January 2010

1st-December 31st - BIKE WORKNIGHTS--ONGOING all year. 6-8pm Tuesdays and Thursdays in the garage at 425 E Aspen Street. For a $10 donation get help with your bike maintenance needs, or volunteer your time to help us refurbish used bikes for donation to our community. We have low-cost bikes for sale or trade for volunteer time.

February 2010

10th - Eyewitness to Climate Change Date: Wednesday, February 10, 2010 Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm Location: Museum of the Rockies, Hager Auditorium The Tour brings eyewitness footage of global warming from extreme polar expeditions, together with science and climate policy. Will Steger is a recognized authority for the Polar Regions, including their environmental issues, and is an eyewitness to the effects of global warming. He has spent more than 45 years traveling through the Arctic regions, advocating for the Earth’s preservation and advising about permanent solutions to our climate crisis. Notable Expeditions: Steger is a witness to the diverse and harmful effects of global warming to indigenous cultures, wildlife habitat and Arctic topography. 1986: First dogsled journey to the North Pole without re-supply 1988: 1,600-mile, south-north traverse of Greenland 1989-90: First International Trans-Antarctica dogsled expedition 1995: First dogsled traverse to Arctic Ocean in one season from Russia to Canada via North Pole 1997: Solo From the Pole Expedition 2004: Arctic Transect Expedition, an exploration of Nunavut 2007: Baffin Island Expedition to study effects of global warming 2008: Ellesmere Island Expedition to study receding ice sheets 2008: Greenland Kite-Ski Expedition to document rising summer thaw level and changes to the ice sheet The Will Steger Foundation is helping Montanans galvanize support for solutions to global warming and a transition to a clean energy economy. www.willstegerfoundation.org

12th - 70s DISCO FEVER PARTY AT THE TOWN CENTER ICE RINK: Everyone will be feelin' tha funk as they do the hustle under the disco ball (bellbottoms optional!) Come dressed in your 70s best, whether it is bell-bottom pants, big gold chains, polyester wrap dresses or red gloss lipstick! No suits! (Unless they are polyester leisure suits). Or come as your favorite 70s TV characters like Reuben Kincaid, Arnold Horshack, Captain 20, Richie Cunningham, Oscar Madison, Felix Unger, Marsha Brady, Charles Nelson Reilly, Mary Tyler Moore, Sue Ann Nivens, Ted Baxter, Colonel Potter, Shaggy and Scooby, Fred Rogers, Gene Rayburn, Fred and Lamont Sanford, Grady, George Jefferson, Mork, Isaac, Gopher and Doc, or Vinnie Barbarino, among others! The community ice skating rink is up and running at Fire Pit Park in the Big Sky Town Center and this year we are adding themed skating nights. Join us every Friday night, January 22 through February 26 starting at 6:30pm for a fun-filled evening of great music and even greater laughs. We are asking that you come fully dressed to represent the theme of each night and have friends take pictures of you and others. Submit the photos and your contact information by email to towncenter@bresnan.net. We will be posting the photos on the bigskytowncenter.com website in the photo gallery section. After the last skate on February 26, we will revisit the photo submissions and choose the best dressed. That individual or group will win a grand prize gift certificate of $250. For more information check out the bigskytowncenter.com website under events. And keep an eye on the photo gallery – you won’t want to miss what you and others submit! Call Wendy with questions, 570-2417.

12th-15th - Level 1 Avalanche Course. Montana Outdoor Science School is offering a Level 1 Avalanche Course with Angela Patnode and Jay Pape of The Friends of the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center. The course covers terrain, weather, snowpack, and human factors, all of which contribute to avalanche hazard. During the field sessions students will identify avalanche terrain, practice route finding, dig snow pits, identify week layers, make stability evaluations and practice avalanche rescue. This 24 hour course begins with a lecture on the evening of the16th at the MOSS headquarters. The remainder of the course will be a combination of lectures and field sessions on the utilizing the backcountry immediately outside of Bridger Bowl ski area. For more information, conact Montana Outdoor Science School at 406-582-0526

12th-14th - Wild West WinterFest, fairgrounds. Western Activities for the whole family. Music, food, wagon rides, horse events, dog events, activities, exhibit booths, photography, quilts, children's art shows and more! For more information visit www.wildwestwinterfest.org or call 406-582-3270.

12th-14th - Put on your coats & boots and have some WinterFest fun! Crowd-pleasing events back this year: The All Breed Horse Sale, KMMS Chili Cook-off, and Dog Keg Pull. Three days of horse and dog events, petting zoo and exhibitor booths. www.wildwestwinterfest.org or 406-582-3270 for more information.

12th-14th - 2010 Virginia City Winterfest The Virginia City WinterFest is back by popular demand! It is a weekend designed to assist us all through cabin fever. It is geared towards the whole family and the events that are planned promise to offer a little bit for everyone. In resurrecting the good ole days, filled with fond memories, we hope you will come to our little town and participate. Set in historic Virginia City - WinterFest 2010 kicks off with the ever popular Broomball Tournament on Friday night Feb 12 at 6:00 p.m.. On Saturday, test your log sawing skills at 2:00 p.m. with Two Man Log Sawing Contest at the downtown parking lot. (Everyone loves this event!) Broomball continues Saturday a.m. and the championship game is set for 2:00 p.m. Sunday. We will have Kid=s Sled Race at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday at the City Park Children will be able to try their luck at Shots on Goal between broomball games. The snowmobile trails are open and groomed. Check in at the Pioneer Bar on Saturday for Fun Run and trail information. Lodging is available. You can order custom team shirts before the weekend or purchase them at the City Park. Call Joanne at 406-843-5346 or 406-843-5405 for more information.

