Monday Morning Second-Hand Brews News Update: 11/26/12

Back again here in the post-Thanksgiving slug with a batch of interesting reading for you before things really pick up in the coming weeks.

PHILADELPHIA
~ This was shaping up to be quite a fine looking reason to visit The Industry this week. Now, though, even the website doesn't say so, the Tuesday dinner with Iron Hill has been pushed back into late-January
~ Blink. There they go again. And, we're walking...
~ Lew Bryson has a wrap-up from his time in Philly with a cast of players in the ongoing discussion around Pennsylvania state law facilitated for a second time at Yards Brewing Company.

EASTERN PA, NJ, DE, AND OTHER NEARBY PARTS OF MID-ATLANTIC
~ Sly Fox is now in Delaware. Odd that it took so long for such a small state, but there you go.
~ And, while we're on the topic of Sly Fox, you'll pat yourself on the back later for taking some time off from work on Friday, Dec. 14 to help the brewery celebrate its 17th anniversary. You can even begin with a brunch on location.
~ I must've been away too long. Jean Broillet from Tired Hands tells us about something new and interesting he's cooked up. But, then again, that's his M.O. is it not?
~ Jack Curtin had a spot-on image to share of beer "belonging" with Thanksgiving…from 46 years ago.

THE REST OF PLANET BEER
~ Greg Heller-LaBelle says no matter how you cut it, Obama still wins. A fun read, even if a bit after the fact.
~ My favorite time of year at Alan McLeod's Good Beer Blog. You, too, can join in the fun.
~ Release the Geeks. Let me know how it goes.

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Weekly Beer Calendar Update: November 22 - November 30

Be thankful. Have fun. Support your favorite bar and brewery beginning tonight with more than 25 events before the end of the month.

Check out the entire November 2012 calendar over here. If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, don't hesitate to let me know.

Brewery Promos and Samplings
@Barcade, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/29 - Elysian Brewing Night (4 p.m.; $PAYG for a night with one of Seattle's finest and at least 19 of their beers)

@Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 11/23 - Oskar (Blues) The Grouch Night (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for lots of Oskar Blues beers in cans and on draft. Beers will include all the Oskar Blues core brands and some special stuff. This event, believed to the world’s first garbage can focused beer event, definitely should not be missed.)
@Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 11/30 - Blackout Night with Great Lakes (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for the local draft debut of this year's batch of Great Lakes Blackout Stout. We will be under blackout conditions, just candlelight. Several other great Great Lakes beers will be on tap. Mark should have some Great Lakes give-aways too.)

@Hulmeville Inn, Hulmeville, Pa.--- Tue. 11/27 - Brewmaster Series (6 p.m.; $PAYG for a tap list from Lancaster County's Stoudt's Brewery including Alterbier, Pumpkinfest, Achluophobia, and Fat Dog Stout)

@Iron Hill, Lancaster, Pa.--- Mon. 11/26 - St. James Release (11 a.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for the release of St. James Brown Ale, an English-style Brown Ale, and Give-20 benefiting the Anchorage Program at St. James Church.)

@London Grill, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 11/27 - RJ Rockers and Laughing Dog (7 p.m.; $PAYG as we welcome RJ Rockers from South Carolina and Laughing Dog from Idaho to Philly)

@The Trestle Inn, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/29 - Allagash Favorites and Rarities (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for Bourbon Black, Hugh Malone, White, Curieux, and Four)

@Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, Pa.--- Fri. 11/30 - Mustache Happy Hour (4 p.m.; $PAYG to show off your moustache pride for a chance to win some cool Victory goodies. Moustaches will be judged by the lovely ladies of Victory and prizes will be awarded to winners for the best facial hair in the following categories: Best Style, Wackiest, Fullest, and Creepiest)


"Takeovers", Debuts, Festivals, and other noteworthy events
@Capone's, Norristown, Pa.--- Fri. 11/23 - Black Friday (7 a.m.; $PAYG for a for the annual Black Friday staggering lineup)

@City Tap House, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 11/23 - Into The Black (2 p.m.; $PAYG for a celebration of the "art of dark craft")

@Devil's Den, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/22 - Full of Turkey? Come Drink you Pumpkin Pie (7 p.m.; $PAYG for a tapping a 2012 Southern Tier Pumking and one from last year. We will have a limited food menu available and special discounts for anyone that had to work on turkey day.)

@Iron Hill, Lancaster, Pa.--- Fri. 11/23 - Hopstravaganza (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG as we celebrate 5 years with some tasty hoppy beers like Hop Monster DRIPA, Burton IPA, American Pilsner, Batch 500!, Petite IPA, White IPA, Rising Sun, and Cask-conditioned Kryptonite Imperial IPA)
@Iron Hill, North Wales, Pa.--- Fri. 11/23 - Big Bottle Tasting (2 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG to sample some of our favorite Bottle Reserves)

@Kraftwork, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 11/23 - Blackout (10:30 a.m.; $PAYG for a funky brunch served with beautiful black beers)

@Pinocchio's, Media, Pa.--- Wed. 11/21 - Lost Abbey/Port Tap Takeover (5 p.m.-11 p.m.; $PAYG for Lost Abbey Deliverance, Lost Abbey Bourbon Angel’s Share, 2011 Lost Abbey Gift of the Magi, Lost Abbey Serpents Stout, Lost Abbey Judgement Day, Lost Abbey Avant Garde, Port Mongo DIPA, and possibly more.)

@Sidecar Bar & Grille, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 11/23 - Blackout (10:30 a.m.; $PAYG for a special brunch and some of the most amazing black beers)

@The Drafting Room, Exton, Pa.--- Sat. 11/24 - Hopfest with Harvest Ales (12 p.m.; $PAYG for over a dozen Harvest Ales and a massive raffle at 7 p.m. with 15% of all draft beer sold donated to All 4 Paws Rescue organization.)

@Tria Fermentation School, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/29 - Allagash's Sour Delights (6:30 p.m.-8 p.m.; $60 to explore the wild world of sour beer with Allagash)

@Union Transfer, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 11/24 - Winter Beer Fest (1 p.m.-5 p.m., 6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $10/$40/$50 for more than 100 beers from around the world.)


Food and Beer events
@Anthony's Coal-Fired Pizza, Wayne, Pa.--- Thu. 11/29 - Neshaminy Creek Beer Dinner (7 p.m.; $30 for a four-course meal paired with Neshaminy Creek's Highwater Hefeweizen, Dunkle, County Line IPA, and Tribute Tripple)

@Local 44, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 11/23 - Black Friday Holiday Leftovers ($PAYG for a special brunch from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. beers all day)

@Memphis Taproom, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 11/23 - Everything Went Black ($PAYG for a special brunch from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. beers all day)

@Resurrection Ale House, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 11/23 - Slow & Steady Black Friday ($PAYG for a special brunch from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. beers all day)

@The Industry, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 11/27 - Off The Wall Iron Hill Dinner (7:30 p.m.; $60 for a five-course meal paired with Biere de Garde, Sweet Leaf IPA, Weizenbock, Winter Warmer, and Wild Belgian Tripel)

@Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, Pa.--- Thu. 11/29 - Victory's Cooks Showdown Round 3 (6 p.m.; $PAYG for an in-house head-to-head cooking competition with Victory’s own culinarians paired with a “sous chef” from our brewery or office and pitted against each other.)

@World Café Live, Wilmington, Del.--- Wed. 11/28 - Grilled Cheese & Craft Beer Tasting (6 p.m.; $35 for Grilled Cheese and Craft Beer paired together in unexpected and delicious ways. Bring your vegetarian friends, too – we can accommodate them on all pairings.)


Homebrewing, Education, and Charity
@Pinocchio's, Media, Pa.--- Wed. 11/28 - SPCA Fundraiser (7 p.m.; $PAYG for Animal themed beers will be on tap, including favorites from breweries such as Duck Rabbit, Thirsty Dog, Terrapin, Dark Horse, etc.)

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: November 15 - November 21

It's the designated time of year to give extra thanks for all that we are fortunate enough to have in this life and to share the goodness with others. Not too much of a leap to think that we, around Philadelphia, should be thankful for the year-round hard work of brewers, bar owners and all that are related to the process of getting great beer in our hands. Share the wealth.

Check out the entire November 2012 calendar over here. If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, don't hesitate to let me know.

Brewery Promos and Samplings
@Dock Street Brewery, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 11/20 - Holiday Bottle Release Celebration (4 p.m.; $PAYG for bottles of Prisoner of Hell, Prince Myshkin, Barleywine, Flemish Red, and Barrel-aged R.I.S. plus a special brussel sprouts pizza and live music beginning at 8:30 p.m.)

@Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa.--- Fri. 11/16 - Friday Night Sampling (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of Sierra Nevada beers)

@Goshen Beverage, West Chester, Pa.--- Fri. 11/16 - Friday Night Sampling (4 p.m.-6:30 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of Victory beers)

@Iron Hill, Wilmington, Del.--- Sat. 11/17 - Senor Chocolatoro Bottled Release Party (1 p.m.-4 p.m.; $PAYG for this chocolate-style beer, and enjoy some small bites that pair perfectly with our Chocolate Beer Selections. Also on tap: Jittery Aztec; Rogue Chocolate Stout; Cowabunga Porter; and Rogue Double Chocolate Stout)

@Iron Hill, Newark, Del.--- Wed. 11/21 - Holiday Beer Release (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG for some of our favorite seasonal beers, including Holiday Ale, Bad Santa Brown Ale, Pumpkin Ale, and Cask-conditioned Vanilla Pumpkin Ale. And, raffles on the hour from 7–9 p.m.)

@Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 11/19 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tastings of Oskar Blues beers)

@Perch Pub, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sun. 11/18 - Meet the Brewer and Tasting (Stillwater Artisanal Ales and Sixpoint Brewery) (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG for Stillwater's Stateside Saison, Existent, and Why Can't IBU? and Sixpoint's Sweet Action, Brownstone, and Spice of Life: Pacifica. Brian Strumke from Stillwater and "Jersey" Dan Bisogno, regional brand manager, from Sixpoint Brewery will be in attendance. We will also offer flight tastings of each of Brewery's three offerings that night for $6 in addition to regular draft pours.)

@Pinocchio's, Media, Pa.--- Thu. 11/15 - Ommegang Takeover (5 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for Ommegang's Scythe & Sickle, Belgian Independence Day, Art of Darkness, Seduction, and Abbey Ale.)
@Pinocchio's, Media, Pa.--- Wed. 11/21 - Lost Abbey/Port Tap Takeover (5 p.m.-11 p.m.; $PAYG for Lost Abbey Deliverance, Lost Abbey Bourbon Angel’s Share, 2011 Lost Abbey Gift of the Magi, Lost Abbey Serpents Stout, Lost Abbey Judgement Day, Lost Abbey Avant Garde, Port Mongo DIPA, and possibly more.)

@Sly Fox, Phoenixville, Pa.--- Fri. 11/16 - Third Friday Firkin Fest (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG for Chester County Bitter, Phoenix Pale Ale, and Brewer's Select Pale Ale all from firkins)


"Takeovers", Debuts, Festivals, and other noteworthy events
@Brauhaus Schmitz, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 11/20 - He Said Beer, She Said Wine (7 p.m.; $75 as Chef Jeremy Nolen and Owner Doug Hager of Brauhaus Schmitz are teaming up with Mike Solomonov (Zahav, Percey Street, & Federal Donuts) and sommelier and author Marnie Old (He Said Beer, She said Wine) to host unforgettable pairing dinner.)

@Chestnut 7, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/15 - Long Trail Tap Takeover (4 p.m.; $PAYG to enjoy live music, delicious food and more importantly delicious beer.)

@Devil's Den, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 11/21 - Duvel Rustica Feature (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG to try the new collaboration between Duvel and Ommegang, brewed here in the US and should be an excellent Belgian Golden Ale. Enjoy it or one of several other Ommegang drafts.)

@Fegley's Brew Works, Allentown, Pa.--- Sat. 11/17 - Chocolate Festival (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $10/$15/$20/$25 to start the holiday season early by indulging in decadent sampling of chocolate beer, wine, and liqueur. Additionally, food vendors will have samples available to all participants as well as showcasing their unique chocolate specialties.)

@General Sutter Inn/Bulls Head Public House, Lititz, Pa.--- Fri. 11/16-Sun. 11/18 - Fall Real Ale Festival ($PAYG and no entrance fee. This gives you the opportunity to come back several times in order to sample the variety of brews. Half price growler fills on Sunday; bring your own growler. Saturday from 8-11 a.m. a traditional English breakfast will be served in the pub.)

@Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 11/16 - Mad Elf, Happy You ($PAYG for Annual Mad Elf Night. As usual we saved a barrel from last year, so we will be pouring two years of Mad Elf. Also on tap will be Tröegs Scratch 78 Fresh Hop and Dream Weaver Wheat.)

@Kite & Key, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/15 - Russian River Night (7 p.m.; $PAYG as they've been saving a few Russian River barrels in the vault for special tapping on this night)

@Manayunk Brewing Company, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/15 - Pints For North Light (6 p.m.-10:30 p.m.; $50/$60/$75/$80/$135/$150 for a beer festival that benefits the North Light Community Center. Great food samplings, silent auction, commemorative 2012 "Pints for North Light" glass, and entertainment by Sound Investment.)

@National Constitution Center, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/15 - Bathtub Beer Fest (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $45 for a unique, sudsy evening that harkens back to America's darkest, driest chapter: The Prohibition. We'll have flappers and gangsters and plenty of beer served straight from the bathtub. You'll enjoy samples of old-fashioned styles and new varieties, too. PLUS: All attendees receive free admission to the Center's Prohibition exhibit. Held in conjunction with the National Constitution Center's new exhibit, "American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition.")

@Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, Pa.--- Wed. 11/21 - Red Wednesday (8 a.m.; $PAYG as they release Red Thunder - Baltic Thunder aged in red wine barrels - by dubbing the day "Red Wednesday," and serving a special breakfast starting at 8 a.m)


Food and Beer events
@Iron Hill, Lancaster, Pa.--- Mon. 11/19 & Tue. 11/20 - Halloween Brewmaster's Dinner (Rescheduled from 10/29-10/30 due to Hurricane Sandy) (6:00 p.m.; $65 for a five-course meal paired with English IPA, Anvil Ale, Rauchtoberfest, Old Ale 2008, and Great Pumpkin Stout)


Homebrewing, Education, and Charity
@Keystone Homebrew, Montgomeryville, Pa.--- Sat. 11/17 - 20th Anniversary Blowout Party (see website for details)

@Memphis Taproom, Philadelphia, Pa.--- ending Fri. 11/16 - Thanksgiving Pie In The Sky from MANNA ($PAYG to buy MANNA Pies to help provide nourishing, life-sustaining meals to people in our area who are coping with life threatening illnesses.)

Dash for the Dogfish in Milton, Del. 9/30/12

Dogfish Dash 2012 (click above for full gallery)

It doesn't happen often, but every once in a great while, I give out a picture of me.

After all these years (7, to be specific), I finally got to my first Dogfish Dash on September 30. At that point in my marathon training schedule, whether it was a wise idea remained to be seen. My training schedule called for an 18-20 mile run and the Dogfish Dash was a 10-K (with a 5-K option).

The races started and ended along the side of the main brewery building and the courses weaved their way through the neighboring community and farmland. While the support from the residents along the course was surprisingly sparse (based on my experiences in many other "neighborhood races"), there was no shortage of post-race excitement and support for their runners and their families and friends back at the brewery.

I won't bore you with the details of the race. We ran. We finished. Or, at least that's the view of runners by most non-runners, right?

So, what do you say, on to the beer? The race began at 8 a.m. on a Sunday morning and most runners were across the finish line not much later than 9 a.m., which conveniently was the time the brewery was allowed to start serving beer.

But don't let the time of day fool you; the runners were quick to jump into their allotment of three beers that came with the race participation fee. Unfortunately, the Indian Brown supplies were drained quickly. No slouches, though, Shelter Pale Ale and 60 Minute IPA picked up the slack for plenty of refreshment as the party picked up.

Live rocking music was provided and a breakfast buffet was served up during the two-ish hour long post-race party. Lines quickly grew long but that provided the chance to get to know other runners/beer lovers in line.

Dogfish went all out during the awards ceremony by first turning over their biggest check ever to The Nature Conservancy ($38,500) and then inviting Governor Jack Markell (who also happened to be campaigning for the fall election) to the stage to help brewery owner Sam Calagione present the overall and age group awards for both the 5-K and 10-K races. Costume awards were given as well, in keeping with what we've all come to expect from Dogfish Head (a la Bocce tournament, e.g.)

Winning the men's 5-K race at the wonderful age of 52 was Greg Cauller (time: 18:08!) and 35-year-old Lynn Knothe for the women (time: 19:58). On the 10-K side, the intersection of craft beer and running was no where more evident than with the men's winner, homebrewer Jeff Powers sporting an impressive 33:14. He was subsequently featured in Draft Magazine by The Beer Runner. On the women's side, Lauren Kobylarz took first place overall with a time of 40:45.

All in all, a beautiful, fun, and healthy weekend in Delaware.

Monday Morning Second-Hand Brews News Update: 11/12/12

With yesterday's Harrisburg Marathon behind me, pretty certain that you'll see a solid uptick from me here in the beer world. 'bout time, don't you think? First up, let's get the weekly rundown of recent and interesting stories from here and there.

