rescuers arrived on scene, numerous bystanders were helping by escorting emergency services to the scene, providing medical care in the
form of CPR, and assisting the victim’s family,” a Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office press release stated.
Despite resuscitative efforts from medical professionals including transport to an ambulance at the trailhead, the victim was pronounced dead.
He was identified on July 1 as Mark Hammons, 66, of Kentucky.
Sheriff Dan Springer expressed “sincere condolences” to Hammons’ family in the release. “This was a tragic and sudden event and Sheriff Springer would like the family to know they are in his thoughts and prayers.”
Springer also thanked the numerous bystanders involved in rescue efforts, as well as the “many” hikers and recreationists who paused their personal activities and “leapt into action” to assist the victim and his family—although life-saving efforts were ultimately unsuccessful, Springer noted that studies show bystander CPR provides the best chance of survival.
Springer also thanked the GCSSAR volunteers in Big Sky.
“When called to service, eight volunteers immediately stopped what they were doing at work or in their personal lives, gathered critical equipment, and quickly and efficiently deployed onto the trail to assist with a high acuity event,” Springer stated.
A 66-year-old Kentucky resident experienced cardiac arrest while hiking to Ousel Falls, a popular Big Sky outing. ADOBE STOCK PHOTO
ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP FILES LAWSUIT OVER QUARRY SUBDIVISION APPROVAL
BY FINLEY TIMON EDITORIAL INTERN
BIG SKY—Regional nonprofit Upper Missouri Waterkeeper filed a lawsuit June 27 against the Montana Department of Environmental Quality. The group is challenging the state’s recent approval of phase two of the Quarry subdivision in Big Sky.
Waterkeeper alleges the DEQ used a new state law to approve the project without doing a full environmental review. That law, passed in 2023, allows some subdivisions with septic systems to skip pollution reviews that normally check for water quality impacts—at least temporarily until a Gallatin Canyon sewer is constructed, the Quarry development will treat wastewater using septic systems.
According to the group’s press release, the Quarry is located less than a quarter-mile from the Gallatin River, which is already listed as “impaired” under the federal Clean Water Act. That designation is due to algae blooms caused by nutrient pollution.
Waterkeeper claims the septic systems approved in phase two would release up to 11,500 gallons of treated wastewater per day into groundwater that flows into the Gallatin River. The group also said it submitted three scientific reports during the public comment period, but that the DEQ did not respond in a meaningful way.
“This lawsuit seeks to restore the constitutional guardrails around pollution control, and uphold the principle that development must prove it won’t harm Montana’s waters,” the press release stated.
‘Inconceivable’ approval
The Gallatin River Task Force, a Big Sky nonprofit focused on protecting the river, also supports the lawsuit against DEQ.
“We strongly support Upper Missouri Waterkeeper’s lawsuit against the Department of Environmental Quality challenging the state’s nutrient exemptions,” said Kristin Gardner, GRTF chief executive and science officer, in a phone interview with EBS. “It’s inconceivable that a major development like the Quarry subdivision could bypass a thorough, science-based environmental review to assess its potential impact on the Gallatin River. With increasing pressures from population growth and climate change, the Gallatin is at a tipping point. We cannot afford to gamble with a river that holds such profound ecological and economic value for our community and the region.”
Local business owners also voiced concern. In the Waterkeeper press release, Bill Zell of Montana Whitewater and Jason Fleury of Montana Troutchasers said poor water quality could hurt river health and the region’s outdoor economy.
“The health of the Gallatin River is integral to our business, livelihoods, and wellbeing. If the river continues to be damaged, it will deter visitors, costing jobs and revenue for our community,” Zell stated in the release.
Fleury added, “Using outdated septic systems for new development along already stressed rivers is reckless and short-sighted. We need pollution controls that protect clean water, not exemptions that greenlight more harm.”
The lawsuit does not involve the Quarry’s developer, Big Sky Rock, LLC. It focuses only on the DEQ’s approval process and the use of the new state law.
Representatives from Montana DEQ declined to comment for this story based on the lawsuit’s active status.
The Quarry subdivision in Big Sky recently began construction after DEQ approval of its first two phases, which drew criticism and lawsuits for proximity of septic systems to the Gallatin River. PHOTO BY JACK REANEY
In summer 2022, the Gallatin River experienced a significant algal bloom, as shown here at "Green Bridge" near Deer Creek, about four miles downstream of the planned Quarry subdivision in Big Sky. COURTESY OF UPPER MISSOURI WATERKEEPER
| JULY 18 th | 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
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Importance of Clean. Drain. Dry.: Professionals and non-profits work exceedingly hard to maintain the health of every water system in the state of Montana. We can undo all that in one careless instant. By cleaning our boats, waders, boots, and gear, we can prevent the spread of invasive species from one body of water to another. We have to do our part, particularly with so many more people coming to enjoy our rivers.
‘HUGE DIFFERENCE ALREADY’:
MORNINGSTAR ACCEPTING INFANTS AT
THREE MONTHS OLD
AFTER FIRST YEAR CARING FOR CHILDREN AS YOUNG AS THREE MONTHS, MORNINGSTAR REFLECTS HOW STAFFING, ADDRESSING COMMUNITY NEEDS CONTRIBUTES TO SUCCESS
BY JEN CLANCEY
BIG SKY—Ideally, expecting parents in Big Sky have a plan on how to care for their child in the first few months of life, including parental leave, what to do when that leave ends at the nation’s three month maternity leave term, and securing a child care spot for their kid when they turn six months of age.
To help with that transition, Morningstar Learning Center accepted three-month infants this year for the first time.
The new, younger age threshold is part of MLC’s effort to support community needs, a goal that has resulted in plans to better fund tuition assistance and a curriculum to support learning and development. Shannon Brennan, MLC center director, explained that for parents, filling the gap between paternity leave ending at three months and child care accepting infants at six months was difficult for working families.
“You know, we live in a town where basically exclusively, we have two working parents and that’s the only way you can survive,” Brennan said. “It’s made a huge difference already for the few families that we have been able to offer those younger spots to.”
In the 2024-25 school year, MLC cared for five infants in the three-five month age range, with a total of four infants in the room with two teachers. While the younger age threshold is a bigger ask on teachers, Brennan noted MLC operates under a staffing model built to prevent burnout and provide high quality care.
Each classroom is staffed to the state’s legal ratio, plus one teacher. For infants, MLC kept the ratio at one teacher to two students this year, while the state’s standard calls for one teacher to four infants. As soon as a kid turns two, the legal number of children in the care of one teacher rises to eight in Montana, but again, MLC adds one extra teacher in the room.
“Our goal with staffing is to make sure that we are able to provide as great of programming as we possibly can, and following the legal state ratios is just not gonna ever allow for that for a myriad of reasons,” Brennan said, describing tasks like snack prep, cleaning, diaper changes on top of instruction, activities, and development tracking that MLC aims to provide for kids.
By the end of this year, four of MLC’s teachers will have celebrated their eighth year at the center, an accomplishment that MLC Executive Director Mariel Butan said helps support a continuity of care at the facility.
“ Having the same people there for these children is hugely important to their healthy development,” Butan said. The investment in keeping teachers on the team and supported pays off. “And so yes, it costs more for us to retain those teachers, but it’s better for the teachers and it’s better for the kids.”
She noted MLC’s use of the Creative Curriculum, which works to develop physical, emotional, literacy, math and cognitive skills in early childhood. In this framework, teachers track around 70 dimensions within that child’s development, which is useful to find areas of focus, and communication and collaboration with parents.
Activities like the second annual transportation parade, arts and crafts and tending to a new native plant pollinator garden on MLC’s property, serve as opportunities for kids to learn about the world around them—from how plants grow, to how the Big Sky Fire Department puts out fires.
Butan said that students were very excited to see a range of vehicles on Morningstar’s property. One guest speaker, Big Sky School District Bus Driver Mr. Wayne, gave students a tour of a school bus.
“The things that the kids are learning at this age are so fundamental that people almost, I think, forget that they had to learn it at one point,” Butan told EBS.
Parents reflect on early childhood care
Erika Rauk, a winter ski instructor and summer lift operator at the Yellowstone Club, lives in Big Sky with her husband, who works with Lone Mountain Land Company, and her three-year-old son Forest. When she was five to six months pregnant with Forest, Rauk signed up for the waitlist at Morningstar Learning Center.
Chatting with fellow parents and MLC teachers at a community appreciation event at Morningstar on June 24, Rauk expressed how it feels to have a place to take her kid during the work week.
“Forest absolutely loves it. He usually doesn’t wanna leave at the end of the day. He wants me to come in and play with him,” Rauk said, while Forest played with the toy firetrucks inside the facility with one of the teachers.
“Both my husband and I work in Big Sky and have been here for many years. And I think the biggest thing for us is just peace of mind—that we can trust everyone here. Everyone is amazing,” Rauk said. “Just knowing that he is safe and he’s happy has been amazing to be able to go to work and do what we need to do and make a living so we can stay here.”
Rauk and her husband applied for tuition assistance through MLC, which she said has helped them afford child care significantly.
In an April Big Sky Resort Area District meeting, Butan announced a new strategy for funding the nonprofit learning center’s tuition assistance program. As MLC raises tuition price tags to finally reflect operating costs of the facility, fundraising dollars will be funneled directly to the tuition assistance program, which supported tuition for 38 of Morningstar’s 48 students this year.
In total, MLC hopes to raise $1.3 million in fundraising this year. Events like Black Tie Trivia, and Give Big Gallatin Valley as well as grants all factor into the total.
Butan said that Morningstar’s next grant request of BSRAD will reflect 16 months—a timeline reflecting BSRAD’s later grant approval date this year—of tuition assistance for families in need of affordable child care.
She encouraged community members to submit public comments regarding MLC’s support of families and to be present at the BSRAD board meeting where grant decisions will be discussed in October. She said the community can help in other ways too, like supporting programming for students and volunteering.
“ We welcome people to be a part of that, whether that’s by participating or by donating to help us make these experiences a reality for our kids and our community,” Butan said.
MLC held a community appreciation day on June 24. PHOTO BY JEN CLANCEY
HOOKED ON THE GALLATIN GALA TO CELEBRATE 25 YEARS OF RIVER STEWARDSHIP
BY FINLEY TIMON EDITORIAL INTERN
BIG SKY—Gallatin River Task Force is marking a major milestone this summer: 25 years of protecting and restoring the Gallatin River.
To celebrate, the nonprofit is hosting its annual Hooked on the Gallatin Gala at The Riverhouse BBQ & Events in Big Sky on July 13. The evening will feature food, drinks, live music from North Fork Crossing and both silent and live auctions, all set right on the banks of the Gallatin.
“This year is a little bit more unique in that we are celebrating 25 years of the Gallatin River Task Force,” said Isabelle Vendramin, director of development. “Twenty-five years of protecting, restoring, and inspiring stewardship of the upper Gallatin River and our community water resources.”
She said the event has grown significantly over the years.
“It started quite a bit smaller, and then I think it eventually moved to Buck’s [T-4 Lodge] at some point, did the event there, and now it has turned
branded it as Hooked on the Gallatin. It wasn’t always Hooked on the Gallatin, but it is our annual fundraiser and we do it at the Riverhouse every year, which is an awesome way to celebrate the incredible watershed that we’re on.”
Beyond the setting and the celebration, the gala highlights the strong community support behind the organization.
“Twenty-five years ago, the organization was founded on one simple idea; that if we work together, we can protect something truly priceless, which is the Gallatin River,” Vendramin said. “The community has truly had our backs for 25 years and supported us so much.”
Looking ahead, she said that support remains critical.
“The next 25 years will help define the future of the Gallatin River,” Vendramin said. “It needs a strong, resilient organization as well as community to protect it.”
She described the night as equal-parts celebration, and an opportunity to honor the community’s lasting impact while looking ahead to the river’s future. “We can’t do it without everyone’s support,” she added.
Funds raised at the gala will support the Task Force’s ongoing programs and long-term resilience.
“The funds from this event are going to help ensure that the Task Force remains resilient for years to come,” Vendramin said, “because of several challenges that both the organization and the river have faced over the years when it comes to climate change.”
Hooked on the Gallatin, 2024. PHOTO BY DAVE PECUNIES
BIG SKY GOVERNANCE STUDY TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING JULY 22
RESEARCHERS TO SHARE THREE POTENTIAL SCENARIOS FOR BIG SKY GOVERNMENT
EBS STAFF
On July 22, the Big Sky Governance Study team will hold their third public meeting to discuss
survey results and government scenarios with Big Sky residents.
The study team last held a public meeting in January and projected its third public meeting for March, which was eventually postponed to summer. A July 8 press release from the study group shared that the upcoming meeting will be held at The Wilson Hotel starting at 5:30 p.m., and virtual attendance is available via Zoom.
“We are looking forward to presenting the overview of the public engagement efforts including the 360-plus survey results,” stated Meg O’Leary, a consultant with M2O group and community outreach coordinator for the study. “The community worked hard to give this team direction by giving feedback, concerns, comments and sharing their values.”
The study team will present three potential governance scenarios selected based on “community priorities and feasibility” for further research, according to the release. Since launching in September 2024, the fact-finding study has intended to identify scenarios to inform Big Sky residents of the expected outcomes of potential governance options.
The release explained that the July 22 meeting will include reflection on the past 10 months of
work, including the survey which closed in late February with "great" community participation, O’Leary told EBS in May.
“Throughout the study, community feedback consistently highlighted top concerns and those conversations and themes will be summarized in the outreach section of the agenda with time for audience discussion,” the release stated.
Part of the reason for the four-month delay between meetings, study leaders explained, was Montana’s busy legislative session which included a pair of bills that passed with direct impacts to Big Sky’s housing infrastructure and service district boundaries.
Recent changes to Montana property tax policy is another consideration.
“We decided to hit pause, because there’s some big changes that happened a couple weeks ago in how you view things—not only from a local election status, but also from a state legislation status that has changes all over the state,” said Dylan Pipinich, study leader with WGM Group, in the MadisonGallatin Joint County Commission meeting on May 14 in Big Sky.