12th-15th - Winter Crazy Days. Come find outstanding deals and discounts on all winter merchandise at all your favorite Downtown Bozeman retailers!

12th-17th - Race to the Sky is celebrating 25 years of sled dog racing this coming year in 2010. Organizers are working at a feverish pitch to produce the largest purse, increase public participation, and field the biggest group of mushers and dogs that the race has ever seen. For the first time ever in the history of the race - Race to Sky will feature a Junior Race to the Sky Sled Dog Race to support the young stars in the sled dog sport and assist them in fulfilling their dreams.

13th - Family Night at Town Center Big Sky Build, Inc. and Big Sky Town Center invite you to bring the kids and join us for some winter fun at Fire Pit Park, Saturday, February 13th starting at 6:00pm. You can spend the evening by the crackling bonfire, enjoying smores, busting a move to the music filtering from the sound system to the ice rink, or building a snow fort. Snowmen are encouraged! For more information call 570-2417.

13th-15th - YELLOWSTONE ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE PRESENTS: Wolves in the 21st Century; Spend three days surrounded by the quiet, stunning beauty of Yellowstone’s winter while learning photography techniques and philosophy from a pro who has photographed here for many years. Field trips and classroom sessions focus on landscape composition, ethics, wildlife behavior, and the technical challenge of photographing in a winter environment. Bring your digital or film camera. This course is ideal for beginning to intermediate photographers. If you use digital, you’ll have the option to work with your images on the computer during the evenings. To register for this class please call 406-848-2400 or go to our website to register online.

13th - Valentines Scramble Join in the camaraderie of this informal and fun 'race' for all ages and abilities. You don't have to be a ski racer to enter. Costumes encouraged! Skiers choose their race distance and classic or skate technique. Event day registration at 9:00 AM. Scramble begins at 10:00 AM. Participation fee of $5 donated to Bohart Ski Education Scholarship Fund.

13th - King and Queen of the Ridge Community Race Series Feb. 13th 2010 7th Annual King and Queen of the Ridge" Hike/Ski-a-thon fundraiser to support avalanche education in southwest Montana. Collect pledges for one, two or the most ridge hikes you can do in the five hours of competition. 100% of the proceeds go to the Friends of Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center. Kids and families are encouraged to hike too! Pre-register by Friday February 12, 4:30 pm. Entry fee $10. If under the age of 16, you must be accompanied by a parent/guardian during the event. If under the age of 18 signature of parent or legal guardian is required. Mandatory Competitor Meeting will be held in Jimmy's B's on Saturday February 13, 8:00 am.

13th - Celebrate Valentine's weekend at the Museum of the Rockies' Galleries Black Tie Ball, Sunday, February 13th at 6:00pm. Admission includes endless buffet, live music & dancing, and an open bar with themed drinks. Open seating, $150/person for museum members, $175 for non-members (includes a membership). Reserved seating sponsorships start at $1,000. Call 406.994.1998 for more information.

13th - 33rd Froze Nose Free Fun Run, 5.4, 3, 1.1 mi, 9:00 AM, MSU Grant & 11th. Courses go out along Kagy, the furthest going through the Cherry subdivision. Get a handicap time for the March run and see if you can improve enough to win!

14th - Bohart Bonus Day Ski Bohart at reduced prices! $8 Adult Trail Fee, $5 Child Trail Fee (7-12, 6 and under free). $8 classic rental for adults, $5 classic rental for children. Put your name in a drawing for a FREE 2011 Season Pass. Warm up at the Trail Shelter. Bring a picnic lunch for fun day with family and friends!

16th-19th - Winter Wolf Watching Trip in Yellowstone. On this amazing trip, you will experience three very special days of winter wolf watching with the Greater Yellowstone Coalition, expert Yellowstone Park interpretive guides, and special guests in the famed Lamar Valley. We will stay in cozy cabins at the rustic Buffalo Ranch located in Yellowstone's famed wildlife haven, the Lamar Valley. Mornings will be spent touring the park to visit places where Yellowstone’s wolf packs roam free. Afternoons include plenty of free time to ski or snow shoe in the Park. Guest speakers will join us to talk about the Yellowstone wolves and their reintroduction.

16th-19th - Winter Wolf Watching Trip in Yellowstone. On this amazing trip, you will experience three very special days of winter wolf watching with the Greater Yellowstone Coalition, expert Yellowstone Park interpretive guides, and special guests in the famed Lamar Valley. We will stay in cozy cabins at the rustic Buffalo Ranch located in Yellowstone's famed wildlife haven, the Lamar Valley. Mornings will be spent touring the park to visit places where Yellowstone’s wolf packs roam free. Afternoons include plenty of free time to ski or snow shoe in the Park. Guest speakers will join us to talk about the Yellowstone wolves and their reintroduction.