PHILADELPHIA
~ Jeremy Nolen has the Wursthaus Schmitz stall opened at the city's historic Reading Terminal Market. That, in case it's not clear, is a very good thing. I should hopefully have a chance to stop there later this week.

EASTERN PA, NJ, DE, AND OTHER NEARBY PARTS OF MID-ATLANTIC
~ Haven't linked to Suzy Woods in a while. Here she points out how Ommegang/Duvel has responded to the devastation of Superstorm/Hurricane Sandy.

~ Jump over here to see why Lew Bryson doesn't think Privatization is dead in Pennsylvania.

~ SAVOR is moving to NYC next year.

THE REST OF PLANET BEER
~ This article has really burned some people up. I say, step outside of our great-tasting world of "craft" beer and think what all the hubbub sounds/looks like from afar. On one hand, some suggest this could be just link baiting, but also consider that this is the exact flavor of opinion that I hear at least once a week from people who just don't get it or have no interest in getting it.

So, there's this writer guy Queenan has an opinion about what he sees in the beer world from afar. He doesn't seem to make any misrepresentations about who he is or, for that matter, what he knows...or wants to know. His only misstep, it seems, is to have suggested "...want people to cut this out..." Otherwise, he appears to be stating an opinion which I'm pretty sure he's free to do.

Let's leave it at that, nothing more to see here, move along. Still, there's no harm, in my opinion, in reading it. I don't think we really have to worry about him moving the needle with this article.

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Tomorrow: Craft Beer Bus rolls on in Philly

My unscientifically-formed impression of the Philadelphia beer scene is that outside of the mammoth Philly Beer Week each June, there may be no more anticipated display of Philadelphia beer riches than at the Craft Beer Express.

It has grown into a twice annual, one-day "event" of twelve events held across Center City Philadelphia and its border neighborhoods. A bus connects all of the establishments, transporting attendees who pay $10 for an unlimited number of rides for nine hours.

It's quite a spectacle, if you haven't seen it first-hand in the past.

Here's a rundown of each event during the fall installment of Craft Beer Express 2012, occurring tomorrow, November 10.

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Kraftwork
541 East Girard Avenue
(215) 739-1700
kraftworkbar.com

"Great Taste of the Midwest"
Sexy beers from sexy states including all of your favorites from Bells, Founders, Jolly Pumpkin, Goose Island, New Holland, Two Brothers, Great Lakes, and more!

Johnny Brenda's
1201 Frankford Avenue
(215) 739-9684
johnnybrendas.com/event/173713

"Wet Hop Rodeo and Ranchero Brunch"
It's our 4th Annual Wet Hop Rodeo, a round-up of local and national wet hopped beers. Come celebrate the awesome-ness that is fresh-hopped beer! We will be kicking the day off with Ranchero Brunch from 11am-3:30pm featuring huevos rancheros, cowboy steak & eggs, and chilaquiles among other brunchly delights. Fresh hopped beers will be pouring all day until they kick.

Standard Tap
901 North 2nd Street
(215) 238-0630
news.standardtap.com.s86406.gridserver.com/?p=792

"Imperial Pageant & Huntsman's Brunch"
Magnificent Russian Imperial Stouts, Massive Pale Ales, and Powerful Pilsners command your respect. Too rich for your blood? A selection of Session beers is also available for the Peasantry. Brunch features game and smoked fish victuals. Starts at 11 a.m.

The Institute
549 North 12th Street
(267) 318-7772
institutebar.com/CBX--Craft-Beer-Express-.html

"Stouts and Porters"

Bishop's Collar
2349 Fairmount Avenue
(215) 765-1616
thecollar.us

"We're Raiding Wiggins' Fridge"
Origlio Beverage tap take-over.

Kite & Key
1836 Callowhill Street
(215) 568-1818
thekiteandkey.com/wp/?tribe_events=craft-beer-express-fall-session

"Tröegs & Victory Tap Takeover"
The event name says it all!

Jose Pistola's
263 South 15th Street
(215) 545-4101
josepistolas.com

Stay Tuned for Event Details!

The Sidecar
2201 Christian Street
(215) 732-3429
thesidecarbar.com

"Green Flash"
Delicious beers on tap from Green Flash Brewing out of San Diego, CA.

Pub on Passyunk East
1501 East Passyunk Avenue
(215) 755-5125
pubonpassyunkeastblog.blogspot.com

"Sweets & Sours"
The P.O.P.E. will have 14 exciting sour beers on draft in collaboration with East Passyunk neighbor, Ms. Goody Cupcake. We will be selling on premises her delicious & freshly made signature Truffles, pumpkin spice moonpies and debuting a unique, delicately-made cupcake infused with Russian River's Supplication.

Devil's Den
1148 South 11th Street
(215) 339-0855
devilsdenphilly.com/our-events

Gypsy Brewers
Gypsy Brewing Day featuring Beers from Evil Twin, Stillwater Artisanal Ales, Mikkeller & Omnipollo. Draft list coming soon.

Brauhaus Schmitz
718 South Street
(267) 909-8814
brauhausschmitz.com

Fatherland Knows Best
The best german beers available in 15 different styles. From kolsch to kellerbier, Dunkel to doppelbocks.

Race St. Café
208 Race Street
(215) 627-6181
racestreetcafe.net/ordereze/1000/Page.aspx

A Festivus For The Rest Of Us
Our annual celebration of Seasonal and Christmas Beers. We will be hosting Megan Maguire of Ommegang and Suzy Woods from Allagash. These Girls will be doing double duty as they spin records and represent their beers. There may also be an official airing of grievances.

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Weekly Beer Calendar Update: November 8 - November 14

The weather is chilling down and the beer events calendar around the Philadelphia region is heating up. Though, that's not news to most of you. Get out there and enjoy.

Check out the entire November 2012 calendar over here. If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, don't hesitate to let me know.

Brewery Promos and Samplings
@Hop Angel Brauhaus, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 11/14 - Germany Comes from Danville - Old Forge Night (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for Old Forge's Ludwig's Lager (Oktoberfest), Rauchbier, Righteous Roggin, and Shermanator Doppelbock.)

@Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 11/12 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free tastings of Yards' beers)

@Percy Street Barbecue, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/8 - Happy Birthday ($PAYG for Happy Hour all night with Oskar Blues, live music, and smokin’ BBQ.)

@Pinocchio's, Media, Pa.--- Thu. 11/8 - Coors Batch 19 Tasting (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG to come out and try Coors Batch 19 Pre-Prohibition Lager with draft specials and meet our buddy Eric.)

@The Institute, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/8 - James Bond Movie & Dinner Quizzo (8 p.m.-11 p.m.; $PAYG for an entree and your choice of beer for $12 and James Bond Quizzo with "You Only Live Twice" playing on the TVs.)

@Trolley Car Diner, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/8 - Beer Tasting (5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m; $Free to taste new brews from Chimay Brewing.)


"Takeovers", Debuts, Festivals, and other noteworthy events
@12 Quality Beer Bars, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 11/10 - Craft Beer Express (11 a.m.-8 p.m.; $10 unlimited bus ticket plus $PAYG at the bars)

@Barcade, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/8 - Pretty Things Brewing Night (4 p.m.; $PAYG for Babayaga, Field Mouse’s Farewell, Fluffy White Rabbit, Jack D’Or, Lovely St. Winefride, Meadowlark, and Saint Botolph’s Town)

@Campbell's Field, Camden, NJ--- Sat. 11/10 - Sippin' By The River (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $35-$65 for a keepsake stemless wine glass, and the chance to sample an assortment of great food, wine, beer, and spirits. Plus, interactive sessions, a silent auction, entertainment, live music, and much more)

@Convention Center, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 11/10 - PA Beer Festival (1 p.m.-4 p.m., 7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $15/$40 for one of the largest selections of beers on the east coast, featuring 100+ craft breweries and a total of over 250 beers to sample.)

@Field House, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 11/10 - Fresh Hop Festival (5 p.m.; $PAYG for any of our twelve fresh hop kegs being tapped at 5 p.m. These fresh hop beers are only kegged once a year so get the flavor while it lasts. Be a part of the PA Beer Fest in the PA Convention Center and join us as we introduce our Live and Local Series presented by TJ Kong.)

@Fingers, Wings, and Other Things, Conshohocken, Pa.--- Wed. 11/14 - Flying Dog Tap Takeover (6 p.m.; $PAYG for Raging Bitch Belgian IPA; Pearl Necklace Oyster Stout; Gonzo Imperial Porter; Double Citra IPA.)

