Distinctly Montana Magazine

enterprise, a forge operation for specialized iron work, a large, grass-fed beef ranch, a company that does customer survey work worldwide and many "stealth" businesses like that of Ron McAdams, who is a self-styled "business advi- sor," working with a company in San Francisco. "I live here because of lifestyle," says Ron. "I've got a good one." "Lifestyle," is the common refrain among business own- ers in Big Timber, who seem to couple rugged, Western determinism with a strong desire to enjoy "the great outdoors" and fully appreciate the benefits of small town living. Any sense of isolation is readily buffered by the easy, one hour drive to the bustle of Bozeman or Billings, their cultural attractions and international airports. Not that Big Timber is lacking in any area. The Grand Hotel's talented head chef, Amy Smith, has for 20 years served up some of the best dining in Montana, right in downtown Big Timber. She has prepared food for the likes of local residents Michael Keaton (a regular) and Tom Brokaw, and visitors like Jimmy Buffet, Robert Redford, Chicago Mayor, Rahm Emanuel, and retired Supreme Court Justice www.distinctlymontana.com " " Crazy Mountain Forge decided to start business in Big Timber because it is a strong community-oriented town with great diversity and opportunity. DERON JOHNSON, OWNER Ruth Bader Ginsburg, all of whom would likely respond "lifestyle" if asked why they now homestead or visit Sweet Grass County. " " Big Timber is such a pretty town. I mean it really is a pretty little town. MONTANA VISITOR An unexpected surprise, fine businesses like the Grand Hotel are what make Big Timber so special. Within shoot- ing distance of each other, C. Sharpe Arms and Shiloh Rifles offer their worldwide clientele the finest quality in custom-made, single shot rifles. According to owner, John Schoffstall, custom rifles from C. Sharpe Arms have been in great demand since he set up shop in 1975. Both C. Sharps and Shiloh sell their product worldwide through both reputation and the Internet. Also in downtown Big Timber Custom Survey Solutions Inc. (CSSI) does world- class customer relationship work for the likes of McDon- ald's, Compass, Motorola and Verizon…and 99% of its business comes from outside Montana. "We have had many long-term clients that kind of forget we are located in a small town," says CSSI owner Tim Yuzeitis. "They will call and say, "Now where is Big Timber again?" 67 RECENT

• Cover