June 2008

4th-September 24th - FARMERS MARKET every Wednesday at Miles Park in Livingston 4:30pm-7:30pm. For more information, contact Corporation for the Northern Rockies 222-0730.

6th-September 26th - FOOD MARKET - EVERY FRIDAY MORNING 7:30 AM An open air market on Callender St., between Main & 2nd, in Livingston. Presented by Corporation for the Northern Rockies. Contact 222-0730.

27th-September 26th - Livingston’s Art Walks are on the fourth Fridays of the month, 5:30-8:30 pm, from June 27 to September 26. It boasts 14 galleries through three stoplights and has been featured in National Geographic Traveler and Western Design Interiors. livingstongalleries.com.

28th-September 27th - Butte's Farmers' Market on North Main Street between Park and Broadway from 9am to 1pm. Every Saturday through September 27. For more information, visit mainstreetbutte.org/fmarket.htm.

July 2008

13th-September 13th - Farmers Market in the Wells Fargo Parking Lot

15th-September 15th - Tuesday Worknights: join us from 6-8pm at the shed behind 1214 W Durston to learn about bike mechanics, help us refurbish used bikes for donation, or earn a bike for yourself. Email info@bozemanbikekitchen.org with questions.

September 2008

1st-December 20th - Agility, Freestyle, Tricks, and Puppy Training. Fall Training at it's best! Quality Certified Instructors

9th - 6th Annual West Yellowstone Foundation Golf Tournament This golf tournament will again be held at the Big Sky, Montana's Arnold Palmer designed course. Everyone is invited to join in the fun! This is an event that you want to include on your calendar - and serves a great cause, too! Contact: Bonnie Hansen (406) 646-7775

9th-12th - The Human Dimension of Grizzly Bear Management #904 Limit: 12 Minimum Age: 16 Location: Cody, WY Instructors: Charles Peterson, Ph.D. Rates: $360 (member's fee $350) * University credit pending Come to Cody, Wyoming to learn about grizzly bears living within and beyond park boundaries. You’ll explore the Shoshone National Forest for bears and their sign. Meet local residents who can tell you how grizzly bears affect their lives and livelihood. Find out how one state—Wyoming—plans to manage grizzlies now that they are no longer protected as a threatened species. You’ll also spend a day in Yellowstone looking for bears, and have time to discuss how the region’s popularity with humans will affect grizzly bear survival. Rooms will be held at the Best Western Sunset Motor Inn until 30 days prior to the course. Call 800-624-2727 for rates and reservations. Activity Level: EASY—Hikes up to 3 miles per day with elevation gains of up to 250 feet. Some off-trail hiking is possible. Start: September 9 at 9 a.m. End: September 12 at 8 p.m.

11th - MSU Homecoming Parade 10am Downtown Bozeman Stake out a prime spot early to join in the celebration of this long-lasting tradition on Downtown Bozeman's Main Street. The homcomin gparade starts at 10am during the Homecoming Weekend in October with the game following at 2pm at the MSU stadium. More Information: www.montana.edu

12th-14th - 6th Annual University of Montana Western English Horse Show at the Beaverhead County Fair Grounds. The show runs from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. each day.

12th-14th - Universal Athletic Warehouse Sale Gallatin County Fairgrounds Bozeman More Information: 582-3270

13th - Shane Thomas Memorial 5K, Lions Park, Belgrade. The Shane Thomas Memorial Run celebrates a fine athletic teen who passed on but is not forgotten. It is held in conjunction with the Fall Festival of Belgrade, a wonderful weekend of culture and crafts. The 5K is fairly flat and fast winding through the streets of Belgrade with views of the mountains. The 1K loops around flat easy streets. active.com.

13th - Run Like the Wind, Pray. 4K/1K for kids. Scenic, rolling, mostly paved, closed course. Start finish at the Arrowhead School in Paradise Valley. Forty miles from Yellowstone National Park. Five miles from Chico Hot Springs Resort. Twenty-five miles from Livingston, Montana. Contact Information: Name:Bret De Young Email:bl2deyoung@wispwest.net Phone:406-333-4176 Address:PO Box 14 Pray MT 59065

13th - Oktoberfest, Red Lodge. This has become one of Red Lodge's greatest annual traditions and this year's event will be bigger and better than ever before. Red Lodge Brewer Sam Hoffman is lagering his annual Oktoberfest beer and this year's brew promises to be the best one yet. We're putting up a giant tent to cover the beer garden so there's no reason to fear the weather. They'll be lots of great German food, plenty of beer, live music and activities for attendees of all ages.

13th-14th - The Park’s Most Traveled 30 Miles #906 Limit: 12 Minimum Age: 16 Location: West Yellowstone, MT Instructors: Paul Shea Rates: $195 (member's fee $185) Every year, thousands of people drive through Yellowstone National Park’s West Gate to Old Faithful, most unaware that their 30-mile trip traces the journey of visitors back to the 1870s. Find out the history of this corridor through a series of discussions and field trips. Walk old stage and auto roads to view the park as early visitors did, and learn the role of the railroads in developing the western entrance area. You’ll find out the challenges that park managers continue to face in balancing visitor demand with park priorities, and what the future may hold for this well-traveled corridor. Rooms will be held at The Brandin’ Iron Inn until 30 days prior to the course. Call 406-646-9411 for rates and reservations. Activity Level: EASY—Hikes up to 3 miles per day with elevation gains of up to 250 feet. Some off-trail hiking is possible. Start: September 13 at 9 a.m. End: September 14 at 4 p.m.

