Powder Blast '05

Want more peace of mind in the backcountry? Try pledging some of that spare change to this year’s Powder Blast on November 4th. The sixth annual event includes a chili and beer feed with live bluegrass music, held at the Emerson Cultural Center. A silent auction begins at 6:00 pm and dinner at 7:30. The cost is roughly $30 per person. Think of it as your own backcountry safety insurance—the proceeds go to help fund the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center (GNFAC), which puts out the critical daily avalanche reports that skiers, snowmobilers, climbers, and other winter enthusiasts rely on. “This is an essential project for anyone who recreates in the area,” says Laura Ryan, a member of Friends of the Avalanche Center, who is helping organize the event. “This is the most accurate, up-to-date information around.” Silent auction items include business donations like packs, ski passes, snowboards, various outdoor gear, and massage coupons. Dinner is catered by Doug Hurt from Bountiful Table and includes two kinds of chili, cornbread and cookies or brownies, with beer from Blackfoot Brewery. Shake it all down with some bluegrass and dancing after the auction. Last year the event raised $12,000—but this year, because you’re coming, the Avalanche Center should make even more. For more information, check out www.mtavalanche.com.