@Iron Hill, Phoenixville, Pa.--- Sat. 11/10 - Barrel-Aged At The Hill (1 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for barrel-aged beers from Phoenixville, Chestnut Hill, North Wales, West Chester, and Wilmington Iron Hill brewery locations)

@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/8 - Southern Tier Night (7 p.m.-11 p.m.; $PAYG for a firkin of Southern Tier Pumking, 2011 Oak-aged Pumking, and Black Water Series Beers will be paired with special desserts and $1 off all Southern Tier Brews.)

@Perch Pub, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/8 - DuClaw Philadelphia Launch Party (7 p.m.; $PAYG as they host the owner David Benfield of DuClaw Brewery for their Philadelphia Launch Party.)

@Pub & Kitchen, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 11/13 - Allagash Brewing Cookbook Release (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG as Chef Jonathan McDonald and Brewer Rob Tod present two food and beer pairings from the cookbook.)

@The Trestle Inn, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/8 - Dogfish Head Tap Attack (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG for a firkin of Johnny Cask gravity poured off the bar. Beers on draft: Punk'in, Chicory Stout, My Antonia, Ta Hanket, 60 Minute IPA. We will also be offering a Deviled Egg Flight featuring six different egg flavors, one paired with each beer.)

@Two Stones Pub, Newark, Del.--- Fri. 11/9 - Black Friday No. 2 (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG as Gumbo's been gathering and cellaring the country's finest porters, stouts and other manner of dark, rich brews...and now he's ready to unleash them on the masses)


Food and Beer events
@Hawthornes, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sun. 11/11 - Pumpkin Beer Dinner (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $60 for a four-course meal paired with Southern Tier Pumking, The Bruery Autumn Maple, River Horse Hipp-o-lantern, Alewerks Pumpkin, and Dogfish Punkin.)

@Iron Abbey, Horsham, Pa.--- Wed. 11/14 - Fall Fest Beer Dinner (7 p.m.; $60 for a five-course meal paired with Doc’s Cassis Black Currant Hard Cider, Timmerman’s Pumpkin Lambicus, Abbatia Octo 8, De Proefbrouwerij Flanders Fred, and St. Bernardus Christmas Ale.)

@Iron Hill, West Chester, Pa.--- Thu. 11/8 - Fall Harvest Brewmaster's Dinner (6 p.m.; $75 for a five-course meal paired with Saison, American Brown Ale, Rauchbier, Abbey Dubbel, and Ichabod Pumpkin Ale.)
@Iron Hill, Maple Shade, NJ--- Tue. 11/13 & Wed. 11/14 - Brewmaster's Medieval Dinner (7 p.m.; $65 for a five-course meal paired with Oud Bruin, Saison, Abbey Dubbel, 2 Logan TJ, and Honey Tripper)
@Iron Hill, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 11/13 - Fall Brewmaster's Dinner (7 p.m.; $65 for a five-course meal paired with Pumpkin Ale, Biere de Garde, Munich Dunkel, Black Double Rye IPA, and Imperial Coffee Porter.)
@Iron Hill, Newark, Del.--- Tue. 11/13 - Fall Brewmaster's Dinner (7 p.m.; $65 for a five-course meal paired with Vienna Lager, Belgian Pumpkin, Sticke Alt, Danny Dortmunder, Abbey Dubbel, and Wee Heavy)
@Iron Hill, Wilmington, Del.--- Wed. 11/14 - Fall Harvest Brewmaster's Dinner (7 p.m.; $65 for a five-course meal paired with Red Headed IPA, Saison, F.red, Abbey Dubbel, and The Great Imperial Pumpkin Ale)
@Iron Hill, North Wales, Pa.--- Wed. 11/14 - New England in the Fall Brewmaster's Dinner (6 p.m.; $65 for a five-course meal paired with Vienna Lager, German Pilsner, Wee Heavy, Abbey Dubbel, and Pumpkin Ale)

@Monk's Café, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 11/13 - Home Brewer Turn Pro Brewer Dinner (7 p.m.; $55 as local home brew guru, George Hummel, will select a handful of professional brewers who started as home brewers. George is co-owner of Home Sweet Homebrew at 20th & Sansom Streets.)

@South Philadelphia Tap Room, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/8 - Allagash Pig Dinner (7:30 p.m.; $70 for an epic nose-to-tail dinner featuring Country Time pork paired with rare Allagash draughts.)

@Two Stones Pub, Newark, Del.--- Wed. 11/14 - Pig Roast Beer Dinner (6:30 p.m.; $TBD for some swine and dine)


Homebrewing, Education, and Charity
@Fegley's Brew Works, Allentown, Pa.--- Fri. 11/9 - Habitat For Humanity Charity Event (5 p.m.; $PAYG as The Allentown Brew Works is proud to sponsor this evening of charity for Habitat for Humanity.)

@Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 11/10 - Mayfair Dog Park Fundraiser (3 p.m.-6 p.m.; $15 food, $PAYG bar)

@Keystone Homebrew, Montgomeryville, Pa.--- Thu. 11/1-Thu. 11/8 - 20th Anniversary Discounts (see website for details)

@Memphis Taproom, Philadelphia, Pa.--- ending Fri. 11/16 - Thanksgiving Pie In The Sky from MANNA ($PAYG)

@The Philly Beer School, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Fri. 11/9 - Beer and Brewing 101 (7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.; $39.97 for an introduction to how beer is made, major beer styles, and brewing history)

@Yards Brewing Company, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 11/8 - Beer Laws Forum Part 2 (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG as Tom Kehoe, Lew Bryson, and Senator Chuck McIlhinney have all generously agreed to once again sit on the panel, and this time will be joined by Bill Covaleski, of Victory Brewing Co who will be representing the brewers of Pennsylvania, and Mike Gretz Sr. of Gretz Beer Distributors, who will be representing things from the wholesalers point of view.)

Please help me raise money for NYC

Most of you know that since 2005, I've put a lot of time and energy into promoting great beer here at The Brew Lounge. I've also talked a bit about my love for running and the intersection of the beer and running worlds. Even put on annual "beer run" event during Philly Beer Week.

I don't ask for any financial support directly in return from any of you. Indirectly, perhaps. Like now.

Instead of the 2012 NYC Marathon last weekend, I'll be running the Harrisburg Marathon this coming Sunday, November 11.

I've set up a way for you to support me by supporting the Central Park Conservancy. Many of you have likely found a way to donate (probably) to the American Red Cross, primarily for humanitarian relief funding in the aftermath of Hurricane/Superstorm Sandy. That is a very good place to direct donations.

Here is a chance to support the wonderful Central Park in Manhattan, which also suffered quite a bit of damage. The money you donate to the foundation will aid in the rehabilitation and ongoing mainenance of the Park.

If you've ever walked, rode, ran, picnicked, or otherwise enjoyed Central Park, you know what a treasure it is for the City. Heck, if you've enjoyed any Park anywhere, you know how important they are to a community's fabric.

Please show your support for me and the work I do here at The Brew Lounge by visiting the donation page and contributing to this worthwhile cause. No financial benefit whatsoever comes back to me through this endeavor.

[Link to Crowdrise donation page.]

Cheers,
Bryan

Monday Morning Second-Hand Brews News Update: 11/5/12

I made another weekly list of interesting stories to share with you. Share the link love and read 'em up.

PHILADELPHIA
~ Bathtub Beer Fest is coming up on 11/15. Past beer events with the National Constitution Center as a venue have been well-received and praised by beer-loving attendees. This one is being held in conjunction with the exhibit, "American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition," which runs from October 19, 2012 to April 28, 2013.

~ Beer Yard brought us this long overdue news a couple of weeks ago.

~ What am I missing? Time for you to hit the comments section below and chime in to share something noteworthy in and around Philadelphia from the past couple of weeks.


EASTERN PA, NJ, DE, AND OTHER NEARBY PARTS OF MID-ATLANTIC
~ Victory has a bunch of beer from the barrel that it would like to share with you.. on 11/21.

~ Grub Street out of Philly pointed us to the impact of "Superstorm" Sandy on Shangy's in Emmaus.

~ And, Alexander D. Mitchell IV is keeping us up-to-date on the status of a few places around the region.


THE REST OF PLANET BEER
~ Jack Curtin pointed us in the direction of an article at Business Week.

~ The Atlantic has a piece with a similiar theme.

~ I find this article utterly fascinating. Makes me wish I comprehend science better than I do. Otherwise, I might understand more than 20% of what the article contains. Even that might be an exaggeration. Still, check it out and appreciate the science that goes into your beer.

~ Another interesting piece, this one looking into the business/political/taxation side of beer and which presidential candidate may hold the most promise for a successful future for small brewers.

~ Chuck Cook shares with us some of the beer cellar news that I remember Van Roy sharing with us when we were at Cantillon earlier this year. Good stuff.

~ Interesting follow-up news of a settlement in a legal case involving August Busch IV.