13th-14th - OLD SETTLERS DAYS in Clyde Park: Parade, Run/Walk, Firemen's Breakfast and BBQ. For info, call Dorothy at 686-4796.

13th-15th - Geology Road Trip #907 Limit: 12 Minimum Age: 16 Location: Mammoth Hot Springs Instructors: Robert Spoelhof, Ph.D. Rates: $205 (member's fee $195) * University credit pending Join this road trip to view Yellowstone’s geologic wonders. Your guide is a geologist who has interpreted the park’s geology to thousands of visitors. He’ll take you to sites where you can see and understand how geology affects soil, plants, animals, and humans. Find out why hiking across lava flows can be so different from hiking in glacial valleys, and other ways that geology affects our enjoyment of a place. Through discussions, lectures, and field trips, you’ll come to understand your own home’s geology and its relationship to your life. Rooms will be held until 30 days prior to the course. Call 307-344-5566 for rates and reservations. Activity Level: MINIMAL ACTIVITY—Leisurely hikes up to 1 mile per day through relatively flat terrain on maintained trails. Start: September 13 at 7 p.m. End: September 15 at 4 p.m.

13th-18th - American Wildlands 30th Anniversary Regional Tour; High Divide and Yellowstone Region. cviscardi@wildlands.org.

13th-18th - As part of our 30th anniversary celebration, we cordially invite you to take part in an exceptional opportunity to experience and enjoy the magnificent landscape of the Northern Rockies, and learn about the region’s natural history and ecology. This trip also serves as a chance to see first-hand all that American Wildlands is doing to keep this world-renowned area ecologically-connected, intact, and whole. Traveling in comfortable cars with a group of no more than eight participants, these tours cover some of the most beautiful portions of Montana and Idaho, and includes a stay in Glacier. You will have the added benefit of a Lighthawk-sponsored plane tour (weather permitting) one day. wildlands.org/30th/regionaltours

13th-27th - Ready,Set,HIKE! Semi Private Training Hikes for you and your furry friend! 1/4 -1/2 day hikes, must be in good physical condition for the elevation gain and varied terrain. Learn polite public trail manners with your dog;go behind, sit on side of trail, passing, recalls in the great outdoors and much more. Call 522-1558 for more info

14th-19th - PHOTOGRAPHING AUTUMN IN YELLOWSTONE COUNTRY. Join photographic artist Sandra Nykerk and F-11 Photographic Supplies for an autumn adventure in one of the last wild landscapes of the West// This workshop sponsored by Nikon Inc. at the B Bar Ranch near Yellowstone National Park will focus on enhancing your photographic skills and your digital workflow. Photograph the stunning scenes and classic western views of the B Bar. Take in the magic of Yellowstone National Park for a day, touring and capturing the essence of this American icon; learn key Photoshop skills in the beautiful ranch lodge. Use state-of-the-art photographic equipment provided by Nikon Inc.//September 14-19, 2008. Call (888) 548-0203 or visit www.f11photo.com for more information. Reserve your space today for this exclusive learning experience.

17th-18th - Gallatin Dog Club Dog Show Gallatin County Fairgrounds Bozeman More Information: 582-3270

19th - Willow Creek Art Walk. This is a truly small town, old fashion fun event for families with many lovely art objects for sale. There is something of interest for everyone! Open from 5:00 pm till 9:00 pm. Call Mary Lou at 406-285-4709 or e-mail mardon110@juno.com

20th - Go Low Tourney, Bridger Creek Golf Course. 586-2333.

20th - Tour da Seeley Swan +/- 80 miles Off Road. This is an off-road race/tour that starts at Swan Lake and ends at Seeley Lake. There will be a party with music at both ends of the ride. Shuttle service will be available for a fee.

20th - Join Greater Yellowstone Coalition staff, fellow supporters and friends in exploring Greater Yellowstone's wild places, barbecuing on a summer evening, or giving back to the lands we care about. Hike the Snowcrest Mountains * Outdoor Activity Start: Sep 20 2008 - 8:00am Location: GYC- Bozeman Office, 13 S. Willson St., Bozeman, MT 59715 Host/Leader: Patricia Dowd Difficulty: Moderate The Snowcrest Mountains have been recommended as wilderness in the new Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest plan. Join us as we explore the scenic alpine mountains and rolling grasslands that characterize this remote range. The exact trail will be chosen later in the summer. For more information, or to register, contact Patricia Dowd or Barb Cestero at 406-586-1593 or email rsvp@greateryellowstone.org.

20th - Montana public land and water access--know your rights. Seminar at Billings Rod & Gun Club. 406-458-0227.