19th - TOGA! TOGA! PARTY AT THE TOWN CENTER ICE RINK: Inspire the inner god or goddess within and join us for a greek bash! The hardest part of a toga party is the "toga" part. No one knows what to wear, how to wear it, or where the outfit stops and they begin. Here are a few tips: 1. Sheets aren’t the best choice (especially used sheets—yuck!). 2. You will need 4-5 yards of fabric per toga, so find a local fabric store and go crazy. 3. Be creative and pick a fabric that screams your personality. It can be a solid color or have your favorite licensed character dancing across it. That’s up to you! 4. Once you have your fabric, you’re ready to do the "wrap." Wrap around your waist several times and then throw the remainder over either shoulder covering your chest (you choose). Take the fabric hanging off your shoulder and bring it around your back to your waist and tie it off. You can choose to go bare shouldered or to wear some type of "t" underneath. 5. Accessorize with leather straps (to match your sandals), gold chains, jewelry, ivy covered wire for your headdress, gold belting. For more information check out the bigskytowncenter.com website under events. And keep an eye on the photo gallery – you won’t want to miss what you and others submit! Call Wendy with questions, 570-2417.

19th-20th - Red Lodge Mountain Resort transforms into a carnival of mirth, smiles and good times. It’s Winter Carnival time!! Locals and guests alike don costumes and take to the hill to race their cardboard racers down Show-off Alley Along with the Cardboard Classic, enjoy a Jalapeño eating contest, costume contests and live music. We'll also have other events that are happening in town over the weekend you won't want to miss! www.redlodgemountain.com/calendar/ contact phone: 406-446-2610

20th - Sacagawea Ski Classic 24K, 12K and 5K and 1K(children's) Races and 12K Casual Tour event through the beautiful Bridger Mountains. Races begin at 9:00 AM. Discount for early registration. Race day registration. Applications and detailed information at www.bsfnordic.com. Info, call 585-9235.

20th - Bridger Gully Free Ride Community Race Series Feb. 21st, 20th 2010 Judged Free-riding event down the exciting and naturally featured terrain off Bridger's Ridge. Open to Skiers and Snowboarders. Ski and snowboard divisions only this year. Each rider has one run and is judged on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 10 (highest) on the following criteria: *Degree or Difficulty/Line *Control *Aggressiveness/Attack *Fluidity *Form/Techniques Helmet and Transceiver required. Inverted aerial maneuvers are prohibited and will result in disqualification. Pre-registration required. Minimum age of 16 years. If under the age of 18, signature of parent or legal guardian is required. $40 Entry Fee (does not include lift ticket). In the event of low visibility, event will be postponed to Sunday, February 21.

20th - THREE RIVERS SELF-DEFENSE SCHOOL R.A.D.WOMEN’S BASIC SELF-DEFENSE Learn: RISK AWARENESS,RISK REDUCTION,RISK RECOGNITION, RISK AVOIDANCE, BASIC SELF-DEFENSE NEW WEEKEND WORKSHOP February 20 and 21st, 2010 9am – noon 1:00pm – 4:00pm (Saturday and Sunday) Fee: $65.00 if registered on or before February 15th - $85.00 after Feb 15th Pre-registration required For information or to register call (406) 580-5190 or email brigittetuller@theglobal.net

20th - Skate Clinics for all Abilities Lone Mountain Ranch Learn to skate or improve your skills. Dec, 19, 2009 and Jan.16 & Feb.20, 2010 $40 per sessions $49 with rental included $99 for all 3 sessions, including rental!

21st - SECOND ANNUAL WINTER WARM-UP WILL SPOTLIGHT COMMUNITY GROUPS WHAT: The Second Annual Winter Warm-Up, sponsored by Town Center with support from Yellowstone Club Community Foundation, will celebrate Big Sky and the community groups that help make this a great place to live. This is an opportunity to learn more about the community resources that are available to everyone from education to business development. Come enjoy music, ski films, sleigh rides with Jake’s Horses, ice skating, bonfire, food, and a raffle of great prizes to benefit Ophir School. Proceeds from food and beverage sales will be donated to Gallatin Food Bank. WHO: Meet Scot Schmidt, Yellowstone Club’s new ski ambassador and one of extreme skiing’s pioneers. Visit with representatives of Ophir School and Lone Peak High School, Morningstar Learning Center, Big Sky Community Library and many more. WHERE: The Fire Pit Park, Big Sky Town Center WHEN: Sunday, February 21 starting at 4 p.m.. Raffle drawing at 5:30 p.m. For more information, contact Wendy Swenson, Town Center, towncenter@bresnan.net, 406- 570-2417.

25th - LUNAFEST - A series of short, documentary and animated films. Plus, local film "Montana Fare" by Jaime Jelenchick. Fundraiser for Breast Cancer Fund and The Wellness Community. A reception with no-host beverages begins in the lobby at 6:30 p.m. At the Emerson.

25th-28th - YELLOWSTONE ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE PRESENTS: The Artistic Journal in Deep Winter; Leave instant messaging behind for four days of creating a personal, artistic journal. You’ll be in the heart of Yellowstone’s spectacular winter wildland, where you’ll enjoy abundant opportunities to observe wildlife and explore landscapes. You’ll work with binoculars, cameras, spotting scopes, and reference specimens to enhance your observations. Experiment with words and drawings using pencils, pens, charcoal, and other media; experience different results on different papers. And collect your work in a book that you make right at the Lamar Buffalo Ranch. Treat yourself to this slow, rich communication in a winter break from daily hyperdrive. To register for this class please call 406-848-2400 or go to our website to register online.

