This site is best viewed using Mozilla Firefox browser.

X

Midwest Beerfest

Guy Bower

2010-09-01 13:38:00

Question: What event allows you to taste more than 350 beers and beer products from around the world including microbrews from Kansas, purchase tasty food from local restaurants, and bid on great silent auction items, all while taking a “sip for a scholarship?”

Answer: This year’s “10 in ‘10” Midwest Beerfest! Become a part of a very special event as the American Institute of Wine & Food celebrates Cheers for 10 years of Beers at the 10th Annual Midwest Beerfest, from 1-4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 23 at Century II Exhibition Hall, Wichita. Join fellow brew-lovers as you increase your beer knowledge, try some of the more than 350 beers and help us celebrate our 10th anniversary. This three-day event begins on Thursday, Oct. 21 with a Riedel/Spiegelau Beer Glass tasting at the Hilton Wichita Airport. Forever change the way you think about serving and enjoying craft beer. Exceptional glassware is the key to elevating all facets of this delicious subject and The Spiegelau Beer Connoisseur tasting seminar shows you how. Learn first hand how color, clarity, aroma, temperature and effervescence are all dramatically enhanced with Spiegelau glass versus the standard type of beer glasses we have all become accustomed too. Come enjoy Craft Beer the way it was intended to be. The cost of the beer glass seminar is $35 and attendees will take home a beautiful Spiegelau Beer Connoisseur four-piece set (a $50 value)! Friday, October 22, join us for two outstanding beer dinners: Goose Island Beer Company at Larkspur with food prepared by Executive Chef/Owner Ty Issa and New Belgium Brewing at Hilton Wichita Airport with food prepared by Executive Chef Larry Walker. Some of the finest regional beers will be paired with spectacular food selected to celebrate and enhance the flavors of these outstanding beers. The menus are available at www.midwestbeerfest.com. The dinners begin at 7 p.m. and the cost is $55 per person. Reservations are available only by calling 682-5502. Seating is limited, so call now. On Saturday, grab your ticket and get in line. Doors open at 1 p. m. for the Midwest Beerfest Grand Tasting and Silent Auction. The Beerfest began Sept. 22, 2001, and drew more than 800 attendees; Last year’s Beerfest had more than 1,800 happy beer lovers sipping and tasting. This year, we expect a record-breaking crowd, and attendance may be limited so get your tickets early. Tickets are $35 (inclusive of the convenience fee) and can be purchased at Century II’s WichitaTix box office, by calling 219-4TIX or online at www.wichitatix.com. Tickets entitle participants to a tasting mug, program guide and a key to the world of beers. In addition to an outstanding sampling of beers, new to this year is the “Midwest Chickenfest” a Chicken Wing Cookoff contest featuring chicken wings prepared local restaurants and foodies. Admission to the tasting is $5 and all of the money raised will go to Children’s Miracle Network. For your cost, you will get to sample seven different wings and vote for your “People’s Choice.” Also look for non-beer drinks, a food and beer pairing seminar, an array of beer-friendly food, a brew-lover’s Silent Auction with the opportunity to win lots of great prizes, and music. The Silent Auction is a benefit for Via Christi’s Children’s Miracle Network. CMN helps children throughout Kansas (primarily western and south central Kansas) without regard to illness, ability to pay or physician’s hospital affiliation. Families connect with CMN resources through a network of six regional hospitals serving more than 50,000 children each year in 64 counties. Since 1984, CMN in Kansas has raised more than $17 million — 100 percent stays here in Kansas — to help children in need. The Midwest Beerfest, sponsored by the American Institute of Wine & Food, Wichita Chapter, features beers, ales, lagers and more from your favorite breweries and microbreweries from around the world. Monies raised benefit the AIWF-Wichita Chapter’s Terry Palmer Memorial Culinary Scholarship Fund for local culinary or hospitality students, chefs, or those in the food and beverage industry pursuing further education. Last year, more than $12,000 in scholarships was given out to students at Kansas State University, Butler Community College and The Art Institutes National-Kansas City. A continuing education scholarship was also given to a local beverage professional. The American Institute of Wine & Food’s mission is to “enhance quality of life through education about what we eat and drink.” The Wichita chapter, founded in 1992, is one of more than 29 chapters nationwide, producing more than 300 mission-related programs each year. Scholarships, Days of Taste® programs and educational programming are core elements of The AIWF and the vehicle for fulfilling the Institute’s mission. It’s also lots of FUN! For more information on the Midwest Beerfest visit: www.midwestbeerfest.com or call, (316) 682-5502. Must be 21 years of age to attend. No strollers. I.D. will be checked at the door. Designated drivers get in for $12!