~ A fun story about wine reviewing and the words used to describe. Can't say there isn't big-time crossover to the beer world as well.

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Beer Calendar: What To Do in November 2012

Hurricane/Superstorm Sandy may stop you from seeing this when it first goes live on Tuesday morning, but it hasn't stopped your favorite breweries and bars from planning another month of events to keep you happy and hydrated throughout.

Keep an eye open for the handful of events that are rescheduled in November from late October due to "Sandy".

As always, if I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, let me know.


$20 and under, down to and including FREE...Pay As You Go (PAYG) also included here

Philadelphia
Wed. 10/31 - Post-Hurricane Sandy with Funky Buddha @Monk's Café, Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Thu. 11/1 - Bell's Brewery Night @Varga Bar, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/1 - Oskar Blues Tap Takeover @Chestnut 7, Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/1 - Yards Brewing Promo @Earth Bread + Brewery, Philadelphia, Pa. (4:30 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/1 - Pumpkin Fest @Philadelphia Bar and Restaurant, Philadelphia, Pa. (8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/2 - La Dia de la Mielga (The Day of the Dogfish) @Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/2 - We're Turning 4! @Prohibition Taproom, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/2 - Beer Tasting (Flying Fish) @Trolley Car Diner, Philadelphia, Pa. (5:30 p.m.; $Free)
Mon. 11/5 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Penn Brewery) @Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Tue. 11/6 - Yards Election Night - Ales of the Revolution @Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 11/7 - Monthly Beer School @Memphis Taproom, Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.; $Free)
Thu. 11/8 - Pretty Things Brewing Night @Barcade, Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/8 - James Bond Movie & Dinner Quizzo @The Institute, Philadelphia, Pa. (8 p.m.-11 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/8 - Yappy Hour @Kennett, Philadelphia, Pa. (5:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/8 - Happy Birthday @Percy Street Barbecue, Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Thu. 11/8 - DuClaw Philadelphia Launch Party @Perch Pub, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/8 - Beer Laws Forum Part 2 @Yards Brewing Company, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/8 - Beer Tasting @Trolley Car Diner, Philadelphia, Pa. (5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m; $Free)
Thu. 11/8 - Southern Tier Night @Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-11 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/8 - Dogfish Head Tap Attack @The Trestle Inn, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 11/10 - Craft Beer Express @12 Quality Beer Bars, Philadelphia, Pa. (11 a.m.-8 p.m.; $10 unlimited bus ticket plus $PAYG at the bars)
Sat. 11/10 - Craft Beer Express - Gypsy Brewing Day @Devil's Den, Philadelphia, Pa. (12 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 11/10 - Mayfair Dog Park Fundraiser @Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa. (3 p.m.-6 p.m.; $15 food, $PAYG bar)
Mon. 11/12 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Yards) @Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Wed. 11/14 - Germany Comes from Danville - Old Forge Night @Hop Angel Brauhaus, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/15 - Russian River Night @Kite & Key, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/15 - Brooklyn Brewing Night @Barcade, Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/15 - Long Trail Tap Takeover @Chestnut 7, Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
ending Fri. 11/16 - Thanksgiving Pie In The Sky from MANNA @Memphis Taproom, Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Sun. 11/18 - Meet the Brewer and Tasting (Stillwater Artisanal Ales and Sixpoint Brewery) @Perch Pub, Philadelphia, Pa. (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 11/19 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (Oskar Blues) @Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Tue. 11/20 - Holiday Bottle Release Celebration @Dock Street Brewery, Philadelphia, Pa. ($PAYG)
Wed. 11/21 - Ommegang Night @Devil's Den, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/22 - Full of Turkey? Come Drink you Pumpkin Pie @Devil's Den, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/23 - Oskar (Blues) The Grouch Night @Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/23 - Into The Black @City Tap House, Philadelphia, Pa. (2 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/23 - Black Friday Holiday Leftovers @Local 44, Philadelphia, Pa. (special brunch from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. beers all day; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/23 - Everything Went Black @Local 44, Philadelphia, Pa. (special brunch from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. beers all day; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/23 - Slow & Steady Black Friday @Resurrection Ale House, Philadelphia, Pa. (special brunch from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. beers all day; $PAYG)
Tue. 11/27 - RJ Rockers and Laughing Dog @London Grill, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/29 - Elysian Brewing Night @Barcade, Philadelphia, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/29 - Allagash Favorites and Rarities @The Trestle Inn, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/30 - Blackout Night with Great Lakes @Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Thu. 11/1-Sun. 11/4 - Fresh Hopped-Wet Hopped Draft Event @Capone's, Norristown, Pa. (11:30 a.m. daily; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/1 - First Thursday Tasting @Whole Foods, Plymouth Meeting, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 11/2 - Oskar Blues Party @Pinocchio's, Media, Pa. (3 p.m.-6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 11/3 - Hot Rods and Hops @Neshaminy Creek Brewing, Croydon, Pa. (12 p.m.-5 p.m.; $Free entry + $PAYG)
Tue. 11/6 - Tasty Tuesday for the Annual Sierra Nevada Celebration @Teresa's Next Door, Wayne, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 11/6 - Yards Ales of the Revolution @Hulmeville Inn, Hulmeville, Pa. (11 a.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/8 - Coors Batch 19 Tasting @Pinocchio's, Media, Pa. (7 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 11/10 - Sippin' By The River @Campbell's Field, Camden, NJ (1 p.m.-5 p.m.; $35-$65)
Wed. 11/14 - Flying Dog Tap Takeover @Fingers, Wings, and Other Things, Conshohocken, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/23 - Big Bottle Tasting @Iron Hill, North Wales, Pa. (2 p.m.-5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 11/27 - Brewmaster Series @Hulmeville Inn, Hulmeville, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 11/28 - SPCA Fundraiser @Pinocchio's, Media, Pa. (7 p.m.; $PAYG)


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Thu. 11/1-Fri. 11/8 - 20th Anniversary Discounts @Keystone Homebrew, Montgomeryville, Pa. (see website for details)
Thu. 11/1 - Charity Cask Night (to benefit Race For Adam) @Fegley's Brew Works, Bethlehem, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/1 - Victory's Cooks Showdown Round 2 @Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/2 - Friday Night Sampling (Yards) @Goshen Beverage, West Chester, Pa. (4 p.m.-6:30 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 11/2 - Flying Dog Beer Tasting/Dinner @Washington House, Sellersville, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/2 - Incubus Friday @Sly Fox, Pottstown & Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Tue. 11/6 - Iron Brewer @Iron Hill, Maple Shade, NJ (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 11/7 - Charity Cask Night (to benefit TBD) @Fegley's Brew Works, Allentown, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/9 - Habitat For Humanity Charity Event @Fegley's Brew Works, Allentown, Pa. (5 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/9 - Black Friday No. 2 @Two Stones Pub, Newark, Del. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 11/10 - Barrel-Aged At The Hill @Iron Hill, Phoenixville, Pa. (1 p.m.-10 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/16-Sun. 11/18 - Fall Real Ale Festival @General Sutter Inn, Lititz, Pa. ($PAYG)
Fri. 11/16 - Friday Night Sampling (Sierra Nevada) @Exton Beverage, Exton, Pa. (4 p.m.-6 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 11/16 - Friday Night Sampling (Victory) @Goshen Beverage, West Chester, Pa. (4 p.m.-6:30 p.m.; $Free)
Fri. 11/16 - Third Friday Firkin Fest (Chester County Bitter, Phoenix Pale Ale, and Brewer's Select Pale Ale) @Sly Fox, Phoenixville, Pa. (11:30 a.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 11/17 - 20th Anniversary Blowout Party @Keystone Homebrew, Montgomeryville, Pa. (see website for details)
Sat. 11/17 - Senor Chocolatoro Bottled Release Party @Iron Hill, Wilmington, Del. (1 p.m.-4 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 11/17 - Chocolate Festival @Fegley's Brew Works, Allentown, Pa. (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $10/$15/$20/$25)
Wed. 11/21 - Red Wednesday @Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, Pa. (8 a.m.; $PAYG)
Wed. 11/21 - Holiday Beer Release @Iron Hill, Newark, Del. (6 p.m.-9 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/23 - Hopstravaganza @Iron Hill, Lancaster, Pa. (5 p.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Sat. 11/24 - Hopfest with Harvest Ales @The Drafting Room, Exton, Pa. (12 p.m.; $PAYG)
Mon. 11/26 - St. James Release @Iron Hill, Lancaster, Pa. (11 a.m.-8 p.m.; $PAYG)
Thu. 11/29 - Victory's Cooks Showdown Round 3 @Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, Pa. (6 p.m.; $PAYG)
Fri. 11/30 - Mustache Happy Hour @Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, Pa. (4 p.m.; $PAYG)