20th - Montana Outdoor Science School Annual Barn Dance Don’t miss your chance to participate in the best boot-stompin’ fundraiser in Bozeman. Join Montana Outdoor Science School and enjoy live music and a tasty barbeque. A live auction, silent auction and raffle sales will support our Scholarship Fund, as well as our free and low cost programs. There are even kids activities to keep your little wranglers entertained! This year, we are proud to present the Science of Local Foods at this year’s Barn Dance. Expanding on our popular “Science of…” series, dinner will feature foods grown and raised by local farmers and ranchers. This unique experience is bound to draw an enthusiastic crowd eager to support local producers of all kinds. Join us on September 20 at Broken Hart Ranch. Call MOSS for tickets at 582.0526. Table sponsorships and reserved seating are available.

20th-21st - Belgrade Fall Festival, Lewis and Clark Park

21st - Lewis and Clark Marathon, half marathon, 5K, kids run, 8:00 AM at various locations. Sponsored and race directed by Fleet Feet of Bozeman. lewisandclarkamarathon.com.

21st - The Community Farm Tour is back! With a desire to raise awareness, encourage and support a thriving, local and sustainable food system, Chefs Collaborative and the Community Food Co-op invite you to help us celebrate our local farmers, September 21 at Amaltheia Organic Dairy. In a large-scale industrial food system in which there is often a great disconnect between the producer and the consumer, the Farm Tour is an excellent opportunity for folks to see firsthand a working farm, witness its operations and meet the farmer, instilling the important relationship between the consumer and the producer. Here are just a few other highlights you can look forward to: Personal tours of Amaltheia, Gallatin Valley Farm-to-School will be on hand, The Montana Outdoor Science School with children’s activities; live music, local producers selling produce or products, and a local feast created by local chefs. The Tour is free and open to members and non-members alike! Pre-sale tickets for the Local Feast available August 15 at the Co-op Customer Service Desk, $13. Tickets are limited, available on a first-come first-serve basis. For more info, contact Alison Grey at 587-1919 ext. 76 or alison@bozo.coop.

21st-27th - Fall Grizzly -- A Trail Guide to the King of the Crown. Daily field trips into occupied grizzly habitat, lectures, and audio-visual programs combine to make this an exciting and fulfilling opportunity. Timed for the best in spring or autumn scenery (as well as bear activity), this workshop will expose participants to some of the most magnificent wildlands left in the United States. Emphasis will be placed on first-hand learning in the field; topics will include grizzly habitat requirements, food habits, reading sign, management, and more. This session is designed for adults of all ages and experience levels.The Instructor: Dr. Charles Jonkel is regarded as one of the world's eminent authorities of bears. He has conducted research on Montana grizzlies for well over 25 years. “Chuck” has also led extensive research projects on black and polar bears. He has spent untold thousands of hours in many parts of wild Montana studying and observing grizzly bears. In the field, Chuck is a rare delight, a storehouse of information about the land and its wild inhabitants. His sense of humor, dedication to his work, and his expertise combine to make an exceptional instructor. (406) 443-0303.

24th - Build Your Own Fly Rod Join Montana Outdoor Science School and learn how to build your own custom fly rod with George "Mac" McDowell, a custom rod builder. George has been building custom rods since 1977 and has built over 980 rods in the past 31 years. George has just moved to the Bozeman area having spent the last 37 years in Soldotna, Alaska. Over the past 18 years George has taught upwards of 250 people to build rods through the Community Schools program in Soldotna. This is a 3 part course: Part 1: Includes introduction to fly rod building, as well as information and prices on materials needed. Wednesday, September 24 7:00 – 9:30 pm Part II: We will spend the day together and students will leave with a rod blank with the handle assembly in place and the tip top properly fitted and glued in place. Saturday, October 18 8:00 am – 3:00 pm Part III: Focus will be on how to do a simple diamond wrap to give their rod some pizzazz. Saturday, October 25 8:00 am – 12:00 pm For more information, call 582-0526.

25th - Teton Gravity Research proudly presents the Bozeman premiere of its latest 16mm/HD ski and snowboard offering: UNDER THE INFLUENCE at the Emerson Cultural Center on Thursday, September 25 with two show times; 7:30 & 9:30. UNDER THE INFLUENCE follows the exploits of today’s top riders as they traverse the globe in search of the unique terrain and conditions that emerged from one of the deepest winters in recorded history. With UNDER THE INFLUENCE, TGR continues to rule the world of action sports cinematography, capturing the mind-blowing efforts of these athletes as never before seen. The Jackson Hole-based film crew scattered the planet as they filmed virgin spines in Alaska, cowboy park jumps at Grand Targhee, pillow popping deep in the Northwest, relentless powder in the Jackson Hole backcountry and so much more. With its thirteenth feature ski and snowboard film, Teton Gravity Research examines the passion, people and places that inspire us to ride. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door – available September 15th at Chalet Sports, PhD Skis, World Boards and in Big Sky at Grizzly Outfitters. Raffle prizes will include skis and other killer gear. Doors open at 7 & 9PM. GET YOUR TICKETS EARLY – THESE SHOWS SELLOUT EACH YEAR! Outside food or beverage will NOT be permitted in the Emerson. Filmed on Location at: Jackson Hole, Haines AK, Switzerland, Romania, Eagle Pass Heli-Skiing, Pemberton BC, Utah, Montana, Grand Targhee WY, North Cascade Heli-Skiing Sponsored by: JEEP, The North Face, Rossignol, Dynastar/Lange, Powder Magazine, Outside Magazine, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Burton For more information regarding this press release or the Bozeman premiere of Under the Influence, please contact Dan Lakatos at 406-581-4849, dlakatos@imt.net.

