SigMT

SIGNATURE MONTANA | 65 Learning Has No Limits Caleb Sunwall took charge of the electrical work. A major step involved geing the outdoor lights working again. Caleb says, "ere were electrical boxes in the brick originally, but they had been blanked off. I put new fixtures in to give it that marquee look, and when we first turned it on, it was so bright!" Mark Tronson's background in food spans a timeline beginning with Mr. Steak in 1980 up to his current work at 5th & Wine. He loves the challenge of the food recipes. Cathie Tronson lends a hand with compliance, licensing, insurance, and payroll. However, Whitney Sunwall admits, "Coffee was not our strength. So, we're working with the experience we have and then finding the knowledge for the rest." Buffalo Blanc's staff collaborated to build the drink menu, which has been key to their coffee bar's success. ey offer coffees, lotus drinks, and milkshakes. Brewing an espresso reaches new heights when combined with flavors like cinnamon, chocolate, and cayenne pepper. In need of an energy boost? A specialty lotus drink may contain hints of huckleberry, lavender, or peach. Each featured drink on the menu bears a unique name. Mark says, "We let employees and friends come up with names like Last Best Lotus and Prairie Fire." Whitney adds, "Our slogan is 'In the Spirit of Montana,' so we wanted names with a Montana draw." For those adventurous souls, there is also a weekly drink special. "Our manager has some really amazing flavor combinations she's learned over the years," Whitney says. An image from the 1939 GFHS yearbook shows the "Hi-School Store" and gas station as a gathering spot for students. The main area's terrazzo flooring mimics the design of Great Falls High School's floors. "We did sample after sample trying to get that tuned in just right," says Whitney. Whitney says, "Kids respect and love things like architecture and beauty. When you say you made this space for THEM to use, they respect that."

• Cover