Events Over $20

Philadelphia
Wed. 11/7 - 12 Percent Beer Dinner @Vedge Restaurant, Philadelphia, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $85)
Thu. 11/8 - Allagash Pig Dinner @South Philadelphia Tap Room, Philadelphia, Pa. (7:30 p.m.; $70)
Fri. 11/9 - Beer and Brewing 101 @The Philly Beer School, Philadelphia, Pa. (7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.; $39.97)
Sat. 11/10 - PA Beer Festival @Convention Center, Philadelphia, Pa. (1 p.m.-4 p.m., 7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $15/$40)
Sun. 11/11 - Pumpkin Beer Dinner @Hawthornes, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-8 p.m.; $60)
Tue. 11/13 - Fall Brewmaster's Dinner @Iron Hill, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $65)
Tue. 11/13 - Home Brewer Turn Pro Brewer Dinner @Monk's Café, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $55)
Thu. 11/15 - Pints For North Light @Manayunk Brewing Company, Philadelphia, Pa. (6 p.m.-10:30 p.m.; $50/$60/$75/$80/$135/$150)
Thu. 11/15 - Bathtub Beer Fest @National Constitution Center, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.-10 p.m.; $45)
Tue. 11/20 - He Said Beer, She Said Wine @Brauhaus Schmitz, Philadelphia, Pa. (7 p.m.; $75)
Sat. 11/24 - Winter Beer Fest @Union Transfer, Philadelphia, Pa. (1 p.m.-5 p.m., 6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $10/$40/$50)
Tue. 11/27 - Off The Wall Iron Hill Dinner @The Industry, Philadelphia, Pa. (7:30 p.m.; $60)
Thu. 11/29 - Allagash's Sour Delights @Tria Fermentation School, Philadelphia, Pa. (6:30 p.m.-8 p.m.; $60)


Philadelphia's close suburbs (within 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sun. 11/4 - Brewmaster's Brunch @Iron Hill, Media, Pa. (11 a.m.-1 p.m.; $55)
Mon. 11/5 - Artisan Cheese, Fine Meat & Craft Beer Dinner (Rescheduled from 10/29 due to Hurricane Sandy) @Pinocchio's, Media, Pa. (7 p.m.-10:30 p.m.; $45)
Tue. 11/6 - All Hallows Eve Beer Supper (Rescheduled from 10/30 due to Hurricane Sandy) @Tired Hands, Ardmore, Pa. (6:30 p.m.; $75)
Wed. 11/7 - Meet the Brewery Dinner with Weyerbacher @Spinnerstown Hotel, Spinnerstown, Pa. (7:00 p.m.; $50)
Wed. 11/14 - Fall Fest Beer Dinner @Iron Abbey, Horsham, Pa. (7:00 p.m.; $60)
Wed. 11/14 - New England in the Fall Brewmaster's Dinner @Iron Hill, North Wales, Pa. (6 p.m.; $65)
Thu. 11/29 - Neshaminy Creek Beer Dinner @Anthony's Coal-Fired Pizza, Wayne, Pa. (7 p.m.; $30)


Greater Philadelphia Metro / Eastern Pennsylvania / Other (beyond 20 mile radius of Philadelphia)
Sat. 11/3 - Brewphoria 10 @Canal Street Pub, Reading, Pa. (6 p.m.-10 p.m.; $40)
Mon. 11/5 - Celebrate Italy with DiBruno Bros. @Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, Pa. (6 p.m.; $75)
Tue. 11/6 - Beer versus Beer Dinner @Iron Hill, Phoenixville, Pa. (7 p.m.; $85)
Tue. 11/6 - Movember Beer Dinner @Big Fish Grill, Glen Mills, Pa. (6 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; $55)
Thu. 11/8 - Fall Harvest Brewmaster's Dinner @Iron Hill, West Chester, Pa. (6 p.m.; $75)
Tue. 11/13 & Wed. 11/14 - Brewmaster's Medieval Dinner @Iron Hill, Maple Shade, NJ (7 p.m.; $65)
Tue. 11/13 - Fall Brewmaster's Dinner @Iron Hill, Newark, Del. (7 p.m.; $65)
Wed. 11/14 - Pig Roast Beer Dinner @Two Stones Pub, Newark, Del. (6:30 p.m.; $TBD)
Wed. 11/14 - Fall Harvest Brewmaster's Dinner @Iron Hill, Wilmington, Del. (7 p.m.; $65)
Mon. 11/19 & Tue. 11/20 - Halloween Brewmaster's Dinner (Rescheduled from 10/29-10/30 due to Hurricane Sandy) @Iron Hill, Lancaster, Pa. (6:00 p.m.; $65)
Wed. 11/28 - Grilled Cheese & Craft Beer Tasting @World Café Live, Wilmington, Del. (6 p.m.; $35)

Monday Morning Second-Hand Brews News Update: 10/29/12

Hurricane Sandy might be putting a hurtin' on the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, but if you still have power and Internet connectivity, you may enjoy a few of these stories/links that I've gathered up for you during the past week.

PHILADELPHIA
~ Finally, maybe now I'll get a chance to sample this new brew from upstate PA, about to enter the Philly market according to Jack Curtin.


EASTERN PA, NJ, DE, AND OTHER NEARBY PARTS OF MID-ATLANTIC
~ Iron Hill has finally figured out how to retool its wildly popular and successful Mug Club, after it came under scrutiny by "the Man" (that'd be the ever-caring PLCB, looking out for the consumer's best interest, but of course) earlier this year. They've rebranded and you can read all about it here. Basically, it kicked off this past Saturday, is called King Of The Hill, and is self-proclaimed to be more comprehensive program than the predecessor Mug Club program.

~ Jack Curtin pointed us to The Huffington Post, which provide a nice primer on the fast-growing Victory Brewing Company. They got the name of Victory's hometown correct, not a small feat for many publishing outlets ;-)

~ Tröegs' Scratch 79 will be a pumpkin beer. The apparently divided brewhouse offers up this short video in an attempt to explain how they got to that point.


THE REST OF PLANET BEER
~ You can win a trip to Belgium. Check out the details here.

~ Thanks to BeerPulse for the link to Ohio.com who reported that Winking Lizard is dropping Miller Lite and Bud Light from its draft lineup. The Ohio-based chain loves their beer and one of its founding partners, John Lane, was a keynote guest at Ommegang's BCTC a couple of years ago.

~ I think I'd prefer classic James Bond to stick with a martini rather than a Heineken.

~ I'd have linked to Pete Brown's insightful posting, but then saw Stan's follow-up, so please stop by there first before going on to Brown's site.

~ OSHA's response to the Redhook/Craft Brew Alliance's tragic accident earlier this year.

~ And, lastly, a fun link from Jay Brooks.

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Sly Fox + Kan Jam + Canned Beer + Live Music = Great festival times in Pottstown

(and, my effort to get caught up around here on events gone by continues...)

Sly Fox Can Jam Festival (Click above for full gallery of pictures)

Sly Fox keeps growing. I wrote a short article about it over here a few weeks ago.

With growth comes new and exciting things. Independently over the past few years, Sly Fox has created an association between itself and the increasingly-popular outdoor game, Kan Jam.

When newcomers first hear that Kan Jam is a game that involves throwing a frisbee at or in to what resembles a small trash can, the snickers typically ensue. But, given the chance at a few tosses back and forth, most can't give it up including the most disaffected teenager (I've witnessed this firsthand.)

Let's see if I can help demystify a bit:

Teams of two take their spots by the cans (Kans) at opposite ends of a 50-foot course, very similar to horseshoes, washoes, and beanbags/cornhole

One teammate throws the disc to the other end and potential scoring is as follows:

a) Automatic win: disc goes into the can through the slot or the top without knocking over the can
b) 3 points: disc goes in the can by way of an assist/redirect by the teammate
c) 2 points: disc hits the can directly without any assist or redirect
d) 1 point: disc hits the can with an assist or redirect by the teammate

Alternating throws by team continues until a team hits 21 points, without going over

Pretty simple, right? Addictive for sure. Being the canned beer proponent that Sly Fox is, they've added an additional rule: all players must be holding a can in one hand while throwing/redirecting with the other. Of course, they can't force players to drink. But what fun would it be otherwise?

On Saturday, September 22, Sly Fox hosted the second annual (first at the new location in Pottstown) Can Jam Festival. There was very little about the second installment that resembled anything in last year's at their Phoenixville location — save for the discs, people throwing them, and the kans/cans. This year's was bigger, with more beer, food, and music to go around to the decidely larger audience and participants.

My "usual teammate", William Reed and my reserve teammate, Nick Johnson were both predisposed with too much work to take time out for some fun 'n' games in Pottstown. Reed and I had taken a very respectable second place during the Philly Beer Week event at the Four Seasons Hotel back in June, so you can imagine the anticipation to take the competition to the next level in a field of 64 teams — yes, I said 64 teams — at Sly Fox's new home back in September.