26th - LIVINGSTON ART WALK 5:30-8:30pm in downtown Livingston. Hosted by the Livingston Gallery Association.

26th - SPAY-GHETTI & NO BALLS DINNER at Chadz on Main St. in downtown Livingston. Fundraiser for the Stafford Animal Shelter/Park County Humane Society. Starts at 5pm. Same night as the Livingston Art Walk. More info 222-2111.

26th-27th - House Productions Beer Festival, Fairgrounds. Contact Cody at House Productions (406) 581-2487 for more information.

27th - Gardiner Annual Brewfest: The event consists of live music starting around 3:00pm, micro breweries represented with samples of their favorite micro brews from Montana, burgers and brats which are served throughout the evening. Bartenders Olympics events include fastest beer pour, drunk toss and shot glass sprint. The winning bartender receives a plaque to hang in their bar for the year. Event starts around 2:00pm until dusk. Live music starting around 3:00pm

27th - National Public Lands Day--free admission today to all national public lands. 307-344-7381.

28th - Homestake Pass 5 Miler, Trail Run. It’s the second annual trail run on Homestake Lodge’s trail system. Cash awards to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in the overall Women’s and Men’s categories ($125, $75, $50). There will also be a 1 Mile Kids Race (12 and Under). The terrain is varied with a mix of old roads and single track, some steep ascents and descents. www.homestakelodge.com

29th-October 10th - Join Montana Audubon board member, professor Jack Kirkley, on this 12-day adventure exploring and birding the varied ecological habitats in the Veracruz region of eastern Mexico. This Montana Audubon tour is scheduled to view the peak raptor migration season, when the stunning “river of raptors”—several million strong—streams through the Veracruz area, providing one of the most awesome wildlife spectacles on earth. Soaring in vortex-like clouds, these flocks include 25 species of raptors, dominated by tens of thousands of Mississippi Kites, Broad-winged Hawks, and Turkey Vultures.

30th - GARDINER BREWFEST noon to midnight. More information, call the Gardiner Chamber at 848-7971.

30th - Lewis and Clark Caverns Closing Day More Information: 406-287-3541

October 2008

1st-4th - HatchFest

3rd - Proposed Summer Season Closing Day Big Sky Resort

3rd - HARVEST CELEBRATION DINNER, Chico Hot Springs Resort. An evening of fresh, local foods prepared by our region's finest chefs. Enjoy an exciting silent auction and hear more about CNR's work to support sustainable agriculture and promote sustainable choices in the Northern Rockies. Tickets available on our website or call 222.0730.

5th - Red, White, and Blue Scramble, Bridger Creek golf course. 586-2333.

8th - Bozeman Volleyball fall league session begins. Call Tylene, (406) 581-2382.

11th - Old Faithful Fall Cycle Tour Gather your friends together. Feed stations at Madison Junction and Old Faithful will keep your engines fueled while you provide the power. Ride all the way, or just until you're tuckered. A Ranger-led tour at Old Faithful, T-shirts, shuttles and dinner round out a great day. Registration is limited. Contact: (406) 599-4465 Web: www.cycleyellowstone.com

11th - Beaverhead Big Game Banquet, Dillon. Scott & Lisa Rakich 406-683-6283.

11th - Feast for the Beasts Mark your calendars for our most popular fundraiser of the year! Nominated as "Best Annual Fundraiser" in the Best of Red Lodge 2005 Awards, this fun-filled evening at Rock Creek Resort in Red Lodge includes a cocktail hour, dinner, silent and live auctions, and dancing. ...all to benefit the 75 wonderful animals and birds at the BNC! Call early - reservations required!

11th - OctoberFest, Lindley Park. This rugged loop 5K starts at Lindley Park, goes up Peets Hill, around past the water tower, back behind the hospital over hay bales and ending up in the park. Don't expect a PR. Be prepared for surprises!

11th-12th - The Exchange - Consignment Sale of Clothing & Household Items, 8am, Fairgrounds. Contact Karen at (406)285-4579 for more information.

12th - Fly Tying, Casting and Macros Join Montana Outdoor Science School and guest instructor, Don Heyden, and experience both the art and science behind fly tying and casting. Get expert advice and guidance while you fine-tune your tying skills, improve your casting presentation and technique, and learn more about macro selection. Tie four flies, cast in the trout pond, and collect macroinvertebrates and learn more about their role in the aquatic ecosystem. Sign up now - this class is a great catch! Sunday, October 12 from 1:00 - 5:00 pm. Call MOSS at 528.0526 to register.

