On April 26 and 27, Big Sky Resort celebrated closing weekend for its 51st season with the return of the beloved pond skim. Skiers and snowboarders dressed in costumes to make a splash for one final weekend of fun on the mountain.
Big Sky Resort’s 51st winter season wrapped up on April 27, capping a wild weekend with the return of the pond skim, a beloved event not seen since 2019. Dozens of contestants brandished costumes and tricks, all ending with a splash and a smile—this contestant brought his coffee and his copy of Explore Big Sky. PHOTO BY CARLI JOHNSON
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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.
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BIG SKY, ENNIS LEADERS COOPERATE TO AMEND SB 260
Leaders from Big Sky and Ennis have cooperated on amendments to Senate Bill 260, which affects special district withdrawal. After passing the senate, it advanced 16-1 through house committee on Tuesday, April 15 and is expected to pass.
BIG SKY BRAVERY PURCHASES 85 ACRES FOR HOME BASE
Big Sky Bravery has held about 90% of its programs in Big Sky since it was founded in 2015. For nearly 10 years, the organization has lacked a home base, but in December 2027, Big Sky Bravery Ranch will allow the organization to host its programs at a new ranch complex in the Michener Creek area.
LONE PEAK SPRING SPORTS ROUND UP
Big Sky student athletes are involved with golf, tennis, track and baseball this spring. Even though the snow is just melting out, the seasons are nearing a close in mid-May. EBS caught up with the coaches to talk about their teams.
MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS LINEUP ANNOUNCED
On April 19, the Arts Council of Big Sky released the full 2025 Music in the Mountains schedule, featuring a range of genres from bluegrass to heavy metal. The summer series will include 12 free concerts at Len Hill Park beginning June 26.
BIG SKY WELCOMES HERO SNOW COFFEE
A new coffee shop is serving baked goods, breakfast and java in Big Sky’s Meadow Village. Owner Shannon Hyem talked to EBS about Hero Snow Coffee, a family-run business that she, and her husband Ewan Knowles, hope will bring some foot traffic to Big Sky’s original commercial area.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
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For the May 15th issue: May 9th, 2025
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OUTLAW PARTNERS & EXPLORE BIG SKY P.O. Box 160250, Big Sky, MT 59716 (406) 995-2055 • media@theoutlawpartners.com
Outlaw Partners, the local publisher of Explore Big Sky, took a field trip to Missouri Headwaters State Park on April 23. Can you spot the EBS team in this photo? OUTLAW PARTNERS PHOTO
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NEWS IN BRIEF BRIEFS
U.S. 191 CRASH RESULTS IN ONE FATALITY, GALLATIN CANYON CLOSURE
BY MIRA BRODY
A fatal two-vehicle accident occurred on Thursday, April 17, at approximately 5:50 p.m. on U.S. Highway 191 near mile marker 68, resulting in the death of one motorist and damage to a Big Sky Fire Department ambulance. The coroner’s office identified the deceased Friday morning as Jozie Beth Hrenchir, 48, of Gallatin Gateway.
Big Sky Fire Department, Gallatin Gateway Fire Department, Montana Highway Patrol, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Department, Gallatin County Coroner’s Office and the Montana Department of Transportation responded to a crash in Gallatin Canyon. The accident involved a Toyota Tacoma pickup truck and Big Sky Fire Department ambulance.
According to the accident report from Montana Highway Patrol, Hrenchir was northbound when she failed to navigate a curve, drifted in front of the oncoming ambulance and the vehicles collided. The Tacoma exited the road and overturned, and its driver, Hrenchir, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The two occupants of the ambulance sustained minor injuries. Gallatin County Sheriff’s Sargent Dan Haydon confirmed that the canyon was closed for about two-and-a-half hours while the scene was cleared. At this time, it has not been determined whether speed, impairment, or other factors contributed to the crash. This incident is under investigation by Montana Highway Patrol.
BSOA BOARD SEATS OPEN AHEAD OF AUGUST ELECTION
EBS STAFF
The Big Sky Owners Association will hold its annual elections on Aug. 29, with four seats open on the board of directors and one seat up for grabs on the architectural committee. Applicants must file by April 30 at 5 p.m. and must be in good standing with the BSOA.
“Serving provides a unique opportunity to shape the future of Big Sky,” Board Chair Maggie Good stated in the release. “We’re seeking dedicated individuals with diverse perspectives who share our mission to preserve, protect, and enhance property values and quality of life in our community.”
The release explained that board members are responsible for the governance of BSOA and its programs and projects, with a goal to improve both membership and community services while working toward fulfilling its mission. Meetings are typically held the third Friday of each month at 9 a.m., lasting two to three hours. Board members typically participate in three or four committees based on their experience and interests.
The architectural committee oversees construction, landscaping and design approval processes to maintain community standards. The committee meets on the first and third Thursdays of each month at 9 a.m., also lasting two to three hours.
Applicants are encouraged to reach out via email or phone, or stop by the Meadow Village office, with questions.
‘TOUCHDOWN’ TOMMY MELLOTT DRAFTED TO LAS VEGAS RAIDERS
EBS STAFF
Tommy Mellott, a Montana State University senior and winner of the 2024 Walter Payton Award, was selected to the Las Vegas Raiders this Saturday, April 26.
The 213th pick in the sixth round of the 2025 National Football League draft, Mellott earned the nickname “Touchdown Tommy” with fans as the Bobcats’ quarterback. In the 2024 season, the Butte native accomplished a 22-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio and 2,138 passing yards. Mellott also rushed for 43 touchdowns and 3,523 rushing yards in his MSU career, both good for second all-time in Montana State history.
The Bobcats held a stunning, near-undefeated record last year with the help of Mellott, fighting all the way to the final NCAA FCS Championship game and falling short in their only loss in the season. In an ESPN story, Mellott is featured as “Prospect X” with the sports news outlet labeling him as the 2025 NFL draft’s “best-kept secret.” He’s expected to try his hand as a receiver for the Raiders.
NO
EVIDENCE OF COMMUNITY EXPOSURE IN TWO NEW GALLATIN COUNTY MEASLES CASES
EBS STAFF
A recent press release by the Gallatin City-County Health Department has confirmed two additional measles cases among household members of previously identified cases in Gallatin County, bringing the total number of Gallatin County cases to seven.
These individuals, who were not immunized against measles, were being monitored for symptoms while isolating at home. Currently, there is no evidence of community transmission or new public exposure sites.
“As we continue to work with our community to monitor these cases, we want to recognize the diligence and care shown by those affected,” Lori Christenson, GCCHD health officer, stated in the press release. “Their cooperation has been invaluable in helping us identify and monitor cases swiftly, demonstrating a commitment to protecting the health of our community."
Measles is a highly infectious airborne disease. Initial symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and white spots in the mouth, followed by a red rash starting on the face and spreading downward. A measles infection can also result in serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling and even death. It poses significant risks to infants, who are generally not eligible for vaccination until 12 months of age.
GCCHD recommends consulting a healthcare provider about one’s measles immunity status if unknown. High vaccination rates within the community protects those who cannot be vaccinated, including infants and individuals with medical exemptions. For more information about MMR vaccinations or to schedule an appointment, visit the GCCHD website or call 406-582-3100.
Ballots have been mailed. Now Big Sky voters will decide on three initiatives that will help shape the future of Big Sky.
RESORT TAX RENEWAL
COLD SMOKE HOUSING BOND COMMUNITY PARK BOND
Get informed, make your voice heard, and return your ballots by the May 6th Election Day.
More information at resorttax.org/livablebigsky
JOIN US YOUR VOTE IS YOUR VOICE
The Wilson Hotel, Wednesday, May 14
Eggs & Issues: Local Government Study Commissions
Gallatin and Madison County voters chose to launch a review of their local governments. In this Eggs & Issues, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce, you’ll hear representatives from both county study commissions as they share what they are evaluating, what they can propose and how you can participate.
Joint County Commission & BSRAD Board Meeting
8:30am Breakfast; 9:00am Presentation 10:00am
Big Sky’s locally elected o cials - Big Sky Resort Area District (BSRAD), Gallatin County & Madison County Commissioners - meet to act on relevant and timely issues that e ect our community.
SKIM OR SWIM: BIG SKY’S CLOSING WEEKEND MAKES A SPLASH WITH THE RETURN OF POND SKIM
BY CARLI JOHNSON AND JACK REANEY
BIG SKY—Nacho Libre, bananas, a shark, Richard Simmons and the Titanic were among the costumes worn by skiers and snowboarders who took part in Big Sky Resort’s closing weekend pond skim. For the first time since 2019, Big Sky Resort wrapped up its 51st season with the return of the fan favorite event.
On Saturday, April 26, locals and visitors made their way up to the bowl beneath the Powder Seeker lift to cheer on the skimmers and swimmers.
A previously scheduled 1:30 p.m. start to the pond skim was delayed by a 30-minute lightning hold.
Although clouds stormed in the distance, the sun conquered and poked through to allow the closing weekend festivities to resume. A Big Sky ski patroller kicked off the pond skim with a successful run, spraying the crowd at the base with snow.
Visiting for the weekend, Rylee Vitrano cheered on her friends from the sidelines. “It was really fun to watch them,” Vitrano said. “Nacho Libre took a swim, but Santa made it across.”
Big Sky local Max Scheder-Bieschin competed in the pond skim for the first time. With his wetsuit, inner tube and snorkel, getting wet wasn’t a problem.
“All the competitors up at the top were encouraging each other, giving each other tips,” SchederBieschin said. “It was just real good camaraderie. I really loved it.” Noting his thanks to Big Sky Resort for bringing it back, he looks forward to doing it again next year.
For two hours, pond skimmers made their way down the slope across the 80-foot pond, or sank in the three feet of water. A few skiers who didn’t make it across lost their skis in the process, having to search for them in the pond.
Participants ranged from ages six to 66, making a splash for the return of pond skim in hopes of securing enough stoke to motivate the resort to bring it back for years to come.
On Sunday, April 27, the clouds hung low. The mountain was relatively quiet for closing day, after a busy Saturday of spring shenanigans. But the dedicated ones showed up to close off a great season.
EBS caught up with a few locals in the Lone Peak Tram line on Sunday afternoon.
George Suehnholz summed up the season simply: “pretty fun… can’t really complain,” adding that skied nearly every day including his work as an instructor. He noted he was proud to earn his levelIII PSIA certification, and checked off a couple boxes: Donkey Slot and Little Couloir via Apple Core.
Callie Pecunies kept track of her ski days for the first time in her life—42 at Big Sky with 33 tram
days, and that’s not counting her dozen-odd days elsewhere.
“It has been an awesome season. The snow started out a little light, and then it was just great,” Pecunies said. “... Amazing snow. I mean for those of us who live here, maybe it’s not over. We’ll do a little skinning up into Beehive. It’s just been a great year.”
Pecunies gave a shoutout to the resort’s staff, particularly the tram ops for “awesome” interactions throughout the long season. She said the resort did an excellent job managing the tram line this year.
Mike Wolfe, a board member with the Big Sky Ski Education Foundation, reflected on what he’ll miss as the resort closes its 51st season.
“It was a season that wouldn’t stop snowing. So, powder skiing with friends I think is gonna be the biggest miss of the year,” Wolfe said. “The good thing about Big Sky is we get to take that into summer, and be with our friends on bikes and rivers, boats—it just doesn’t stop.”
He said a memorable run was skiing the North Summit Snowfield with the BSSEF Nordic coaches.
Peter Manka described the season as “epic.” He said most runs were memorable, but he won’t forget skiing the Big Couloir to help spread the ashes of legendary Big Sky musician Terry Stebbins, led by Terry’s brother, John. Conditions were rough that day, Manka recalled, but the Big Sky Ski Patrol opened the terrain for the unique occasion.
“Feeling a lot of great fortune and gratitude for this mountain, this place, and for the family, the community, health, happiness, all those good things,” Manka said. “Feeling really blessed.”
A skier dressed as Richard Simmons flies across the pond at Big Sky Resort’s 51st closing weekend.
PHOTO BY CARLI JOHNSON
A skier donned in the American flag and a disco ball helmet skids across the pond at Big Sky Resort's 51st closing weekend. PHOTO BY CARLI JOHNSON
A pond skim facilitator searches for a lost ski after a skier dressed as a hotdog failed to get across.
PHOTO BY CARLI JOHNSON
BIG SKY, ENNIS LEADERS AGREE TO ‘WINWIN’ TERMS AS SB 260 GAINS TRACTION
EIGHT-YEAR TRANSITION PERIOD WOULD SUPPORT ENNIS HOSPITAL AS BIG SKY BEGINS TO COLLECT ITS OWN HOSPITAL DISTRICT TAXES
BY JACK REANEY
HELENA—The Madison Valley Hospital District and Big Sky Wellness Coalition—led by the Big Sky Resort Area District—have agreed to terms that would outline the future of health care services between the Big Sky and Ennis communities.
For months, the communities have volleyed lawsuits and petitions, as Big Sky’s Madison County residents look to withdraw from the Madison Valley Hospital District and transfer that portion of their tax dollars into a to-be-created Big Sky Wellness District. They argue the Madison Valley Medical Center in Ennis, funded by MVHD, is not accessible and therefore does not return reasonable services to its Big Sky taxpayers.
After failed petitions to withdraw, Big Sky leaders brought the issue to Helena: Senate Bill 260 proposed to ease special district withdrawal when geographic barriers prevent taxpayers from accessing services within hospital and school districts.