The July 22 meeting will include a period for public Q&A, moderated by O’Leary.
PHOTO BY JACK REANEY
WHERE THE RIDE STARTS
LUCCHESE BOZEMAN
JULY 14 | 4 PM – 7 PM
Join us as we celebrate the start of Big Sky PBR week with an evening of Western tradition and Lucchese style. Enjoy complimentary sips and light bites, take in live local music, and enter to win an exclusive Big Sky PBR giveaway — available only during the event. Come early, stay awhile, and kick off the week the Lucchese way.
SPORTS
GALLATIN WHITEWATER FEST CELEBRATES COMMUNITY, COMPETITION AND CROWNS RIVER ROYALTY
BY CARLI JOHNSON
BIG SKY—On Saturday, June 28, fleets of rainbow-colored kayaks could be seen descending the Gallatin River as they took part in the Gallatin Whitewater Festival. The annual event, hosted by the Wave Train Kayak Team, brought in whitewater kayakers, rafters and spectators for three separate events throughout the day.
The event has taken place on and off and under various leadership since 1978. Among countless volunteers, the past three festivals have been led by Wave Train kayak coach Brooke Dunnagan. All proceeds go back to the Wave Train, a nonprofit organization that specializes in youth kayaking programs.
“It’s a lot of fun, running the event,” Dunnagan said in an interview with EBS. “There’s a lot of preplanning, but I know it’s going to work out because this group of people are so awesome.”
Second in command to Dunnagan for the event was volunteer and parent of two Wave Train team members, Charise Young, now in her third season volunteering.
“I’m passionate about being part of the community and helping out where I can with something that I love to do,” said Young in an interview with EBS.
This year, the festival took place at the 35 MPH bridge pullout across from the Lava Lake trailhead. Here, participants and spectators could enter raffles to win various whitewater gear, with a grand prize of a brand-new kayak.
Over 80 total participants took part in three races throughout the day. The first event was the slalom, where participants navigated a course of gates in the fastest time possible. If a participant touched a gate with their head, paddle, body or boat, they received a two-second penalty. If they missed the gate completely, they received a 50-second penalty.
The down river race followed. Rafts and kayaks put in just above the Thumper rapid and descended individually through the Mad Mile section of the Gallatin River for a total distance of just under five miles, taking boaters anywhere between 20 and 30 minutes to complete.
The final, and arguably most exciting, race of the day was Boater X. Paddlers lined up on the cobble beach at the Lava Lake trailhead and took off at the sound of an air horn. From there, participants descend the Mad Mile through House Rock rapid and finish just after the Boulder Garden with a tap of an orange cone on the left side of the river to mark the completion of their lap.
The three races in combination resulted in two reigning champions, aptly earning the title of King and Queen of the Gallatin. With two out of three first place finishes and one second place finish, Finley Bishop won the title of King. Anneka Door won Queen with a first place finish in Boater X and two second place finishes in slalom and downriver.
Wave Train’s executive director Dave Zinn noted his past winning streak in slalom races. This year, he said his students outran him, landing Zinn in third.
“It’s really cool for me to see the younger paddlers in the area take first and second,” Zinn said.
As the final racers pulled their boats from the river, the Gallatin Whitewater Fest wrapped another successful year. With over 80 participants, ages 12 to 72, the event was a direct reflection of the community spirit within the paddling community.
“The fundamental thing for me with the whitewater festival is getting that community together to celebrate the Gallatin River and the local river culture,” Zinn said. “So it was a huge success on that front.”
Two kayakers paddle hard as they enter House Rock rapid. PHOTO BY CARLI JOHNSON
A kayaker paddles past House Rock. PHOTO BY CARLI JOHNSON
A kayaker makes it past House Rock rapid in the downriver race at the 2025 Gallatin Whitewater Festival. PHOTO BY CARLI JOHNSON
REGIONAL
WEST YELLOWSTONE WATER AND SEWER FACILITY GETTING 60K-SQUAREFOOT UPGRADE
BY JEN CLANCEY
WEST YELLOWSTONE—On
the north end of West Yellowstone, crews are constructing a 60,000 foot facility for wastewater treatment, one that can accommodate up to 1.52 million gallons of water a day, more than doubling the current plant’s maximum peak flow.
The facility is expected to be completed in fall 2026 and would serve the town’s need for more efficient water processing for well over 50 years, including adjusting to tourism as a gateway community to Yellowstone National Park and plans for an 80 Acre Housing Project for the local workforce.
Last summer, the current wastewater facility reached a peak flow of 786,000 gallons on a single day—the plant is designed for a maximum flow of 650,000 gallons daily. Even in the quieter months in May 2025, Jon Brown, interim superintendent of West Yellowstone Public Services, Water and Wastewater, reported around 600,000 gallons one day, a sign of the burden even in slower seasons. The project for the new facility, priced at around $37 million, High flows present a challenge for the lagoon-style water processing system.
“Do lagoon systems work? In certain areas, they’re wonderful, they’re cheap. … They worked and provided service for the town of West Yellowstone for many years before we reached those high flows,” Brown said. However, the cold weather in West Yellowstone stalls microbiology, resulting in a lag between the amount of water flowing in and the amount of microorganisms available to “eat” it.
“Once we started getting those high flows, we just simply can’t hold it. But in our situation, for right now, our flows are up, but our microbiology is down,” Brown told EBS on a site tour in May 2025.
The seasonal struggle between microorganisms and water is why Brown and the project’s engineering team opted for an Aeromod facility. In West Yellowstone’s case, they will have a mechanical activated sludge facility, the first Aeromod facility in the U.S. with a structure overhead for cold winters. Brown and engineer Nick Gregersen explained that the new facility will be much more manageable, with systems in place to make it easier on staff to maintain.
Since May 2022, West Yellowstone leaders have recognized the issue of water and sewer processing. The town council approved a water connection moratorium three years in a row to halt further connections to the overburdened facility, and are still waiting on the new wastewater treatment plant plant to allow for the community’s next big build.
New wastewater facility to enable housing project
On the west side of town, 80 acres of land, some cleared and some still forested, awaits West Yellowstone’s 80 Acre Housing Project—a workforce housing development that would finally house year-rounders in town and support the community’s housing needs.
The property was annexed by West Yellowstone in 2021 after a purchase of the U.S. Forest Service land in 2015, Town Manager Dan Walker told EBS. The acres present a rare opportunity to expand and accommodate and house their yearround community in an area landlocked by national park and forest lands.
“I think people really understand the housing challenges that we have here in West Yellowstone and that the town is committed to trying to find solutions to those issues,” Brown said. He noted that sections will be approved for residential zoning
at the highest level, R-4, to assure flexibility in types of housing. A June 17 West Yellowstone Town Council discussed the matter further, and in a second reading of Ordinance No. 279, which will determine zoning of the 80 acres, a majority voted to decide on transitional districts outside of the primary residential-zoned project area to be zoned at a later time.
Halt on water connections to expire mid-July
The West Yellowstone Town Council discussed the moratorium on new connections to the water and sewer system in a June 17 meeting. Kyle Scarr, engineer for the town of West Yellowstone, described the possibility of lifting the moratorium and the best ways of doing so.
Based on conversations with town staff, review of facilities plans and water system modeling, there is no immediate concern for hooking up existing lots to the water system. That would include the Madison Addition, a subdivision in town for single-family and low-density housing. In a letter to the council, Scarr stated that as long as use remains consistent with average flows from those kinds of development, adding the neighborhood would be manageable.
“It is critical that the new WWTP be completed as scheduled in fall 2026 to ensure sufficient treatment capacity for anticipated longterm growth. Any setbacks in construction could impact both hydraulic loading and treatment performance, increasing the risk of permit violations,” Scarr stated.
For now, any new connections should not be approved until there is physical capacity to accommodate more demand, Scarr stated in his letter.
If all goes to plan, Brown expects to see concrete pours completed in August and September. For the town, the next year of work could determine how soon the popular tourist destination and community will receive a wastewater treatment facility built for their needs decades into the future.
West Yellowstone is making progress on its new water and sewer facility. PHOTO BY JEN CLANCEY
West Yellowstone annexed the 80 acres in 2021. PHOTO BY JEN CLANCEY
FREEZE ON FEDERAL DOLLARS LEAVES AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAMS, SUMMER CAMPS ACROSS GALLATIN, PARK COUNTIES
IN JEOPARDY
BY JEN CLANCEY
GALLATIN COUNTY—On July 1, the federal government froze $6.8 billion in education funding, $1.4 billion of which was allocated for 21st Century Community Learning Centers, which provide before and afterschool care and camp programs for kids.
In a July 2 press release, Greater Gallatin United Way announced that its kidsLINK program, an afterschool and summer camp program with 10 locations across Gallatin and Park counties, could be impacted by the change in funds, which were scheduled to be released July 1 and are now on hold. As the current largest recipient of 21st CCLC funds in Montana, the $698,000 received in federal funding makes up half of GGUW’s out-of-school time budget.
“The freeze on 21st CCLC funds threatens the long-term stability of services that are proven to improve educational outcomes, reduce crime, support mental health, and help build a stronger workforce,” the release stated.
More than 1,200 students in Gallatin and Park counties benefit from kidsLINK, and 9,100 kids across the state are in programs funded through the 21st CCLC, especially in low income, rural and tribal communities.
In the release, the nonprofit described the possibility of rural summer camp programs being scaled back due to the cut. GGUW’s kidsLINK Big Sky summer camp began in 2023, runs throughout the summer and is priced at $200 a week and offers scholarships for families in need.
Come fall, planning for afterschool programs are on pause, putting the program and related staff in
limbo. Locally, kidsLINK operates an afterschool program at Ophir Elementary School with the help of community funders, aiming to fill in child care gaps for three- to five-year-olds in the area. The kidsLINK program is not a part of the 21st CCLC program due to community support. The program costs $50 per week with tuition assistance available for families and is
GGUW explained that potential loss of summer and before and afterschool child care results in struggles for families and local businesses, including workforce disruptions.
“These programs are essential. Not just for families, but for our local economy,” Kim Hall, GGUW president, stated in the release. “When working families lose access to child care, businesses lose reliable employees. It’s a ripple effect that impacts everyone.”
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO
UNCLE DAN’S COOKIES MOVES FORWARD WITH NEW OWNER, SAME SWEET LEGACY
BY FINLEY TIMON EDITORIAL INTERN
BIG SKY—Uncle Dan’s Cookies has been part of Big Sky tradition for nearly 40 years. In early 2024, the business entered a new chapter when Shannon Hubbard acquired the business and officially took over from founder “Uncle” Dan Wade.
The bakery began in 1985, when Uncle Dan started selling homemade cookies to skiers out of a cookie cart. According to the company’s website, he “happened to bake the most wonderfully perfect cookies,” and soon his reputation spread. The business has been baking from scratch in Big Sky ever since.
Hubbard, who grew up skiing in the area and once worked in Big Sky Resort’s ski school, said the opportunity to carry on that legacy felt like a natural fit.
“When I realized that he wanted to sell it, it was sort of like, ‘Ooh, it can’t go away,’” she told EBS during an interview at Uncle Dan’s Cookies’ commercial kitchen along U.S. Highway 191 beside the Gallatin River in Big Sky.
With a degree in food and nutrition from Montana State University and years of kitchen experience, Hubbard felt ready for the transition and decided to go for it.
“I love living in southwest Montana,” she said. “Why not try and make some cookies and sell some cookies?”
Since purchasing the business 15 months ago, she’s focused on preserving its identity while introducing new flavors and processes. The company continues to operate as a hybrid wholesale and retail bakery.
“Our cookie shack at the bottom of Madison 8 [at Big Sky Resort] runs from right before Christmas until the mountain closes in April,” she said. “And now we’re gearing up to do Music in the Mountains every Thursday.”
For Hubbard, baking offers a different pace than her past traditional restaurant work. She said the team sets its own schedule and leans into creativity.
“Baking is such a science,” she said. “Cookie science.”
Each week, the kitchen experiments with new recipes. Not every trial makes it out of testing, but some rise to the occasion.
One of those is “Cookies and Dreams,” a chocolatebased cookie made with Oreo chunks, white chocolate and dark chocolate.
Another summer creation is the rocky road cookie, which she hopes to serve as part of an ice cream sandwich at upcoming events.
The bakery also offers gluten-free options, including Rice Krispie treat ice cream sandwiches introduced last summer.
That mix of creativity and collaboration has helped the brand grow beyond Big Sky. Customers across the country still place special orders, many tied to memories made here.
“There’s a couple getting married and they want 60 huckleberry bars sent to their wedding in Washington,” she said. “A woman from Arkansas recently ordered cookies for a birthday party. She said, ‘We have to have Uncle Dan’s Cookies there.’”
‘A cult following’
EBS caught up with “Uncle” Dan Wade for a phone
call, and he reflected on the ways the business grew over his 38 years of ownership.
“We just did the basics, right?” Wade said. “We had the same product every time we made it. And people liked what we did. We baked them from scratch and figured out how to package them and how to get them in people’s hands. It just became kind of a cult following, I think.”
For Wade, some of the most rewarding moments of his 38 years of ownership came from connecting with customers face to face. He said his baking skills were generational, taught well by his mother, who taught high school home ec.
“You know, handing a big cookie to a small child and seeing their eyes light up never got old,” he said. “That happened at the kiosk down at the Six Shooter lift… and that never got old.”
As the business grew, the formula remained simple. “We have really good recipes, we have good ingredients, we have good equipment, and we bake cookies,” he said. “That’s all we do.”
Now, with Shannon Hubbard leading the bakery, Wade said he’s proud to see the tradition continue. He still lives in the area, in the Gallatin Canyon about eight miles north of Big Sky.
“I’m ready to mentor her at any time, but she sounds and seems like she’s got it wired,” he said. “You just got to keep working.”
He didn’t shy away from the realities of the job—he said running a small business has it all, from ecstasy to agony to heartache, sometimes all at once. “It’s just a constant … You just got to work it.”