16th-19th - BORN presents The 6th Annual NORTHERN ROCKIES BIONEERS CONFERENCE 406 586 3426 Email: lori@bornnetwork.org

18th - Fall Foliage Hike This time of year provides some of the most magnificent colors of the year. Discover the science behind the color change and learn how current climate conditions affect foliage. So, put on your hiking boots, grab your camera, and enjoy a day out taking in the vibrant shades of Fall. Saturday, October 18. Call MOSS at 582.0526 to register.

23rd-25th - Montana Festival of the Book, Missoula. For more information on the Montana Festival of the Book, contact Kim Anderson, Festival Coordinator, kim.anderson@umontana.edu, or Mark Sherouse, Executive Director, Humanities Montana/Montana Center for the Book, 243-6022 (in Montana 800-624-6001), mark.sherouse@umontana.edu. The Montana Festival of the Book website is at www.bookfest-mt.org.

23rd-26th - Women and Wilderness 2008: Returning to our Roots October 23-26, 2008 Featuring Special Guests: • Janisse Ray, author of Ecology of a Cracker Childhood • Hannah Hinchman, author of A Trail Through the Leaves • Carol McEvoy, co-founder, Rim Country Land Institute Held at the B Bar Ranch Tom Miner Basin, Emigrant, MT Explore the spirit of Yellowstone this Fall with GYC! Come join other GYC members (women only!) for a long weekend and enjoy the majesty of Yellowstone in the Fall. We'll spend three nights deep in the heart of Tom Miner Basin at the secluded B Bar Ranch. Featuring cozy cabins, a warm and inviting main lodge and 9,000 private acres, the B Bar is near Yellowstone's northern entrance and is the perfect setting for our gathering. This trip is exculsive to Coalition members, and we will be the only guests at the Ranch. Our day will start with yoga and a hearty breakfast. We will then travel into Yellowstone each day, to see its spectacular wildlife (bugling elk, denning bears, wolves, bison, and more!) and hike in the wilderness. Afternoons are free for exploring the B Bar; tour the holistic ranching operations; take a horse-drawn wagon ride; head out for a hike on miles of private trails; journal with Hannah; or enjoy a relaxing massage. Our gourmet dinners will be created by the B Bar's acclaimed chef, Aaron Davis, using fresh produce from the B Bar's organic garden. Afterwards, we'll gather around the fire in the Great Room to hear from our guest speakers; extraordinary women who have dedicated their lives to protecting natural treasures. Our retreat leaders will help us reconnect with our own commitment to preserve and protect this magnificent ecosystem and the creatures that call it home. This special retreat is limited to only 22 women, so please reserve your space today. Price per person: $1,850. Cost includes retreat registration fee, three nights' semi-private accommodations at the B Bar Ranch, all meals and snacks, professionally guided travel into the Park, and yoga instruction. Price does not include airfare or transportation to/from the B Bar Ranch. Please note: A portion of the fee is tax-deductible. For more information, please call Christi Weber 406-586-1593

24th - Hunters Feed & Wild Game Cook-Off Located on Main Street in Ennis: Friday before hunting season starts. Local businesses prepare wild game dishes: sampled & voted on by participates. Begins 3:00 pm. Sponsored by the Ennis Area Chamber of Commerce.

24th-26th - Halloween Barrel Bash, to be held at the Circle L Arena, Spain Bridge Rd. Belgrade, MT. Come watch fast horses and riders young and old competing for top money and prizes. Sat night Oct. 25 is our famous Costume Horse Contest with big prizes to be awarded. A dinner is planned . RSVP on the dinner, for more info go to www.kcbarrelracing.net or call Karen 406-585-4106 evenings.

25th - 31st annual BSWD Back to Bridger Run. There will be five different distances along the course. Each distance has a different start point and a different start time. They are as follows; 9:00 am : 17.5 miles starting at the Elks Club on Haggerty Lane 9:30 am: 12.5 miles starting on Kelly Canyon Rd. at the junction of Sawmill Rd. 9:50am : 10 miles starting at the junction of Kelly Canyon Rd. and Bridger Canyon Rd. 10:10am: 7 miles starting at the junction of Jackson Creek Rd. and Bridger Canyon Rd. 10:30am: 3 miles starting on Bridger Canyon Drive 2.5 miles south of Bridger Bowl Rd. 10:40am: 1.5 miles starting on Bridger Canyon Drive 1 mile south of Bridger Bowl Rd. The finish line will close at 12:30 pm. All runners need to select a distance and a start time so they can finish by 12:30. There will be no transportation provided by the BSWD. It is each runners responsibility to arrange transportation back from Bridger Bowl.

25th - Kick Off Dinner for Camo Week in Cameron! Hunters Welcome!!!

31st - Lions Club Halloween Carnival Games, prizes, food at the Ennis Elementary Gym from 6:00-9:00 pm.