26th - R-N-B/HIP HOP CLUB PARTY AT THE TOWN CENTER ICE RINK: Remember - Classy, not trashy! Add some bling bling onto it, like diamonds. Musical notes, maybe even a few RNB stars. Make it look expensive in black with gold and silver. Come dressed with a hint of RNB bling bling hip hop -- cocktail dresses and suits with jewels, diamonds, big chains, durags, stylish hats, etc. For more information check out the bigskytowncenter.com website under events. And keep an eye on the photo gallery – you won’t want to miss what you and others submit! Call Wendy with questions, 570-2417.

26th-March 5th - The Wild West Sled Dog Stage Race will be February 26-March 5, 2010. Meet the mushers on Friday, Feb. 26. Races start daily Feb. 27-March 5, 2010. For more information call 406.646.4988 or log on to www.westyellowstonesleddograces.com

27th - Make Tracks for Trails (aka the Gallatin Valley Land Trust Ski-a-Thon) at Bohart Ranch. gvlt.org.

27th - Terrain Park Jam Community Race Series - Snowboard Feb. 27th 2010 Slope-style Competition and Jam Session. February 27, Snowboard Competition If under the age of 18 - signature of parent or guardian is required. $10 per event. Registration from 8:30-10:00 am in Jim Bridger Lodge. Competition begins at 11:00 am. Competition includes 2 judged runs in the Slopestyle event plus 2 jam sessions on jumps, rails and boxes. Age divisions: 8&under, 9-12, 13-17, 18&up. Medals awarded to top finishers in each age division. Award ceremony at 4:00 pm in Face Shots Bar in the Jim Bridger Lodge. Prizes awarded in age categories and great door prizes! Must be present to win. *Inverted aerial maneuvers are prohibited and will result in a disqualification. A helmet meeting ASTM F 2040, Snell RS98 or CEN 1077 standard is required.

28th - Terrain Park Jam Community Race Series - Ski Feb. 28th 2010 Slope-style competition and Jam Session featuring jumps, rails, boxes and more! $10 per event. Registration from 8:30-10:00 am in Jim Bridger Logde. Competition begins at 11:00 am. If under the age of 18 - signature of parent or legal guardian is required. Competition includes 2 judged runs in the Slopestyle event plus 2 jam sessions on jumps, rails and boxes. Age divisions: 8&under, 9-12, 13-17, 18&up. Medals awarded to top finishers in each age division. Award ceremony at 4:00 pm in Face Shots Bar in the Jim Bridger Lodge. Prizes awarded in age categories and great door prizes! Must be present to win. *Inverted aerial maneuvers are prohibited and will result in a disqualification. A helmet meeting ASTM F 2040, Snell RS98 or CEN 1077 standard is required.

March 2010

2nd-4th - YELLOWSTONE ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE PRESENTS: Winter Ecology; Believe it or not, many animals and plants survive Yellowstone in winter just fine. Some humans do too! You’ll find out who, what, and how in this cool class. Explore how snow, cold, radiation, energy, and wind drive life. Consider how biology prepares animals and plants to thrive in what we think of as extreme cold. Just how does a moose move through snow? What does a mouse do deep in a drift? You’ll discover these and many other secrets in this class taught by a self-described winter enthusiast and world-renowned winter ecologist. And if you dare, you can sleep in a shelter made of snow. To register for this class please call 406-848-2400 or go to our website to register online.

5th-7th - YELLOWSTONE ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE PRESENTS: Lesser-Known Carnivores; Meet the lesser-known carnivores of the Greater Yellowstone region: coyotes, foxes, lynx, bobcats, wolverines, otters, badgers, and martens. You’ll follow their trail from a way-back time when no carnivores existed to their present-day diversity of shapes and forms. Explore their biology, ecology, behavior, and conservation in classroom sessions, which include discussions about how interest and love of these species offset lack of money for research and management, and why many of these species are rare and often in danger of local extinction. In the field, you’ll visit their habitats and might glimpse a marten. You will also use GPS (global positioning system) and GIS (geographic information system) to map marten habitat. Skis required. To register for this class please call 406-848-2400 or go to our website to register online.

6th - I Ski with the Moose. Get your FREE Moose Button at JBL cafeteria to win prizes on the slopes from the skiing Moosekateers.

6th - 29th Annual Pinhead Classic Mar. 6th 2010 A crazy & zany costume race for Telemark skiers. Prizes for everything but fastest time. For more information visit www.pinheadclassic.com

6th - Yellowstone Rendezvous Ski Race Held on the first Saturday in March on the world-class Rendezvous Ski Trails, this event draws hundreds of cross-country skiers. With the blast of a black powder canon, racers sprint out to compete in a variety of age classes and distances in both classic and freestyle of 5 to 50K lengths. With grooming provided by Yellowstone Track Systems, this is arguably the best track to be found all year. The camaraderie and festive atmosphere have kept this an annual event, now in its 30 th year. Contact: (406) 599-4465 or www.rendezvousskitrails.com or www.rendezvourace.com

6th - Hope on the Slopes skiing event at Big Sky Resort. Team and individual divisions; prizes for most vertical feet skied and most money raised. www.bigskyhopeontheslopes.org.