There were lighter moments, too.
“Delivering cookies is probably the funnest job outside of baking them,” she said. “Who’s upset when the cookie person comes?”
She smiled, the smell of cookies wafting from the cooling trays sat beside her.
“Everyone’s happy when you hand them a cookie,” she said. “They are magical.”
Cookies are prepped in Uncle Dan’s Cookies kitchen down Gallatin Road. PHOTO BY FINLEY TIMON
Dan Wade, founder of Uncle Dan’s Cookies, holds a Sky Cookie. PHOTO COURTESY OF DAN WADE.
ENJOYING THE RIDE: FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE – WHAT IT REALLY MEANS, AND HOW TO GET THERE
BY SCOTT DOHM EBS CONTRIBUTOR
Sponsored Article
Every July, Americans gather to celebrate Independence Day—a powerful reminder of the value of freedom and self-determination. But beyond the fireworks and flag waving, there is another kind of freedom many people are striving for: financial independence.
It is a term that is often used but rarely defined. For some, it means early retirement. For others, it is living debt-free, starting a business, or simply being able to say “yes” to life on their own terms. Whatever the goal, the road to financial independence is less about how much you make— and more about the control you have over your financial life.
So, what does financial independence really look like? And how can you build a plan to achieve it? Let’s break it down.
What is financial independence?
At its core, financial independence means having enough resources to cover your living expenses without being dependent on a paycheck. It does not necessarily mean you stop working—it means you have the option to work, retire, pivot careers, or take time off without financial stress.
This might be the freedom to:
• Leave a job that no longer serves you
• Support a family member in need
• Travel or pursue a passion project
• Retire early—or never retire at all
In short, it’s about choice. And that kind of freedom is worth planning for.
The Path to Financial Independence: 5 Key Markers
You don’t have to win the lottery or inherit a fortune to achieve financial independence. Like any goal, it takes intention, discipline, and time. Here are the five key markers that form the foundation:
1. Know Your Number
How much do you need to live on per year?
Multiply that number by 25, and you’ve got a rough target for financial independence (based on the 4% portfolio withdrawal rule). Your “number” will depend on your lifestyle, goals, and location— but clarity is power.
2. Spend Less Than You Earn
This is the golden rule. The wider the gap between your income and expenses, the more you can save and invest. Track your spending, create a values-based budget, and aim to save at least 20% of your income—or more if you want to accelerate your timeline.
3. Eliminate Toxic Debt
High-interest debt, especially from credit cards, is one of the biggest obstacles to financial independence. Pay down these debts aggressively, starting with the highest interest first, and avoid taking on new debt unless it supports your goals (such as a home mortgage or business investment).
4. Invest Early and Consistently
Saving alone won’t get you there—you need your money to grow. Start investing as early as possible in tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s, IRAs, and brokerage accounts. Time in the market matters more than timing the market. Even modest monthly contributions can grow significantly over decades.
5. Build Resilience Through Planning
Financial independence is not just about net worth—it’s about readiness.
• Having an emergency fund
• Carrying proper insurance
• Creating a will and estate plan
• Periodically reviewing and adjusting your financial strategy
These layers of preparation protect your progress and give you financial confidence.
Rethinking
Retirement
Traditionally, retirement was seen as the finish line. But financial independence isn’t about escape—it’s about the freedom to choose. Some people reach financial independence and keep working because they love what they do. Others take sabbaticals, switch careers, or pursue entrepreneurship.
In today’s world, financial independence is the new retirement—flexible, personalized, and deeply empowering.
Independence Starts with Intention
As we celebrate this Independence Day, consider what financial independence means to you. Maybe it’s time to set new goals, revisit your plan, or simply take the first step. The journey isn’t always fast—but every move you make toward financial independence gives you more control, more options, and more freedom.
Because ultimately, true independence is not just a national idea—it’s a personal one, too.
Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network does not provide legal or tax advice.
Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN), Member SIPC. Shore to Summit Wealth Management is a separate entity from WFAFN.
Scott Dohm is an Investment Planning Specialist at Shore to Summit Wealth Management. He currently works and lives in Bozeman, Montana.
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A&E
ARTS COUNCIL OF BIG SKY GROWS COMMUNITY IMPACT
NEW EVENTS AND PUBLIC ART DISPLAYS ENHANCE PROGRAMMING THIS SUMMER
BY LESLIE KILGORE
BIG SKY—A beloved tradition for all ages, synonymous with summertime in southwest Montana, Music in the Mountains draws hundreds of locals and visitors to Big Sky’s Town Center Park on Thursday nights for a free weekly concert series hosted by the Arts Council of Big Sky. While live music is certainly one of the arts council’s more widely familiar contributions in the region, this season, they are finding more reasons than ever to celebrate its successes and impact on the Big Sky community and beyond.
“As a collective group, we’ve done so much in the past year, and it’s only getting better,” said Jesine Munson, public art and outreach coordinator for the arts council. “We’re bringing in diverse programming, offering more cultural events, and making art accessible in every way possible for all community members.”
From new public art installations to Indigenous cooking classes, the art council’s summer offerings have evolved into a comprehensive spectrum of cultural enrichment for the Big Sky community.
One of the many aspects of its growing influence is the public art displays now seen throughout the community, including four new public art installations that will be unveiled this summer.
Supported and celebrated by Big Sky residents, donors and students, the sculpture “To the Skyland,” also known as “Wolfie” by Montana artist Brad Rude, is an art piece years in the making and will finally be installed this summer. The kinetic sculpture installed in the Town Center roundabout, “Gibbous” by Pedro Demovellan, will now feature a viewing bench and donor appreciation sign near the newly built Franklin building. Another bold and beloved sculpture in Big Sky since 2006, “Menhir” by Zak Zakovi is the 13-foot stone and steel sculpture that weighs over 2,000 pounds and is being reinstalled at the corner of Aspen Leaf and Simkins drives in a new spot that Munson describes as a “pocket park,” which will include benches, landscaping and views of Lone Mountain.
Along with plans for new public art displays, a mural titled “Big Sky Beings” is coming to the pedestrian underpass. Designed by local kids and residents and currently being painted this month by Montana native Stella Nall, the mural was inspired by imaginative questions like “What animals live here?” and, “What do they eat?”
“We sent out submissions through the schools and online asking people to dream up local creatures,” Munson said. “Now we’re bringing those visions to life on the walls of our community.”
Munsoin added that Nall began painting on July 7, and the public is encouraged to stop by and even volunteer to help her paint the community mural in the coming weeks.
“Families can help prime the wall, tape it off, and it’s a fun way to be part of something lasting,”
Munson said. “Public art is one of the biggest things a mountain town can offer. It creates identity.”
With a growing full-time population and a more diverse community, the demand for year-round cultural opportunities has never been greater.
“There’s a constant conversation in Big Sky about cultural identity,” Munson explained. “What is Big Sky’s heritage? What stories do we want to tell? That’s something we’re committed to exploring through art.”
This summer, the arts council introduced several new events that have already drawn enthusiastic crowds. On July 9, a sold-out Indigenous cooking class will take place on the back patio of the new Big Sky Center for the Arts, offering guests a hands-on culinary experience while exploring Indigenous food systems with Mariah Gladstone, founder of the organization Idigikitchen and a leader in the Indigenous food sovereignty movement.
A member of the Piikuni (Blackfeet) and Tsalagi (Cherokee) Nations, Galdstone will guide participants in preparing a meal using ingredients native to North America. A ceramic bowl made from reclaimed clay by the art council’s studio team will also be included for each participant to take home.
“As we cook together, Mariah will be sharing insights into the connection between food, culture and health, and the influences of Indigenous food on the region,” Muson said. “I can’t tell you how many times we’ve been asked for a cooking class, and now we have one, and with Indigenous representation. People are really responding to these experiences.”
Additional summer programming includes the Kate Houston photography exhibit now at BASE, featuring memorable images of abandoned public lands. On July 22, the arts council will host a State Lands Artist Talk and Panel at the new arts building, bringing together artists and representatives from Montana State Parks to
discuss public lands, art and storytelling. The Big Sky Artisan Festival, set for July 19 during PBR weekend, will feature more than 80 vendors, live music and a “Quick Finish” art session, where three artists will create works live from 2–4 p.m., followed by a silent auction.
“This is always a huge weekend in Big Sky, and the Artisan Festival is a great way to celebrate local creativity,” Munson said.
Building on last year’s success, the arts council is again hosting a full-scale Día de los Muertos celebration on Oct. 26. A street-wide party will feature mariachi music, dancing, traditional altars, food and vibrant decorations.
“We’re really trying to uplift our Spanish-speaking community,” Munson said. “Last year’s turnout was incredible. Seeing multi-generational families dancing together, it was one of the most beautiful and diverse events we’ve ever done.”
Following the celebration, the mariachi band will also lead an artist-in-residence program at Ophir Elementary School.
Inside the new Big Sky Center for the Arts, the arts council staff is not only managing logistics, fundraising, events and plans for the future, it’s also opening its doors during the weekly Wednesday night Farmers Market for open houses, merchandise sales and updates on building plans and beyond.
“The building becomes our booth,” Munson explained. “People can walk in, shop, ask questions and get inspired.”
New public art merchandise—like tote bags, T-shirts, tank tops and stickers featuring the “Big Sky Beings” characters—helps to raise funds that support more public art initiatives. The arts council hopes to raise $25,000 this summer through donations and merchandise sales.
“Last year, we raised funds for ‘Wolfie’ in under two hours at our Public Art Night at Music in the Mountains,” Munson recalled. “This year, we’ll do it again, and I’ll be speaking from the stage about our programs and future goals.”
Whether it’s introducing opera to new audiences, painting murals with kids, or creating spaces for cross-cultural celebrations, the arts council is proving that art and culture have a place in every aspect of life in Big Sky.
“I really think the arts council is spreading its wings in all parts of the community. We have an older population that loves classical music, but we also have programming for kids of all ages. And then we have six-year-olds to 92-year-olds in the clay studio.” Munson said. “We want to represent all members of the community and keep fundraising for a variety of programming to expand our reach even more as Big Sky continues to grow. Because I think, regardless, the one thing we can all agree on is that Big Sky really cares about its community and that can be celebrated through the arts.”
Montana's Indigenous Opera "Wheels of Harmony.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ARTS COUNCIL OF BIG SKY
DAVID YARROW PHOTOGRAPH HEADS TO WILDLANDS AUCTION THROUGH COURTNEY COLLINS FINE ART
BY FINLEY TIMON EDITORIAL INTERN
Editor’s note: Outlaw Partners is the producer of Wildlands, and the publisher of Explore Big Sky.
When Courtney Collins saw David Yarrow’s new photograph, “Million Dollar Cowboy,” she didn’t just see her next big art piece. She saw a way to give back. The limited edition color photo will be featured in this year’s Wildlands art auction.
“He’s famous for bar shots, and I was so excited when he finally shot the Cowboy Bar,” said Collins, owner of Courtney Collins Fine Art in Big Sky
Town Center. “I have roots in Jackson Hole, so it meant a lot to me personally. I’m incredibly proud to hang this picture.”
Yarrow is best known for his dramatic black and white work, but Collins said this image stands out. “He doesn’t do many color photographs, but when he does, it’s for a reason,” she said. “This one certainly calls for it. It’s fabulous.”
Yarrow’s talent does not go unrecognized.
“David Yarrow just got voted the tenth most searched artist in 2024 by Artsy,” Collins said. “Artsy is the world’s top art marketplace, so that’s
an incredible honor. He’s one of the most famous photographers in the world, and it’s a true honor to represent him.”
The framed print is part of a limited edition and nearly sold out.
“This is going to be a very unique opportunity to get this picture and this size,” Collins said. “That’s a big part of why I wanted it in the auction.”
Collins said she approached Yarrow directly about donating the piece after admiring the Wildlands event last year. “I just remember thinking, how do I make sure I’m part of that next year?” she said. “This was my chance.”
The Wildlands auction beneficiaries this year are the Center for Large Landscape Conservation and American Rivers. For Collins, that mission made the decision easy.
“It’s a huge part of my heart to help in that way because I just love animals so much,” she said. “Supporting American Rivers and the CLLC is definitely close to my heart.”
Collins opened her gallery in 2020 and represents a curated group of esteemed artists, including Ben Steele, Kenneth Peloke and Yarrow.
“I’ve worked hard to make this a place where every piece tells a story,” she said. “The gallery is small, but it’s full of meaning.”
Wildlands auction bidding is open now through July 31 at 9 p.m.
David Yarrow photographs unique Western scenes— his projects in southwest Montana are among his most popular pieces. PHOTO BY JACK REANEY
Courtney Collins owns Courtney Collins Fine Art in Big Sky Town Center. PHOTO COURTESY OF COURTNEY COLLINS FINE ART
Million Dollar Cowboy Bar by David Yarrow is up for auction at Wildlands this summer. PHOTO BY DAVID YARROW
COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR
HOOKED ON THE GALLATIN
SATURDAY, JULY 13
RIVERHOUSE BBQ & EVENTS | 5:30 P.M.
On Sunday, July 13, the Gallatin River Task Force will celebrate 25 years of protecting the Gallatin River through restoration, stewardship opportunities, fundraising and education. Food, drinks, a raffle, live auction and live music will bring together community supporters next to the Gallatin River.
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MEMBERSHIP APPRECIATION CELEBRATION
July 24th | 4:30 - 6:30pm | 88 Ousel Falls Rd. Unit B1
You're invited to the Big Sky Chamber’s Membership Appreciation Celebration, an event dedicated to honoring you our valued members for your continued support and active participation in our business community. This festive BBQ gathering also marks the launch of our Monthly Member Meetup series, beginning in July. Come enjoy great food, connect with fellow members, and stay afterward for Music in the Mountains. The celebration is open to all member businesses, their representatives, and their families and friends. We look forward to celebrating with you!
RSVP for the celebration here!