31st - Halloween Children's Parade, downtown Big Timber, party at Pioneer Medical Center following the parade. 932-4603.

31st - Trick-or-Treat Downtown 3:00pm until 6:00pm Downtown Bozeman More Information: 586-4008

31st - Trick-Or-Treating Gallatin Valley Mall Bozeman More Information: 586-4565

31st - Halloween Dance at Cameron. Featuring live music from TWANG! Dance 9pm - 1am.

TBA - Halloween Costume Run, 9:00 AM, 1.1, 3.0 and 5.4 miles, starts at Grant and 11th. Runs around campus. Prizes for best costumes

November 2008

2nd - West Entrance to Yellowstone Closes to motorized traffic. Winter over the snow travel by snowmobile or snow coach starts December 17, 2008.

4th - Election day. Get off the computer and go vote.

6th-8th - Special Olympics Montana State Basketball Tournament brings more than 600 athletes together for team play and individual skills competition in Butte. Competition events are free of charge and open to the public.

7th-9th - Ski Swap Gallatin County Fairgrounds Bozeman More Information: 582-3270

7th-9th - Bozeman Gourmet Adult Open tennis tourney, Bobcat Tennis Center. Scott Potter, 994-2237.

8th - Since 1985, the annual “Soar with the Eagles” Winter Ball has been Eagle Mount’s signature event. This elegant, black tie dinner, dance and auction, takes place the second Saturday of November.406-586-1781.

9th-21st - he Australia tour visits the tropical rain forests of NE Australia in Queensland, and includes a boat trip to the Great Barrier Reef. We will see about 20 species of parrots, along with birds-of-paradise, bowerbirds, fairy-wrens, and honeyeaters. We'll also make a concerted effort to find koala, platypus, and some of the 50 different species of kangaroos. The lodges we stay at are exquisite and the meals are superb! The all-inclusive cost for the Australia tour is $4,495 from Brisbane, which includes a $500 tax-deductible contribution to Montana Audubon. This tour will be led by John Shipley of Kingfisher Bird Tours in Bozeman. Contact John at (406) 465-8247 or John@KingfisherBirdTours.com

10th - Capital Christmas Tree 2008, big Timber. A Gift from Montana stops in Big Timber on its way to the Capital. Downtown celebration begins at 5 pm. with the arrival of the tree caravan. Contact the Sweet Grass County Chamber of Commerce at 406-932-5131 or email info@bigtimber.com for more information.

25th-29th - The Yellowstone Ski Festival This is a must for every cross-country skier! West Yellowstone literally comes alive in lycra in November. Hundreds of Nordic ski enthusiasts from all over the world, novice to expert, gather to learn more about the sport, practice techniques and see new equipment. Early snows, superb grooming, racing opportunities and the Nordic Skiing Exposition make this an especially inviting time. On-snow clinics take place between November 24-28. SuperTour Ski Races are scheduled for Friday and Saturday Web: www.yellowstoneskifestival.com and www.rendezvousskitrails.com (for races)

TBA - Jim Banks Turkey Trot, 9:00 AM, Fellowship Meeting Hall, Spirit Hills and Springhill Rd, 2.7 and 4.4 miles, free turkey prizes.

27th - Bon Appetite fun run, 9:00 AM, if you don't want the competitive atmosphere of the Huffing race, meet at former Sports and Courts and run any distance and go to breakfast afterwards.

27th - Huffing For Stuffing Thanksgiving Day Run, Kids' Run at 8:15AM, 10K at 9AM and 5K at 9:15AM. New venue: Start/Finish at Museum of the Rockies! Race proceeds to benefit the Gallatin Valley Food Bank. mail John Dudas at huffingforstuffing@yahoo.com.

27th - Big Sky Resort Winter Season Opening Day Big Sky Resort More Information: 800-943-4111

27th - Hungry to run on Thanksgiving Day? Come join the 2nd annual Huffing For Stuffing Thanksgiving Day Run. 5K & 10K courses start and finish at the Museum of the Rockies. Kids' Run, too! Don't miss the costumed dinosaur chase our male and female costumed turkey runners! Participants who "Smoke the Turkey" win a prize! All participants and volunteers receive a fantastic long-sleeve micro fiber shirt and a cornucopia of fun! Terrific age group awards again this year. Entry fee for 5K/10K: $20; Kids' Run is FREE with a canned food donation. Please bring as many non-perishables as you can! Race proceeds benefit the Gallatin Valley Food Bank! Huffing For Stuffing is about community support and fun. Runners and walkers of all abilities are welcome. Start times: Kids' Run: 8:15am, 10K: 9:00am, 5K: 9:15am. www.huffingforstuffing.com

27th - Thanksgiving Dinner in Cameron Come One ~ Come All to a Homemade Feast for all of our visitors in the area at that time - Hunters Welcome!!

28th - Opening Day, Red Lodge Mountain.

30th-December 6th - Free Ski Week for Big Sky Card Holders Join in on FREE skiing or riding for the week. All it takes is a Frequency Sky Card, a 15x pass or a Mid-week Pass and you are free to hit the slopes.

