Big Sky Hosts President Barack Obama

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SAM Magazine--August 17, 2009--Big Sky, Mont.--The Big Sky sales team received a phone call from the White House a few weeks ago to find out if it was available to host a special unnamed guest the evening of August 14. And so it was that the Summit Hotel at Big Sky hosted the President of the United States and the First Family for a night's rest before exploring Yellowstone National Park.

Left to right: general manager Taylor Middleton; VP of lodging and Spa Barb Starz; director of PR and partner resort marketing Dax Schieffer; and the President.

Left to right: Barb Starz; The President; Dax Schieffer; and national sales manager Brian Stumpf.

Unlike many of Big Sky's other 200 meetings it hosts during the year, this opportunity required a level of security never before seen in the Gallatin Valley. For the safety of the Commander in Chief, the resort had to ensure strict compliance not to reveal its mid-summer guest to friends, family and media.

"We were so honored at the opportunity to host the President and show off Montana's friendly guest service, quality lodging and a variety of mountain activities," said Big Sky general manager, Taylor Middleton. "I couldn't be more proud of our team in excelling at this historic experience, particularly under the unique secrecy involved."

The President's family took part in many of the area's activities including white water rafting on the Gallatin, zip-lining and the scenic lift. As reported, the President used his vacation time in Montana to try out fly-fishing with his Deputy Chief of Staff, Jim Messina, who attended the University of Montana.

Big Sky Resort worked with the White House staff to plan meals for Barack Obama and his family, including a special evening of s' mores prepared over a fire pit near the Carabiner Lodge for the children in the group.

After a good night's rest at base camp, the family moved on mid-morning to experience Yellowstone National Park for the amazing views, abundant wildlife and amazing geothermal features, including Old Faithful.