But, it wasn't meant to be so my first-time teammate became none other than brewery co-owner John Giannopoulos. Good thing my Washington Times review of their growing operations was well-received!

Nonetheless, we turned in a quite a respectable performance, convincingly winning two consecutive matches but not after losing equally-convincingly in the first (turned out to be last year's runner-up team). Still, a 2-1 record in the first round was not enough to move on from the first round in the bracketology that ringleader/sales extraordinaire/bartender-to-the-??? Corey Reid masterminded.

It was on to socializing and documenting for me. What a beautiful day it turned out to be for this event. The forecasted rain did not move until very late in the afternoon/early evening, so the outdoor games, music, food, and beer could be enjoyed without getting soaked. A little sunburn, on the other hand, was not avoided.

The pictures should likely tell the story of the gold mine that Sly Fox is sitting on with their new property. Rough counts had the first-year crowd for this event at a modest 600, give or take. It was tough to tell as there was a constant circulation of guests in to, out of, and around the brewery property. But, still, there is plenty of room to grow with capacity for many hundreds more.

Can Jam Festival 2013 seems like a near certainty. Could a move of the Goat Race/Bock Festival to Pottstown be far behind? There's some disagreement to that right now and no one will say for sure. But, judging the reaction of brewery personnel and guest alike, there is a lot of potential for future event planning at the new Sly Fox in Pottstown.

Weekly Beer Calendar Update: October 25 - October 31

Nearly 40 events (plus a few I'm missing that I'll count on the viligent amongst you all to let me know about) to close out the beautiful month of October here in the Philadelphia region.

Check out the entire October 2012 calendar over here. If I'm missing any that you feel should be on here, don't hesitate to let me know.

Brewery Promos and Samplings
@Beer Yard, Wayne, Pa.--- Fri. 10/26 - Friday Night Tasting (5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of Boulder beer)

@Capone's, Norristown, Pa.--- Fri. 10/27 - Free Beer Sampling (4:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.; $Free)

@Dock Street Brewery, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 10/30 - Movie Night (8:00 p.m.; $PAYG for food and beer specials and Dead Alive on the big screen)

@Local 44 Bottle Shop, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Mon. 10/29 - Bottle Shop Happy Hour (6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.; $Free tasting samples from Flying Fish)

@Union Jack's, Glenside, Pa.--- Thu. 10/25 - Goose Island Night (7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.; $PAYG for Sophie, Matilda, Pere Jacques, IPA, and Bourbon County Stout. Plus, keep the glass while supplies last)

@Whole Foods, Devon, Pa.--- Wed. 10/31 - Victory Sampling (5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.; $Free tasting samples of Victory's Moonglow, Headwaters, DarkDevil, and more. Ranch DIPA, Victory Village, and more will be on draft for the night)

@Yards Brewing & Lucky 13, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Tue. 10/30 - Yards/Lucky 13 Zombie Run (5:00 p.m.; $PAYG for a special bit of exercise, as we run from the brewery to the bar. Participants will get $3 beers and a Brawler Tee for $10. We will be having face painting to make everyone look more zombie-like (please arrive early to get painted). Lucky 13 will be pouring IPA, Philly Pale, and Love Stout.)


"Takeovers", Debuts, Festivals, and other noteworthy events
@Barcade, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 10/25 - 1st Anniversary in Philly (2:00 p.m.; $PAYG for a night of amazing beers to celebrate the first year in Philly)

@BuyRite Parking Lot, Cranbury, NJ--- Sun. 10/28 - Crantoberfest (11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.; $20/$25 to listen to some live music, eat some food from local vendors, and wine and beer from over 30 producers)

@Memphis Taproom, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 10/27 - Thirstoberfest (rain date: Sun. 10/28) (12:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.; $PAYG for more than 25 flagship and limited release beers from our favorite local and stateside craft breweries along with some super rare international goodies. Plus, special dogs from the hot dog truck all day)

@Pinocchio's, Media, Pa.--- Thu. 10/25 - Brooklyn Tap Attack (6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.; $PAYG as Miles from Brooklyn Brewery will be here slangin' some of his best offerings from NYC's premier brewery)

@Porters Pub, Easton, Pa.--- Thu. 10/25 - Oskar Blues Tap Takeover ($PAYG for a night of Dale's Pale Ale, Ten-Fidy, Old Chub, Deviant Dale's, and G'Knight)

@Side Bar, West Chester, Pa.--- Tue. 10/30 - Goose Island Brewing Event (8:00 p.m.; $PAYG for a Goose Island special night of Vintage Ales and Bourbon County brews on tap for your pleasure, including Sofie, Matilda, Imperial IPA, and Bourbon County Stout. And stay for a night of Mystery Box Trivia starting around 9:30 p.m.)

@Sovereign Bank Stadium, York, Pa.-- Sat. 10/27 & Sun. 10/28 - Yorktoberfest (12:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.; $Free admission, then $10/$15/$20/$30 to sample beers and wines)

@Varga Bar, Philadelphia, Pa.-- Sat. 10/27 - Spooky and Suckling Pig Roast and Casey Hughes' Birthday Roast too (2:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.; $PAYG for Flying Fish's Exit 16, Exit 4, Oktoberfish, Hopfish, and many more surprises. $35 for the pig roast which includes the pig and choice of two sides. Costume party later in the evening.)

@West Chester Railroad, West Chester, Pa.-- Sat. 10/27 - Ride The Rails with Boxcar Brewing Company (5:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.; $25/$40 as they provide the food (a rockstar spread), beer (all of our best brews), and live music (stellar West Chester talent of course) at the Glen Mills picnic grove after a nostalgic train ride through picturesque Chester County on 1930’s style train carts.)


Food and Beer events
@Broad Axe Tavern, Ambler, Pa.--- Tue. 10/30 - Southern Tier Beer Dinner ($45 for a five-course meal paired with 422, Harvest, Unearthly, Pumking, and Crème Brulee)

@Iron Hill, Lancaster, Pa.--- Mon. 10/29 & Tue. 10/30 - Halloween Brewmaster’s Dinner (6:00 p.m.; $65 for a five-course meal paired with English IPA, Anvil Ale, Rauchtoberfest, Old Ale [2008], and Great Pumpkin Stout)

@Lafayette Club, York, Pa.-- Fri. 10/26 - Yorktoberfest Wine & Beer Pairing Dinner (7:00 p.m.; $45 for a four-course meal paired with choice of wine or beer)

@Pinocchio's, Media, Pa.--- Mon. 10/29 - Artisanal Cheeses, Fine Meats, and Craft Beers (7:00 p.m.-10:30 p.m.; $45 for a five-course meal paired with Brasserie de Blaugies Saison d'Epeautre, The Bruery Tart of Darkness, Brauerei Ayinger Ur-Weisse, Tröegs Scratch #78 OkTröegerfest, and Etienne Dupont Cidre Bouché Brut de Normandie)

@Tired Hands, Ardmore, Pa.--- Tue. 10/30 - All Hallows Eve Beer Supper (6:30 p.m.; $75 for a five-course meal paired with Ghost Gose, Creature ESB, Vampire IPA, Werewolf Bieré de Garde, Zombie Double India Black Ale, and Black Lagoon Strong Black Saison)


Homebrewing & Education
@Keystone Homebrew, Montgomeryville, Pa.--- Sat. 10/27 - Barrel Brew Club Championship (see website for details)


Fall seasonal celebrations
@Appalachian Brewing Company, Harrisburg, Pa.--- Sat. 10/27 - Halloween Party (8:00 p.m.; $10 to dress up like your favorite superhero or villain for a chance to win some great prizes)

@Bierstube Tsingtau, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 10/31 - FranZenstein Fright Fest (5:00 p.m.; $PAYG for Spaten Franziskaner's Hefeweizen, Dunkel, and Optimator. Costumes encouraged and giveaways from Bierstube and Franziskaner)

@Brauhaus Schmitz, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Thu. 10/25 - Oktoberfest Happy Hour (5:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m.; $30 for bottomless liters of beer. $10 of each ticket sold goes directly to the Center for Literacy to support life-changing education programs and services.)

@Devil's Den, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 10/31 - Halloween Pumpkin Firkin (7:00 p.m.; $PAYG to stop in with your best Halloween Costume as we'll be tapping a firkin of Southern Tier Pumking, Southern Tier Oak-Aged Pumking [2011], Bruery Autumn Maple [2011], and Weyerbacher Imperial Pumpkin [2011])

@Grey Lodge Pub, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sat. 10/27 - Hardy-Har-Harvest (4:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.; $PAYG as we tap as many wet-hopped harvest beers that we can find. Comedians Erin "E-Unit" Mulville, Nicole Yates, and more will entertain.)