X

Midwest Beerfest

Guy Bower

2009-10-01 15:50:00

Question: What event allows you to taste more than 350 beers and beer products from around the world including microbrews from Kansas, purchase tasty food from local restaurants, and bid on great silent auction items — all while taking a “sip for a scholarship?”

Answer: Midwest Beerfest 2009! Join fellow brew-lovers and increase your beer knowledge from 1-4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 17 at Century II Exhibition Hall, Wichita, for a “big brew” adventure and help celebrate our 9th anniversary. This two-day event begins on Friday, Oct. 16 with two spectacular beer dinners: Schlafly Beers at the Wichita Marriott with food prepared by Executive Chef Peter Moretti and Tallgrass Brewing Company at Larkspur with food prepared by Executive Chef/Owner Ty Issa. Some of the finest beers from the region will be paired with food selected to celebrate and enhance the flavors of these outstanding beers. The menus are available at www.midwestbeerfest.com. The dinner begins at 7 p.m. and the cost is $55 per person. Reservations are available only by calling 682-5502. Seating is limited, so call now. On Saturday, grab your ticket and get in line. Doors open at 1 p. m. for the Midwest Beerfest Grand Tasting and Silent Auction. The Beerfest began Sept. 22, 2001, and drew more than 800 attendees; Last year’s Beerfest had more than 2,000 happy beer lovers sipping and tasting. This year, we expect a record-breaking crowd, so get your tickets early. Tickets are $30 (inclusive of the convenience fee) and can be purchased at Century II’s WichitaTix box office, by calling 219-4TIX or online at www.wichitatix.com. Tickets entitle participants to a tasting mug, program guide and a key to the world of beers. The Midwest Beerfest, sponsored by the American Institute of Wine & Food, Wichita Chapter, features beers, ales, lagers and more from your favorite breweries and microbreweries from all around the world. Monies raised benefit the AIWF, Wichita Chapter’s Terry Palmer Memorial Culinary Scholarship Fund for local culinary or hospitality students, chefs, or those in the food and beverage industry pursuing further education. Last year’s winners were from Kansas schools including K-State and Johnson County. In addition to an outstanding sampling of beers, there will be non-beer drinks, a food and beer pairing seminar, an array of beer-friendly food, a brew-lover’s Silent Auction with the opportunity to win lots of great prizes, and music. The Silent Auction is a benefit for Starkey, Inc. Founded in 1930, Starkey Inc., is the oldest community-based non-profit organization in Sedgwick County serving adults with mental retardation and developmental disabilities. It currently serves more than 400 individuals through its employment, community living and life enrichment and retirement programs. As part of its mission, Starkey helps these men and women to “live, learn, work and contribute to their communities.” The American Institute of Wine & Food’s mission is to “enhance quality of life through education about what we eat and drink.” The Wichita chapter, founded in 1992, is one of more than 29 chapters nationwide, producing more than 300 mission-related programs each year. Educational programming is the core of The AIWF and the vehicle for fulfilling the Institute’s mission. It’s also lots of FUN! For more information visit: www.midwestbeerfest.com or call, (316) 682-5502. Must be 21 years of age to attend. No strollers. I.D. will be checked at the door. Designated drivers get in for $12!

X

Midwest Beerfest

Guy Bower

2008-08-01 09:35:00

Question: What event allows you to taste more than 350 beers and beer products from around the world including microbrews from Kansas, purchase tasty food from local restaurants, and bid on great silent auction items — all while taking a “sip for a scholarship?”