After an initial round of amendments, SB 260 passed the Montana Senate on April 5, and appeared before the House Local Government Committee on April 15, where leaders from both Ennis and Big Sky ultimately supported the newest version of the bill.
New amendments provide ‘framework of mutual benefit’
Before Tuesday’s committee hearing, leaders from both communities came together to negotiate a mutually beneficial outcome.
“This was a difficult bill to start out with, although I think… all the parties have now come together, and come to an agreement on this bill as we move forward,” said Sen. Greg Hertz (R-Polson), who sponsored SB 260.
Attorney Bruce Spencer spoke on behalf of the Madison Valley Hospital District.
“As you’ve heard, we’ve come to an agreement… and it was arduous,” Spencer told the house committee on April 15. “… Had we not done that—just to put this in context for you—you would have had a busload of people from Ennis here, and out in the halls, testifying about the danger of this bill to their community.”
SB 260’s latest amendments outline a gradual, eight-year transition of taxpayer dollars from MVHD to Big Sky’s new hospital district, expanding from the three-year period that passed the Senate.
“We oppose the bill as it’s written today,” Allen Rohrback, CEO of the Madison Valley Medical Center, told the committee. He added that under new amendments, however, the gradual reconciliation payments would allow the “very small, critical access, … independent, community-owned, small hospital not owned by a regional medical center,” to carry on.
Hertz explained that the Ennis hospital can count on roughly $23 million in reconciliation payments
before the withdrawal period is complete. “That will give them a 10-year period to continue to plan, and do what they need to do,” Hertz said.
Rohrback said both parties worked hard on the amendments, and despite skepticism, came together to find “an excellent way to move forward” given the challenging situation.
“I really think, it’s the right answer… The solution recognizes that, you know, Big Sky has its own vision of health care in their community, and we respect that,” Rohrback said. “This gives us an opportunity to focus on our other communities, and to plan for the future.”
On the school side, the amendments provide a schedule of reconciliation payments between the Ennis and Big Sky school districts, as well as the creation of an advisory council for Big Sky’s Madison County residents to participate in the BSSD school board.
Emily Dean, director of advocacy for the Montana School Boards Association, said both districts are now in support of the latest amendments.
“We worked really hard with both of the school districts to find some common ground,” she said.
While presenting the bill, Hertz said the Big Sky area has grown remarkably and beyond prediction in the past 30 years. He gave background on the original motivation among Big Sky leaders to push SB 260.
Hertz said most taxpayers in the Ennis school and hospital districts live on the Ennis side, whereas most of the tax revenue is coming from the Big Sky side.
“[Madison Valley residents] aren’t allowing that district to split,” Hertz summarized. “Because they will lose a lot of revenue, up there, that is funding that [hospital] district. That, most likely, could never happen. And I don’t blame those taxpayers.”
Kevin Germain, chair of the Big Sky Resort Area District, spoke in support of the bill.
“SB 260 is not about the wealthy avoiding taxes,” Germain said. “Far from it. It’s about giving a voice to everyday Montanans who are taxed without representation… Now, I’m really proud to share that the Big Sky and Ennis communities, both the school and hospital, have worked very diligently to
come together on amendments that strengthen this bill, and create a framework of mutual benefit.”
Hertz explained that Big Sky taxpayers currently pay $38 million to Madison County. Only $6 million would be removed by SB 260, he noted, and the remaining 30-plus-million will continue to be collected in Madison County. With the continued growth of other property tax revenues, the Madison County Commissioners can “help make sure that that community stands strong” by allocating funds within their legal limits.
“I just want to truly thank all the parties. This was a difficult situation, but I think we came together here,” Hertz said.
The house committee voted 16-1 to move the bill to the house floor.
Lawsuits, petition hearing to be put on hold
Ultimately, Spencer said the proponents and opponents still disagree about geographic access, and services provided by the Madison Valley Medical Center, but the amendment resolves the most urgent issues—he said the eight-year reconciliation period will prevent the hospital from being pushed off a financial cliff.
He said a mutually beneficial outcome would not have been possible through the multiple ongoing lawsuits, because they were constrained by the current statutory landscape.
“We think it can be a win-win… Someone was thinking outside the box, and it’s appreciated because it does solve a problem that has created some animosity between the two communities— which hopefully can then, now, be resolved,” Spencer said.
The Big Sky Wellness Coalition and Madison Valley Hospital District are working on a memorandum of understanding to potentially put lawsuits on hold and allow SB 260 to run its course. The court-ordered withdrawal hearing scheduled for April 23-25 is expected to be postponed indefinitely.
Hertz said SB 260 has been “probably one of the most difficult bills of my legislative career,” but he expressed optimism in the face of cooperation.
The committee had essentially no questions after hearing support from Ennis leaders, but Rep. Peter Strand (D-Bozeman) said the hearing felt unusual—typically, proponents and opponents urged the committee to pick a side, which can be “deeply frustrating.”
“What is the magic here,” Strand asked Hertz. “How did you all—because we need to replicate this.”
Hertz responded that the neighboring Big Sky and Ennis communities really wanted to work together and figure it out.
“It was a difficult hearing in the senate. I can’t say it wasn’t,” Hertz said. “You know, when you got school-bus-loads of people showing up, you know—these people came together.”
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO
HIGHWAY 191: MONTANA’S TICKING TIME BOMB OF A ROAD
BY ERIC LADD PUBLISHER
U.S. Highway 191, once a scenic byway along the Gallatin River, is fast becoming one of Montana’s most perilous routes. With Gallatin County’s rapid growth and a sharp increase in commuter traffic, drivers now face a dangerous cocktail of hazards— from potholes and narrow lanes to fast-moving semis and unpredictable weather.
U.S. 191 isn’t just another stretch of road—it’s the sole connection between Big Sky and Bozeman, serving as the gateway to West Yellowstone and Yellowstone National Park. This critical artery links local communities and fuels the regional economy. As the only direct route for residents, tourists and commerce, any disruption on U.S. 191 sends shockwaves through the region.
Local residents and daily commuters are sounding the alarm. One frustrated driver, who requested anonymity, noted, “I’ve seen accidents almost every week now. The road is too narrow, the pull-outs are underutilized, and the potholes make even a small mistake potentially fatal.”
The danger is not just from the deteriorating road itself. The combination of fast-moving semi-truck traffic and small passenger vehicles has created a hostile environment, especially during peak morning and evening rush hours.
The deterioration of overused infrastructure
The road’s perils are compounded by several interrelated issues. The aging infrastructure along the river forces drivers into precarious situations on a narrow roadway. The high volume of fast-moving
semi-trucks overwhelms the limited pull-out areas, and the mix of small cars and large trucks creates additional hazards. Harsh weather conditions further complicate matters, while animals crossing a road with little protection add an unpredictable element. Human factors, including instances of drinking and driving, have also been reported, further increasing risk for all road users.
A growing concern among community members is the visible deterioration of U.S. 191, largely due to the volume of traffic it receives. The persistent wear and tear is not only degrading the roadway’s condition but most likely contributing significantly to the danger. In response, the Montana Department of Transportation has “absolutely” been monitoring the situation closely, according to Geno Liva, MDT regional supervisor.
“Roadway hazards are a major concern of ours, and often, they come up when we’re not ready to get out there and work on them... We work to get these fixed in a timely manner, but we do have to consider the safety of our workforce as well, and trying to keep them out of harm’s way,” Liva told EBS.
He explained the factors that make U.S. 191 a challenging roadway.
“It’s got difficult topography through the canyon, you couple that with high traffic volumes peaking in morning and late afternoon. We have snow and ice, which are major concerns for several months of the year... Our maintenance, you know, we struggle to complete roadway repair activities due to the nature of the narrow canyon and the high traffic volumes,” Liva said.
He added that U.S. 191 faces a challenging mix of people who want to enjoy the “beautiful” scenery, and others who are in a hurry to get to and from work. “And we have a narrow canyon with a river and a road, and mountains—and there’s not a whole lot of extra room for us,” Liva said.
Firefighters rushed to extinguish a burning vehicle in an accident that proved fatal, between a semi-truck and pickup truck in October 2024. Mere yards away, three white crosses show the danger of the curve just a few miles north of Big Sky. PHOTO BY JACK REANEY
A mild spring has resulted in potholes developing throughout the Gallatin Canyon, obstructing the roadway and forcing high-pressure maneuvers until repair crews arrive. PHOTO BY JACK REANEY
Montana Highway Patrol data shows that in 2024 alone, 248 accidents were reported between Four Corners (Bozeman) and West Yellowstone, including 68 vehicle-wildlife collisions. The 2024 collisions resulted in five fatalities and at least four life-threatening injuries, 48 minor injuries and 23 “possible injuries,” according to MHP.
Liva said accidents have been consistent since about 2017, with 2023 seeing the fewest number of accidents in that span.
“With it being fairly consistent, we’re not concerned with the trend that we have there,” Liva said. “But obviously, you know, MDT, safety is our priority and we always want to fall back on that. The fewer number of accidents we have on our roadway, the better off for us.”
Every day starting around 6 a.m., a solid line of traffic emerges from Bozeman heading toward Big Sky, with roughly 4,100 vehicles making the journey each way, according to MDT’s traffic counter near Big Sky. This relentless flow of commuters further compounds the risk on an already hazardous road.
“I NEVER IMAGINED A ROUTINE DRIVE HOME COULD TURN INTO A LIFE-THREATENING ORDEAL. ONE WRONG MOVE ON THE POTHOLE-RIDDLED ROAD, AND YOU’RE FIGHTING FOR YOUR LIFE.”
- Anonymous driver whose car was severely damaged
This past winter, accidents have caused a handful of full shutdowns of the canyon, with some closures lasting for multiple hours. Most recently, on March 15, a multi-vehicle accident involving a truck resulted in snowmobiles flying off and colliding with other vehicles, which closed the canyon for over two afternoon hours, and on April 17, a community member passed away in a collision with a Big Sky Fire Department ambulance, closing the canyon for two-and-a-half evening hours.
Such incidents not only disrupt daily commutes but also transform U.S. 191 into a dangerous bottleneck, leaving residents of Big Sky potentially trapped with no reasonable egress point during critical times—imagine hundreds of Big Sky drivers attempting to escape a wildfire, only to run into blocked highway due to frantic driving on an overstressed road.
Accident survivors have recounted harrowing tales of near-misses and collisions. One local resident, whose car was severely damaged in a recent accident, recalled, “I never imagined a routine drive home could turn into a life-threatening ordeal. One wrong move on the pothole-riddled road, and you’re fighting for your life.”
Gallatin County Sheriff Sergeant Dan Haydon discussed the road in a phone call with EBS. He noted that U.S. 191 has benefitted from safety improvements in recent years, but at the same time, the number of drivers has increased significantly and this leads to a higher volume of total accidents.
“Overall, I think the road is safer than it has been,” Haydon said. “But because we have the volume, it just means we’re going to have more crashes, some of which are significant.”
Haydon said improvements have been noteworthy between Spanish Creek and Big Sky, with improved signage, guardrails, and the addition of rumble strips in the middle of the road. As a result, he believes most of the white roadside crosses— representing fatal crashes—are from more than a decade ago.
Haydon echoed Liva’s comment: MDT is trying its best. Still, he acknowledged that potholes have been popping up every week in the springtime, some dangerous in size or location. He explained that hazards increase when the vehicle ahead needs to suddenly swerve, so keeping a safe trailing distance is “so huge” in terms of avoiding risk.
“If I’m close to the car in front of me, I’m never going to have the time to see the pothole,” not to mention adjusting course safely, Haydon explained. However, he noted there is “certainly” a lot of tailgating from drivers who are rushing to their destination, often a time-sensitive job.
In addition to potholes, animals become another obstacle as they roam habitat on both sides of the highway. Holly Pippel is an activist and photographer based in Gallatin Gateway, who observes the daily conflict between wildlife habitat and human travelers.
“The daily challenges of traveling the Highway 191 gauntlet, for both people and wildlife, navigating the high volume of traffic has had dire consequences for both,” Pippel told EBS. “Speed, distracted drivers, road and weather conditions, aggressive drivers, wildlife migrations and human impatience has proven to be a deadly mix.”
Brad Niva, CEO of the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce, also weighed in on the situation. He began by noting that U.S. 191 is “an amazing road” that enables just about everything that happens in Big Sky—roughly 75% of Big Sky’s workforce lives outside the community, according to BSRAD data.
“However, we as a community have exceeded [U.S. 191’s] capacity, and it needs some love... to ensure that it serves the needs of our community, and Montanans for years to come,” Niva said.
He noted that despite MDT’s funding constraints, he’s been pleased to see the state agency paying closer attention to U.S. 191 and Montana Highway 64, recognizing their importance to the state. But there’s more to be done.
“And we need everyone to come together, including the federal government, to find ways to support this highway and other highways that are crucial to Montana,” Niva said.
Regular commuters like Kristin Hinman have their own perspective on the daily challenges.
Hinman lives on Spanish Creek Road and turns onto U.S. 191 most days. She calls it “The Gallatin Canyon 500” during busy times in the morning and evening, when many drivers are “really excited” to speed through the canyon. “We definitely do have a rush hour,” she said, adding that she plans her whole day around avoiding those times. She also avoids driving at dawn or dusk when animals are more likely to cross the road.
