Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1470865
24 | SIGNATURE MONTANA Owner Ma Robb and his partners have approached the project a lot like creating a new drink special – taking an old classic and then adding new ingredients to create something new and exciting that you can't find anywhere else. It might appear that the Goat Group founding partners Ryan Sweeney and Alen Avaizian, along with new partners Mahew Robb, Justin Klinger, and Skyy John – are taking a leap, considering almost all of their 13 bars and restaurants are in the L.A. area (except for the famous Dirty Monkey in Maui.) But they are approaching this project much as they have the others asking, "What is lacking here, and what can we add?" Robb and Sweeney became intrigued when a friend mentioned that the historic Great Falls building was for sale, so they flew to Montana to take a look. ey saw exciting potential in the storied four-story brick building, but it was probably something else that sealed the deal. He says, "we fell in love with the community and area." Since then, Robb and Sweeney bought homes in Great Falls and seled into what promises to be an ongoing project. Right now, they are concentrating on e Wild Hare to create a multi-faceted fun place that features live music, DJs, both local and out of town, some comedy shows, a fun place to watch sports, a newly renovated casino, a tequila cocktail lounge, elevated pub food, and a liquor store. ey will also offer rental space for special events and private parties. Robb says, "It is a place for everybody." Rebecca Engum, Executive Director at the Great Falls Montana Tourism office, says e Wild Hare fills a need for an upscale, modern lounge that complements the efforts of many other businesses in Great Falls. She also notes, "e technology and configuration options available within the space will provide meeting planners a unique venue for convention networking and special conference events." Details such as the lighting help set the tone for this unique gathering place.