Hot Stuff

About a week ago I had the chance to explore Norris Hot Springs, about an hour drive from Butte. I went on a Saturday evening, and had a great time. Norris is unique spot, as they have a musicians that perform adjacent to the springs while covered in a geodesic dome, something I have never seen before. They also have a bar right next to the water, with a large wine selection and several good beers. It was nice having the bar close by, as it was quite cold and it was tough to stay out of the 107 degree water for very long. The crowd was more family and tourist oriented when we got there at 6:30, but before long a college age crowd started filtering in to enjoy the water and spirits. A great experience, I plan to visit again. Apparently the area around Butte has several hot springs, all of which I would like to check out. I enjoyed Norris more than Boulder Hot Springs, which I visited on the school trip. The Boulder hot spring area felt too much like a community pool, in contrast to Norris where the bathing pool was lined with wood and had a more relaxing atmosphere all around.

While I am here, I would like to take an opportunity to profile another great local brewery. I have been able to visit the taproom of the Big Sky Brewing Co. twice now, and each time has been a blast. I am now sure if they advertise this or not, but they let you have a free sample 3 or 4 of their brews while visiting the showroom. This gives you a chance to decide which one is your favorite, and you can pick up a case while you are there. I have been drinking the Summer Honey blend, but I also enjoy their specialty, the Moose Drool Brown Ale. I urge you to check them out!

Introduction

Aaron Briggs

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Hello there, my name is Aaron. I arrived in Butte two months ago, as a transfer to the Technical Communications program. I still don't know that many people here, so feel free to introduce yourself on my facebook! I traveled here from a land in the Far East, known to intrepid travelers as the state of Connecticut. In my home state we have warm sunny coastlines and trees that produce colorful foliage. I'm not implying that the scenery in Montana isn't beautiful as well, it just takes some getting used to. There is also some contrast in the social sphere, being that Connecticut is situated directly between the cultural meccas of New York and Boston. One need only to travel an hour or two to visit one of these sprawling urban metropolises. The powers that be have decided that some of these factors give me a unique outsider perspective on life in Butte, and I am inclined to agree.

I have noticed an interesting thing about the constitution of Butte residents during my short time here. Some people will wear shorts regardless of the temperature. This is insanity. Maybe it will take me some to acclimate myself to the weather, but until then I am going to keep my jacket and gloves on. I thoroughly enjoyed the last bit of sunshine we had at the start of the semester, but I am afraid it was merely a prelude to a prolonged state of Arctic-like conditions.

Weather aside, the state of Montana is not without it's charms. The locally brewed libations have impressed me greatly. I have sampled excellent beers from several different breweries, each with it's own appeal. A favorite of mine comes from the Bayern brewery in Missoula. They have an Oktoberfest beer that rivals any other I've tasted. Brewed in the same style as the classic Bavarian Dark Marzen, using a process that has changed little from it's initial brewing in 1810. The 6% alcohol content helps to ensure a euphoric Oktoberfest experience.

These are but a few of my first impressions of life in Big Sky Country. You can expect more commentary as I continue to experience life as an Oredigger. I will be attending events on campus and in the community as much as possible in order to get the "full experience". If anyone has any interesting ideas that would enable me to see the "real Butte", feel free to make a suggestion. Befriend me on facebook to get in contact with me!