After days of disrepair, MDT patches up a stretch of potholes near Big Sky. PHOTO BY JACK REANEY
In her years commuting to Big Sky for work, she’s run into the dreaded line of stopped cars a handful of times—an uncertain sign of an accident and road blockage ahead.
“Especially when you’re sitting for a long time, you’re like, ‘Oh, something really bad happened,’” Hinman said.
Stress, caution, and constant vigilance is required to navigate a road fraught with dangers.
When asked for advice on safely navigating the canyon, Sgt. Haydon stressed the importance of giving space to other drivers, improving the reactionary gap in case something unfolds ahead. “Do not ride somebody else’s bumper through the canyon,” Haydon said. “You’re not going to make anyone go faster, all you’re going to do is increase your stress, and increase that other driver’s stress... To avoid an accident you have to see the potential coming.”
He added there’s four factors in almost all of the highway’s crashes that result in major injuries or fatalities. To “significantly” reduce the likelihood of a crash, drivers should avoid all four: occupants not wearing seatbelts; speeding, which is especially dangerous during winter; driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; and distraction.
Regional
success stories and frameworks
U.S. Highway 191’s challenges are not unique in the Rocky Mountains. Other high-traffic, two-lane roads in the region have faced similar hazards and implemented measures to mitigate them.
In Colorado, for instance, an infamous stretch of U.S. Highway 550—commonly known as the Million Dollar Highway—has undergone extensive safety improvements over the years. Local authorities introduced strategic pull-outs, enhanced guardrails and traffic-calming designs that collectively slowed traffic and reduced collisions.
Moreover, similar initiatives to install wildlife crossings along other roads have significantly reduced animal-vehicle collisions. These success stories offer a blueprint for U.S. 191.
By adopting improved road maintenance, targeted traffic management, and innovative wildlife crossing solutions—such as those advocated by the Center for Large Landscape Conservation that would help guide animals safely across the highway, thereby reducing collisions and preserving local
ecosystems—the Gallatin Canyon region could see a meaningful reduction in accidents and overall traffic hazards.
In planning improvements for U.S. 191, Liva said MDT will engage the public through newsletters, open house forums and individual meetings with stakeholders. “We want to engage the public and get their comments, and see what part they can play.”
The following questions are critical for MDT to address: What specific measures are planned to repair and widen U.S. 191? How will MDT address the ever-rising volume of semi-truck traffic? And what timelines can residents expect for improvements and wildlife crossing installations?
Liva emphasized the topographical constraints that may inhibit efforts to widen the road. Discussing repair, especially in the wake of the recent challenges with potholes and deteriorating road surface, Liva said MDT has experienced some of its patches failing prematurely. MDT is trying a new material to improve durability of pothole repair.
Regarding semi-trucks, he’s confident that MDT designs its roadways to withstand the load of large trucks, and said permits are required for overweight and oversize trucks.
For wildlife crossings, MDT is working with groups like CLLC to evaluate other grant opportunities after recently failing to earn federal funds. And with upcoming planned projects, MDT is working to integrate wildlife connectivity.
“Any project that we have, we are looking at the possibility of improving the safety concerning animal crossing,” Liva said.
The road ahead: How you can get involved
For readers concerned about U.S. 191’s traffic and safety, there are several ways to get involved. Attend community meetings and town halls to voice your concerns and influence policy changes. Support advocacy groups such as CLLC, which welcomes community engagement and volunteer involvement to promote wildlife crossings and other safety measures. Engage with local officials and MDT to express your concerns and request updates on road maintenance and safety initiatives. Additionally, share this story with friends and family, on social media and through community forums to raise awareness about the ongoing dangers and the need for immediate action. Finally, participate in local safety campaigns and initiatives aimed at reducing high-speed driving and encouraging carpooling.
As Gallatin County continues to expand, the mix of modern commuter challenges with an aging, inadequately maintained road infrastructure creates a perfect storm. Whether through policy changes, targeted infrastructure investments, or tougher regulations on vehicle types, urgent reform on U.S. 191 is imperative.
Local drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution, remain vigilant for wildlife and prepare for sudden changes in weather. The stories of those who have narrowly escaped disaster serve as stark reminders of the real human cost behind crash statistics. With community voices, law enforcement leaders like Sgt. Haydon, environmental advocates like CLLC, and local business leaders such as Brad Niva calling for action, the hope is that comprehensive changes will be implemented before U.S. 191 claims more lives.
Explore Big Sky Newspaper will continue to follow this developing story, keeping you informed as local leaders, MDT, and community members work together to address Montana’s most dangerous road and its critical role in connecting our communities.
Jack Reaney contributed reporting for this story.
Facing an oncoming semi-truck, an SUV is forced to drive through a long, rugged pothole. Both vehicles are traveling at least 55 miles per hour. PHOTO BY JACK REANEY
In November 2022, an out-of-state visitor struck three elk with their car at the mouth of the canyon. PHOTO BY HOLLY PIPPEL
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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BIG SKY BRAVERY SECURES 85 ACRES FOR HOME BASE IN BIG SKY
BY JACK REANEY
BIG SKY—Sustainability, continuity and the safe feeling of home will define the next chapter of Big Sky Bravery, as the nearly-10-year-old nonprofit announces plans for a long-awaited home base. Headquartered in Belgrade, the nonprofit offers decompression programs for active-duty Special Operations Forces.
In 2024, a $5 million gift from a family foundation in Chicago enabled Big Sky Bravery to purchase 85 acres on Huckleberry Tuff Road in the Michener Creek area of Big Sky. BSB plans to develop less than 1% of the land, and will build hiking trails, low-profile lodges, cabins and gathering spaces, and one motorized use trail to be used by families staying on site—BSB leaders emphasize the motorized-use trail won’t be heavily used or disruptive. The property is expected to be operational in December 2027 and will be known as Big Sky Bravery Ranch.
“We have worked tirelessly over the past year with architects to design structures that blend into the landscape and provide the utmost privacy for our recipients, and also without interrupting wildlife,” said Seth Thomas, VP of development, in a March 13 presentation to the Big Sky Resort Area District board. He added that BSB is committed to executing the project with the same “silent professionalism” of the SOF participants they serve.
To earn a conditional use permit for Big Sky Bravery Ranch required months of late nights and meetings to communicate BSB’s mission and desire to blend quietly into the forested area, CEO Josh McCain explained in an interview with EBS.
“We thought about wild game and how they flow through the property, [and] very naturalistic design elements that blend in with the scenery... Our design elements are more for experiencing nature and tranquility up there, than to be seen, or getting the best possible views for these folks,” McCain said. He explained BSB’s desire to be good neighbors and stewards of the land, rather than disruptors.
The nonprofit has served nearly 900 recipients and a growing number of SOF families in its decade of work, and Thomas said a home base in Big Sky will be “crucial” as BSB anticipates 160% program growth in the next 10 years.
McCain envisions Big Sky Bravery Ranch as “a compound of what we consider the most deserving people in the entire world.”
Consistency and control
McCain believes the creation of a home base will have a generational impact on the organization. The $5 million gift alone elevated BSB’s status, leading further philanthropy and improving its long-term planning capacity.
In the near term, the ranch will solve one of BSB’s biggest challenges.
Since September 2015, across nearly 150 task forces—weeklong retreat programs with volunteers and active-duty Special Operations Forces members—BSB leaders have searched for homes for their participants, between expensive shortterm rentals and homestays offered by generous volunteers and supporters.
“Our home base, currently, is about 30 different front doors up in Big Sky—usually about 90% of our programs are up in the Big Sky area,” McCain said. “... Which poses a lot of operational and logistical challenges.”
Starting around December of 2027, Big Sky Bravery Ranch will provide a consistent location for programming, while serving as a launch pad as participants spend most of their days exploring the outdoors.
“All the task forces, everything we do recreationally, is offsite. So we go to places like Big Sky Resort to go ski, go up on Buck Ridge,” McCain said. “... The only thing that’s onsite, which is our most important thing, is a dinner table that can fit everybody, and then a room with no distractions because our curriculum is built off of vulnerability.”
In the past, vulnerable discussions took place in living rooms and kitchen tables of whichever house the task force occupied, and McCain said it can be “very, very tough” in a new environment with potential distractions.
Soon, Big Sky Bravery will have a predictable and controllable environment.
Working with Bozeman-based 45 Architecture and Interiors, BSB designed a main lodge around
program-specific needs—every bed, window blind and floor plan is tailored to the experience of participants, drawing inspiration from memorable homestays and what enabled task forces to achieve their restorative mission.
“We’re gonna deliver a product that does the special operations community the justice they deserve,” McCain said.
The power of the program
Bobbi and Jon Gilbert have volunteered for BSB since 2021. They are two of 13 volunteers that reside in Big Sky.
Both 24-year veterans of the U.S. Air Force, they served during numerous deployments across the Middle East, eastern Europe, Africa and Asia. As a combat controller, Jon spent more than 18 years within the U.S. Special Operations Command. Bobbi served in communications and legal specialties, spending years in leadership roles within special operations.
Jon said active military servants are in an insulated ecosystem, and it’s easy to lose touch with everyday Americans during 250 to 300 travel days per year. He believes Big Sky Bravery has the power to close that gap.
“I find it very powerful that there’s a decompression and a realignment of self that goes on,” Jon told EBS in a phone call. He also finds the connection and realignment between volunteers—most of whom are not veterans—to be powerful.
Bobbi volunteers with programs serving spouses and active-duty females. “In both of those instances—having been an active-duty spouse so I’ve lived in both of those worlds—that can be a lonely place,” Bobbi said. She believes BSB programs can forge unique connections between women who understand the grueling lifestyle.
“These women are only spending five days together in Montana, but years later are still connecting,” Bobbi said. She believes BSB excels at using adventure to break through the awkward get-toknow-you phase during task forces.
“The power of Big Sky Bravery, I’ve seen it and I understand how impactful it is… I can’t think
A task force with active-duty males rides on Buck Ridge near Big Sky. COURTESY OF BIG SKY BRAVERY
of anything that can replicate what they’re doing there,” she said.
The Gilberts are optimistic about the new home base, and the ways it will eliminate variables to allow BSB to focus on the needs of its recipients.
“When there’s a standardized place that everybody knows, not only can that become and feel like a second home to all the recipients, but on the BSB side, I think there’s a lot of advantages to having an improvable and repeatable standard of living that they can make their own,” Jon said. “If you don’t know, week-to-week, where you’re running your program out of, it adds a layer of complexity.”
McCain emphasized that the Big Sky area is BSB’s home—the organization spent 144 days in Big Sky in 2024, with 156 Big Sky days scheduled in 2025.
Jon agrees. He believes many of the positive traits of successful SOF members are mirrored in the Big Sky community. “Guys picking up slack, and helping each other out, and there’s always been this communal feeling… These two communities feel very similar to me. It’s small, people look out for each other, it’s neighborly,” Jon said.
During the March 13 Resort Tax presentation, BSB Director of Development Crystal Kramer read a recent testimonial from a female active-duty recipient who enjoyed her time at Big Sky Resort during a task force.
“Along with the friendships I’ve made, I was able to experience a part of the country I’ve longed to explore for years,” the participant stated. “In special operations, there’s never a good time to take leave from work due to deployments. However, my week
in Big Sky could not have come at a better time. Struggling with some life problems, I didn’t know how much I truly needed to get away from day-today life until I was in the mountains.
“This trip changed the trajectory of my life... I’ve never been treated with such an outpouring of love in my life.”
Kramer added BSB’s gratitude for local partners including Big Sky Resort, Lone Mountain Ranch, Canyon Adventures and East Slope Outdoors among “many, many others,” and noted BSB’s desire to giving back to the local economy and community.
“We could not think of a better place to continue this mission and our programs, and are so excited to do that alongside you all,” Kramer said.
McCain’s passion is providing peace and tranquility to active-duty service members and their families who sacrifice so much and ask for so little.
“Montana—when these folks get off the airplane— does a lot of the work for us,” he said. “It’s just up to us to find the missing pieces after they get here, and that’s exactly what this ranch will facilitate.”
The acquired land on Huckleberry Tuff Road in Big Sky. COURTESY OF BIG SKY BRAVERY
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MORNINGSTAR DISCUSSES TUITION STRATEGY AHEAD OF 2025-26 SCHOOL YEAR
INCREASES MEANT TO ADDRESS OPERATING COSTS, REDIRECT FUNDRAISING EFFORTS TO SUPPORT FAMILY TUITION ASSISTANCE
BY JEN CLANCEY
BIG SKY—In the 2024-25 school year, Morningstar Learning Center charged $1,820 per month for full time infant child care. Next year, the cost will rise to $2,095 monthly, reflecting efforts by the local child care provider to finally start matching tuition prices to the cost of keeping the facility running.
At an April 17 Big Sky Resort Area District meeting, MLC Executive Director Mariel Butan announced the second 15% tuition increase since last spring. The yearly increases will continue until about 70% of Morningstar’s operating expenses are covered by tuition, Butan said.
Thirty-eight of the 48 enrolled children in Morningstar received tuition help this year through Morningstar’s tuition assistance program, which is on track to distribute $375,000 total by the end of the school year. Butan expects to see more families eligible for tuition assistance next year, as tuition continues to rise.
In short, this next year, Morningstar will direct more fundraising dollars—in the form of grants, donations and events—to make up for widening gaps in what families can afford as tuition increases begin to reflect the actual cost of care.
Butan said that funders of Morningstar have been on board with the redirection of dollars toward families for about a year now. She described the child care issue in Big Sky as high stakes.