December 2008

3rd-4th - The ASMSU Outdoor Recreation Program will sponsor two Basic Avalanche Awareness Workshops during the 2008-2009 winter season. Instructors are Ron Johnson and Karl Birkeland. The workshops are held on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, with a field session on Saturday. Different topics are presented each evening. Topics covered include: avalanche terrain recognition, the affect weather has on avalanche hazard, the development of the mountain snowpack, decision making skills, and basic search and rescue procedures. Participants in the field session should have basic skiing and snowboarding skills, and the appropriate equipment to negotiate “groomed” intermediate ski runs. Though not required, an avalanche rescue beacon will be very helpful for the field session. Cost is $5.00 for each evening session and $15.00 for the field session. Cost for the entire workshop is $25.00. Registration is not required for the evening sessions. Registration is required for the field session, which can be done at either of the evening sessions. Contact The ASMSU Outdoor Recreation Program at 994-3621 for more information. The course outline is available at http://www.fsavalanche.org/NAC/techPages/av_ed/basic.pdf

5th - Christmas Stroll, Three Forks. 285-4753.Three Forks glitters with the excitement of the holiday season from 5-9 p.m. on November 30th. Enjoy the lighting of the trees, crowning of the Christmas Stroll King and Queen, fireworks display, horse-drawn wagon rides, magic show, community cookie exchange, Story Book Lane, the 50/50 raffle drawing, and at 9:00 p.m., the bonfire plus roasted marshmallows and s'mores. We are also going to have decorated Christmas trees that will be raffled off on December 10. A visit from Santa, dozens of local crafters, a baking contest, gingerbread house contest, and specials in the area shops also help make up this annual event.285-4753.

5th - Spirit Of Christmas 2008 - Ennis Stroll Come experience Ennis during an old fashioned Christmas Stroll from 3:00-8:00 PM. Merchants will be open late, featuring Christmas treats for all! Pictures with Santa, Christmas stories for children, roasted chestnuts, live music, special gallery events and much more! The Lions Club Park by the Madison River will be lit for the holiday season. Something for the whole family! Make a festive, fun night of it with local hotels and restaurants, see a movie in our quaint downtown theatre, and visit our neighbors in historic Virginia City for their Christmas Socials. Please call the Ennis Chamber of Commerce @ 406-682-4388 or visit the Chamber website: www.ennischamber.com for more information.

5th-6th - Red Lodge Christmas Stroll. redlodge.com.

6th - Backcountry Horsemen of Montana Gallatin Valley chapter Christmas Party, Broken Hart Ranch 73800 Gallatin Road. Social at 6:00PM, Dinner at 7:00PM, Dancing at 8:00PM. Entertainment provided by Pretty Good String Band.

6th - 27th Annual Bozeman Christmas Stroll 4:00pm until 7:00pm Downtown Bozeman Main St. Bozeman Santa is never to busy to deliver himself to historic downtown Bozeman in December to chaperon the holiday festivities. Making his way from Emerson Cultural Center to Downtown Bozeman with numerous little elves in tow, lighting the holiday decorations on the way, Santa brings a spirit of holiday fun to the day. Downtown businesses are open and many offer live entertainment. Over thirty food vendors from local non-profit groups raise money and fill your tummy with holiday fare like roasted chestnuts, hot scones, homemade soup, baked goods and apple cider. Pictures with Santa and good will towards all make one of the most popular events of the season. More Information: 586-4008

6th - The Big Sky Chamber of Commerce presents the 14th annual December ball, now named The Boots and Belles Ball. Join us for dinner from an assortment of local restaurants, music and dancing, and a silent auction. This is a great way to celebrate the holiday season for the entire community. Call the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce at 995-3000 to learn more about this Big Sky tradition.

6th - Bobcat Christmas Pole Kick off your ski season with this fundraiser event for the MSU Nordic Ski Team. 1K & 3K classic or skate races begin at 10:30 AM. 5K and 10K skate races begin at 11:00 AM. Race day registration 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Camaraderie, fun prizes! Call 994-4118 for information.

6th - Holiday Farmers Market, Livingston Civic Center. 222-0730.

6th - Annual Old-Fashioned Christmas Fair, Livingston Fairgrounds. 8am-4pm. 222-4185.

11th - Big Sky Resort Hotels Open

12th - Festival of Lights-All Over Belgrade-5:30-9pm

13th - Bridger Bowl Opening Day Bridger Bowl Ski Area Bozeman More Information: 586-2389

13th-14th - Military Appreciation Weekend. Free Skiing for active-duty personnel, guardsmen, reserve duty personnel and retired members. Military officials will be able to simply present their military ID to ticket sales and collect their free lift tickets. Spouses and family members who present their official dependent status military ID will qualify for half price lift tickets.

13th-28th - Weekends only. Holiday candlelight tours of Lewis & Clark Caverns by reservation. Guided two-mile, two-hour tour. Attendance is limited. Phone (406) 287-3541 for details or reservations.