7th - Glide and Gorge Lone Mountain Ranch Ski along the trails stopping along the way for gourmet appetizers, soups, entrees and desserts. Local breweries and wine distributors will be on hand to provide the perfect accompaniment to each dish. Contact 406-995-4644 for more information.

7th - Bohart Bonus Day Ski Bohart at reduced prices! $8 Adult Trail Fee, $5 Child Trail Fee (7-12, 6 and under free).$8 classic rental for adults, $5 classic rental for children. Put your name in a drawing for a FREE 2011 Season Pass. Warm up at the Trail Shelter. Bring a picnic lunch for a fun day with family and friends!

7th - West Yellowstone Youth Ski Festival Make it a weekend and let the kids have some fun. Kids aged thirteen and younger are invited to ski in this festival. Events include a skier obstacle course, relay race, and radar fun run. Bring the whole family, you will want to take pictures! Contact: (406) 599-4465 or www.rendezvousskitrails.com

8th-11th - YELLOWSTONE ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE PRESENTS: The Living History of Yellowstone's Wolves; Come to the Lamar Valley and spend three days with a biologist who has observed and studied Yellowstone’s wolves since their reintroduction in 1995. You’ll look and listen for wolves, and visit places important to the wolf’s history here in Yellowstone. Learn about wolf behavior as the instructor tells stories of famous individuals, such as M29, and packs such as the Druid and Slough Creek packs. Hear about pack interactions he has witnessed, the never-before-seen behavior within packs, and other incredible stories amassed since wolves returned to Yellowstone. You’ll also discuss wolf ecology and management in and around the park. The Lamar Valley is the only place in the world where such a class can be taught—don’t miss this opportunity. To register for this class please call 406-848-2400 or go to our website to register online.

12th-14th - YELLOWSTONE ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE PRESENTS: Writing the Wild; Steeped in the dramatic sites and sounds of Yellowstone in winter, this workshop is dedicated to helping you master the experience-based, creative nonfiction essay. Experience winter and explore your writing voice with an author whose passion for Yellowstone is contagious. Using a blend of classroom-based lectures and exercises we will work to improve basic writing skills and also learn key elements of storytelling. Classroom time will be broken by easy treks in the magnificent Yellowstone landscape. To register for this class please call 406-848-2400 or go to our website to register online.

12th - Friday Night Big Air at Big Sky Resort. Check out local pros as they fly high into jibtastic stardom under the lights competing for a cash purse. Free for spectators, enjoy music, thrills and spills.

12th - RUST - Rails Under the Stars Big Sky Resort Check out local pros and riders as they slide into jibtastic stardom under the lights. Free for spectators, enjoy music, thrills and spills.

12th-14th - National Finals Ski-Joring, Red Lodge Rodeo Grounds. www.redlodge.com/ski-joring. It’s that time again…THE NATIONAL FINALS SKI-JORING RACES! With Scandinavian roots, this sport teams up human and equine athletes who must work together to navigate a course of slalom gates and jumps at breakneck speed. Competitions and prizes for all ages and abilities. WINTER FUN…WESTERN STYLE!! It

12th-14th - 20th World Snowmobile EXPO World Snowmobile EXPO World Snowmobile EXPO. A terrific end and beginning for snowmobilers! The World Snowmobile Expo culminates a year of Sno-Cross racing for many Rocky Mountain competitors with four days of racing thrills. Snowmobile manufacturers and after-market companies strut their 2011 stuff at the exposition hall. Nighttime activities include a “Funny-Money” Casino night and plenty of laughs. Plan now to attend! Click here www.snowmobileexpo.com for more EXPO information or Click here for concert tickets. Exhibit Information Contact: Marge Wanner (406) 646-7895 For a full list of events & activities, or race information and registration: Visit: www.snowmobileexpo.com

14th-21st - Alpine Community Race - Dual GS Mar. 14th, 2010 Dual GS race for citizen racers of all ages. Medals for individual events and great door prizes. More than 10 age brackets to encourage participation. Registration from 8:30-10:00 in Jim Bridger Lodge. If under the age of 18 signature of parent or legal guardian is required. $10 per event. Course inspection begins at 11:00 and races begin at 12:00 noon. Each participant gets one timed run on both the red and blue courses. Award ceremonies at 4:00 pm in Face Shots Bar in the Jim Bridger Lodge.

15th - Yellowstone Closes to Over-the-Snow Travel Today is the last full day for winter travel into Yellowstone. Yellowstone's west entrance will reopen to vehicle travel April 17, 2009, when regular vehicle travel begins from the West Entrance.

16th-18th - YELLOWSTONE ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE PRESENTS: Capturing Winter with your Camera; Strap on those snowshoes and grab your favorite digital camera—it’s time to photograph Yellowstone’s winter wonders. From a comfortable base at the Lamar Buffalo Ranch, you’ll learn to look for scenes and activity that create one-of-a-kind photographs in the snow-covered nooks and crannies of Yellowstone’s Northern Range. In the field and in the classroom, you’ll explore your personal view of photography, view each other’s photographs, and learn tips about publishing your photographs. Expect to snowshoe short distances. You’ll also spend a day at the instructor’s gallery in Silver Gate, Montana, where you will have ample opportunity to photograph birds and tracks. To register for this class please call 406-848-2400 or go to our website to register online.