“You know, families have told us point blank … ‘if Morningstar’s tuition were to increase, we’d probably have to leave our jobs or leave Big Sky altogether because we can’t afford to live in Big Sky if both of us don’t work,’” Butan said.
The average income of Montana families who applied for financial assistance in the 2024 school year was $142,000. To achieve affordability standards set by the U.S. Department of Public Health and Human Services, families would pay about $10,000 a year for their kid’s childcare—7% of the family’s income. By that standard, Morningstar’s applicant cohort would pay $828.33 per month—a price that pales in comparison to the roughly $3,600 per month average it costs Morningstar to provide care for each child.
But Morningstar doesn’t charge the $3,600 price— in the 2025-26 school year, even with the upcoming $275 increase, MLC will ask just over $2,000 per month for full time infant care—the most expensive child care regimen at the facility..
“It’s a really intricate balance that we’re trying to strike here,” Butan said.
A statewide challenge
The gap between DPHHS targets and actual costs is a problem throughout Montana. According to the Montana Department of Labor, yearly expenses for child care in 2023 were equivalent to 28% of the
state’s median household income, four times the DPPHS recommendation.
Morningstar hopes to raise $1.3 million in philanthropy and BSRAD allocations to cover costs for families in the upcoming school year as prices rise.
“It’s a very high bar, but it’s also a very high stakes conversation that we’re having about being able to retain families and employees and employers in our community,” Butan said. She pointed out opportunities in the Montana Legislature to supplement child care.
Tracking child-care-related bills in the current legislative session is Grace Decker, head of
Montana Advocates for Children at the Montana Budget and Policy Center. She coordinates a network of child care organizations and stakeholders with a goal of strengthening the early child care and education system in the state.
Several bills, including House Bill 456 which is awaiting the governor’s signature, aim to subsidize child care providers and families across the state. Another opportunity, Senate Bill 321, would offer tax credits for families paying for care, child care workers and businesses providing child care assistance for their employees.
Decker is keeping a close eye on a third effort, which is pending in a House committee after passing the Senate. Senate Bill 565 would create a statewide fund to establish state support of early child care organizations and activities.
“ It would be … really the first time that something like that would be established in Montana,” Decker said. “It would be taking a big chunk of funding and investing it and then being able to use the interest off that to fund various early childhood improvements to the system over time.”
Butan noted that Morningstar has been able to make strides in providing more flexible schedules by tacking on Friday care, and being able to care for infants as young as three months as of this school year. She said an upcoming fundraiser, Give Big Gallatin Valley, on May 1-2 could help Morningstar raise the remaining $45,000 needed to cover the 2024-25 school year budget.
At the BSRAD meeting, Butan expressed Morningstar’s efforts. “We’re doing everything we can to live up to our promises of excellence and affordability for our community’s workforce,” she read in a written statement.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MORNINGSTAR LEARNING CENTER
PHOTO COURTESY OF MORNINGSTAR LEARNING CENTER
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SPORTS
BIG SKY TRACK TEAMS RACE TOWARDS END OF SEASON
BY FISCHER GENAU
BIG SKY—By April, most track teams are out on the field, hurling javelins, clearing hurdles, long jumping, high jumping, and sprinting down the track. But in Big Sky, where the spring snowpack lingers into mid-April, the Lone Peak High School and Ophir Middle School track teams had to get creative.
The OMS team’s first two weeks of workouts were held on a track where they couldn’t see over massive snow mounds piled up on each end, while the LPHS team created a makeshift ring with sandbags to practice shot put. But now that the fields have mostly thawed out toward the end of April, Big Sky’s track teams are hitting their stride.
After a slow start at the Gallatin Valley Invitational on April 12, Lone Peak’s team bounced back at the Laurel Iron Horse Meet, where the girls placed fourth out of 10 teams by scoring 61 points. Junior Harper Morris outran the competition to place first in the 300-meter hurdles, and she also placed fourth in the long jump by leaping over 14 feet. Sophomore Ursula Blyth earned points for her team by placing first in the 1600 meter and second in the 800-meter dash, and senior Haley Hodge contributed by placing in both the 110-meter and 300-meter hurdles.
Anshu Ramesh, a junior, and Boone Jorgenson, a sophomore, also scored to put the boys on the board, with Ramesh placing fifth in the 110-meter hurdles and Jorgenson earning sixth in the 400-meter dash.
The team’s accomplishments are made more impressive by its modest size.
“It’s, like, the smallest track team ever,” LPHS coach Christine Toy told EBS at a recent practice. Six girls and 10 boys compete for the LPHS track team, and the team’s small size means that the athletes have to stretch themselves. Toy said that typically, track and field athletes pick one event they excel in to score points, but on the LPHS team, all the girls compete in multiple events at each meet.
“Ursula runs the 3200 and the [four-by-100-meter
relay], which is not something you usually ever see, to get on the board,” Toy said. “But we do, we get on the board, which is really cool as such a small team.”
The small roster comes with another upside.
“All the kids are really close, which is kind of nice to see,” Toy said. “It’s personalities that you don’t normally see hanging out together. They come here, and it just feels really good to watch them form different relationships than they normally would.”
While Toy wants the team to keep scoring at meets, she is also focused on teaching her students skills on and off the field. They’re working on block starts and throwing technique for shot put and discus, and Toy wants to cultivate life skills too.
“I really like the relationships with the kids,” she said. “There are a lot of life skills that go into track, and it’s cool to watch them build skills that they’ll use forever, hopefully.”
Miners on track
The OMS track team is more than twice the size of the high school team, with 40 kids on the team from fifth to eighth grade. But that’s largely because track is the only team sport offered by the school— Lone Peak also offers baseball, tennis, and golf.
The Miners have competed in three meets so far, the first at Heritage Christian School in Bozeman on April 15, where they had many athletes score in their events.
“Our athletes did great in the throwing events of shot put and discus,” OMS track coach Karen Schreiber told EBS in an email. “We also had a few place in high jump and long jump.”
Bryson Cluff, a seventh grader, earned first place in discus with his monster throw of 82 feet, 10 inches, which sailed 10 feet further than the third-place finisher. Fifth graders Abi Villalobos and Haddie Goulding also stood out, placing in both shot put and discus for the girls.
On the track, seventh grader Zoey Nedved has stood out this season as a sprinter. At the Heritage Christian meet, Nedved placed first in the 100-meter and 200-meter races and ran for second in the 400 meters. Speed seems to run in the family—her younger sister Lucy also excelled, placing fifth in the 400 meters and second in the 800 meters.
As the season winds down, both teams are preparing for their final meets.
OMS hosts its final meet for most athletes on April 29 in Big Sky, with a select group continuing on to the Lions Club meet in Bozeman on May 3. LPHS will send eight athletes to the John Creek Invitational in Anaconda on April 29, before closing out the season at home during the Lone Peak Invitational on May 3.
High school runners practice on the Lone Peak track. PHOTO BY FISCHER GENAU
Ophir middle schoolers race to the finish during the 100-meter dash. PHOTO BY FISCHER GENAU
SPORTS
LONE PEAK BASEBALL FALLS TO DILLON, REFLECTS ON PROGRAM GROWTH
BY JACK REANEY
BELGRADE—Now in their third season, the Lone Peak High School baseball team is reaching a level in which they can hang with tough teams like Beaverhead County High School (Dillon), where American Legion baseball programs have long been established.
The Big Horns went back-and-forth with the Beavers in their home opener on Tuesday, April 22 at Medina Field in Belgrade—the Big Horns’ home-away-from-home field in lieu of an adultsized, spring-ready yard in Big Sky—before ultimately falling, 9-4.
“That’s a really tough team, man,” Lone Peak assistant coach Ryan Rothing told EBS after the game. He noted that although the Big Horns have improved and grown each season, so has the three-year-old Montana High School Association baseball league. “Our conference is still really difficult. We have to be on our ‘A’ game, every single day.”
Junior Ebe Grabow brought his “A” game as the Big Horns starting pitcher Tuesday, working out of some jams and overcoming a handful of costly errors by his defense. Grabow limited the damage, holding the Beavers to four runs through his five innings of work. He finished with six hits and three strikeouts, surrendering only one earned run.
“Ebe went out and pitched well, and we kicked a couple balls around, which extends his pitch count. And he wasn’t able to go as deep as we wanted to because of that,” said head coach Matt Morris.
“They battled though,” Morris added. “They’re trying to bust their butts. We’re going to take this, and try to figure out how to be better.”
Grabow said he enjoys pitching, and the team needs to continue working together on its defense to continue moving forward.
“We’re all improving, so we’ll just keep going— keep improving,” Grabow said.
Morris explained that the Big Horns face the same challenges in their third season: they’re at
the mercy of Big Sky’s volatile spring weather, and with a short season spanning March 29 to May 9, they lack a usable practice field. The team has been working out on the Lone Peak High School turf, but game-speed practice—especially batting practice—is difficult with track athletes afoot.
“But we do the best with what we can,” Morris said. In the upcoming May 6 election, voters will decide on the Community Park Bond. If approved, one of the softball fields at the Big Sky Community Park would be renovated for adult baseball dimensions and improved drainage. The change would be an integral opportunity for Big Sky’s baseball program.
For now, Morris said the team is getting most of its live reps in real games, and he believes the team’s offense still hasn’t reached its full potential. “At this level, the game’s pretty fast. We’re just trying to catch up.”
The Big Horns did catch up with the Beavers in the middle innings.
In the third frame, Grabow reached on catcher’s interference and scored on an infield single by junior Oliver McGuire, bringing the score to 4-1.
In the bottom half of the fifth, freshman Steen Mitchell and sophomore Sid Morris walked— Mitchell was picked off at second base—and Grabow lined an RBI triple over the right fielder’s head, scoring Morris. Grabow scored on a wild pitch to bring the score to 4-3.
“It felt pretty good,” Grabow said of his triple. “… We needed momentum, and just gotta keep that rolling any time we get momentum.”
McGuire got on base and scored on a lucky play: Eli Gale hit a line drive right at the third baseman, who dropped the ball and launched a wild throw, allowing McGuire to score from first base, tying the score, 4-4, with two innings to play.
Just as quickly as the Big Horns gained momentum, the Beavers stole it back. Grabow’s pitch count removed him from the game and junior Brady Johnson immediately struggled in the top half of the sixth, allowing a single, hitting a batter, and another infield single to load the bases with no outs.
An RBI single and two walks later, the Beavers held a 7-3 lead and McGuire relieved Johnson. McGuire allowed another two runs before finally shutting down the Beaver rally.
The visitors brought in a hard-throwing reliever and shut down the Big Horn bats.
‘The best that we’ve ever had’
Lone Peak coaches were pleased to see their team stick with the Beavers, now 6-2, and force them to activate their bullpen. Despite a few defensive miscues, the Big Horn infield was busy and generally solid: Morris at third base, Johnson at shortstop and McGuire at first base all fielded their share of hard-hit balls.
Grabow said the team’s chemistry is improving, and they’re becoming more of a team instead of individual players. He believes they need to work on staying strong mentally, and not getting down on themselves—Grabow himself showed frustration on the mound after his teammates’ errors.
“On the field, we’re a lot better than we were,” Grabow said, reflecting on past seasons. “So that’s always an improvement.”
Coach Rothing said the team was young in its first two seasons, and now they’re beginning to physically and mentally mature. Core players like Grabow, Morris, McGuire and Johnson are team leaders that play the game the right way, impacting the game on both sides of the ball and on the basepaths, Rothing explained, but beyond those four, he noted the team is as deep as ever.
“Now we’ve got a nine-man lineup that is head to toe, the best that we’ve ever had,” Rothing said. “… We’ve been growing and getting better, every single season, no matter what. Guys have been working hard.”
Morris said even in the team’s third year, they’re still younger than most opponents. With much of the starting lineup being juniors or younger, it’s time for them to start turning the corner as mature baseball players as they approach the second half of the 2025 season.
Junior shortstop Brady Johnson takes a hack. PHOTO BY JACK REANEY
LONE PEAK GOLF SWINGS INTO SEASON WITH CHAMPIONSHIP AMBITION WITH
RETURNING PLAYERS AND EMERGING TALENT, LONE PEAK GOLF PREPARES TO FINISH OFF A STRONG SEASON
BY CARLI JOHNSON
BIG SKY—Lone Peak High School’s golf teams are swinging into the season with optimism and ambition, particularly the girls varsity team, who return as defending state champions from last year's impressive run.
Coach Jenny Wilcynski spoke with EBS to catch up on how the season is going so far. Wilcynski noted that she is excited about the potential and growth evident in both the girls and boys teams this spring.
The girls varsity team’s returning juniors are Olivia Kamieniarz, Dylan Manka and Maddie Wilcynski, who all participated in bringing home the state championship last year. Although one key player from the 2024 team, Cate Leydig, enrolled in a golf academy in South Carolina, the core group remains strong and competitive.
“They’re pretty competitive, and they’ve worked hard year-round on their golf game,” Wilcynski said. “We had to take some of the girls that were on JV last year and get them ready to participate at the varsity level.”
With the varsity format requiring four out of five scores to count in Class B competitions—a step up from Class C, where only three out of four scores counted—the team has been proactively preparing younger athletes from the junior varsity ranks to step into varsity roles.
Currently, eight girls are part of the Big Horn golf program, with two sophomores, Penelope Brooke and Sabine Hurlbut from last year's JV team showing promise and readiness to compete at the higher level.