15th - There’s no better time to experience the friendly, small town feel of Manhattan than during the annual Christmas Stroll. The entire community comes alive with a parade, hayrides, fireworks, and Christmas caroling, while shops open their doors and invite folks in for refreshment and conversation. Trees in the park and homes in town all sparkle with festive lights, and folks get the chance to rekindle old acquaintances, or just get caught up on the latest happenings as everyone takes to the streets for a night of fun. For additional information contact the Chamber at (406) 284-4274

17th - West Entrance to Yellowstone Opens to Over-the-Snow Travel

17th - Projected opening, Bohart Ranch

18th - West Yellowstone Christmas Stroll It's a time of rosy cheeks and laughter. Join your friends and neighbors as we light the Town Tree, greet Santa, and stroll the shops seeking just the right gifts.

20th - RUST-Rails Under the STars- A nighttime rail jam in the plaza. Local riders sliders show their skills with music, fireworks and fun.

20th-21st - Educator Appreciation Weekend- Educators Ski free with weekend lodging. Families of educators ski for 50% off with lodging.

30th - Bridger Bowl Torchlight Parade & Fireworks Display Bridger Bowl Ski Area Bozeman More Information: 586-2389

January 2009

25th-February 14th - The Race to the Sky continues to grow in its reputation as a competitive event dedicated to challenging both mushers and their teams. The Race is a challenge unequaled in the sport because it is the most mountainous trail offered in the sport of distance mushing. The trail borders three nationally-designated wilderness areas and climbs to 6,000 feet. There is nothing like being behind a dog team on a moonlit night, shooting stars racing by, and the only sound within range is your own. For information call (406) 881-DOGS, (406) 227-7286, e-mail info@racetothesky.org or website at www.racetothesky.org.

28th-29th - The ASMSU Outdoor Recreation Program will sponsor two Basic Avalanche Awareness Workshops during the 2008-2009 winter season. Instructors are Ron Johnson and Karl Birkeland. The workshops are held on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, with a field session on Saturday. Different topics are presented each evening. Topics covered include: avalanche terrain recognition, the affect weather has on avalanche hazard, the development of the mountain snowpack, decision making skills, and basic search and rescue procedures. Participants in the field session should have basic skiing and snowboarding skills, and the appropriate equipment to negotiate “groomed” intermediate ski runs. Though not required, an avalanche rescue beacon will be very helpful for the field session. Cost is $5.00 for each evening session and $15.00 for the field session. Cost for the entire workshop is $25.00. Registration is not required for the evening sessions. Registration is required for the field session, which can be done at either of the evening sessions. Contact The ASMSU Outdoor Recreation Program at 994-3621 for more information. The course outline is available at http://www.fsavalanche.org/NAC/techPages/av_ed/basic.pdf

February 2009

7th - 2009 Rocky Mountain Chefs Invitational Chef Eric Trager of Bridge Creek and a yet-to-be-names invited guest chef will be teaming up to plan an evening of extraordinary cuisine and wine. The menu designed by these award-winning chefs will highlight the best of Montana cuisine and each course will be paired with a wine specially selected by Bridge Creek owner Peter Christ. The event is a fund-raiser for the Boys & Girls Club of Red Lodge. The past four year's events have raised over $60,000 and the organizers have every confidence that this year's event will exceed all expectations. Tickets for the 2009 Rocky Mountain Chefs Invitational are available at Bridge Creek for $150 per person. Tables with preferred seating for ten are available for $1500. Through the support of our volunteer staff and numerous sponsors, a minimum of $100 per person will be donated to the Boys & Girls Club.

22nd-24th - Montana Special Olympics state winter games, Whitefish.

TBA - Special Olympics Montana State Winter Games are hosted by Whitefish Mountain Resort. Nearly 250 athletes from across Montana gather for competition in alpine skiing, cross country skiing, snowboarding and floor hockey. Competition events are free of charge and open to the public.

March 2009

14th-15th - National Finals 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!!

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!

May 2009

13th-15th - Montana Special Olympics state summer games, Bozeman.

TBA - Special Olympics Montana State Summer Games begin a three-year stay in Bozeman with more than 2000 athletes coming from across the state for the event. Athletes compete in track & field, aquatics, bocce, bowling, cycling, equestrian, golf, gymnastics, powerlifting, soccer, kayaking. All competition events are free of charge and open to the public.

June 2009

13th-14th - Eagle Mount Western Rendezvous. Started in 1996 the Western Rendezvous is unique in that it is geared toward families in our community. This event is held on the second Saturday of June and is an all day affair. It has a variety of activities for children and adults that range from silent and live auctions, and, most importantly, a children’s carnival which includes inflatables, a climbing wall and games for children. Come join in and enjoy the famous whole hog barbecue and barn dance where you can kick up your heels to smooth country sounds. There'll be plenty of wild west entertainment! All proceeds directly benefit Eagle Mount's recreational programs for our friends and neighbors with disabilities and children fighting cancer. 406-586-1781.

26th - Madison River Foundation Gala Banquet Madison River Foundation, Inc. fundraising event. For more information please contact: Richard Lessner 406-682-3148 or visit the website www.ennisflyfishing.com.