17th - Annual St Patrick's Day Celebration, Red Lodge. Calling all leprechauns to join in the fun in "Green" Lodge today! Entertainment to be announced!

20th - Point and Chute (3 minute video competition) Mar. 20th 2010 Films must feature footage of each team member and be shot within the boundaries of Bridger Bowl during operating hours. All films must be submitted on DVD in .mov or .wav format. Submit a registration form by 5:00 p.m. March 15 $20 entry fee. Grab your camera and rip it up!

20th - 33rd Handicapped Run, 5.4, 3, 1.1 mi, MSU Grant & 11th. Courses go out along Kagy, the furthest going through the Cherry subdivision. Start according to your handicap. Handicaps will be determined for those individuals who participated in the Froze Nose Run in February. Those who did not run in the Froze Nose will have starting times as follows: 5.4 Miles - 9:15 am 3.0 Miles - 9:30 am 1.1 Miles - 9:45 am.

20th-21st - THE 4th ANNUAL EQUINOX SKI CHALLENGE: How Far Can You Go? The Equinox Ski Challenge will again welcome the Spring and host an exciting finale to the Nordic ski season on March 20th and 21st at the Rendezvous Ski Trails in West Yellowstone, MT. This event is ingrained with camaraderie, challenge, and commitment to the well being of our communities. Similar to the 24 Hour mountain bike races, skiers complete as many laps as they can in the 3 Hour, 6 Hour, 12, Hour or 24 Hour divisions. Those wishing to test their limits can enter as a soloist. Others, pursuing a more sensible experience, can enter as a relay team of 2-8 skiers. The course is a rolling 9 kilometer loop located just 100 yards from several hotels. Toko will have a wax technician present to help competitors adjust to the changing conditions. A warming hut is also available at the start/finish. The current 24 Hour soloist record is an incredible 326km set by Snorri Einarsson in 2007. The 24 Hour team record was set in 2009 at 401km by the Bozeman trio of Chad Anderson, Brandy Stewart and Sarah Willis. New for 2010 is a 3 Hour category, a 24 Minute race for skiers under 10 and a 3km course for J3 and J2 skiers. For the fourth year in a row, the Equinox Ski Challenge will donate a portion of the proceeds to the West Yellowstone Ski Education Foundation and to Manaia Youth Programs in an effort to support organizations keeping our communities mentally and physically healthy. There will also be a food drive for the West Yellowstone Food Bank.

21st - Alpine Community Race - Dual GS Mar. 21st, 2010 Dual GS race for citizen racers of all ages.This event benefits the Cody Dieruf Foundation for Cystic Fibrosis. Medals for individual events and great door prizes. More than 10 age brackets to encourage participation. Registration from 8:30-10:00 in Jim Bridger Lodge. If under the age of 18 signature of parent or legal guardian is required. $10 Entry Fee. Course inspection begins at 11:00 and races begin at 12:00 noon. Each participant gets one timed run on both the red and blue courses. Award ceremonies and party for all race series participants at 3:00 pm in the Jim Bridger Lodge. Race series grand prize drawing at 4:00. Bridger Bump-Off Freestyle Competition Mar. 21st 2010 Great mogul and freestyle action for all alpine, telemark and snowboard entrants. Prizes for division winners.

21st - Bridger Bump-Off Freestyle Competition, Bridger Bowl. Great mogul and freestyle action for all alpine, telemark and snowboard entrants. Prizes for division winners.

22nd-24th - YELLOWSTONE ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE PRESENTS: Yellowstone's Winter Serengeti; Indulge yourself with a winter safari to the Serengeti of North America, the Lamar Valley, where the snow-covered landscape serves as a dramatic background for bison, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, fox, wolf, coyote, and river otter. Through observation, you’ll learn from the animals themselves what it means to survive winter in Yellowstone. In classroom and field sessions, you’ll learn more about their winter behaviors and adaptations, how they interact with other species, and about basic winter ecology. Bring snowshoes for moderate forays on snow-packed trails. To register for this class please call 406-848-2400 or go to our website to register online.

24th-26th - YELLOWSTONE ASSOCIATION INSTITUTE PRESENTS: Coyote and Raven: Two Full of Fact and Folklore; Coyotes and ravens are two of the most common animals in the Lamar Valley. So common they might seem members of the chorus backing up the stars of the show—bears, wolves, bison, and elk. Find out the truth about these background players as you watch them patrol the valley. Observe how they obtain food from the intense efforts of others. Notice them playing, with each other and with competitors who could kill them with one bite. Learn about their mundane but vital roles in Yellowstone’s ecosystem. And hear about their star status as tricksters and creative beings in the myths and folklore of the American West. To register for this class please call 406-848-2400 or go to our website to register online.

25th-26th - American Wildlands Presents: The Wild and Scenic Environmental Film Festival, Thursday, March 25 and Friday, March 26, 2010, 7 p.m. at the Emerson Cultural Center. Join us as we celebrate our planet and environment through award-winning films. Tickets are available online at www.wildlands.org and by phone (406) 586-8175 x108.

