The Montana Standard - 03/19/07

BUTTE (LEE) -- St. Patrick's Day in Butte is all about the wearin' o' the beads.

During one of the warmest St. Patrick's Day celebrations in recent memory, thousands of revelers hit the streets of Uptown Butte dressed in green and sporting a wide variety of plastic beads. Saturday's temperatures climbed into the 60s in the Butte area.

"Hey, this is the Mardi Gras of Montana," explained Charlie Marsik who came down from Great Falls to party in Butte.

Marsik, who wore enough chains around his neck to make Mr. T jealous, said beads are a great way to meet women -- or at least become acquainted with parts of their anatomy.

He explained that by offering a woman the proper amount of beads, she is likely to offer a "flash" in exchange. This has been a long standing tradition during Mardi Gras in New Orleans, but it has become a popular routine during Butte's St. Patrick's Day fete over the years.

However, most people wanted beads for reasons other than voyeurism. Children scrambled the ground picking up loose beads. Many people's pet dogs were adorned with the plastic jewelry as well.

Beads were also a hot item among vendors Saturday.

Rick Holman was selling beads to raise money for group, the Butte AIDS Support Service. Holman said his organization helps those living with AIDS in town.

Selling two sets of beads for $1, Holman said he was expected to raise more than $1,000 that day.

"All of the proceeds go to help our clients," Holman said.

Many people participating in the parade thrilled parade-watchers by throwing them beads.

Spring was definitely in the air Saturday afternoon with clear, sunny skies and mild temperatures.