Recent competitions confirm their potential, with Lone Peak securing victories at tournaments hosted by Manhattan Christian and Ennis. At Ennis, the Big Horn girls dominated, finishing with a team score of 125 over par, notably ahead of the runnerup, Three Forks, which finished at 148 over par.
Meanwhile, the boys team is experiencing growth, featuring two returning players Isaac Bedway and Mac Bertelson, along with three freshmen new to the team, Elijah Harder, Syd Leydig and Carver Liedberg. Although some of the athletes also compete in baseball and competitive skiing, the boys have shown promise.
“It’s really fun to see them get out and play and put it all together,” Wilcynski said.
Recently, the boys secured a sixth-place finish in a competitive nine-team field, just a few strokes behind a higher placement.
Practice conditions in Big Sky present unique challenges, given the cold and snowy spring conditions and limited outdoor access. The team primarily practices indoors, focusing heavily on putting, chipping and swing mechanics.
Wilcynski credits the community support and facilities, like Moonlight Basin's golf simulator, for significantly aiding in preseason preparation.
With the postseason quickly approaching in earlyto-mid-May, Wilcynski is optimistic about finetuning the teams' skills outdoors as warmer weather arrives.
The Big Horn golf team will be competing in divisionals on May 5 in Billings and the state tournament May 13 and 14 in Shelby.
Maddie Wilcynski at Cottonwood Hills. PHOTO BY JENNY WILCYNSKI
BIG HORN TENNIS TEAM HEADS OUTSIDE AND INTO COMPETITIONS WITH ALLGIRL SQUAD SPORTS
BY JEN CLANCEY
BIG SKY—Before weather permitted outdoor practice, the Lone Peak High School tennis team could be found in the school gym rallying the ball within green tape boundaries. The seven all-girl squad consists of four seasoned players, three who are new to the sport, and had just one outdoors practice before their first match up against Red Lodge on April 15.
Starting in mid-April, LPHS tennis players have faced teams in the region, learning the quality of competitors and practicing matches ahead of more competitive tournaments. Head coach Libby Grabow discussed how the team is doing ahead of the Dawg Bite Invitational in Helena this weekend, May 2-3.
Grabow highlighted seniors Libby Coltea and Addy Malinowski, who are looking forward to playing doubles together in divisionals in midMay. Malinowski has played with the Big Horn tennis team for all four years and played singles last year. Grabow said it’s important each player gets experience playing alone, outside pairs to strengthen their confidence.
“People want to play doubles a lot because I think they’re comfortable having another person,” Grabow said on the phone with EBS. “But it’s really good for them to play singles too and have to kind of navigate those calls.”
Another standout player on the tennis squad is sophomore Catherine Coltea, who made it to the State Class B-C quarter finals last year with nowgraduated Vera Grabow. Catherine plans to play singles in divisionals and states this year.
Other players include junior Poppy Towle who is contributing as a third year player for the Big Horns and freshmen Rowan Mitchell, Zoë Luchini and Maeve McRae who are playing tennis for the first time in a competitive environment.
Though matches at this point serve as opportunities to learn and practice against other teams, Grabow said that the team is winning about half of matches. “It’s a mental game, a big mental game as well,” Grabow said about the one-on-one nature of tennis. She looks forward to this weekend, where the Big Horns will play against teams all over the state— some schools like Baker High School will travel all the way from the eastern border of Montana to Helena to compete.
Grabow thinks that this is a great opportunity for the Big Horns to get time on the court with a variety of skilled players.
“The first day is full of tennis … it’s so full of teams,” Grabow said. “[It’s] a really nice way to see a lot of teams play, and then you kind of can see where people are.”
With a small roster, Grabow likes to mix and match players for doubles and finds that each of the players of the seven-athlete team contribute in different ways.
As snow subsides and the sun lingers for longer days, Grabow looks forward to practices outside on the high school’s tennis courts, where players can feel how it is to play in a more realistic environment. Being able to better predict the bounce of a tennis ball on an outdoor court, and the way lighting, wind and noise impact play—both mentally and physically—may serve the Big Horns well as they advance through the season.
Zoë Luchini lines up for a shot while playing doubles with Rowan Mitchell in first Lone Peak match. PHOTO COURTESY OF LIBBY GRABOW
Senior doubles team Addy Malinowski (left) and Libby Coltea (right). PHOTO COURTESY OF LIBBY GRABOW
AN ENDURING TRADITION: THE GALLATIN WHITEWATER FESTIVAL RETURNS
BY FISCHER GENAU
GALLATIN GATEWAY—This June the Gallatin River will once again host one of southwest Montana’s splashiest traditions.
The Gallatin Whitewater Festival will return on June 28 to bring together whitewater enthusiasts for three races down the Gallatin River’s Mad Mile. Hosted by the Wave Train Kayak Team, a nonprofit dedicated to youth kayaking programs, the festival will take place at the pullout across from the Lava Lake trailhead on U.S. Highway 191 and aims to raise money for Wave Train’s youth scholarship program.
“It’s important to have community events like this to bring together all the folks that are having so much fun on this river year-round in one area,” Brooke Dunnagan, Wave Train’s longest serving whitewater coach, told EBS.
Close to 80 paddlers participate in the festival each year, competing in the slalom race, downriver race, or boater cross. Anyone can register to compete, and the event is open to the public, although parking is limited along U.S. 191, and Wave Train instructs people not to cross the road.
“We welcome spectators, and I wish that more people could join us, and we try to just be really clear in terms of not crossing the road,” Dunnagan said.
Racers will first take on the slalom course, weaving through red and green gates in an Olympic-style test of skill. Next comes the mass-start downriver race, which kicks off from the rock beach near the Lava Lake trailhead and barrels through the legendary House Rock Rapid.
“It’s absolutely chaotic,” Dunnagan said. “But it’s a lot of fun. We do a big safety briefing with the participants, and they know that ultimately this is for fun, and yes, people do get competitive, but I’d say it’s more on the friendly side.”
The final showdown is for rafters, who follow the same route as the kayakers, navigating the Mad Mile’s narrow chutes and exposed rocks to reach the finish line.
Deep roots
The roots of the Gallatin Whitewater Festival date back to the 1970s, first as an informal meetup of paddlers called the Gallatin Get Together. In the '90s, organizers redubbed it the Gallatin Whitewater Festival. When one group of organizers moved on, someone else would come along to maintain the tradition, and the festival kept changing hands until Dave Zinn came along in 2012.
Zinn, now the executive director of the Wave Train Kayak Team, arrived in Bozeman in 2009 after graduating from the University of Oregon in Eugene. That same year, a group from the Northern Lights Trading Company hosted the festival, but they moved away and two years passed without one. As a long-time whitewater enthusiast, Zinn decided to take up the mantle.
“When I moved here, I didn’t know a lot of the whitewater community, and there wasn’t something that brought people together,” Zinn told EBS on the phone. “And given that that’s something I really valued, I decided to try to do something about it.”
Zinn put on the festival until 2018, when he could no longer invest the time and energy the event required. But after the pandemic, some of his employees, including Brooke Dunnagan, approached him about bringing back the festival.
Bringing kayaking to kids
Since then, the Wave Train Kayak Team has hosted the Gallatin Whitewater Festival and used it as a fundraiser for their youth scholarship program. All funds raised go towards partial and full scholarships to help new paddlers afford the Wave Train’s kayaking programs.
“The cost can be expensive, and we want to make it more accessible for anyone who’s interested in joining,” Dunnagan said.
Funds primarily come from the festival’s sponsors, as registration fees only cover the cost of operating the event. This year, Toyota is the festival’s presenting sponsor and will be buying a kayak for Wave Train to raffle off to one lucky paddler.
Zinn, who learned to kayak as a youngster, said it’s important to him to share the sport with a younger generation.
“A number of years had passed before I met another young kayaker, so it’s pretty fun for me to get to share that experience with young people today, and not only share the experience with one or two people, but build an entire youth whitewater paddling community in the area,” Zinn said.
Many kayakers who learned the sport through Wave Train compete in the festival, including the advanced high school team, who Dunnagan said are very excited to participate this year.
“It’s a really special thing to spend a whole summer on this river, teaching youth participants how to paddle and seeing them grow as people through kayaking, and then have this cherry on top event for one day that highlights a whole season of community gathering through this river,” Dunnagan said.
Dunnagan says the festival is an opportunity for whitewater enthusiasts who wouldn’t normally cross paths to convene in one place, and a chance for the community to celebrate the Gallatin River together. Zinn agrees.
“I really do think it’s super valuable to see 50 to 100 kayakers all in the same place, sharing stories and getting to know each other, and supporting each other and helping each other out,” Zinn said. “It’s just a really cool thing to watch that happen.”
Kayakers race down the Mad Mile. PHOTO BY HAZEL CRAMER
A&E
FROM BLUEGRASS TO METAL: MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS RELEASES 2025 LINEUP
BY CARLI JOHNSON
BIG SKY—On Saturday, April 19, the Arts Council of Big Sky held a release party to announce the summer 2025 Music in the Mountains lineup. This is the 16th year of the free concert series in Big Sky.
Voted Big Sky’s Best Annual Event and Best Family Friendly Activity by readers of Explore Big Sky, Music in the Mountains kicks off on June 26 and concludes on Sept. 4 with the third annual Metal in the Mountains. This year, the arts council is bringing back the Emerging Artist program to provide opening bands for all shows.
“We’re excited about the whole series again. I think we really always try to get a good variety of music and artists throughout the summer, and I think we’ve done that again this year,” said Executive Director Brian Hurlbut in an interview with EBS.
The series opens with John ‘Papa’ Gros, a New Orleans based artist who melds funk, rock, jazz and blues, according to a press release from the arts council. Gros began his career as a solo performer in the early 1990s, and will make his Big Sky debut on June 26.
On July 3 the band Yarn performs with emerging artist Ben Larson opening. Yarn spent two years honing their sound during a Monday night residency in New York’s Greenwich Village. With five studio albums and four Grammy nominations, Yarn plays upwards of 170 shows a year.
The Tiny Band returns to Big Sky for their traditional July 4 show. A blend of Motown, rock, soul and pop, The Tiny Band will bring big vocals and high energy to Big Sky for the 10th year in a row.
On July 10, moe. presents Big Sky with two sets of music in one evening. Hailing from the University of Buffalo, a posse of six musician friends got together and have been playing ever since.
Praised by American Songwriter for its “mindbending musicality,” moe. is beloved for its sonic adventurousness, unbridled showmanship and its witty and insightful songwriting, according to the press release.
The Brothers Comatose return to Big Sky on July 17 with their roots-infused bluegrass, blending Americana, folk and traditional bluegrass. Opening for them is emerging artist Cruz Contreras and the Black Lillies.
On July 24, The Love Darts will be opening for Cracker. Hurlbut noted that as one of the biggest alternative bands in the 90s, the Arts Council is very excited to have Cracker here in Big Sky. Cracker is ever-evolving, tapping into a variety of
genres yet consistently producing a good sound, according to the release.
The Jamie McLean Band will perform on July 31 with emerging artist Emma and the Ledge. A combination of New Orleans soul, Delta blues and New York City swagger, the Jamie McLean Band provides an energetic and captivating show and is no stranger to Big Sky.
Formed in a North Carolina dormitory in 2012, The Nude Party brings their band to Montana for the first time at Music in the Mountains on Aug. 7. According to a press release, their sound blends the clanging rock of the ‘60s with modern elements.
Performing in Montana for the first time as well, Zach Person debuts in Big Sky on Aug. 14. Emerging from Austin, Texas, Person puts on a loud, raw performance that connects with his fans on a “primal sonic level,” according to the release.
On Aug. 21, Big Richard takes the stage in Big Sky after exploding onto the Colorado scene in 2021. The four-woman supergroup is currently touring their debut full-length studio album, “Girl Dinner.”
Left-coast string brand Hot Buttered Rum performs Aug. 28, weaving their love of bluegrass, folk, jazz and soul into a compelling strain of Americana.
To close the series, Hell’s Belles will perform on Sept. 4 as the third annual Metal in the Mountains with opening local band Scavenger. The all-female headline band have rock-n-rolled their way across the world as the AC/DC fanatics that they are.
Hurlbut noted that people can expect new food vendors and a Music in the Mountains pilsner that will be available on draft and in a can. The pilsner is made in partnership with By All Means Brewing, a Billings based brewery.
“It’s hard to believe that it’s about two months away,” Hurlbut said in excitement.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ARTS COUNCIL OF BIG SKY
Music In The Mountains Poster PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ARTS COUNCIL OF BIG SKY
COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR
If your next event falls between May 15th - May 29th please submit it to explorebigsky.com/calendar-event-form by
RED CLIFF SHOOTING RANGE CLEANUP AND BBQ
SATURDAY, MAY 10
RED CLIFF SHOOTING RANGE, 12 P.M.
The American Legion is hosting the Red Cliff Shooting Range Cleanup and barbecue from 12 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 10. The legion will clean up the shooting range ahead of the summer season, retire flags and hold a BBQ for participants.
The Red Cliff Shooting Range is located at 37137-39211 Gallatin Rd in Gallatin Gateway.
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMERICAN LEGION POST 99
BUSINESS
OWNER OF GROWING BOZEMAN BUSINESS, MTN STRAPS, REFLECTS ON BIG SKY INSPIRATIONS
BY MARIO CARR
EBS CONTRIBUTOR
BOZEMAN—While Matt Jewett’s daughter was teaching ski school as a teenager, she mentioned that her students were constantly losing track of their poles because they all looked the same. Fifteen years later, Jewett finally brought his unique pole straps to market as a solution.