Answer: Midwest Beerfest 2008! Join fellow brew-lovers and increase your beer knowledge from 1-4 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 20 at Century II Exhibition Hall, Wichita, for a “big brew” adventure and help celebrate our 8th anniversary. This two-day event begins on Friday, Sept. 19 with a spectacular beer dinner: “Palmer’s Picks.” Some of the finest beers from around the world will be paired with outstanding food prepared by Hilton Wichita Airport Executive Chef Larry Walker. The menu is available at www.midwestbeerfest.com. The dinner begins at 7 p.m. and the cost is $55 each. Reservations available only by calling 682-5502. Seating is limited so call now. On Saturday, grab your ticket and get in line. Doors open at 1 p. m. for the Midwest Beerfest Grand Tasting and Silent Auction. The Beerfest began Sept. 22, 2001, and drew more than 800 attendees; Last year’s Beerfest had more than 1,800 happy beer lovers sipping and tasting. This year, we expect a record-breaking crowd, so get your tickets early. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at Century II’s WichitaTix box office, by calling 219-4TIX or online at www.wichitatix.com. Convenience fee applies. Tickets entitle participants to a tasting mug, tasting tickets, program guide and a key to the world of beers. The Midwest Beerfest, sponsored by the American Institute of Wine & Food, Wichita Chapter, features beers, ales, lagers and more from your favorite breweries and microbreweries from all over the world. Monies raised benefit the AIWF, Wichita Chapter’s Culinary Scholarship Fund for local culinary or hospitality students, chefs, or those in the food and beverage industry pursuing further education. Last year’s winners were from Kansas schools including K-State and Johnson County. In addition to an outstanding sampling of beers, there will be non-beer drinks, a beer-tasting seminar, an array of beer-friendly food, a beer-lover’s Silent Auction and lots of music. The Silent Auction is a benefit for Starkey, Inc. Founded in 1930, Starkey Inc., is the oldest community-based non-profit organization in Sedgwick County serving adults with mental retardation and developmental disabilities. It currently serves more than 400 individuals through its employment, community living and life enrichment and retirement programs. As part of its mission, Starkey helps these men and women to “live, learn, work and contribute to their communities.” The American Institute of Wine & Food, Wichita Chapter is dedicated to understanding and celebrating the pleasures, benefits and traditions of the table! The Wichita chapter, founded in 1992, is one of more than 26 chapters nationwide, producing more than 300 mission-related programs each year.Educational programming is the core of The AIWF and the vehicle for fulfilling the Institute’s mission. It’s also lots of FUN! For more information visit: www.midwestbeerfest.com or call, (316) 682-5502. Must be 21 years of age to attend. No strollers. I.D. will be checked at the door. Designated drivers get in for $10!

X

Midwest Beerfest

Guy Bower

2007-10-01 11:09:00

QUESTION: What’s new at the Midwest Beerfest 2007?

ANSWER: What event allows you to taste more than 350 beers and beer products from around the world including microbrews from Kansas, purchase tasty food from local restaurants, and bid on great silent auction items — all while taking a “sip for a scholarship?” Midwest Beerfest 2007! Join fellow brew-lovers and increase your beer knowledge from 1-4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 20 at Century II Exhibition Hall, Wichita, for a “big brew” adventure and help celebrate our 7th anniversary. This two-day event begins on Friday, Oct. 19 with two spectacular dinners paired with the finest beers from Goose Island Beers at the Wichita Marriott and New Belgium Brewing Company beers at Larkspur. Both chefs will offer outstanding menus to perfectly complement the chosen beers. Menu available at www.midwestbeerfest.com. The dinners begin at 7 p.m. and the cost is $50 each. Reservations available only by calling 682-5502. Seating is limited so call now. On Saturday, grab your ticket and get in line. Doors open at 1 p. m. for the Midwest Beerfest Grand Tasting and Silent Auction. The Beerfest began Sept. 22, 2001, and drew more than 800 attendees; Last year’s Beerfest had more than 1,800 happy beer lovers sipping and tasting. This year, we expect a record-breaking crowd, so get your tickets early. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at Century II’s WichitaTix box office, by calling 219-4TIX or online at www.wichitatix.com. Convenience fee applies. Tickets entitle participants to a tasting mug, tasting tickets, program guide and a key to the world of beers. The Midwest Beerfest, sponsored by the American Institute of Wine & Food, Wichita Chapter, features beers, ales, lagers and more from your favorite breweries and microbreweries from all over the world. Monies raised benefit the AIWF, Wichita Chapter’s Culinary Scholarship Fund for local culinary or hospitality students, chefs, or those in the food and beverage industry pursuing further education. Last year’s winners were Guy Bower, local radio show host and wine enthusiast and educator and Ed Beasley, Certified Specialist of Wine. In addition to an outstanding sampling of beers, there will be non-beer drinks, a cigar rolling demonstration, a cooking with beer demonstration, a beer-tasting seminar, an array of beer-friendly food, a beer-lover’s Silent Auction, and music. The Silent Auction is a benefit for Starkey, Inc. Founded in 1930, Starkey Inc., is the oldest community-based non-profit organization in Sedgwick County serving adults with mental retardation and developmental disabilities. It currently serves more than 400 individuals through its employment, community living and life enrichment and retirement programs. As part of its mission, Starkey helps these men and women to “live, learn, work and contribute to their communities.” The American Institute of Wine & Food, Wichita Chapter is dedicated to understanding and celebrating the pleasures, benefits and traditions of the table! The Wichita chapter, founded in 1992, is one of more than 23 chapters nationwide, producing more than 300 mission-related programs each year. Educational programming is the core of The AIWF and the vehicle for fulfilling the Institute’s mission. It’s also lots of FUN! For more information visit: www.midwestbeerfest.com or call, (316) 682-5502. Must be 21 years of age to attend. No strollers. I.D. will be checked at the door. Designated drivers get in for $10!