@Iron Hill, Phoenixville, Pa.--- Fri. 10/26 & Sat. 10/27 - Welcome Great Pumpkin (5:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.; $PAYG for the release of our Pumpkin Ale and a pumpkin-inspired menu. At 6 p.m., we'll be tapping a ginormous pumpkin filled with pumpkin ale.)
@Iron Hill, Lancaster, Pa.--- Sat. 10/27 - Great Pumpkin Stout Release Party (12:00pm-5:00pm; $PAYG as they release their Great Pumpkin Stout and pumpkin-inspired fare, face painting, pumpkin carving, candied apples and other treats, and a special tapping of a ginormous pumpkin filled with Pumpkin Ale.)
@Iron Hill, North Wales, Pa.--- Sat. 10/27 - The Month Of Pumpkins (4:00pm-9:00pm; $PAYG for the tapping of the Great Pumpkin and games and prizes)
@Iron Hill, West Chester, Pa.--- Sat. 10/27 - The Gathering Of The Gourds (12:00 p.m.; $PAYG for pumpkin beers from Iron Hill and guest breweries including Stewart's, Otter Creek, Brooklyn, and Elysian. At 3 p.m., we’ll be tapping a ginormous pumpkin filled with pumpkin ale. Also, pumpkin- and squash-inspired menu features.)

@Isaac Newton's, Newtown, Pa.--- Sat. 10/27 - Oktoberfest (12:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.; $35 for a glass mug, Isaac's Oktoberfest t-shirt, authentic German buffet, 2 draft beers, live accordion music, and chances to win some cool prizes)

@Old Eagle Tavern, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Wed. 10/31 - Victory Sampling (5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.; $PAYG Halloween fun and tapping of four pumpkin beers including Southern Tier Pumking, Elysian Dark O' The Moon Pumpkin Stout, Timmerman's Pumpkin Lambic, and Bruery Autumn Maple. Also, appropriately-paired food specials on the menu.)

@Pinocchio's, Media, Pa.--- each Monday in October - Fall Beer Tasting (8:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.; $Free tastings of beers from the season)

@Sidecar Bar & Grille, Philadelphia, Pa.--- Sun. 10/28-Wed. 10/31 - Harvest Hoedown (3:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.; $PAYG for pumpkin carving contests and plenty of pumpkin and fresh hop beers to go along with a fall-themed menu)

@Teresa's Next Door, Wayne, Pa.--- Fri. 10/26-Sun. 10/28 - Halloween Blackout Weekend ($PAYG for J.W. Lees Harvest 2011, Emelisse Jack Daniel's Barrel-aged Imperial Stout, t'Smisje Catherine The Great Imperial Stout, Xbeeriment Black Force One, Struise Pannepøt, the Struise/Stillwater Outblack collaboration, and our favorite usual big hitters Klokke Roeland and Tripel van de Garre from Van Steenberge)

@The Sun Inn, Bethlehem, Pa.--- Fri. 10/26 - Oktoberfest Homebrew Dinner (6:30 p.m.; $52 for a four-course meal paired with German Pilsner, Oktoberfest, Altbier, and Weizenbock)

@Washington House, Sellersville, Pa.--- Wed. 10/31 - Pumpkin Beer Tasting (5:00 p.m.; $PAYG for a special pumpkin beer tasting to celebrate Halloween)

@Victory Brewing Company, Downingtown, Pa.--- Wed. 10/31 - Get Up And Ghoul (6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.; $PAYG as contestants should dress as their favorite Victory character, but as a zombie. Every contestant has a chance to win a raffle item throughout the night, and the final 4 contestants will be handsomely rewarded)

Gift Card Giveaway to Anthony's Coal-Fired Pizza

UPDATE, 7:05 a.m. 10/24/12: Contest is over. I always get an early morning surge of readers, so while the timing may have seemed unfair to some, this time I opted to reward the early morning visitors here at The Brew Lounge.

The correct answer to the question is "Dan Marino", who was raised in Pittsburgh and attended both high school and college there playing as a standout quarterback before his professional football career with the Miami Dolphins.

Marino attended the Monroeville opening of the Anthony's Coal-Fired Pizza on April 18, 2012.

Jeff K. submitted the correct answer at 6:35 a.m. Congratulations and thanks to all for participating.

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Who said there's no such thing as a free meal?

Remember how I talked about the Victory Beer Dinner at Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza? They like you guys so much that they sent me home with a gift card to raffle off to one of you.

Let's try to make this simple. The first to send an email to me at Bryan@BrewLounge.com with the correct answer to this question will win the $25 gift card. It is valid for redemption at any of the locations in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, and their homestate of Florida.

This could come in handy at one of their upcoming beer dinners with Neshaminy Creek at their Wayne, Pa. location (Nov. 8) or Due South Brewing at their Pompano Beach, Fl. location (Nov. 14). Recently, they hosted Cigar City at both their Orlando and Clearwater locations.

Question: Who is one of the owners (by way of an equity stake in a restaurant management group) of Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza AND what is his/her connection to the new Monroeville/Pittsburgh location, where he/she showed up for the recent grand opening?

Send your answer to Bryan@BrewLounge.com

Gift Card Giveaway to Anthony's Coal-Fired Pizza

Check The Brew Lounge tomorrow morning after 6 a.m. for a chance to win a gift card from Anthony's Coal-Fired Pizza — redeemable at any of its 35 locations in CT, NY, NJ, DE, PA, and FL.

Monday Morning Second-Hand Brews News Update: 10/22/12

I've got a couple of travel-free weeks coming up, plus the New York City Marathon. I should be able to get fairly caught up around here. As I do so, here's another week of news bits and bites that should help to get you caught up as well.

PHILADELPHIA
~ Growlers opened earlier this month in South Philly at 8th and Fitzwater streets. It has a Time/Vintage/Bar/El Vez/Dandelion history in its owners.

~ Continuing with the Foobooz link love, they've got a short video of a walkthrough of the new Philadelphia incarnation of Fette Sau, whose opening this past weekend seems to have missed no one.


EASTERN PA, NJ, DE, AND OTHER NEARBY PARTS OF MID-ATLANTIC
~ How do you like your IPA? Evil Genius now has a mix pack including Black, Belgian, and American.

~ Filed also under "things that happened while I've been traveling so damned much of late". The eagerly anticipated Vault Brewing Company opened earlier this month in the lovely riverside town of Yardley, Pa.

~ Brew Lounge friend, Ronna Dewey, captured beer appreciation and hunting from a different perspective that we don't often hear much about: that of a parent of young children. She wrote recently on the topic for Exton Dish.

~ Where does privatization stand in Pennsylvania? KYW/CBS doesn't give it much chance after the last few years of "getting close".

THE REST OF PLANET BEER
~ Beer writer from Colorado, ("Chipper") Dave Butler, was on the floor again this year at GABF and shares his insights and pictures.

~ Here's a well-considered, if not controversial, list of thoughts on GABF from writer Andy Crouch. Looks like he'll keep us hanging for a little while longer as he compiles Point 10.

~ Buried within the comments of Crouch's diatribe is a link to Garrett Oliver's thoughts on brewery staff attending and "working" the GABF festival sessions

~ And, one more GABF thought from Stan Hieronymous. When I was in Florida last week, I wasn't aware that Cigar City's Cucumber Saison had won at GABF; made me glad for the impulse $10.99 buy that I made at Knightly Spirits before hitting the airport.

~ James Spencer at Basic Brewing Radio has a brew session with craft beer "legend" Jack McAuliffe. Link to the MP3 file can be found here. Just another example of James continuing to do what he's always done well.

~ Coast to Coast Toast 2 is fast approaching. Learn here how you can participate.

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R5 Saison Pub Crawl on Sat. 10/20 and events missed

It's a busy beer calendar out there and no where moreso than in the Philadelphia region. My weekly and monthly calendars that I attempt to keep as accurate and up-to-date as possible around here are testament to that.

So, it's bound to happen that I miss even some of the more significant ones once in a while. (And, a REMINDER to event planners that it's always best to drop personal notes to me to remind me to include.)

With that said, 4 high-quality stops for beer at or near the R5 SEPTA regional train line (or the Thorndale line, if you prefer) will be collaborating on a day-long event tomorrow, Saturday October 20.

Here's a quick blurb, then head over to any of the following participating businesses' websites for all the details you need to know to join in the fun.

"The fun will begin at Station Taproom at 12:00pm. Then it's off to Teresa’s Cafe & Next Door Bar, Tired Hands, and then Monk’s! Each stop will feature a variation of our collaborative R5 Saison plus other goodies. You will be responsible for all train fare."

Downingtown stop: Station Taproom
Wayne stop: Teresa's Next Door
Ardmore stop: Tired Hands
Suburban Station stop: Monk's Café