RECURRING MONTHLY EVENTS
BUSINESS SKILL BUILDING
Be Well, Lead Well: Tiny Habits for Big Impact | August 6 9am-1pm | $100 for Chamber Members $175 for Nonmembers th Join us for a half day workshop to discover how small, intentional habits can create lasting impact in both your personal wellbeing and leadership effectiveness. Led by Hannah Brattrud of Purpose & Performance Group, this session offers practical tools for business owners and service providers to lead with clarity, resilience, and purpose.
Monthly Member Meetup | August 21st
Connect with fellow professionals over light bites and conversation at our Monthly Member Meetup an opportunity to network, share ideas, and stay informed on Big Sky business initiatives. Hosted by
Register for all events here!
ENVIRONMENT
DISPATCHES FROM THE WILD: ELK FEEDGROUNDS STOPPING THE SPREAD OF CWD
BY BENJAMIN ALVA POLLEY EBS COLUMNIST
Elk feedgrounds resemble crowded bars where animals are packed closely together. In these tight spaces, they engage in behaviors similar to humans, such as sniffing each other and getting in each other's faces to communicate over the noise. This close contact allows for the transfer of germs, akin to a scenario where bacteria and mucus are accidentally shared among individual people. Diseases like the common cold, pneumonia in sheep, and Chronic Wasting Disease, a fatal neurological disorder, spread in much the same way, as they thrive in this environment where viruses can easily jump from one host to another through close interaction.
Chronic Wasting Disease primarily spreads through direct contact between infected animals, such as deer and elk, as well as through environmental contamination. Infected animals can shed prions, which are the infectious agents, in their saliva, urine, feces and blood. These prions can remain infectious in the environment for extended periods, posing a risk to other animals that come into contact with contaminated soil, water or food.
Infected animals can transmit the disease to healthy ones through both direct and indirect contact. Direct contact includes mutual grooming or sharing resources. In contrast, indirect contact occurs when CWD prions contaminate the environment via the excretion of infected bodily fluids, the decay of infected carcasses, and the shedding of prions
from infected tissues, including antler velvet. Healthy animals can become infected by coming into contact with contaminated soil, water, feed, or even plants that have been exposed to prions. Additionally, deer scrapes—areas where bucks clear ground and mark it with urine and other secretions—can also serve as a source of CWD transmission, as other deer may visit these areas and potentially come into contact with the infection.
Human activities, such as feeding deer, elk or moose, baiting, and providing mineral licks, can lead to increased congregation of these animals, thereby raising the likelihood of CWD transmission. This situation is currently observed in Wyoming, where the Game and Fish Department operates 21 elk feedgrounds. The state began feeding elk in 1909 to help them survive the colder months and to prevent them from damaging private property. However, what was initially intended to aid elk populations is now being recognized as harmful. Wyoming is the only state in the West that encourages this practice; other states discourage the commingling of elk and livestock due to the risk of disease transmission.
In early February 2025, the second and third cases of CWD were discovered in Wyoming. This disease could spread rapidly throughout the state's elk herd, potentially collapsing their herds and extending into the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and north into Montana. Wyoming Game and Fish has held internal meetings to see what can be done differently.
When an elk contracts CWD, abnormal proteins called prions accumulate in the central nervous system, particularly in the brain and spinal cord. These prions damage brain tissue, leading to neurological dysfunction. In later stages, symptoms may include a gradual loss of body condition, including fat and muscle mass, as the disease
progresses. Infected elk may become listless, lose their fear of humans, or exhibit abnormal behavior such as excessive salivation and increased thirst. As brain damage worsens, symptoms may also include poor coordination, stumbling, tremors and a wide stance. Other common signs in the later stages include drooping ears, difficulty swallowing and excessive urination.
CWD is always fatal to infected elk. While they may survive for a year or more after contracting the infection, death associated with the disease is ultimately inevitable. The clinical stage of CWD can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, with aspiration pneumonia often being a common complication in the terminal stages.
It is essential to note that elk can be infected with CWD for an extended period—ranging from months to years—before exhibiting visible symptoms. Diagnosis cannot rely solely on symptoms, as other diseases or conditions can cause similar signs, and definitive diagnosis requires postmortem testing of brain and lymph node tissue.
There is currently no treatment or vaccine for CWD. The CDC recommends avoiding the consumption of meat from CWD-positive animals due to the potential, though not confirmed, risk of transmission to humans. Hunters should be vigilant for signs of CWD and report any suspected cases to wildlife authorities.
Benjamin Alva Polley is a place-based storyteller. His words have been published in Rolling Stone, Esquire, Field & Stream, The Guardian, Men’s Journal, Outside, Popular Science, Sierra, and other publications, and can be seen on his website.
A herd of elk in Yellowstone National Park. ADOBE STOCK PHOTO
$10 from each item purchased goes directly to the Center for Large Landscape Conservation and their Hwy 191 Wildlife Crossings Project.
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ENVIRONMENT
THRIVING LANDSCAPES: CHOOSING NATIVE PLANTS FOR YOUR LANDSCAPE
BY ALI CHIPOURAS EBS COLUMNIST
When it comes to designing a beautiful and resilient landscape in Big Sky, one of the most impactful decisions you can make is to choose native plants. These species are uniquely adapted to our mountain climate, having evolved over thousands of years to survive the long winters, dry summers, high elevations, and rocky soils characteristic of southwest Montana.
Their natural ability to thrive in this environment makes them both a sustainable and practical choice for landowners looking to enhance their landscape, support our environment, and even to protect against wildfires.
Why plant native? Big Sky is their home too
Native plants are species that have naturally occurred in southwest Montana for thousands of years. These plants have adapted to our local soils, precipitation patterns, and temperature extremes, making them inherently hardy and able to withstand the challenges of mountain living.
One of the greatest advantages of native landscaping is how little it demands in return. Once established, native landscapes are largely selfsufficient, resilient to pests and weather extremes, and require significantly less water than turfgrass and other non-native plants. They grow well without fertilizers or chemical pesticides, and their reduced maintenance needs translate to lower costs and fewer hours spent tending your yard, giving you more time to enjoy your landscape.
But native plants offer more than a lowmaintenance landscape—they provide essential support for Montana’s ecosystem. Pollinators like bees and butterflies rely on native flowers for nectar, while birds and other wildlife use native plants for nesting, shelter and food.
By planting native, you become part of the larger Big Sky ecosystem and help improve the health of our entire community. Native vegetation helps improve air quality, reduce runoff, and combat pollution in local water sources. Even the soil benefits, as native roots improve structure, increase water absorption, and support the underground microbial life that sustains long-lasting landscapes.
But before you can get growing, you must learn about your landscape.
Learn about your landscape and make a plan
Before you dig in, take time to learn what already exists on your property. Understanding the difference between noxious weeds and native species is key. Many noxious weeds spread aggressively through seeds, roots or both, and should be managed carefully to protect existing plant communities. Grow Wild provides resources for managing noxious weeds and supporting native plants.
The most successful landscapes start with intentional design. Begin by sketching your site to scale, including your home, walkways, patio, driveways, and any large trees or plant groupings. Take note of sun exposure, shade, slopes, wind exposure and drainage patterns. These observations will guide you in placing plants where they are most likely to thrive.
Next, define your goals for each area of the landscape. Are you trying to create a lowmaintenance front yard, a family play zone, or a
relaxing garden retreat? Knowing your goals helps you select the right mix of plants and features for each space.
Selecting native plants
When choosing what to plant, focus on native species that are both drought-tolerant and coldhardy—essential traits for success in Big Sky. Use resources like Alpenscapes’ plant recommendations to learn what grows well in our area. Group plants with similar sunlight and moisture needs together to improve efficiency and reduce irrigation demands.
A great place to begin is by selecting “keystone” native plants. These native plants form the backbone of our local ecosystem. They are highly productive, supporting the highest number of species and playing a critical role in maintaining or restoring native biodiversity. Landscapes that don’t include one or more keystone plants may lack a thriving food web, leading to imbalances in the ecosystem.
Alpenscapes offers a list of the keystone plants for Big Sky, including Quaking Aspen, Pale Purple Coneflower and any sunflower.The Alpenscapes solution is simple: native and sustainable landscaping that thrives in Big Sky, to help Big Sky thrive.
Not sure where to start? Take a walk through Crail Gardens, Moose Pair Pollinator Garden, or the BASE Pollinator Garden to see native plants this summer. For more resources, plant lists, and planning tips, visit Alpenscapes and Grow Wild online.
Ali Chipouras, writing on behalf of Big Sky’s Alpenscapes, is a sustainability and communications consultant with nearly a decade of experience helping organizations and communities in Montana advance their climate and resilience goals. Based in Bozeman, she enjoys spending time in the mountains, especially admiring the wildflowers this time of year.
Silky Lupine at the BASE Pollinator Garden. PHOTO COURTESY OF ALPENSCAPES
Purple Coneflowers at the Crail Gardens. PHOTO COURTESY OF ALPENSCAPES
DINING
A LA CARTE: EMILY HAHN, TOP CHEFS TO FEED BIG SKY PBR GUESTS
BY RACHEL HERGETT EBS COLUMNIST
Long before she makes her way to the kitchen, chef Emily Hahn is keen to know the ingredients that will go into her food.
“When I cook for you, it’s going to have a whole lotta love and a whole lotta local,” she said.
Chef Em, as Hahn is known, is recognizable as an alum of reality television show “Top Chef” and is now the chef/owner of Bozeman-based Mountain Provisions. Each meal she cooks is rooted in place and showcases ingredients from local producers while taking inspiration from global flavors. Chef Em prefers to chef on farms where she also has her hands in the dirt growing vegetables for the plate and was a commercial shrimper for four years, earning a captain’s license.
Chef Em came to Montana in the summer of 2022 to work with a chef she had met at a fly-fishing lodge in Patagonia. When the company downsized and the job ended, she went into “survival mode.” For Em, that meant finding a way to stay and cook in Montana. It meant branching out on her own.
By the end of the year, she had started Mountain Provisions and added Josie Goode-Smith to the team, though the true direction of the company was unclear.
“We kind of hit the pavement and just like frickin’ started going and let it organically become whatever it should be,” Hahn said.
The pair signed up for a booth at the Bozeman Winter Farmers Market, developing a following for their breakfast sandwiches—usually featuring Chef Em’s white cheddar pimento cheese. Private events trickled in, with more following a food festival at Bodhi Farms.
Around southwest Montana, Chef Em can be found making frequent trips to the farms and ranches that supply her food, spending hours driving to pick up ingredients. She isn’t one to tick the boxes on an order form and wait for a food delivery. She wants to know the field that grows the beets and the bees that make the honey.
“It’s important to me to pick it up and go and meet the farmers and shake hands and be connected,” she said.
When we catch up at the beginning of July, Em has just wrapped up a trip to city offices, sorting out permitting issues for a new commercial kitchen on Bozeman’s north side. She needs the space, but is run a bit ragged in the process.
“We’re finally making some headway, which is wonderful—and totally bad timing,” she said.
This summer, Chef Em is in the midst of a series of farm dinners, teaming with local producers to create spectacular meals on the land that helped bring them to life. And, the Big Sky PBR is upon us.
On July 18 and 19, Chef Em will lead the brigade to serve food to the VIP guests of the Big Sky PBR, available to all Golden Buckle ticket holders and those in sky boxes. But she didn’t call on just any help. With support of event producer Outlaw Partners and portable grill manufacturer Camp Chef, Em has made the event a working reunion of most her friends and fellow competitors from Season 14 of “Top Chef”: Silvia Barban, Shirley Chung, Jamie Lynch, Annie Pettry, Sheldon Simeon, BJ Smith, Jim Smith, Gerald Sombright, Sam Talbot, Katsuji Tanabe and Casey Thompson. Almost a decade after filming season 14 in spring of 2016, the “Top Chef” contestants are like a family—with a WhatsApp group that sees daily chatter.
We chat about them for a bit. Yes, Sheldon is exactly the gem of a human you see on the show. Katsuji, known for his kosher Mexican cuisine, may need to come with a warning label for explicit language, Em said with a laugh, describing him as a good human with interesting culinary ideas. He plans to make bison and beef tacos with a “spicy AF” salsa.
“Top Chef” seasons usually revolve around the cuisine of a specific location in the U.S., and contestants are often tasked with challenges related to regional ingredients and dishes. The show often jets the final chefs off to international locales, but the bulk of challenges take place around that season’s home base. Em’s season was filmed in Charleston, South Carolina, an area she knew well. Though originally from Virginia, she spent 17 years “opening restaurants and running kitchens across the Lowcountry,” according to a bio for the Charleston Wine + Food festival.
Chef Em said she went on “Top Chef” to challenge herself: She would be cooking in front of cameras, with people and ingredients she had never met
before. Even participating, she said, amounted to a “culinary gold medal.” The show very much portrayed her every struggle, leaning into the reality aspect when emotions were raw. She was eliminated in Episode 9. When I ask how she is different as a chef now, Em says she is braver and much more confident in her own cuisine and has placed much more focus on the idea of community through food.
For the upcoming PBR, Chef Em offered the other chefs a selection of local ingredients to highlight in their dishes. Proteins include a whole bison from North Bridger Bison, smoked tri-tip from Wickens Ranch, lambs and pigs, as well as Alaskan seafood caught by the Montana fisherpeople at Peelers Wild Alaska Seafood. Many, she said, have not cooked with bison.
On night one, Em will serve a Chance Farm carrot as a corn dog, breaded in Highland Harmony Farm purple barley flour and cornmeal, then topped with a hot honey and whipped goat cheese from Amaltheia Organic Dairy. She’s excited to see Brooklyn Italian chef Silvia work with local farro and the offering from “dumpling queen” Shirley. Each chef was tasked with leaning into the idea of a rodeo and the event’s inherent relationship with the land and its ingredients.
“Everyone out here is very connected to food and agriculture, and what an amazing way to tie it all together,” Chef Em said.
Rachel Hergett is a foodie and cook from Montana. She is arts editor emeritus at the Bozeman Daily Chronicle and has written for publications such as Food Network Magazine and Montana Quarterly. Rachel is also the host of the Magic Monday Show on KGLT-FM and teaches at Montana State University.