25th-26th - Wild and Scenic Film Festival Join us on March 25 and 26 as we celebrate our planet and environment through award-winning films. Tickets will be available soon by phone (406) 586-8175 x108. Where: Emerson Cultural Center When: 7 p.m., Mar 25 & 26, 2010

26th-28th - Galloping Dog Agility Club NADAC Trial held at the Circle L arena. Please visit www.gallopingdog.com for more details and information on agility.

26th-28th - Universal Athletics Warehouse sale, fairgrounds. Contact Bret at 406-587-1220 or 406-570-9025 for more information.

27th - Mar. 27th 2010 Expand Your Boundaries at the 30th Annual Bridger Bowl Ski Patrol Fund Raiser and Silent Auction. Silent Auction at 8:00 pm Music starts at 9:30 pm

28th - Dog Day AfterNoon Last day of the 2009 Ski Season! This is an opportunity to bring your canine friends to ski with you from noon to closing.

April 2010

3rd-4th - WMI of NOLS WILDERNESS FIRST AID COURSE Bozeman April 3-4, 2010 Price: $250.00 per person. Two days of intense training in Wilderness First Aid. WMI will teach you the skills needed so you can care for an injured friend until the pros arrive. We promise you will learn lots while having tons of fun! These courses are open to everyone. No previous experience needed. A few spots are open on these WFA courses to folks who need to recertify their Wilderness First Responder. Course Location: Lindley Park Center, Bozeman, MT.

4th - Bridger Bowl projected closing day.

9th-11th - WMI of NOLS WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER RECERTIFICATION COURSE Bozeman, MT April 9-11, 2010 Price: $275.00 per person. This three day scenario-based course is designed as review and practice of evacuation and decision making guidelines. It also provides wilderness medicine practitioners with current updates in the wilderness medicine field. This course may be used to recertify Wilderness First Responder and Wilderness EMT (wilderness portion only) certifications. You must possess a valid WFR certification of at least 72 hours in order to recertify through this course. It is your responsibility to make sure that your certification meets this standard. If you are unsure, please contact WMI before enrolling in a course. Course Location: Lindley Park Center, Bozeman, MT. Reservations / Signing-up: For these WMI of NOLS courses in Bozeman please make reservations through the Crossing Latitudes office. VISA, Master Card or checks are welcome. Please call or email for more information. 1-406-585-5356.

10th - Big Sky Resort Pond Skim- Prepare to get wet and wild on this day. Watch competitors in costumes try and make their way across an icy cold pond at bottom of Ambush. $20 registration fee gets you signed up and a gift, space is limited for participants. Register at the Clocktower between 11-1pm Saturday, April 10 th. Event will begin at 4pm and music will follow in the plaza afterward.

11th - Big Sky Resort Closing Day--Last Day of the season so you better get up here. Big Sky closes for the Winter. See you in the Summer

16th - West Entrance to Yellowstone Opens to Motorized Travel Welcome to Yellowstone Fireworks West Yellowstone to the Madison Junction, Norris Junction and to Canyon West Yellowstone to Mammoth Hot Springs West Yellowstone to the Norris Junction West Yellowstone to the Madison Junction to Old Faithful

17th - TELLURIDE MOUNTAINFILM FESTIVAL - The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation is bringing the world class film festival to the Emerson Cultural Center in Bozeman on Saturday, April 17th, 2010. Proceeds from the event will help fund volunteer projects to help care for the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. Each year, selections from the Telluride Mountainfilm Festival are taken on the road to reach audiences who otherwise wouldn’t have a chance to experience the festival. These world class films display themes of adventure, mountaineering, remarkable personalities and important environmental and social messages and are presented in-person by dedicated Mountainfilm ambassadors. Come out to the Emerson to experience the mountains with inspiring and exhilirating films, and do your part to give back to wilderness.

17th - Gallatin Valley Bike Club bike swap, fairgrounds. Contact Pat at 406-994-7952 for more information.

24th - Bozeman Cleanup Day. Meet at Bogert Park for Supplies and for the post-clean up celebration! Visit www.bozeman.net for more information.

May 2010

15th - ReCYCLE Drive: Bring your quality used bike, parts, and accessories for us to refurbish and distribute to individuals in need in our community. Volunteers needed! 10am-2pm, 425 E Aspen

17th-21st - BIKE TO WORK WEEK Daily events at local businesses with coffee and snacks for morning bike commuters, bike maintenance education, bike show, and many more bike-related activities. Sponsored by the Bozeman-area Bicycle Advisory Board (BABAB), BBK, and area businesses.

21st - Stafford Animal Shelter's annual Fur Ball to feed Shelter animals begins at 6 pm at Chico Hot Springs. Roam the World by tasting food and wine from around the globe and bid on a plethora of valuable auction items. Tickets are $75 per person and funds raised will support homeless animals. Yes, a fundraiser without a sit-down, rubber-chicken dinner or long-winded speaches; a rare event not to be missed! For more information, call Kris at 222-1313.

June 2010

1st - Bogert Farmers Market begins, every Saturday through summer.

9th-13th - State high school rodeo finals, fairgrounds. Contact Kwinci at 406-209-3853 for more information.

10th-12th - Montana Senior Olympic Senior Games featuring 13 sports in Kalispell. Men & women who are 50 years and older compete in 5 year age groups for gold, silver and bronze medals. Call 586-5543 or email kayjn@imt.net.