“I had a job, and I was working and I was really busy… Finally I had an opportunity. I left the job that I was at and had some free time,” Jewett said. It was 2017. He went to Second Wind Sports and bought a bunch of secondhand poles of various styles. “And then took literally an old belt, and started cutting up old belts to figure out if I could do it, and was like ‘Okay, I think I’m onto something.’”
Jewett and his wife attended Montana State University in the ‘80s, but ended up leaving for his job in Connecticut. He moved back to Bozeman in 2015, and after selling a Subaru his family no longer needed, Jewett had the seed money to start his business. He began selling MTN Straps ski pole straps in 2017, a product he believed could easily be installed to almost any ski pole and would allow skiers to stand out and express themselves.
Originally consisting of bright colors and generic patterns like rainbows, the flashy pole straps caught the attention of more than just skiers. Bozeman Deputy Mayor Terry Cunningham estimated that there were at least 15,000 dogs in Bozeman in a Jan. 2024 Bozeman Daily Chronicle article, and it’s these dogs’ owners who started asking Jewett if he could expand his products to collars and leashes. By 2018, the collars and leashes were very popular, and helped carry MTN Straps through the COVID pandemic.
“The business has just taken off from there. Ski pole straps are still a very big part of our business, but the dog part of it is definitely bigger,” Jewett said. MTN Straps now consist of pole straps, dog collars and leashes, and most recently, belts.
A canvas for local artists
After a great day of skiing in Big Sky in 2018, Jewett stopped by Beehive Basin Brewery and couldn’t help but notice the “awesome” hat worn by bartender Heather Rapp. After learning that Rapp had designed the pattern on the hat herself—she’s a local painter known for colorful landscapes and wildlife portraits—Jewett told her that he needed her help. Her designs brought a local touch and to the colorful straps.
“Heather was our very first artist, and she will always have a very special place in my heart because
she was the first to take a chance on me and believe in the business… She’s just a wonderful human,” Jewett said.
MTN Staps has since partnered with 10 other artists from Big Sky, Bozeman, Jackson Hole and beyond, transferring their art to the straps and offering royalties. Working with a graphic designer in Bozeman, Jewett tackles the challenge of taking existing art and fitting it onto a 12-by-1-inch strap.
“He’s an awesome human and what he’s doing is rad—making something that is typically mundane and boring into something that’s really cool, colorful and awesome,” Rapp said.
Jewett explained that he doesn’t ask his artists to design anything specifically to fit onto a strap of his—he prefers capturing the artist’s natural work and worries about making it fit later.
“It’s really really cool for me as an artist to see my work, which was originally a large or small painting, translated into this cool, usable product that’s out in the world,” Rapp said.
While skiing with EBS at Big Sky Resort to talk about his business, Jewett was able to spot MTN Straps out in the wild. He said that’s the highlight of starting his own business. “The genesis and the thing that turbocharged our business was a day of skiing at Big Sky.”
MTN Straps products can be found online, and in store at JP Woolies in Big Sky, and in Bozeman at REI, Crazy MTN Sports, and at Dee-O-Gee as well as the retail store at Bridger Bowl Ski Area.
Jewett can be found on the Challenger Lift.
“One of my favorite things about creating this little business is the people I meet along the journey.”
MTN Straps offer ski pole straps, dog leashes and collars, and belts featuring colorful, local artists.
PHOTO BY MARIO CARR / ARTWORK BY HEATHER RAPP
Jewett in the bowl. PHOTO BY MARIO CARR
BY ELLIE BOESCHENSTEIN
Employer Flexible is a professional employer organization that helps businesses streamline human resources, payroll, benefits and compliance. With a focus on personalized solutions, they provide small and midsized companies with the tools and expertise needed to manage their workforce efficiently. By handling administrative burdens, Employer Flexible allows businesses to focus on growth while ensurng compliance with ever-changing employment regulations.
Explore Big Sky got a chance to speak with Mikey Rider, a sales consultant for Employer Flexible, to learn more about their work alongside Big Sky businesses.
This series is part of a paid partnership with the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce. The following answers have been edited for brevity.
Explore Big Sky: First off, what brought you to Montana?
Mikey Rider: Employer Flexible came to Montana after operating for 25 years in Texas. The opportunity to serve small to medium sized businesses by way of a local service team is what drove EFlex to Montana. Montanans value a handshake, a high level of service and a “do what you say you’re going to do” type mentality. Employer Flexible aligns with those same values.
EBS: How does Employer Flexible differentiate itself from other professional employer organizations in providing human resource solutions to small and mid-sized businesses?
MR: At Employer Flexible, we pride ourselves on delivering a high-touch, high-communication approach to HR solutions. Unlike larger, onesize-fits-all PEOs, we take the time to understand the unique needs of each business and tailor our services accordingly. Our boutique approach allows us to offer personalized HR strategies, from payroll and benefits administration to compliance and talent management. Our clients have a local Montana team that fosters close relationships with our clients, acts as a true partner, and ensures that they receive the highest level of support and guidance as they navigate complex HR challenges.
EBS: How does the company support continuous learning and development for its staff to stay ahead in the evolving HR landscape?
MR: Employer Flexible invests in the ongoing education and professional development of our team to ensure we stay ahead of industry trends, compliance changes, and best practices. We provide access to cutting-edge HR technology, certification programs, and continuous training
opportunities. Our team regularly attends industry conferences, engages in peer learning, and participates in leadership development initiatives. This commitment to continuous learning ensures that our clients receive the most up-to-date and strategic HR solutions to help their businesses thrive.
EBS: Could you share some common challenges your clients face in HR management, and how ‘Employer Flexible’ addresses these issues?
MR: Small and mid-sized businesses often struggle with compliance complexities, employee retention, and the administrative burden of HR tasks. Staying compliant with constantly changing labor laws and regulations can be overwhelming, and hiring and retaining top talent in today’s competitive job market adds another layer of difficulty. Employer Flexible alleviates these pressures by providing expert HR support, streamlining administrative processes, and implementing best-in-class benefits and retention strategies. By handling the complexities of HR, we empower business owners to focus on what they do best—growing their business.
EBS: How would you describe the company culture at Employer Flexible, and what initiatives are in place to foster employee engagement and satisfaction?
MR: Our company culture is rooted in collaboration, innovation, and a genuine passion for helping businesses succeed. We foster an environment where our employees feel valued, heard, and empowered to make a difference. Through regular team-building activities, professional development programs, and recognition initiatives, we ensure our employees remain engaged and motivated. Flexibility and work-life balance are also key priorities, as we believe a happy and fulfilled team translates to exceptional service for our clients.
EBS: In what ways does Employer Flexible contribute to the Big Sky community?
MR: We are committed to making a positive impact in the Big Sky community by supporting local businesses and investing in community initiatives. Our team actively participates in local events, nonprofit partnerships, and small business networking opportunities to strengthen connections within the region. Additionally, we help Montanabased businesses thrive by providing them with the HR support they need to grow sustainably. Whether it’s through job creation, workforce development, or direct community engagement, Employer Flexible is dedicated to being a trusted partner in Big Sky’s continued success.
Employer Flexible's Mikey Rider. COURTESY OF EMPLOYER FLEXIBLE
ENVIRONMENT
ZINKE JOINS CONSERVATION ROUNDTABLE
OUTLAW PARTNERS HOSTS NONPROFITS TO DISCUSS POLICY, PUBLIC LANDS, AND MONTANA’S FUTURE
BY LESLIE KILGORE
BOZEMAN—On April 24, a coalition of Montana’s leading conservation organizations met with U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, alongside Senior Advisor John Bockmier, State Director Steve Howke and Chief of Staff Heather Swift, to review ongoing projects and align on new and existing strategies that impact the state and Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Hosted by Outlaw Partners, publisher of Explore Big Sky, the roundtable in downtown Bozeman brought together representatives from the Greater Yellowstone Coalition, the Property and Environment Research Center, Wild Montana, Gallatin Valley Land Trust, Center for Large Landscape Conservation, American Rivers, Gallatin River Task Force and the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership.
“Today represents something we don’t see enough of in today’s world,” said Eric Ladd, founder and chairman of Outlaw Partners. “People with different, sometimes perceived different perspectives—such as respected conservation organizations, to incredible federal leadership— coming together for real conversations.”
The agenda included updates on habitat protection, water and wildlife projects and discussions on current efforts to influence new and existing legislation.
Rep. Zinke previewed the Public Lands in Public Hands Act, which could block large-scale transfers or sales of federal lands without congress’s approval. He stated that the bill could protect 30 million acres from being sold, emphasizing that he is “staunchly against selling, buying or transferring
public lands.” He noted that Montana’s economy and culture are built on public lands, urging the government to take responsibility for managing and ensuring access.
“If there’s one thing I learned as a Navy SEAL, is that you’ve got to go to the front line,” said Rep. Zinke, referring to his time in the service. “Your organizations are on the front line.”
After the press briefing and introductions, each organization shared highlights of recent work they’ve conducted in their communities, reporting on a range of local and regional projects.
Scott Bosse, Northern Rockies regional director for American Rivers, reviewed progress on the Montana Headwaters Legacy Act, which aims to permanently protect the Gallatin, Madison and Yellowstone rivers. Most are in support of the bill, explained Bosse, with a 90% approval rating in Gallatin and Madison counties. Katie Deuel, senior conservation director for Center for Large Landscape Conservation, highlighted its role in supporting the proposed wildlife overpass on U.S. Highway 191 near Gallatin Canyon, as well as a feasibility study that identified 11 priority sites along the busy freeway for animal crossing pinch points.
“U.S. Highway 89 in Paradise Valley and Highway 191 in Gallatin Canyon are two of the biggest habitat fragmentation forces on this landscape, and these roads are only getting busier,” said Deuel. “CLLC has been working with all types of partners … to conserve connectivity and wildlife movement and ecosystems in these valleys.”
Gallatin River Task Force Chief Executive and Science Officer Kristin Gardner spoke about
the importance of the Gallatin River to the local economy, wildlife and ecosystem, and the growing threat of algae impairment, first identified in 2018. To address the river’s “impaired” status, one of GRTF’s projects has been to collect critical data.
“In 2025, will be the last year of data collection and unfortunately the DEQ right now is not receiving their payment for this project,” Gardner said, emphasizing the importance of this continued funding. “So we’re uncertain if we’re going to be able to do the monitoring in 2025. Over 60% of the DEQ’s budget is from the federal government. And we really don’t want to see a delay in this project.”
Gardner also highlighted recent projects as a part of GRTF’s Gallatin River Access Restoration Strategy such as the Upper Deer Creek fishing access site, as well as the Big Sky Watershed Corps Program, which has provided over 300,000 hours of AmeriCorps work hours in the last five years on vital stewardship projects along the watershed. She urged those in attendance to advocate for these programs at a federal level.
Executive Director Chet Work of Gallatin Valley Land Trust described new conservation easements the organization has achieved, and urged the congressman to support incentives for private landowners to work with the land trust in order to preserve critical agricultural lands and soil.
“In the last 35 years, we’ve been able to conserve, as I mentioned, 73,000 acres, in the same time period almost 200,000 acres of private land has been either converted or subdivided into three counties that we serve,” Work said. “They are moving a lot faster than we are, so we need to be strategic with the land that we protect.”
Representatives from eight statewide conservation groups met with Rep. Zinke on April 24. OUTLAW PARTNERS PHOTO
Ryan Chapin, Montana field director for the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership shared its current efforts in maintaining public lands for hunting and angling, and the support of Rep. Zinke’s January 2025 introduction to the Wildlife Movement Through Partnerships Act in Congress.
Greater Yellowstone Coalition’s Charles Drimal, director of conservation, and Sally Schrank, Montana conservation manager, addressed the importance of healthy rivers and public lands in preserving three of Montana’s most important industries: outdoor recreation, tourism and agriculture.
The Property and Environment Research Center’s Executive Director Brian Yablonski joined the forum, reflecting on the importance of preserving the national parks in Montana and around the country with improved infrastructure through funds raised by increasing entrance fees for international visitors.
Wild Montana Executive Director John Todd concluded the collaborative presentations by sharing updates on their continued efforts with the Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Act and the Lincoln Prosperity Proposal.
Participants not only sought common ground in protecting habitats and public land access in Montana, but several speakers noted that Montana has a history of coalition-building and nonpartisan collaborations.
“Today is going to kick off some monumental things,” said Ladd. “We’re going to look back at a meeting that we had in Bozeman years ago, and something really incredible happened here. By you all being really vulnerable and being willing to
ENVIRONMENT
listen to each other and have civil conversations, but to do it in Montana, and I think that just makes a huge difference.”
Rep. Zinke’s team and participating conservationists viewed the meeting as a chance to coordinate regionally on issues they all care about as Montana residents, such as wildlife corridors, water quality, public recreation, development, tourism and preserving Montana’s quality of life.
Rep. Zinke also mentioned the importance of Montana’s leading recreation, sportsmen and conservation organizations to influence conservation policy.
“Great information,” Zinke said after the speakers concluded. “We’ll digest it; we’ll give you some feedback. I think there’s a lot of important things in there. But I think the biggest thing is that among us, I think we can work together to make sure we can reach some goals, and the goals are better
management and to preserve what we really enjoy about Montana.”