A Chef Em corn dog, although different from the carrot creation she’ll serve to Friday VIPs at the Big Sky PBR. PHOTO BY GREEN DOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
Chef Emily Hahn and fellow former contestants from TV series Top Chef will bring their creative cuisine to the Big Sky PBR in mid-July. PHOTO BY MADISON HAUSMAN / ALL STORIES PHOTO AND VIDEO
Your Big Sky vacation home isn’t just a retreat. It’s an income-earning asset that can generate rental revenue for years—so long as it’s properly managed. If placed in the right hands, it will outperform the market in terms of rental revenue.
At Natural Retreats, we pride ourselves on outperforming our competitors in every significant revenue metric—from Average Daily Rate to Occupancy to RevPAR. We also provide exemplary home care to ensure your coveted asset generates outsized results for years to come.
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Local Office Address: 11 Lone Peak Dr #207, Big Sky, MT 59716
HEALTH
LIVE BETTER: OPTIMIZE YOUR FORM, PREVENT OVERUSE INJURIES AND MAXIMIZE YOUR PERFORMANCE
BY SOPHIA DECLEENE GUEST COLUMNIST
As physical therapists, we know that running is one of the most popular forms of exercise, especially this time of year. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger, running offers numerous health benefits, from improving cardiovascular health to boosting mental well-being. However, one key factor that is often overlooked by runners of all levels is the importance of your running form and technique.
Proper running mechanics can have a profound impact on your performance, overall efficiency, and most importantly, your injury risk. In this column, we’ll explore why your running form matters and how improving it can help you stay injury-free while making the most of your summer running and training routine!
Why form is key
When you run with improper form or technique, you place unnecessary stress on your joints, muscles, and connective tissues, increasing your risk of injury. Some of the most frequent injuries associated with poor running form are shin splints, runner’s knee and IT Band Syndrome.
Shin splints are often caused by overstriding or landing with excessive force on your heels. To correct this issue, runners can increase their cadence or shorten their stride length easily by running with a metronome app or running with a Spotify playlist set to 160 BPM. Our favorite Metronome App is “Pro Metronome.” It’s free!
Runner’s Knee is a result of poor knee alignment or imbalanced muscle activation. If you notice you tend to be more “knock-kneed” or feel weaker on one hip, it’s time to start an outer hip strengthening routine. Targeting your glutes and lateral stabilizers can help improve your alignment and reduce stress on your knees.
IT Band Syndrome is frequently linked to improper hip mechanics or an uneven stride. If you tend to overstride on one side, especially while running on uneven terrain, try switching to flat road running for a week and focus on evening out your stride to promote balanced, efficient steps and reduce strain on your hips and your knees.
If you are struggling with nagging or reoccurring pain, use these “pro tips” to slightly tweak your running form which can reduce the strain on vulnerable areas like your knees, hips, and lower back. Proper alignment, foot strike, and running posture can help ensure that your body absorbs the impact of running in the most efficient way possible, keeping your muscles and joints better protected.
Improved efficiency: Run faster with less effort
When you run with proper form, you improve the efficiency of your movement. Efficient running means you are expending less energy to cover the same distance, which can improve your overall speed and endurance. Three key elements contribute to an efficient running technique. First, maintaining an upright posture with a slight lean forward—from the ankles, not the waist— helps you move fluidly without wasting energy.
A quicker cadence—number of steps per minute— with shorter, quicker strides reduces the impact force on your joints and ensures you’re using your muscles in the most efficient way.
Lastly, an ideal foot strike lands your foot beneath your hips to avoid overstriding. A midfoot or forefoot strike is typically more efficient than a heavy heel strike.
Running efficiently doesn’t just help you go faster; it also reduces fatigue, making it easier to run longer distances with less effort. If you are currently training for a race or just getting out there for fun, focusing on efficiency can make a huge difference
The unsung heroes of proper running technique: breathing and posture
Many runners overlook the connection between breathing, posture, and running performance. Poor posture, such as slouching or arching your back too much, can restrict your breathing and hinder your ability to take in oxygen efficiently. This can lead to early fatigue and reduced performance, especially over longer distances.
To improve your posture and ability to get in a full breath while running, try to focus on:
• Keeping your chest open and shoulders relaxed
• Engaging your core to support your spine
• Maintaining a slight lean from the ankles rather than from the waist
How a physical therapist can help
If you are experiencing nagging pain or any discomfort during or after a run, and unsure about what to focus on, come in to see one of our experts at Lone Peak PT & Performance for a Running Analysis Session! In your appointment, we will work with you one-on-one to identify your unique running technique, and help hone in on any biomechanical issues you might be experiencing that are causing you pain or discomfort during or after a run. This is done on a treadmill using high level video analysis and an advanced level biomechanical assessment comparing your running technique side to side.
Through our Running Analysis, we gather data to help you correct your form and technique, improve efficiency, reduce pain, and ultimately lower your risk of developing overuse injuries.
After identifying the root of the issue, we design a customized exercise program tailored specifically to your needs. This program targets muscle imbalances, enhances flexibility, and strengthens the key muscle groups necessary to correct your movement patterns, ultimately giving you the essential tools to help you run stronger, longer, and with less pain.
Final thoughts
Running is a fantastic way to stay fit and challenge yourself, but it is crucial that you use proper form and technique to stay healthy. By improving your running mechanics, you will benefit by reducing your risk of injury while simultaneously enhancing your performance. If you have any questions about a specific problem you are experiencing during or after running, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. At Lone Peak PT & Performance, located in Bozeman and Big Sky, we are dedicated to helping runners of all levels improve their form and reach their goals. Call or text us to speak to an expert today.
Sophia enjoys treating orthopedic and sports related injuries. She is passionate about the physical therapy profession as it allows her to provide one on one care with the goal to return her patients to their favorite recreational activities. She encourages active lifestyles and educates patients on how each exercise relates to their functional goals. Sophia incorporates clinical experience and current research in order to utilize the best evidence-based approach individualized for patient-centered care. Sophia grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin enjoying Packers games, farmers markets, time on the lake, and going to concerts. When she is not in the clinic, you can find Sophia spending her free time running, hiking, skiing, reading, cooking, or enjoying the sunshine.
PHOTO COURTESY OF LONE PEAK PHYSICAL THERAPY AND PERFORMANCE
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IT’S TIME TO PROTECT
THE ELK AND DEER HERDS OF GALLATIN GATEWAY AND BIG SKY
3,562
Deer and Elk were killed by vehicles in Gallatin County since 2008.
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LET’S TALK ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH: THE ULTIMATE PROTECTION IS CONNECTION
HOW HOLISTIC EMOTIONAL FIRST AID AND BIG SKY’S NAVIGATOR NETWORK ARE SHAPING A CULTURE OF CARE
BY SHANNON STEELE AND MARK SCHURE GUEST COLUMNISTS
Big Sky is a “natural paradise” to the eyes of most beholders. But if you live and work here, you know there’s more to the story. Between seasonal pressures, long winters, housing stress, economic disparities and the ups and downs of life in a fast-growing mountain town, many of us are navigating more than meets the eye. There’s often a steady undercurrent of stress— geographic isolation, working multiple jobs to cover the high cost of living, trying to find balance, and seeking connection in a place where it can be hard to find your people.
In response, community members and organizations across Big Sky have stepped up to create new ways of caring for one another and filling resource gaps. Be Well Big Sky is one of those efforts, working to normalize conversations around mental health and share practical tools for everyday wellbeing.
At the heart of this group’s work is the Navigator Network—a diverse group of local residents trained to offer in-the-moment support and connect people to resources. Navigators come from all walks of life: teachers, hospitality workers, first responders, business owners, retirees and students. They are not “professionals”—they are neighbors, colleagues, and friends volunteering to be part of the solution.
Holistic emotional first aid is the foundation of navigators’ training. It gives navigators the tools to show up for themselves and others—in ways that are embodied, relational and practical. It’s not about fixing people; it’s about helping them feel seen, heard and supported.
Over time, many navigators have also become trained facilitators, bringing workplace-focused HEFA sessions to businesses, schools and community groups across Big Sky. Over the past four years, they’ve reached more than 850 people, helping to embed emotional support into the fabric of daily life here.
This local work aligns with national trends. According to The Workplace Culture and Care Report, 83% of U.S. employees say mental health training is (or would be) important for creating a positive workplace culture—yet only 58% feel comfortable discussing their own mental health at work. Plus, 91% believe mental health care benefits are important, but more than 50% say their employer doesn’t provide enough support.
By contrast, HEFA sessions actively shift that dynamic—equipping people with practice-ready
tools and helping normalize conversations about emotional well-being in teams and workplaces. We aren’t just writing about HEFA—we’re living it. And it’s become a core part of how this community is building a culture of care.
Recently, Be Well Big Sky partnered with Montana State University to better understand HEFA’s real impact through community-based participatory research—an approach where those closest to the work lead the learning. Five navigators were trained in CBPR principles, interviewing techniques, and appreciative inquiry—a strengths-based method that focuses on what gives life to people, organizations and communities when they’re at their best.
The navigators interviewed 22 fellow navigators, facilitators and local residents from across the community—including property managers, veterans, ski and bike patrollers, teachers, students, hospitality and culinary workers, administrators, transportation and grocery workers, care providers and retirees. Some had completed HEFA training, while others had simply heard about it through friends or colleagues. The team gathered to analyze the common themes that emerged.
Their findings weren’t just data. They were stories—honest, vulnerable, and full of insight about how this work is helping people and how it can keep evolving. One of the most striking themes was that most people attending HEFA trainings improved not only their personal stress management, but their community of friends, old and new, with whom they can be vulnerable.
In the face of life’s stressors, HEFA provided simple, accessible tools that brought more calm, presence and ability to cope—both in daily life and in harder moments. As one person put it: “Life is heavy… this is how you dump it out.”
HEFA also gave people a way to feel less alone and more supported, offering more trust, compassion and understanding in their social relationships.
Participants loved the simplicity: you don’t need a perfect situation or quiet room. You can use HEFA while sitting in your car, riding a chairlift, or during a quick moment at work.
What stood out in the research was that HEFA was the hook to bring community members into a new way of developing healthy resilient behaviors
that enhance both mental and physical health, especially those facing barriers to other health care systems. HEFA is a low-hanging fruit of support to community members.
Of course, it’s not always easy. Some shared barriers, like hesitancy to use tools in public, or self-doubt. One said, “If I struggle with this all the time, who am I to teach it?” But that’s exactly the point: HEFA is not about perfection. It’s about practicing it together.
Based on these insights, Be Well Big Sky will continue to adapt and grow, focusing HEFA practices on peer-to-peer connection, workplace integration, flexible and accessible trainings, and the emphasis that HEFA is not a one-time workshop—it’s a way of living. When these tools are woven into community life—into how we work, play, and care for one another—they help shift the culture of a place. And that’s what we’re seeing here in Big Sky.
As one person shared: “HEFA isn’t something I do anymore. It’s how I live. And I’m still learning.”
Let’s keep talking about mental health. Let’s keep practicing. Together.
Learn more about HEFA online at holisticemotionalfirstaid.org, or by reaching out to Be Well Big Sky via email at hello@bewellbigsky.org.
Shannon Steele has called Big Sky home for seven years. She runs a collaborative business focused on community organizing and creative problem-solving, and serves as the contracted director (and co-creator) of Be Well Big Sky, a grassroots effort to embed care within the community. Shannon finds grounding and play in the outdoors—usually with her griffon, Greta—and draws endless inspiration from nature’s lessons on resilience and joy. She’s also part of Big Sky’s search and rescue community.
Mark Schure was a former Big Sky resident and eventually drifted down the Gallatin River to Bozeman. He is an Associate Professor of Community Health at Montana State University researching alternative ways to leverage mental health resources for rural and Indigenous communities. Mark usually spends his personal time on the streams and rivers casting for serenity.
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HEALTH
HEALTH BUZZ: ALTITUDE GUIDE
BY KALEY BURNS EBS COLUMNIST
Welcome to wonderful Big Sky, Montana! As you take in the beautiful scenery, your body may also be reminding you that you are not at sea level anymore. Depending on where you are in town, you could be resting anywhere from 6,000 to 10,000 feet of elevation.
At higher elevations, you will take in less oxygen per breath. This means the higher you climb, the greater the risk of developing altitude-related illness. Altitude sickness is actually a type of stress on the body and can be a big concern for travelers. The stress of lower oxygen levels can lead to symptoms such as nausea, trouble breathing and weakness.
Thankfully there is no need to miss out on the fun and leave the mountain to alleviate altitude-related symptoms. Reference this guide for helpful tips and tricks.
Dr. B’s top 10 tips to adjust to altitude
1. IV nutrient and hydration therapy: Especially if you know you are sensitive to elevation changes, I suggest getting a nutrient intravenous drop (IV treatment) as soon as you get into town. Don’t wait until you are already feeling ill.
2. Keep up hydration with electrolytes: Our favorite electrolyte on the market is LMNT. Add a packet to your 40-ounce water bottle once to twice per day to keep your muscles happy and allow you to enjoy the mountain to the fullest. Water intake is advised to be half your body weight in ounces, PLUS if you are physically active adding roughly 8 ounces for every 15 minutes.
Pro tip: Drink 24 ounces of water within the first 30 minutes of waking. Your body dehydrates overnight.
3. Mind your activity levels: Many people notice that they need to monitor their intensity and duration of activity as they are adjusting to higher elevations. It’s common for physical performance to become more difficult when you ascend in altitude. It is best not to push yourself too hard for the first two to three days.
4. Get adequate amounts of sleep: Sleep disturbances are common at higher elevations. If you are struggling to sleep, check your caffeine intake and try improving sleep hygiene with a dark room, white noise or calming essential oils such as lavender.
Pro tip: Magnesium is great for helping promote optimal sleep. Current research shows that magnesium can help the body relax to help improve disruption and even insomnia.
