We blame the industry for this… It used to be that when we wrapped up our Weekend Picks on Friday, we could coast through the weekend. There was little need to check in for updates - things were pretty much done. But with so much going down lately - all that’s changed. So here’s some of what’s happened in the world of craft beer news while you were enjoying your weekend.

Good things are happening in Big Sky Country, where craft beer has finally arrived. This shouldn’t really surprise anyone. Montana has long been known for its wide open spaces and the independent spirit of its people. You’ve got to think that they’d be all about the craft beer ethos - small independent brewers making beer for themselves and their communities - and now they are.

There's nothing better than playing host for out-of-town friends on a gorgeous 60-degree weekend in January – unless, of course, a much-anticipated local brewery just so happens to be opening that same weekend. Dallas's trendy Design District, which contains an inspiring mix of local artisans and manufacturers, is now home to another fantastic brewery – Community Beer Company.

Nothing says Wisconsin like beer and cheese. And nothing says beer and cheese like the aptly-named Isthmus Beer and Cheese Festival that took place in Madison last weekend. Even in below-freezing conditions, determined Sconnies cabbed, bussed, biked, and walked to get to their favorite event of the year. So many, in fact, that the event sold out, resulting in "Will sell soul for 1 ticket" signs outside. Worth it.

Hey it’s Friday and we’re heading into the weekend. We get it. You’ve been killing yourself at work all week and you’re in need of fun. That’s where we come in! We’re all about the fun and we’ve got you covered. Plus we’ve got some special weekend beer picks for you too ……..So welcome to this week’s edition of our Awesome Weekend Picks!

It's true, outside appearances influence people's perceptions of how things or people are on the inside. This is why having the right beer label is crucial for the success of the beer. In this series of articles, I will judge local craft beers solely on their labels, selecting my five favorites.

Hard cider was one of the most popular beverages in Colonial America, along with rum, but then beer took over and took off never really looking back. As craft beer has exploded and drinkers are now looking for the next most interesting beverage, cider is making a comeback.

So many craft beers, so little time. With so many craft breweries, releasing so many beers, we thought it might help to provide a weekly update on all the new beers that are hitting the streets …..So welcome to this week’s edition of Newbies - your guide to great new craft beer releases!

If you've been following our new series so far, you've already studied up on “What the hell is a Kölsch” and you’re probably feeling pretty accomplished now that you’ve enhanced your craft beer IQ. Well, time to stop doing your victory dance, pull the needle off your Kool & The Gang 'Celebrate Good Times' record, and get ready for another healthy dose of beer knowledge.