Looking ahead, participants agreed that collaboration will be key. In their session, groups planned followups on shared goals and collaborations. With broad support for particular bills, advocates pledged to support Zinke and other lawmakers in moving legislation forward in Congress.
As several conservation leaders noted, protecting Montana’s public lands, wildlife and waterways is paramount and will take cooperation across different constituencies to ensure that outcome. Group members left the meeting citing a spirit of unity.
“We all live in Montana, and I think we all look at Montana in the same lens,” said Zinke. “There’s a reason why we’re here. We can manage it better, but I think we should manage it together as much as possible.”
EVERY DROP COUNTS: SCOOP THE POOP TO PROTECT OUR WATER
BY LEIGH LYTER EBS COLUMNIST
Throughout Big Sky, there is a shared and inherent love for the place we all call home. Primary to that is our love of all things outdoors—whether it’s fishing the Gallatin River, hiking up to Lava Lake, or sneaking in a weekend getaway of camping at Red Cliff.
The ultimate spoiler of these close to home adventures is an unplanned run in with a gift from someone’s four-legged friend, and nothing ruins our outings faster than a pile of dog poop.
Dog waste left behind not only becomes a risk to your boots and nose, but also to our water. Dog waste contains nitrogen and phosphorus, and when these nutrients enter the Gallatin River, they deplete the river of oxygen, creating a strain on fish populations and encouraging rapid algal growth. The process of excessive uptake of nutrients in our local streams can ultimately lead to a murky, smelly, and unhealthy Gallatin River. Additionally, abandoned pet waste poses a serious
threat to human health, as it is a notorious carrier of pathogens and harmful bacteria.
But doesn’t poop eventually biodegrade?
A common misconception amongst dog owners is that the poop our furry-friends leave behind is simply a fertilizer; that it eventually contributes to the blooming of wildflowers or the greening of ground covers that flourish in the summers. However, your domestic pet is consuming highly nutritious food, which in turn creates waste that is high in phosphorus and nitrogen levels, which in excess create unstable conditions that allow algae blooms to cloud rivers and streams, and create an easy habitat for invasive weeds to grow. By picking up dog waste you are ensuring that those pollutants are not directly entering our waterways, or the habitat that surrounds our rivers and trails.
Some may ask, then why isn’t the waste from wild animals doing the same harm? Waste created by wild animals has a faster decomposition rate and the contents include more organic matter, which is not harmful to the environment in the same ways as a dog’s waste. Dog poop takes an excessive amount of time to decompose, allowing bacteria to accumulate, resulting in a higher transmission rate for pathogens.
Help by doing your ‘doody’ to pick up poop
Like a great environmental steward, follow the rule of “leave no trace” by carrying out all trash and waste with you when enjoying the outdoors, including that left by your pets. Be sure to have pet waste bags with you on your backcountry adventures, or make a habit of disposing of waste via catholes (a simple 6” hole does the trick!).
We also encourage you to go the extra mile: pick up other abandoned droppings while you are enjoying the outdoors, and hold your community members accountable for cleaning up after their pets. These small actions alone can aid us in our efforts to drastically decrease the nutrient load that pollutes our Gallatin.
If you’d like to help protect the Gallatin River, mark your calendar for May 16-18. The Gallatin River Task Force will partner with Big Sky Community Organization to tackle dung heaps along some of Big Sky’s most scenic and well-used trails.
Leigh Lyter is a Big Sky Watershed Corps Member serving at the Gallatin River Task Force.
Rep. Ryan Zinke speaks to conservation groups at the AC Hotel in downtown Bozeman on April 24. OUTLAW PARTNERS PHOTO
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DISPATCHES FROM THE WILD: WHAT’S THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LOGGING AND FIRE SEVERITY?
BY BENJAMIN ALVA POLLEY EBS COLUMNIST
Recently, President Donald Trump issued an executive order instructing federal land managers to increase logging and engage in more aggressive forest management. Some politicians argue that it is necessary to prevent major wildfires, especially in the Interior West’s fire-prone, seasonally dry forests. While it is true that wildfires have become more severe and our forests are overgrown and dense, this is only part of the solution.
To gain a deeper understanding, I consulted an expert: Andrew Larson, a professor of forest ecology and director of the Wilderness Institute at the University of Montana.
“Logging alone doesn’t address the ignition sources,” he explained. “We know how to manage fuels and forests to reduce fire risks and to engage more safely with fires from a suppression perspective.”
Larson suggests that forest managers should focus on four key areas. First, they should preserve the most fire-resistant trees, particularly larger ones with thick bark and high crowns. Second, it’s essential to increase the spacing between trees. By doing this, if one tree catches fire, it is less likely to spread to others and ignite a crown fire that runs through the forest. These first two recommendations promote lower-density forests, which can be achieved through mechanical logging.
The other two vital factors in managing forests involve reducing fire risk by decreasing ladder
fuels—the smaller trees that can carry fire from the ground to the forest canopy—and reducing surface fuels—the logs, dead branches, leaves, low vegetation and other organic matter on the forest floor. Unfortunately, these smaller trees and surface fuels are not commercially viable and cannot be utilized to produce wood products, which is an incentive for the current administration’s push for logging as a means of forest management.
“To effectively reduce fire risk and manage fuels, we must address ladder fuels, which can be costly for the industry,” Larson noted. “... If you don’t treat the surface fuels, you won’t have any meaningful impact on reducing fire risk.”
Harvesting a forest can contribute to surface fuels because many small trees and branches are left on the forest floor, accumulating fuel and adding to the fire if there is an ignition point. Larson emphasized the importance of using prescribed fire to carefully burn through surface fuels, whereas tree removal alone may actually worsen the situation.
“The most effective approach is to combine mechanical harvesting with prescribed fire; they should be closely linked,” he said. “... When you combine mechanical treatments with prescribed fire, you influence the subsequent fire behavior and severity. Mechanical harvest is important, but it will not solve the problem alone.”
So, how did the forests become so overgrown?
When Euro-American colonization began across the West, Native Americans were displaced and their use of fire was halted. Historically, much of the landscape was managed with fire. Native Americans contributed to the natural fire regime, along with lightning-induced fires across hundreds of millions of acres in the West.
With the removal of Indigenous groups, we eliminated a key ignition source. Additionally, we implemented a highly effective policy of suppressing natural ignitions, which worked for a while but ultimately led to an accumulation of fuels in the forest for over a century and a half. Our scientific understanding of forestry was primarily grounded in agriculture and economics. Foresters were trained at the Yale School of Forestry on the East Coast, where they did not have a significant focus on fire and did not fully understand how forests in the West evolved around fire.
It wasn’t until Harold Weaver in the 1940s and ‘50s that the understanding of ecology and the role of fire in different forest types began to emerge. Mainstream scientific research did not gain momentum until the ‘70s, and it wasn’t until the ‘80s and ‘90s that forest managers recognized the need to change their approach in fire-prone areas.
“Now we’re a century behind,” Larson said. “Climate change is accelerating these past effects, making them more severe and intense. It’s the combination of the vast accumulated fuel and hotter, drier environments that climate change is pressing upon the landscape.”
Now more than ever, we must marry mechanical harvesting with prescribed burns to prevent major fires.
Benjamin Alva Polley is a place-based storyteller. His words have been published in Audubon, Esquire, Field & Stream, The Guardian, Men’s Journal, Outside, Popular Science, Sierra, and other publications, and they are on his website.
28TH ANNUAL
BLACK DIAMOND AWARDS DINNER
June 12, 2025 | Riverhouse BBQ & Events | 5:00PM
The Big Sky Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to invite you to an unforgettable night of celebration, connection, and recognition. It’s a chance for our local business community to come together, reflect on another year of growth, and honor the standout businesses and individuals making a real impact With great company and well-deserved awards, this is the event of the year you won’t want to miss!
Thank You to Our 2025 Triple Black Diamond Sponsors
Seats are limited! Get your tickets here.
*For sponsorship inquiries or ticketing questions please email annie@bigskychamber.com.
UPCOMING PROSPERA EVENTS
Free Business Coaching | May 1st
Attend in-person office hours in Big Sky for personalized support tailored to your business needs
Sales & Marketing Lunch & Learn | May 1st
Join us for an informative lunch and learn designed to help business owners in a competitive market like Big Sky, leverage the right marketing tools to reach your target audience and boost revenue.
Free Business Coaching | May 22nd
Attend in-person office hours in Big Sky for personalized support tailored to your business needs.
Register for all Prospera events here!
WILDFIRE WIRE: PITCH IN FOR ALL OF US
HOW BIG SKY’S NEIGHBORHOOD AMBASSADORS ARE HELPING PREPARE THE COMMUNITY FOR NATURAL DISASTER
BY MEL CRICHTON EBS COLUMNIST
We live in an unusual place. For many people, paradise is where we want to go when we’ve taken our last breath. But we are already there. Yet Big Sky is different from other toåwns in paradise. We are a community of 3,000-plus, yet we have no municipal government. We rely on our homeowner associations to make and enforce the rules. And we rely on neighbors to do what’s best.
With 80 HOAs that need to get wildfire-ready, our fire department could be spread very thin—that’s a lot of HOA boards to schmooze. Here’s where our neighborhood ambassadors come in.
So what in heck is a neighborhood ambassador? Simply, an NA connects the Big Sky Fire Department—and other entities that are part of Fire Adapted Big Sky—to the community, often through the HOAs. The NA lives within or near the HOA’s boundaries. Our NA program formed a year ago under Fire Adapted Big Sky, and we are
steadily growing in number, now reaching 16 of Big Sky’s 80 HOAs.
Ambassadors are people like you and me. We live here because we love it here, and we hope to keep it close to paradise. But if it burns? Paradise lost. Sorry, John Milton, but the devil isn’t part of this story. OK, if somebody dies in a wildfire, the devil may get a piece of the action, but our goal is to cheat Old Nick and prepare everyone to get out alive. Our other goal is to help ensure that we have homes to come back to after a fire. But that takes cooperation from homeowners.
Our NAs are accessible and willing to help. You can ask your nearest NA about preparing for evacuation, signing up for disaster alerts or taking steps to reduce fire risk to your home. If you have breathing issues, we can help you cope with wildfire smoke. NAs can be a resource to HOAs in long range planning or just to organize a fuels removal day with a pitch-in barbecue. We don’t know everything about wildfire, because that takes years to learn. But we know where to get answers.
Our NAs have more good ideas than resources to implement them. So far, we’ve listed factors in selecting a home site mitigation contractor—posted
on the Build Better Big Sky website—and held a community presentation on home hardening for wildfire. You might have seen us at farmers markets or moving firewood away from homes in your neighborhood. You don’t have to be an NA to help. We count on volunteers to help with neighborhood projects.
To find out more about being an ambassador, or to learn who they are, please reach out to the Big Sky Fire Department or contact me. And mark your calendar for a community session on wildfire evacuation to be held on June 23 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Warren Miller Performing Arts Center and online.
One last thing: we’ll be posting reminders about evacuation and home preparation, like the one here. It’s time to get your home and yard ready for wildfires.
Mel Crichton is neighborhood ambassador for Aspen Groves and coordinates the Big Sky NA program.You can reach him a kj9c@arrl.net.
DINING
A LA CARTE: FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY MAKES THE MOUTH WATER
BY RACHEL HERGETT EBS COLUMNIST
I have little doubt that you’ve heard that “we eat with our eyes first.” Studies abound that reveal the various ways what we see influences our perception of flavor. But what makes a food appear delicious?
This was on my mind when I reached out to an old high school friend, Brie Goldman—though she was Brie Passano when we were students at Bozeman High School, where we both spent an inordinate time in the photo lab.
Our conversation was wide-ranging, as a good catch-up should be, and gave me insights into all aspects of her life and career. I learn, for example, that her first push into photography came from a desire to impress a boy in high school, an act she recalls with fondness.
“He told me to take a photo class and because I was really crushing on him, I was like, ‘okay, sure,’” she said.
After high school, Brie studied photography at Northwest College in Powell, Wyoming, then moved to New York City. Now, she’s a full-time photographer for media company Dotdash Meredith, based in Iowa. Her work appears in publications like AllRecipes Magazine, Midwest Living, Forks Over Knives and Better Homes and Gardens.
Brie’s specialty is food photography, but her day-to-day work sees a variety of subjects. It is used to illustrate magazine and online articles, and on packaging. The skills she has developed photographing food also serve to make products like drills and laundry baskets appealing.
A recent series of stark black and white portraits of her coworkers, with the subjects posed in a corner in homage to photographer Irving Penn, showcases her varied talents and her coworkers’ individuality.
Though the project was an enjoyable foray into portrait photography, Brie said it can be intimidating to explore human subjects through the lens of her camera. Imagine her on set, some glistening dish laid out on a table surrounded by lights. She’s circling the table, moving closer to and away from the food as she frames her shots, finding the angles and lighting that highlight its best qualities.
Now imagine you are that food and a photographer is buzzing around you. It can be unsettling to have someone encroach that much on your personal space. Portraiture of human subjects requires talking them through the process and making sure they are at ease to best capture them in a moment that feels authentic.
Food, Brie tells me, is also a living thing, but one that won’t shy away from a lens.
“It’s not really going to be uncomfortable,” she said. Like she would a portrait, Brie is trying to capture a moment where the food looks most natural, most authentically itself. Through Brie’s lens, dish after dish becomes mouthwatering, hunger-pain inducing and entirely craveable.