5. Be cautious with alcohol intake: Alcohol is dehydrating and can affect many people more significantly at altitude. Alcohol intake can also disrupt sleep patterns. Your safest option is to wait about 48 hours before you consume alcohol at altitude.
6. Boost your nutrient intake: Foods such as bananas, avocados, spinach, greek yogurt and kale are all high in potassium which can help mitigate some of the effects of altitude.
Pro tip: Another favorite way to support your nutrition—and help with hydration levels—is consuming bone broth. There are a couple great restaurants in town that offer this tasty treat as well!
7. Keep an eye on your calorie intake in general: Your body has to work extra hard to keep you functioning with less oxygen available. Therefore, your body requires more fuel. A nutrient-dense diet combining complex carbohydrates, plant and animal proteins and healthy fats can help keep you full and enable your body to run well at higher elevations.
Pro tip: If you experience appetite reduction, this is a great time to utilize nutrient-packed fluids including bone broths, juices and quality
protein shakes. Just check labels and steer clear of sugar levels above 12 grams per serving! You may have to ditch the keto routine. Instead consume adequate complex carbs, which require less oxygen to metabolize and help you maintain a better ratio of oxygen to carbon dioxide, allowing you to use oxygen more efficiently.
8. Recruit quality supplementation as needed: I recommend NEO40 or SuperBeets supplements to support nitric oxide production. Research has found that optimal nitric oxide levels are key to improving high altitude function.
9. Beets contain iron and vitamin C as well, which can be a good way to help maximize the metabolic benefits of being at altitude.
10. Protect yourself from the sun: Ultraviolet rays are more intense the higher you go in elevation, meaning sunburn can occur more easily. The effect is intensified by the sun reflecting off the snow, so don’t underestimate the power of sun protection.
Go lower or seek support if necessary: Don’t wait too long to seek medical attention if your health is struggling as you adapt to altitude. If needed, make arrangements to sleep at a lower elevation; This has been found to help the body adjust more optimally and can allow you to still enjoy a day at the mountain!
Dr. Kaley Burns is a licensed Naturopathic Physician providing a wide range of services for her clients, including: Naturopathic Medicine, IV Nutrient Therapy, Regenerative Injections, Rejuvenation Therapies, Vitamin Shots, and Nutrition Counseling. She embraces a natural approach to health and aims to similarly inspire and guide others on their health journey.
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO
Nestled in the heart of Big Sky, Montana, Gallatin Foothills Phase 2 offers a rare opportunity to own a homesite that combines natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and convenient access to local amenities. With spacious lots ranging from 1 to ± 2 acres and over ± 75 acres of open space, this neighborhood is designed to provide privacy, stunning mountain views, and a connection to the outdoors.
Residents will enjoy a professionally built trail system by Terraflow, sledding hills, open space for XC skiing, and access to public lands for activities like snowmobiling, ATV riding, and hiking. The Gallatin River is just 5 minutes away, while Big Sky Town Center and Big Sky Resort are a 10 and 15-minute drive, respectively, creating the ultimate home base for your year-round recreation.
Terraflow Mountain Bike Trail
BACK 40
FERGUSON GUITARS A LEGACY OF FUNCTIONAL ART AND MASTER CRAFTSMANSHIP
BY TAYLOR OWENS
“I love to work. I love to create. I have to create,” said Ren Ferguson, renowned luthier and owner of Ferguson Guitars. He’s seated in his shop, surrounded by pieces of his art that he’s built over his lifetime: guitars; guns; wood carvings; paintings; and many other mediums. The smell of wood fills the air. “ Whether I’m building a rifle or a bow, painting a picture, doing a sculpture, carving a guitar neck, or doing inlay—it’s how I feed that part of my being.”
Each guitar that leaves Ferguson Guitars isn’t just an instrument—it’s a singular piece of functional art.
For decades, Ren’s work was known to collectors and musicians who sought out his custom-built guitars—pieces so refined and rare that they were often passed between private hands, almost never seen on the open market. Those guitars have always been elusive. Until now.
In his shop in Belgrade, Montana, Ren’s hands are always busy—chiseling, carving, shaping wood into objects that carry stories, soul and sound. That drive to create has fueled a lifetime of innovation, from restoring instruments in a Southern California music store to becoming one of the most respected names in guitar-making.
“Like everybody else in 1962, I taught myself to play guitar,” he said. “Some kids got lessons. The rest of us just sat around and jammed.”
Ren grew up near what is now the Los Angeles International Airport. As a teenager, he got a job repairing instruments in a local music store. His father owned a furniture store in Santa Monica, and Ren turned a space there into a small workshop where he began doing more intricate work on guitars.
“I was laying in bed thinking of all the projects— putting a bridge back on one, resetting a neck, replacing a top on a Gibson—and like the proverbial cartoon lightbulb, I thought: I could make a whole guitar,” he said. “I’d never thought of it before that. It just hadn’t occurred to me. I guess I had been waiting for permission.”
Eventually, he decided to pursue a different kind of life—one rooted in nature and tradition. Drawn by the wide-open landscapes and slower pace, Ren made plans to move to Big Timber, Montana. But art has a way of finding its maker.
“I was living in Big Timber, and I got a phone call from a guy named Steve Carlson of Flat Iron Mandolin,” Ren said. “He told me he looked me up and found out all about me and offered me a position as manager of his company. After a few short years, his company was acquired by Gibson where I accepted a position as VP of R&D.”
Ren and Steve went to Nashville to acquire all of the old tools from Gibson’s Kalamazoo, Michigan factory that had closed.
“Steve was put in charge of the contracting of the building,” Ren said. “I, on the other hand, was given the opportunity to build all of the tooling, fixtures for the production of Gibson Guitars in Montana. The owners’ only request was to make the best and that he wanted no returns.”
For Ren, it felt like a “Wild West” scenario, one that allowed him the liberty to bring his vision and skills to the fore, knowing he had the creative freedom to do things his own way.
Ren Ferguson’s career spans several decades and is defined by key milestones, including his influential work at Gibson and the creation of the esteemed “Master Museum” series—highly ornate and collectible guitars revered by musicians and collectors alike. During his time there, he not only honed his own skills but also mentored hundreds of colleagues, passing on his expertise and elevating both the technological and artistic aspects of guitar making.
Ren’s work is highly specialized, producing rare, heirloom-quality instruments that often features intricate inlays and custom designs.
“I have not been very good at retiring,” he laughed. “I don’t seem to have an off switch and so I have to be doing something. If it’s not building a house
or a pigeon coop or a rifle or painting a picture or whatever it happens to be I’ve got to keep creating.”
Designed to resonate with its future owner’s style and soul, every guitar is a handcrafted collaboration between master luthier Ren Ferguson and his two children, Timothy Ferguson and Virginia “Ginny” Staples. Together, they are doing something rare in the world of fine instruments: creating custom guitars with lineage, history and intention behind every curve.
“We live in a time where things are made fast and thrown away. This is the opposite of that. This is slow. Intentional. Built to last,” Timothy said. “When someone orders a custom guitar, they’re saying, “I value craftsmanship, individuality, and legacy—I want something made with soul that on one else in the world will ever have.’”
For the first time, those who have admired Ren Ferguson’s guitars from afar have the opportunity to commission their own. These instruments are not mass-produced or shelved in showrooms. They’re built one at a time, for someone specific. For someone who values artistry, playability, and permanence.
In a world of fast, disposable goods, a Ferguson guitar is the opposite. It’s slow. Purposeful. It’s designed to age beautifully and to be passed down. And because the guitars are so few and so individualized, they are also positioned as highly collectible—an intersection of craft and investment.
The Ferguson family’s commitment to quality is evident in every instrument, crafted from the finest materials Ren has collected over his lifetime. From rare, aged tonewoods to exquisite inlays, each piece of material is chosen with care, adding depth and character to every guitar. These materials, some sourced from locations with significant history, add a special layer of craftsmanship that makes each instrument a work of art.
At the heart of it all is a family making art together. Ginny calls the experience “something truly special,” not only because of what they’re building, but because of how they’re doing it—shoulder to shoulder, learning, creating, and honoring the time they have with one another.
There’s a shared sense among the Fergusons that each guitar carries more than sound—it carries memory, legacy, and connection. A moment sealed in wood. A heartbeat.
As for Ren, he’s still chasing that heartbeat, still crafting the next guitar. “People often ask me, where’s the guitar you built for yourself?” he said with a grin. “I say, I haven’t finished it yet. I’m making another one. I always have to make another one. I’m pretty hard to please, and they keep getting better.”
This August, two Ferguson guitars will be available to the public for the first time in years—each one up for auction at the Wildlands Festival in Big Sky. It’s a rare opportunity to own a piece of the Ferguson legacy: heirloom-quality instruments handcrafted by a family of master luthiers.
PHOTO BY MICHAEL RUEBUSCH
PHOTO BY MICHAEL RUEBUSCH
For Explore Big Sky, the Back 40 is a resource: a place where we can delve into subjects and ask experts to share their knowledge. Here, we highlight stories from our flagship sister publication Mountain Outlaw magazine.
Noun: wild or rough terrain adjacent to a developed area Origin: shortened form of “back 40 acres”
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TBD HIGHWAY 287 McAllister
Commercial frontage with no covenants, zoning or restrictions. Virtually a blank slate to to allow a new owner a variety of options. An existing duplex is on-site and available to be converted into a variety of uses. Approximately 8.345± acres. Adjacent to McAllister post office.
GRAND OPENING
SATURDAY, JULY 19 10 AM - 3 PM
SWAG • DRAWINGS • FREE FOOD
Pick your PBR rider NOW before the event weekend! Win Big - 50/50 with Wellness in Action. Hosted by Outlaw Foundation.
400 POINTS IN YOUR ACCOUNT, SIGN IN THE DAY OF AND RECEIVE ANOTHER 100 POINTS AND ENTRY INTO THE DRAWING FOR A YETI COOLER.
WELCOME LETTER
Welcome to the 2025 Big Sky PBR
Friends, neighbors, and fans from across the country—welcome back to Big Sky for the 14th edition of our hometown PBR. Thanks to you, this event has earned PBR’s “Event of the Year” an unprecedented 11 times, and it continues to be a centering point for our community.
“Sit tall in the saddle, hold your head up high, keep your eyes fixed where the trail meets the sky.”
Chris LeDoux
That rodeo spirit of grit and optimism lives in
What began as a single weekend of bull riding has grown into a 10-day celebration that now features trail races, community service projects, bingo night, and three electric evenings of world-class bull riding capped by incredible live music. Most important, it’s a gathering that pulls together families, local businesses, and neighbors on the same bleachers—sharing stories, trading high-fives, and reminding us that we’re strongest when we cheer side-by-side. The economic ripple is real: local shops, restaurants, hotels, and outfitters all feel
FOURTEEN YEARS STRONG WHAT MAKES BIG SKY PBR THE BEST IN THE WORLD
For 14 years this summer, Outlaw Partners has co-produced Big Sky PBR and Big Sky’s Biggest Week with plans that all events will be bigger than ever to celebrate their 11th time Event of the Year win. What began as a way to bing activity to Town Center in the summer season, is now a tradition.
“We’re proud to have supported the PBR since its inception in Big Sky,” said Sam Byrne, Managing Partnerwarbor Capital Partners and Lone Mountain Land Company. “Over the years, we have witnessed its growth and transformation, as it continues to be a keystone summer event in our community.”
On May 18, at the PBR World Finals in Arlington, Texas, Outlaw Partners was presented the 11x award, joined by longtime PBR entertainer Flint Rasmussen and stock contractor Cord McCoy, putting Big Sky on the map once again amongst die-hard fans of professional bull riding and worldclass western sports.
“Big Sky PBR is my favorite event,” said PBR stock contractor and former “Amazing Race” contestant, Cord McCoy. “I have been around the globe three times on the Amazing Race, rode bulls in five different countries, and Big Sky PBR is the best of both worlds.”
the lift when you’re in town, and we’re grateful for the boost you bring to southwest Montana.
To our sponsors—your partnership fuels every chute-gate swing, every note that rings out from the stage, and every smile on a kid’s face during Community Day. Thank you for betting on Big Sky and believing in the power of shared experiences.
To the athletes—both the cowboys who risk it all and the rank bulls that define this sport—your skill, heart, and courage remind us that greatness lives at the edge of bravery.
To our staff and volunteers—your tireless work behind the scenes is the unsung anthem of this week. From dawn setup to late-night tear-down, you prove that community isn’t a place, it’s people willing to pitch in.
And finally, to our fans—your energy fills the arena and echoes across the mountains. Whether this is your first Big Sky PBR or your fourteenth, thank you for making this event part of your summer tradition.
Here’s to another unforgettable ride, to ringing cowbells under Montana’s big sky, and to celebrating the heartbeat of a community that never stops dreaming bigger.
See you in the arena.
Eric Ladd
Founder & CEO, Outlaw Partners Executive Producer, Big Sky PBR
The Big Sky PBR event was voted the Event of the Year by PBR bull riders for nine consecutive years from 2013 to 2022. PBR CEO and Commissioner Sean Gleason presented the event team with their 11th award in closing out the 2025 PBR World Finals.
“Drawing tens of thousands of attendees and creating significant economic impact to Southwest Montana, Big Sky PBR is one of our hallmark events each season,” Gleason said. “Our hardworking team and the world’s best bull riders, who love competing in Big Sky each year, put on a great show filled with top-tier action in a breathtaking setting.”
While fans and riders are what make PBR one of the most exciting sporting events to experience, the incredible setting, intimacy of the arena, and superiority of the bulls that compete in Big Sky are what has made the event the best in the world for 11 years in a row.
“The consistent recognition of Big Sky as the top PBR event for a decade speaks volumes about the community’s ability to host remarkable worldclass events, all while preserving our small-town charm and highlighting the area’s natural beauty,” Byrne said.
every ride, every handshake, and every late-night arena cleanup.