26th-27th - 42nd Annual Beartooth Run and 5th Annual Beartooth Ride June 26-27, 2010 website: www.beartoothrun.com e-mail: info@beartoothevents.com As one of the oldest runs in the state, a big celebration is planned for the 41st. Help make this the biggest and best BEARTOOTH RUN ever!!! A 4.4 and 8.2 mile race starting at the foot of the Beartooth Pass and ending at Vista Point. This run ascends 2000 feet in altitude over the eight mile course, breathtaking scenery and a challenge to even the best runners. On Sunday a time trial/hill climb starts in Red Lodge, elev. 5500 feet, and climbs the Beartooth Pass, finishing at the Vista Point Scenic Overlook, elev. 9400 ft.

July 2010

1st - The Downtown Bozeman Association is proud to present the Ninth Annual Music on Main summer concert series this summer in Historic Downtown Bozeman. Music on Main will be located on Main Street from Rouse Avenue to Black Ave. The fun will last from 6:30 PM till 8:30 PM on Thursday evenings from July 2nd to August 20th. Our gracious business sponsors who support 100% of the event expenses will be announced in spring of 2010. Bring the kids from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM for planned activities with Kenyon Noble’s Junior Carpenter program, First Security Bank, Children’s Museum, Parties R Us inflatables and more on the west side of Bozeman Avenue on Main Street. Grab a bite to eat from one of food vendors that will right along the south side of Main Street, stop by some of our local non-profit booths for information about their great organizations or step into a few of the Downtown stores that stay open late!

2nd-4th - Home of Champions Parade and Rodeo, Red Lodge. redlodgerodeo.com; 406-446-2422 Join us for the 80th Home of Champions Rodeo featuring some of professional rodeo's top cowboys and cowgirls. Parade held everyday at noon in downtown Red Lodge.

4th - Celebrating America, West Yellowstone. Our Fourth of July celebration this year includes some "down home" fun--outdoor barbeque benefit for the fire department, parade, music and fireworks (conditions permitting). Parade line up at 5:00 and parade starts at 5:30-6:00. Fireworks start at 10:00 pm.

9th-11th - GotDog? NADAC Agility Trial held at the Circle L Arena. Go to www.gotdogagility.com for full details.

16th-18th - The Downtown Bozeman Association and downtown merchants are proud to present the 2009 Crazy Days Summer Sidewalk Sale! It’s the biggest, the best and the original. From 9AM to 6PM, over 150 downtown merchants take to the sidewalks with unbelievable sales on spring and summer merchandise. Come stroll downtown and check out Downtown Crazy Days! The event is FREE and open to the public and will go on rain or shine! For more information call 406-586-4008.

16th-18th - 16th Annual Beartooth Rally, Red Lodge. website: www.bonedaddyscustomcycle.com contact phone: 406-446-2022 Plan on the 16th Annual Beartooth Motorcycle Rally being better than ever! As always this weekend promised lots of rides, food and fun and in the evening you can dance under the stars!! Don't forget to stop by BONEDADDY's to pick up your official rally shirt and check out all the cool clothes and accessories. Our town opens its arms and clears the street for this annual event. Hope to see you there!

21st-25th - The Gallatin County Fair-Wagon Wheels to Ferris Wheels! We have something for everyone! Entertainment includes the ever-popular carnival, the Bozeman Roundup Ranch Rodeo, the Mud Bog, Petting Zoo and local musicians. Anyone can enter the Open Class Exhibits in arts & crafts, horticulture & floral, foods, needlework, photography, group projects, poultry and livestock. 4-H is a big part of our Fair. Throughout the Fair there will be 4-H kids showing their pigs, sheep, cows, horses, poultry and rabbits. Also see their static displays in the exhibit buildings. Special competitive events include the Super Grasshopper Contest, the Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter Pet Show, dog agility, dog dock diving and doxie derby contests. Indoor and outdoor commercial and educational booths give you an opportunity to shop and learn more about our community and state. And don't forget the traditional Fair foods! Come and enjoy! www.gallatincountyfair.org or 406-582-3270 for more information.

August 2010

14th - Crazy Days, Belgrade. belgradechamber.org

15th - The Downtown Bozeman Association is proud to present the "Cruisin on Main" Car Show in Downtown Bozeman. Same day registration is located at the intersection of Black Avenue and Main Street in front of US Bank. We will close down Main Street to make room for hundreds of cars, trucks and motorcycles. All car categories are welcome; all registered cars will receive a complimentary dash plaque and gift bags filled with fun goodies. There is also over a dozen trophies that will be awarded in different car categories as well as 1st, 2nd and 3rd in “Best in Show” and a “People’s Choice.” Come downtown for Cruisin on Main to enjoy food, music, activities, prize drawings, and vote for your favorite vehicles! Come check out the best car show in the valley! The event is FREE and open to the public and will go on rain or shine! For an online registration form, scroll below the event calendar to the full description to find a printable form or for more information call 406-586-4008.

September 2010

10th-12th - Galloping Dog Agility Club NADAC Trial held at the Circle L arena. Please visit www.gallopingdog.com for more details and information on agility.

10th-12th - Universal Athletics warehouse sale, fairgrounds. Contact Bret at 406-587-1220 or 406-570-9025 for more information.

November 2010

5th-7th - Bridger Ski Foundation ski swap, fairgrounds.