Archive | November 2011
17 November 2011  

Local Band of Professors Releases Original Album

Textbook Blues performs at the release party for their latest CD, "Got Your Number," on Nov. 10, 2011. Photo by Brent Zundel

Textbook Blues performs at the release party for their latest CD, “Got Your Number,” on Nov. 10, 2011. Photo by Brent Zundel

By Brent Zundel
For the MSU Exponent
November 17, 2011

With final exams fast approaching, the name “Textbook Blues” likely conjures up many different images in students’ heads, but four Bozeman residents recently gave attendees at the Filling Station a different image. “Textbook Blues” is a local band composed of four members, all of whom have some connection to teaching, thus providing a fitting name.

John Priscu, a professor in the Land Resources and Environmental Sciences (LRES) Department, shreds a mean lead guitar when not conducting nationally renowned research in Antarctica. Edis Kittrell, an English professor who also teaches in the Honors College, provides a soulful lead voice.

Warren Jones, an environmental engineering professor and former Faculty Senate Chair, keeps rhythm for the band by playing a skillful bass. To round out the quartet, Greg Vallor holds a crisp beat on the drums. Although he holds a teaching credential, presumably he no longer teaches because he can “do.” Read More…

3 November 2011  

Allure of the Big Sky

By Brent Zundel
For the MSU Exponent
November 3, 2011

Author’s Note: This column was originally published in the “Community” section of a Nov. 3, 2011, special edition of the Exponent.

The allure of the Big Sky, as seen from Black Canyon Lake in the Beartooth Mountains of south central Montana. Photo by Brent Zundel

The allure of the Big Sky, as seen from Black Canyon Lake in the Beartooth Mountains of south central Montana. Photo by Brent Zundel

Montana is an easy state to love. “Once you’ve gotten drunk on her soul-soothing nectar – a signature blend of wild beauty, passionate patriotism and new-age sex appeal – there is no way you won’t return for a second slurp,” croons the Lonely Planet travel guide.

With its demure diversity, Bozeman is equally easy to love. Citizens can stroll down Main Street and experience the infectious charm of small town America, while international scientists conduct research in the world-class Center for Biofilm Engineering a few blocks away. Read More…