Outlaws at the PBR World Finals. OUTLAW PARTNERS PHOTO
Old Glory at the 2024 Big Sky PBR at sunset. OUTLAW PARTNERS PHOTO
BIG SKY, MONTANA
THURSDAY, JULY 10
NEW: Montana's Premier Horse Sale Preview Day 1
FRIDAY, JULY 11
NEW: Montana's Premier Horse Sale Preview Day 2
Big Sky Community Rodeo
SATURDAY, JULY 12
NEW: Montana's Premier Horse Sale Auction
SUNDAY, JULY 13
NEW: Running of the Bulls Trail Race
TUESDAY, JULY 15
Free Community Day & Mutton Bustin'
5th Annual Dick Allgood Community Bingo Night
WEDNESDAY, JULY 16
Big Sky PBR Charity Golf Tournament
THURSDAY, JULY 17
Big Sky PBR Night 1
FRIDAY, JULY 18
Big Sky PBR Night 2
After Party Music feat. Stephen Wilson Jr.
SATURDAY, JULY 19
Big Sky PBR Night 3
After Party Music feat. Chancey Williams
BIG SKY EVENTS ARENA
FREE: OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
JULY 10–11: HORSE SALE PREVIEW, 9 AM–12 PM
JULY 12: PREMIER HORSE SALE, 12–4 PM
SIgn up before the event!
21k starts at 7 AM
11k starts at 7:30 AM
5k starts at 8 AM
July 13, 2025
Big Sky Events Arena
sign up here
BIG SKY'S SUMMER LEGACY
beginnings into the heartbeat of the summer season. But none of it would be possible without the generosity of Lone Mountain Land Company and Big Sky Town Center, who provide the land and partnership that makes these communitydefining events possible.
Back on August 3, 2011, a small crowd of 1,500 people gathered on hay bales, bleachers, and even rafts on buses for the inaugural Big Sky PBR. Outlaw Partners, along with a few visionary friends, believed that Big Sky needed a signature summer
generating over $38 million in annual economic impact—$21.8 million of which stays in Gallatin County, including $5.7 million for dining, $6.5 million for lodging, and $8 million for retail in Big Sky and southwest Montana. Equally important, signature events in Big Sky aimed to foster a culture of giving back—raising over $4 million to date for local charities and nonprofits.
Today, the Big Sky Event Arena’s summer calendar is anchored by 16 days of programming—drawing more than 50,000 visitors and delivering an
and LMLC’s generosity enables these highimpact events to remain centrally located— driving foot traffic, supporting commerce, and connecting visitors directly to the businesses that fuel this community.
To our partners at Lone Mountain Land Company and Big Sky Town Center: thank you. Your support sustains more than events—it supports families, dreams, and the legacy of what Big Sky is becoming.
The Big Sky Events Arena sits in the heart of Big Sky, in Town Center. OUTLAW PARTNERS PHOTO
BIG SKY PBR FEATURED CHEFS
Silvia Barban
Specializes in modern Italian trattoria with a retro heart from LaRina Brooklyn & Briscola Trattoria.
Sam Talbot
Sam Talbot is a renowned chef, celebrated author, philanthropist, and dynamic television personality based in Los Angeles, CA.
Shirley Chung
“The Dumpling Queen of Los Angeles,” is the co-owner and Executive Chef of Dumpling Mafia, known for her Chinese heritage, signature dumplings, and modern Chinese-American cuisine.
Katsuji Tanabe
Chef Katsuji Tanabe is a renowned chef, dynamic television personality, and culinary expert known for his exceptional skills and unique approach to cooking.
Sheldon Simeon
Born and raised in Hawaii, Top
is a James Beard Award semifinalist known for blending traditional Hawaiian flavors with innovative techniques.
Jeff Smith
Chef
the
for 8 years.
Chef Fan Favorite Sheldon
Jim Smith is
Executive Chef and owner of The Hummingbird Way Oyster Bar in Mobile, AL. Smith served as Executive Chef of the State of Alabama
THE VIP CHEF EXPERIENCE
This year’s Golden Buckle VIP experience presented by Camp Chef brings an exciting culinary twist! Outlaw Partners has teamed up with local chef Emily Hahn, owner of Mountain Provisions and a standout from Bravo’s Top Chef Season 14, to curate a five-star rodeo-inspired feast. Joining her are 12 celebrated chefs, including her fellow Top Chef castmates, each bringing their own flair to Montana’s local bounty. Together, they’ll serve up elevated, one-of-a-kind Rodeo Fare—a bold, flavorful tribute to the West.
Jamie Lynch
An acclaimed chef and culinary innovator, celebrated for his bold flavors, meticulous craftsmanship, and sustainable approach to cuisine.
Casey Thompson
Chef Casey Thompson is one of America’s most forward-thinking and innovative chefs, who recently opened Duchess in Fort Worth, Texas.
Gerald Sombright
Born in St.
Emily Hahn
BJ Smith
Annie Pettry
Louis, Missouri, Gerald fell in love with the art of cooking at a young age. He is a Michelin Star Recipient, and is the Executive Chef at Knife & Spoon at the RitzCarlton Orlando.
Chef BJ Smith is the Culinary Director at Oswego Lake Country Club and Top Chef Season 14 contestant.
Chef and Owner of Mountain Provisions, based in Bozeman, Hahn blends Montana flavors with global influence. Read more about "Chef Em" in the "A la Carte" column featured in this edition of Explore Big Sky.
Award-winning restaurateur, Top Chef alum, and James Beard Foundation Best Chef semifinalist from Asheville, NC.
AFTER PARTY LIVE MUSIC
THURSDAY, JULY 17 | 8 p.m.
BROTHERS COMATOSE
LEN HILL PARK
The Brothers Comatose are a five-piece folk and bluegrass band that was founded in 2008 by brothers Ben and Alex Morrison. They are known for their lively stage presence and songwriting of human experience. Their songs dive into themes of love, loss and adventure and draw sounds from old-time bluegrass, country and rock. They turn every performance into a party by bringing a fresh, foot stomping spirit to the modern string band scene.
FRIDAY, JULY 18 | 9:15 P.M. SATURDAY, JULY 19 | 9:15 p.m.
STEPHEN WILSON JR.
APERTURE GLOBAL BIG SKY EVENTS ARENA STAGE
Stephen Wilson Jr. is an indie rock and country singer/songwriter from rural Southern Indiana. Growing up, he taught himself how to play the guitar.
He eventually moved to Nashville to pursue his degree in Microbiology at Middle Tennessee State University. Here he also started the band AutoVaughn and toured with them for five years as the lead guitarist. After touring, he went to work for MARS as a scientist but his passion for music, singing and songwriting ultimately took over and led to him signing his first label in 2016. His name and fanbase is growing fast and we are happy to have him here at this year’s PBR!
CHANCEY WILLIAMS
APERTURE GLOBAL BIG SKY EVENTS ARENA STAGE
Chancey Williams is a former Saddle Bronc rider turned country music singer/ songwriter from Wyoming. Chancey plays what he wants to play, which he has noted isn’t always the popular or trendy country music. He stays true to his roots and worries solely about himself and his band and nobody else. Chancey is taking mainstream country music and giving it a twist. He represents the western lifestyle and is a cowboy in true form. Chancey belongs at the PBR.
OUTLAW'S PARTNER BRANDS
REGEN MARKET
RegenMarket is an online marketplace that connects consumers with Montana producers who grow food with the planet’s future in mind. From wagyu beef to the best bacon, all products are produced using regenerative agriculture practices.
Get 20% off your first order at regenmarket.com.
BIG SKY NATURAL HEALTH
Big Sky Natural Health embraces a natural approach to health and aims to similarly inspire and guide others on their health journey. Dr. Kaley Burns knows how important it is that you get back out and conquer your favorite activities with a strong mind and body this summer.
Stop by to learn more about her offerings at 87 Lone Peak Dr. or online at bigskynaturalhealthmt.com.
HEY BEAR
Hey Bear is dedicated to raising awareness of bears through educational resources and retail products that inspire stewardship of bears and their habitat.
Find bear education and merchandise available at heybear.com
BOUNDARY EXPEDITIONS
Boundary Expeditions is the premier outfitter on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in beautiful and remote Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness. Since its founding in 2016, they’ve lead with a vision of elevating the river outfitting and guiding experience to new standards, all with a recognition toward the importance of protecting our wild rivers.
Book your next trip of a lifetime at boundaryexpeditions.com.
LONE PEAK CANNABIS CO.
Lone Peak Cannabis Co. specializes in organic, top-tier medicinal and recreational cannabis products guaranteed to fulfill your needs and elevate your experience here in high country. LPC has multiple locations in Big Sky, Bozeman, Laurel, Lolo, Butte, West Yellowstone and Ennis, online ordering and a handy LPClub loyalty program.
Vsit them online at lonepeakcannabiscompany.com.
PLAN YELLOWSTONE
Plan Yellowstone provides unforgettable experiences in and around the world’s first national park. From the raw power of geothermal features to the vibrant culture of gateway towns, this region offers more than just stunning landscapes. Whether you’re planning where to stay, what to do, or where to eat, we’re here to help you make the most of your Yellowstone adventure.
To start planning your next trip, visit planyellowstone.com.
BIG SKY’S BIGGEST WEEK GIVES BACK
Big Sky’s Biggest Week, Big Sky PBR, and Outlaw Partners are proud to partner with area nonprofits to highlight their hard work in the community a nd give back. Since the event’s inception in 2011, we have raised over $3 million dollars for charity. Learn about the organizations we’re working with this year to help to raise funds.
Wellness in Action
When to support: All nights at WIA merch stand
Wellness In Action was founded by nine women in the Big Sky community who wanted to address the concerns of children and families missing out on opportunities for quality education and health and human services. Some of these services include sliding scale counseling, wellbeing opportunities such as camp scholarships so that people may participate in educational, recreational, and cultural events and a community health worker program. Visit bigskywia.org to learn more.
Western Sports Foundation
When to support: Big Sky PBR Golf Tournament
Western Sports Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the overall success of western sports athletes by advancing their health and wellbeing by providing medical, life counseling and financial resources to meet immediate needs and prepare athletes for life beyond competition. Visit westernsportsfoundation.org to learn more.
Big Sky Bandage
When to support: 4th Annual Dick Allgood Community BINGO Night
Big Sky Bandage offers up to $500 in annual reimbursements for acute care medical services to local employees and residents. Eligible care includes services from B2 Urgent Care Clinics on the mountain, Big Sky Medical Center, Big Sky Eyes, and other participating providers in the area. This community-funded program helps offset the high cost of healthcare in Big Sky, improving access to essential medical services for those who live and work here.
Outlaw Foundation
When to support: Thursday night's PBR Calcutta
Outlaw Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of the people, places, and landscapes in the Mountain West. In collaboration with like-minded nonprofits, they leverage Outlaw Partners’ world-class events, marketing, media, real estate and development projects to raise funds. Their goal is to directly contribute to the betterment of the region and forge lasting positive impacts.
MSU Athletics & MSU Rodeo
When to support: Friday night’s PBR calcutta at Blue and Gold night
Montana State University Athletics includes all hardworking MSU athletes, including the standout MSU Rodeo team—one of the most storied programs in National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association history. Over nearly 30 years of hosting the College National Finals Rodeo, MSU Rodeo has earned 9 national
team titles, 34 individual championships, and numerous Big Sky Regional crowns. Support these athletes during Blue and Gold Night at Big Sky PBR! Visit montana.edu/rodeo to learn more.
Big Sky SNO
When to support: Friday night’s PBR at the 50/50 raffle
Big Sky SNO works to identify sustainability issues in key aspects of everyday life in Big Sky, seeking solutions to both big and small challenges in our growing community. Their team explores everything from waste reduction and recycling to education, carbon emissions, resource protection, transportation, energy use, tourism, and more. Their goal is to engage the community— residents and visitors alike—in contributing to a more sustainable future by identifying resources and implementing practical tactics to move Big Sky forward mindfully.
Big Sky Search and Rescue
When to support: Saturday night’s PBR during the 50/50 raffle
Big Sky Search and Rescue began serving the community in 1994 and has helped countless adventurers that find themselves in trouble in the backcountry. The all-volunteer Big Sky team is made up of people that can assist in a variety of activities including horseback riding, biking, kayaking, fishing, hunting, skiing and snowmobiling. Visit bssar. org to learn more.
Big Sky Bravery
When to support: Saturday night’s PBR Calcutta
Big Sky Bravery is a nonprofit that serves active duty
Special Operations Forces through weeklong, allexpense-paid programs in Montana. Founded in 2015, the organization’s “Task Forces” provide a world-class experience designed to help these elite warriors decompress, reconnect with their purpose, and experience the freedom they defend. Learn more at bigskybravery.org.
Warriors & Quiet Waters
When to support: Saturday night’s PBR Calcutta
Warriors & Quiet Waters Foundation (WQW) believes in the power of nature to heal and transform the lives of post-9/11 combat veterans and their loved ones. Founded in 2007, WQW began with the Solo Fishing Experience—a week-long fly-fishing retreat in Southwest Montana to help veterans process the physical, emotional, and moral wounds of war. Since then, the program has served nearly a thousand veterans and expanded to include experiences for couples, families, and winter and backcountry adventures. Visit warriorsandquietwaters.org to learn more.
MEET THIS YEAR'S BIG SKY PBR BULLS
CRAMER
Cramer is a young Yellowstone bull who bucked for the first time just a few weeks ago. He is making his PBR debut at the 11x event of the year.
CHOC TEASE
Choc Tease, owned by BuzzBallz, is a veteran on Cord McCoy’s bull roster. He knows there’s a job to be done and executes with perfection. Choc Tease split the Bounty Bull with the highest score at the Big Sky PBR last year, and he’s ready to bring the heat again this summer.
OUTLAW
Outlaw has consistently lived up to his name, continuously bucking off cowboys and getting the job done. He is sure to bring the crowd to their feet at the Big Sky PBR and has goals to make it to the PBR World Finals in Las Vegas this coming December.
SCOUNDREL
After over a decade of breeding the best bucking bulls in the world the famous Viper has 4 of his offspring coming to big sky” Scoundrel being one of them, is ready!