“I really, really love food. I’ve always really loved food,” Brie said, and I laugh thinking about how her name is also a food.
Food photography leans into the aspects our brains already tell us are yummy. Drips and drizzles tie movement and immediacy to a static image.
“For pancakes you want the maple syrup to be running and sort of drippy, or you want like good melty cheese and have it be glistening and ooey gooey,” Brie said.
In the photo of a caprese burger that Brie shared to illustrate this column, a glistening patty cues our brains to recall burgers we’ve eaten in the past. We are assured that if we bite into the patty it is going to be juicy.
Honey takes this role in the photo of the stone fruit crostini, a drizzle covering the plate wakes our tongues in anticipation of the sweet and sticky ooze.
“Some of the pretty actually comes from the messy of it,” Brie said, and it makes perfect sense. Our eyes see clues in the butter melting on top of mashed potatoes or the yolk dripping from the perfectly poached egg.
There are many more examples on her website, briephotography.com. Condensation clouds the walls of a clear glass as steam swirls from the hot toddy within, a beam of light highlighting a nearby
orange peel and cinnamon stick. Mushrooms glisten in the gravy of a rustic pot pie between puff pastry pieces with golden brown edges that provide color variation and seem to highlight their crispness.
There is a line though, when it comes to the visual cues in food. Too much of a good thing is not always a good thing.
“If it’s a little too melty or a little too gooey, a little too greasy, it’s a turn off,” Brie said.
While food photography sounds like an ideal profession, the food can lose its draws. After performing repeated “surgeries,” like moving berries on pie slices, rearranging crumbs trailing from a cookie or reheating the cheese “a million times,” the appeal dissipates to the point Brie barely wants to look at it anymore, let alone eat it—though leftovers are fair game to those on set.
“But it’s interesting because sometimes it’ll make you crave certain things that you were not craving or in the mood for,” Brie said.
I’m convinced Brie can make everything look delicious, which is no easy task. A lot of food that we love to eat, like the classic midwestern tuna casserole, is not visually appealing. Much of it is shades of brown. That’s where tricks come in— with props, plays on texture with how ingredients are cut and prepped and garnishes playing key roles.
“Thank God for parsley,” Brie said. “It makes it look so much better. I need that green.”
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.
PHOTO BY BRIE GOLDMAN / DOTDASH MEREDITH
LISTED BY ANIA BULIS
Q&A: HERO SNOW COFFEE OPENS IN MEADOW VILLAGE
LOCAL FAMILY-RUN BUSINESS BRINGS A NEW GATHERING SPOT TO BIG SKY
BY LESLIE KILGORE
BIG SKY—Tucked into a bright and cozy storefront in Meadow Village Center adjacent to Country Market, Hero Snow Coffee is the newest option for a morning destination in Big Sky.
With the help from family, friends, their 12-yearold son and 9-year-old daughter, husband and wife duo Shannon Hyem and Ewan Knowles first opened the bakery and coffee shop on April 1. Immediately, they saw daily lines out the door with people seeking more of their Montana-sourced baked goods, healthy breakfast sandwiches, craft coffee brews and unique specialty drinks.
Hero Snow Coffee has quickly become a local spot for morning gatherings, pop-up events, and to-go coffee and treats for commuters.
“Many community members have mentioned in the past month that they’ve been waiting for a spot like this in the Meadow Village Center for years,” Hyem said. “And they’re thrilled a local family has finally filled that need for the neighborhood.”
Explore Big Sky sat down with Hyem and Knowles to hear about this new venture for their family.
Explore Big Sky: How long have you lived in Big Sky, and what is your history here in the community?
Shannon Hyem: We both met and worked at Yellowstone Club 20 years ago and returned to Big Sky over a year ago. We both have a deep love for the mountains. I was born in Bozeman and am a fourth-generation Montanan. Ewan is originally from the Highlands of Scotland and has been in the U.S. for 25 years, after a long career at sea and in resort operations.
We have been traveling for 16 years in and out of the country and wanted to give our children a home base, and Big Sky was the perfect match. We maintained strong connections to Montana and Big Sky over the years, so when we returned, we knew this would be a landing place for our family.
EBS: What inspired you both to take the leap and open Hero Snow Coffee together?
SH: We bought the domain name and started Hero Snow Property Management, which we still run. In January, we were approached to use the current location and open a coffee shop and cafe. During our time in Hawaii, we worked on opening a coffee shop, so this opportunity felt like the right timing and right location. So, Hero Snow Coffee was coined.
We also both wanted to build a different life for our family. We homeschool, and the goal was always to be a full-time family. This opportunity, though a bit out of left field at first, enabled us to take the leap and create Hero Snow Coffee.
EBS: How did your background—personally or professionally—prepare you for running a coffee shop in a mountain resort town?
SH: Our backgrounds blend entrepreneurship, wellness, hospitality, and a deep love for mountain culture. I previously ran two wellness businesses and have always been a serial entrepreneur. Ewan brought 25 years of hospitality from top brands and engineering skills to maintain, fix, and keep operations running. Those skills, along with a lot
of heart and hustle, gave us the foundation to bring Hero Snow Coffee to life.
Having worked and lived in two ski towns, traveled extensively to other countries, lived in remote areas, and having had unique life experiences gave us the confidence to go all in. We believed more options were needed in Meadow Village, and bringing small craft coffee to Big Sky would be a success.
EBS: Big Sky has a unique community and ski culture. How do you envision Hero Snow Coffee fitting into, and contributing to, that local scene?
SH: Hero Snow Coffee is more than coffee to us, and we think Meadow Village is the heart of the community. It hosts local businesses, the bank, real estate offices, builders, Black Tie ski rentals, gyms, home décor shops and the post office, among others.
We want to create a home base for those working so hard in the community. We also want to bring in tourists and have them experience that feeling of a hometown culture and craft coffee.
EBS: What’s the story behind choosing your name, and how will you carry that spirit forward?
SH: The name “Hero Snow” conjures images of adventure, fun and ski culture to the core. It was mentioned to us by a local Olympic skier who’s a good friend, after she had had a “hero snow” day skiing at Big Sky Resort. The name stuck with us both, and we initially planned to just do ski gear and hats, but then that evolved.
“Hero snow” is that perfect, dreamy snow—soft, effortless, and unforgettable. It’s when everything feels just right, whether you’re skiing your heart out or simply living in the moment. We plan to
carry that spirit into everything we do, from the welcoming atmosphere to the creative drinks to community events. We are using the alpine theme in our product name, the logo obviously is mountain-based too, and our up-and-coming apparel will be for the outdoor user and logoed with the Hero Snow Coffee stamp.
EBS: Are there any new menu items, coffee roasts, baked goods, or even events that you’re excited to introduce at your cafe?
SH: Yes, we’re excited to introduce some unique specials like Scottish sausage rolls, Scottish shortbread, rotating egg bites, banana bread French toast, and other new options to see what people really love.
We are collaborating with many local small businesses for small batch pastries, chocolate pairing, and local produce and meats. Plus, we have some fun community events planned, pop-up weekend options, book clubs meeting, and are open to having people rent the space for private events. We will be at the farmer’s market this year and will also be creating a lunch menu for the summer season.
We continuously change the daily specials with inventive drinks, homemade sauces by Ewan, and are testing different offerings for people to try. It’s a fun part of the business. We already have standing orders for businesses, gift card options and a popup on May 4. The space is so cozy, and we hope to continue to fill it with fun, creative and new ways to serve the Big Sky community.
This Q&A was condensed for print. Read the full story online at explorebigsky.com
Ewan Knowles and Shannon Hyem. COURTESY OF HERO SNOW COFFEE
HEALTH
LIVE BETTER: A SKIER’S GUIDE TO POST-SEASON RECOVERY & TUNE-UP
BY ALLIE EPSTEIN POALINO EBS COLUMNIST
As the ski season winds down, your body might be feeling the wear and tear from long days out on the mountain. Whether you’ve been carving up groomers, chasing powder, or enjoying those dreamy lateseason corn days, shoulder season is the perfect opportunity to check in with your body and see what needs tuning up.
Nagging pain or tightness can sneak up on you, often when you least expect it, and can slow you down just as you’re ready to jump into your favorite spring activities.
Taking a few intentional minutes now can make a big difference during your post-season recovery window.
Start With a Body Scan
Begin by sitting comfortably and turning your attention inward. Close your eyes if that feels good to you, and slowly scan from head to toe:
Head and Neck: Any lingering tension or discomfort in your jaw or neck?
Shoulders and Upper Back: This area often holds more tension than we realize, do you feel any heaviness between your shoulder blades or tightness in the front of your shoulders?
Arms and Wrists: Notice any tenderness when gripping, wrist pain or numbness when typing at your desk, or an achy thumb from scrolling on your phone?
Lower Back, Hips, and Knees: Are there any residual aches or pains in these extremely important areas?
Ankles and Feet: Any soreness, arch pain, or tightness in the soles of your feet?
Time to Stand Up and Move
Now, stand up and place your feet a bit wider than your hips. Gently sway side to side, shifting your weight evenly. How does that feel?
Pay close attention to your inner thighs and hips, does one side feel tighter or more resistant to movement?
Next, stretch your arms out into a big “T.” Slowly twist to the left, and then to the right, letting your whole body follow. Notice how your upper back feels in this motion. Are you able to rotate the same in both directions? Do you feel any tightness, pinching, or restricted movement to the left or to the right?
These simple movements act as a quick diagnostic tool, helping you identify areas that might benefit from more stretching, mobility work, or just some focused recovery over the next few weeks.
Make Your Post-Season Recovery Intentional
Did anything new pop up in your body today during your check-in? Maybe an unfamiliar tightness or something you only feel on one side? This is your body’s way of waving a little flag, letting you know if a certain area could use a little more TLC.
This kind of “self-check-in” is a valuable habit to build into your normal routine, not just at the end of ski season, but any time you’re asking a lot of and pushing your body. A little focused attention now helps you avoid bigger setbacks later, and ensures
you’re ready for those fun spring hikes, bike rides, trail runs, fishing adventures, or whatever comes next for you.
You know those gentle movements you just did? Believe it or not, they are the first real step in your recovery journey. It doesn’t have to be a big, dramatic change in your routine – sometimes it’s the small, intentional movements that are exactly what your body needs to start getting back on track. Still feeling a little off after trying the exercises? That’s totally okay, and that’s where we come in to help. A quick “tune-up” with your local Physical Therapist might be all it takes. At Lone Peak, our team of experts puts their full focus on you and what your body needs most. In just a few sessions, you’ll walk away with a fully personalized set of stretches and strengthening exercises that you can continue at home. We may also include soft tissue work or even some dry needling to help accelerate your progress and to get you feeling better, faster. Getting re-balanced and stronger has never been easier, and it’s the perfect way to prepare and get ready for your next adventure.
We’re here for you, so that you can live better! If anything stood out today during your self-check-in and you have any questions and wish to speak to an expert, we’re just a phone call or text away at our Big Sky + Performance or Bozeman + Performance locations!
Allie is a passionate and dedicated Physical Therapist at Lone Peak PT and has proudly served the Big Sky community for the past decade. With advanced training and high-level expertise in biomechanics, movement analysis, and performance testing, she provides an unparalleled physical therapy and sports rehabilitation experience. Allie is passionate about helping her patients recover faster, empowering them to excel in their rehabilitation journey and confidently return to doing what they love.
PHOTO COURTESY OF LONE PEAK PHYSICAL THERAPY AND PERFORMANCE
BUDGET AND RATES HEARING NOTICE
The Board of Directors of Big Sky County Water & Sewer District No. 363 will hold a public hearing at 8:00 AM on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the District office (561 Little Coyote Road, Big Sky, MT) to receive public comment on proposed rate adjustments for the 2025–2026 fiscal year.
The proposed changes apply to both water and sewer user charges. Water base and volumetric rates are proposed to increase by 5%. Sewer volumetric rates are proposed to increase by 3%, and the sewer base rate by 10%.
Monica Brown | 720.739.5604 monicabrown@hindmanauctions.com HINDMANAUCTIONS.COM Andy Warhol (American, 1928–1987)
For a typical residential customer using 12,500 gallons of water per quarter, the estimated quarterly bill would be approximately $125.84 for water and $241.87 for sewer, totaling $367.71 per quarter. On an annual basis, this amounts to an estimated $1,470.84 for combined water and sewer services.
A full breakdown of the proposed rate schedule is available on the District’s website at www. bigskywatersewer.com.
Written comments may be submitted by email to billing@wsd363.com with the subject line “Rate Hearing Comments,” or by mail to PO Box 160670, Big Sky, MT 59716.
For more information, please contact Terry Smith at 406-995-2660.
$2,600,000 | #388104
$495,000 | #392462
TBD TIMBERLOFT DRIVE
Big Sky
40± acre alpine meadow overlooking the Gallatin Canyon, outstanding views of the Spanish Peaks and Lone Mountain. Two adjacent 40± acre properties, designated building sites, end of the road privacy easy all season access. Close to Ophir School and the West Gallatin River.
21 SITTING BULL RD
Big Sky
Complete interior rebuild, unlike any other Hill Condo. Quiet Rock drywall and solid wood doors. Quartz countertops throughout condo. All new Kohler fixtures throughout. Partially furnished with designer window treatments. Views of Spanish Peaks and Lake Levinsky.
$10 from each item purchased goes directly to the Center for Large Landscape Conservation and their Hwy 191 Wildlife Crossings Project.