VEUVE
Veuve is the champagne of Bulls. He’s a young Yellowstone bull but making his mark on the PBR stage. According to Cord McCoy “Veuve and is doing great, he has a warm up before his biggest day ever professionally, The BIG SKY PBR
CHILI MANGO
Chili Mango, owned by BuzzBallz, is a spirited young bull, tipping the scales at 1,200 pounds. Renowned for his incredible speed and unique habit of spinning to the right, he is a standout contender. Chili Mango is set to make his professional debut in Big Sky.
PEYTON’S DADDY
Peyton’s Daddy started as an okay bull, but “when this bull went to his first pro event, it was like he knew exactly what he was bucking for,” McCoy said. Peyton’s Daddy has attended several major events this year, with his team enthusiastically sharing his story and what he represents. Every time his story is told, he exceeds expectations and gains numerous fans wherever he goes.
MIDNIGHT ROCK
Midnight Rock has remained unridden for the past two years, consistently bucking off top bull riders before the clock strikes 8 seconds. As a former World Champion, he remains in his prime and is definitely one to watch at the Big Sky PBR.
CLIFF
Cliff is the offspring of one of the rankest bulls in the world, Viper. Cliff has been to a handful of minor league pro events, but PBR in Big Sky will be the biggest days of his career thus far.
RIDIN’ SALTY
Ridin’ Salty has been traveling across the country gaining experience and bucking hard. According to McCoy, he is a “Top Pick Pro Player,” weighing in at roughly 1,400 pounds. Ridin’ Salty is motivated by his fans and does his best with a rowdy, cheering crowd – His rides in Big Sky will not disappoint.
CLIFF HANGER
Cliff Hanger effortlessly continues to buck off top bull riders. As the highest scoring bull at the Big Sky PBR in 2022, he returns this year to defend his title. One of the largest bulls you’ll see this weekend, Cliff Hanger is definitely one to watch!
BULL RIDING BASICS BIG SKY PBR
SCORING
A rider must stay atop a bull for eight seconds, ride with one hand, and is disqualified if he touches himself or the bull.
Judges award higher marks to riders with good control and body position.
A rider who spurs the bull earns extra points. Half of the rider’s score is based on the bull’s performance and how difficult he is to ride, and the other half is determined by how well he matches the animal’s movement.
The clock begins when the bull’s shoulder or hip crosses the bucking chutes and stops when the rider’s hand comes out of the bull rope or he touches the ground.
Touring Pro Division events have two judges. Each can award up to 50 points for the ride (25 points for the bull and 25 for the rider). The total is added together to make up the score. The total score possible for a bull ride is 100 points. Riders earn points at each event based on their ride scores, their finish in each round, and their overall finish in the event.
If a bull doesn’t perform at the level of others in the competition, judges can award a re-ride, so the cowboy has a fair chance to earn points on a different animal.
THE FLANK STRAP
This is what makes the bull kick. The idea: Rig it just snug enough so it stays on, but loose enough so the bull thinks he can kick it off.
THE BULL ROPE
This is what the rider grips throughout his ride. A metal bell hanging at the bottom of the bull rope is designed to add weight, allowing the rope to fall off the bull as soon as the rider is bucked off or dismounts.
FOUL
If a rider is fouled, it means something happened during the eight-second ride that gave the bull an unfair advantage over the rider. This can include the animal hitting the rider or himself on the bucking chute before the ride, or the flank strap falling off before the ride is over. When a foul occurs, the judges often award a re-ride.
BOUNTY BULL BONUS RIDES
There are $5,000 bonus rides up for grabs both Thursday and Friday nights, presented by The Aperture Global Bounty Bull Bonus Rides. The top scoring riders on Thursday and Friday will each be invited back out for a bonus ride. If the cowboys manage to hang on for eight seconds, they’ll each win the $5,000 bounty. If the cowboy falls off on Thursday night, that night’s bounty will carry over to the next night, and the top rider on Friday will have a chance to win $10,000.
HIGH POINT BONUS
The High Point Ride Award (separate from the Bounty Bull) sponsored by Engel & Völkers is a $2,500 bonus given out on Saturday night of the PBR to the rider with the highest individual score from any of the long-go rounds on Thursday, Friday or Saturday nights.
BIG SKY PBR WINNERS
Luciano De Castro
Kade Madsen
Jesse Petri Jr. Patrik Souza
Dalton Kasel
Colten Jesse
Matt Triplett
Nathan Schaper
Stetson Lawrence
Nathan Schaper
Jared Farley
Brant Atwood
Beau Hill
COWBOY SPONSORS
Special thanks to this year’s cowboy sponsors:
Steve Anglin & Family / Smith Anglin Financial
Todd Raabe & Family
Barry Milner & Family
Thank you to these sponsors for supporting the cowboys of the Big Sky PBR. The ability for these modern-day-gladiators to attend this event is made possible in part because of the support from these legends who sponsor their entry fees.
HISTORY OF THE BELT BUCKLE
BY TAYLOR OWENS
Walk around any Professional Bull Riders event and you’ll notice it: glints of silver at the waist, bold ovals that announce a champion’s grit, gleaming heirlooms that showcase family history. In the West, a belt buckle isn’t an accessory—it’s a résumé, a handshake and a trophy you can wear all at once.
“We don’t just make buckles—we tell stories in silver,” Callie Adams, director at the Columbus, Montana-based Montana Silversmiths, said. “A belt buckle becomes a piece of Western art when it captures that feeling of heritage, grit and pride. It’s more than metal—it’s legacy.”
Every buckle begins with craftsmanship—often hand-engraved scrollwork, metal overlays, semiprecious stones or personalized motifs. From classic silver filigree to intricate gold inlays, each detail is chosen to reflect the journey of the person wearing it. Whether it marks a rodeo win, represents a family ranch brand, or honors a loved one’s memory, no two buckles are exactly alike. Each one carries a story worth telling.
“We’ve crafted memorial buckles to honor loved ones, carved a beloved horse into a little girl’s birthday buckle, and even produced a buckle for Santa Claus,” the Montana Silversmiths team said. “Each one is as unique as the journey behind it. Every buckle has a story.”
So how do you choose? Like a favorite hat or pair of boots, a buckle should not only fit—it should feel right.
For the everyday cowboy or cowgirl, something with classic silver scrollwork—timeless, elegant, and grounded in tradition—might be just right.
It speaks softly, but it speaks true. On the other hand, if you’re walking into a rodeo arena, a gala, festival, concert or even a big family gathering, that oversized, gold-inlaid showpiece buckle might be exactly what the moment calls for. It’s not just about flash—it’s about confidence. Buckles can also be deeply personal.
“A trophy buckle is earned, not just worn,” Adams said. “It carries the weight of hard work, dust, sweat and pride. When someone wears one, it deserves respect.”
Whether the buckle comes from a local jackpot or the PBR’s biggest stage, the same rule applies: wear it with pride.
Buckles today might be worn by a rancher, a
THE FACES OF BIG SKY PBR
Cord McCoy is a premiere stock contractor, training bulls on his ranch in Atoka, Oklahoma. He became a champion saddle bronc rider at 16, starred on CBS’s “The Amazing Race” for three seasons with his brother, and graced the TEDxBigSky stage in 2019. He’s competed professionally in the PBR circuit, clinching six trips to the World Finals in Vegas and a spot on Team USA.
McCoy and his wife, Sara, operate McCoy Ranch in Lane, Oklahoma, specializing in raising ranch/performance horses and bucking bulls. With deep roots in the bucking bull business, Cord and Sara are always excited to contribute to the continued growth in the industry and join Big Sky PBR each summer.
BLAKE SHARP
If Blake Sharp looks right at home at a PBR event, it’s because he grew up in the world of bucking bulls, learning the ropes alongside his father, legendary stock contractor Tony Sharp. Today, he’s earned back-toback PBR Stock Contractor of the Year honors, a
childhood dream realized through hard work and passion. From humble beginnings hauling just one bull, Blake built his operation from the ground up, now overseeing a pen of elite athletes with the help of dedicated partners. He prioritizes top-tier care, developing custom feed and working closely with Mississippi State University for health support. For Sharp, it’s all about excellence, saying, “If they’re not 100%, I’m not putting them on the truck.” The goal remains simple: keep striving for greatness.
MATT WEST
Matt West is hard to miss at Big Sky PBR. Sitting casually along the chute gates with a microphone often in hand bantering with the other announcers, West has held a passion for rodeo sports for most of his life and built a career around that passion. A well-known personality in the Western sports world, the native Oklahoman first began his career with the PBR in 2007 and quickly made a name for himself within the sport’s Velocity Tour and Touring Pro Division. West’s talent rapidly moved him along to work on the league’s premier tour and the milestone of announcing his first PBR World Finals in Las Vegas in 2010.
Today, West is an integral part of the PBR team including appearing on RidePass, the sport’s 24/7 western sports digital network, and representing PBR across international markets. When he’s not
rodeo star, or someone working in town—boots dusty from the morning’s ride, phone buzzing with business calls.
“Today’s cowboy or cowgirl might be in the arena, or they might be running a business downtown with dirt still on their boots,” Adams said. “We design for both.”
In other words, the art of the belt buckle is alive, evolving—and proudly on display at every PBR event, whether you’re chasing 8 seconds or cheering from the stands. Each buckle flashing under the arena lights shines with stories—of grit, growth and heritage. And in that way, the belt buckle remains more than an accessory—it lives on as a symbol of identity, achievement and the enduring spirit of the West.
at the rodeo, West runs his own gym, Westfit, and a podcast, Matt West Now.
FLINT RASMUSSEN
Over his 30 years in the game Flint Rasmussen, in his familiar Cooper Tires jersey, straw cowboy hat and unmistakable mask, has walked (and danced) on a lot of rodeo dirt. He’s become familiar with arenas coast to coast, many boasting audience capacities of over 20,000. Born in Choteau, Montana, Rasmussen got his start as a sports broadcaster for the University of Montana Western and made his first appearance as a rodeo clown in Superior, Montana, at the age of 19 and has since stood as one of the most recognizable and beloved rodeo entertainers in the U.S.
On July 22, 2023, Rasmussen took his last bow as a rodeo clown at the Big Sky Events Arena on the final night of Big Sky PBR. “Montana is the only place I’ve lived,” he told Explore Big Sky newspaper last summer after his final performance. “Why not end this great ride anywhere else than where it started, in Montana?”
Today, his familiar voice carries on as a sideline reporter for PBR.
CORD MCCOY
A 10X Event of the Year belt buckle designed by Montana Silversmiths. PHOTO COURTESY OF MONTANA SILVERSMITHS
A MUTTON BUSTIN' LEGACY
Some of the fan favorites at the Big Sky PBR are much shorter than your average bull rider, but just as mighty. Much like the PBR circuit itself, there are legacies built from the dirt up in the Mutton Bustin’ chute.
Last summer was Logan Ladd’s second year in the Mutton Bustin’ arena. She returned with a new perspective, a new outfit and a new goal: that winning trophy. Step one of Logan’s playbook? Tame the beast—her sheep, named For Flock’s Sake.
“I think he liked me,” Logan said. “But he accidentally dropped me.”
Good athletes learn from their mistakes. Great athletes learn from others.“I just watched the boy who won, and then I did it like him,” she said. Her mom, Jenny Ladd, credits the win to the outfit.
“I wore a safety helmet so I don’t hit my eyes when I fall,” Logan said. “And I wore pink with horses on it.”
Without hesitation, Logan said her favorite part of competing was winning.“I got this trophy, and I had to talk into the microphone and say my name,” she said. “The crowd was going crazy.”
Logan offered advice for this year’s riders:
“You don’t have to be scared,” she said. “Just don’t be scared.”
“And they should wear a horse outfit with pink. Even if you’re a boy. It has to be pink.”
With one big trophy, one little trophy, and a perfect season behind her, Logan is retiring and choosing to have some family time.
“I just don’t want to do it anymore,” she said. “I want to spend time with my mom.”
THE MAN BEHIND THE INFAMOUS BIG SKY PBR POSTERS
skills in silk screen
print production, hand-drawn type, murals and logo design while working with notable brands and companies such as Duluth Coffee Company, Los Campeones Gym, P'tula, Sweeney Fitness and more. When not working, Dan can often be found backpacking around the globe, gaining inspiration for his next project and adding stamps to his passport.
This year for the poster, Dan drew inspiration from classic rodeo illustrations as well as Big Sky’s beautiful landscapes, featuring the arena’s crown jewel, Lone Peak, and the epic sunsets that often take place during Big Sky PBR. Dan also designed this year’s merchandise, including t-shirts, hats and sweatshirts, featured on page 67.
You can purchase this year’s poster at our merchandise tent all three nights of Big Sky PBR.
Dan Levar is the owner and founder of Sleepy Dan's Supply Co., a design studio based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Dan attended the
Minneapolis College of Art and Design and graduated with a BFA in Illustration in 2011. Since then, he has honed his
During mutton busting, 5-year-old Logan Ladd wowed the crowd with her 87-point-score and beat out the boys by riding proudly atop her sheep, For Flocks Sake.
PHOTO BY TAYLOR ALLEN
Dan Lavar designs the Big Sky PBR poster each year. PHOTO COURTESY OF DAN LAVAR
BIG SKY PBR
COMMUNITY DAY SCHEDULE
TUESDAY JULY 15
| BIG SKY EVENTS ARENA
This year’s Community Day & Mutton Bustin’ will include an array of family-friendly activities including carnival games and prizes, circus entertainment, food trucks, sweet treats, and sheep riding through the arena for the highest score.
FREE FAMILY ACTIVITIES - 2:00 - 4:00 PM
AT BIG SKY EVENTS ARENA
• Activities: Mechanical bull, carnival games, prizes, circus entertainment, shaved ice, and more
MUTTON BUSTIN' - 4:00 - 5:00 PM
AT BIG SKY EVENTS ARENA
• Three rounds of 10 participants, first come first served
• Participants msut be 3-6 years old and under 60 lbs