X

Midwest Beerfest

Guy Bower

2006-10-01 14:35:00

QUESTION: What’s new at the 2006 Midwest Beerfest?

ANSWER: What event allows you to taste more than 300 beers from around the world including microbrews from Kansas, purchase tasty food from local restaurants, and bid on great silent auction items — all while taking a “sip for a scholarship?” Midwest Beerfest 2006! Join fellow brew-lovers and increase your beer knowledge from 1-5 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 21 at Century II Exhibition Hall, Wichita, KS, for a “big brew” adventure and help celebrate our 6th anniversary. This two-day event begins on Friday, Oct. 20 at Yia Yia’s Eurobistro, with a spectacular dinner paired with seven of the finest beers from Samuel Adams,’ America’s World Class Beer, The Boston Beer Company. Yia Yia’s Executive Chef Brent McCollar will offer an outstanding menu to perfectly complement the chosen beers. Menu available at www.midwestbeerfest.com. The dinner begins at 7 p.m. and the cost is $50. Reservations available only by calling 682-5502. Seating limited. Call now. On Saturday, grab your ticket and get in line. Doors open at 1 p.m. for the Midwest Beerfest Grand Tasting and Silent Auction. The Beerfest began Sept. 22, 2001, and drew more than 800 attendees;. Last year’s Beerfest had more than 1,800 happy beer lovers sipping and tasting. This year, we expect a record-breaking crowd, so get your tickets early. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at Century II’s WichitaTix box office, by calling 219-4TIX or online at www.wichitatix.com. Convenience fee applies. Tickets entitle participants to a tasting mug, tasting tickets, program guide and a key to the world of beers. The Midwest Beerfest, sponsored by the American Institute of Wine & Food, Wichita Chapter, features beers, ales, lagers and more from your favorite breweries and microbreweries from all over the world. Monies raised benefit the AIWF, Wichita Chapter’s Culinary Scholarship Fund for local culinary or hospitality students, chefs, or those in the food and beverage industry pursuing education. In addition to an outstanding sampling of beers, there will be non-beer drinks, a Cigar Veranda, a cooking with beer demonstration, a beer-tasting seminar, an array of beer-friendly food, a beer-lover’s Silent Auction, and music. The Silent Auction is a benefit for Starkey, Inc. Founded in 1930, Starkey Inc., is the oldest community-based non-profit organization in Sedgwick County serving adults with mental retardation and developmental disabilities. It currently serves more than 400 individuals through its employment, community living and life enrichment and retirement programs. As part of its mission, Starkey helps these men and women to "live, learn, work and contribute to their communities." The American Institute of Wine & Food, Wichita Chapter is dedicated to understanding and celebrating the pleasures, benefits and traditions of the table! The Wichita chapter, founded in 1992, is one of more than 26 chapters nationwide, producing more than 300 mission-related programs each year. Educational programming is the core of The AIWF and the vehicle for fulfilling the Institute's mission. It’s also lots of FUN! For more information visit: www.midwestbeerfest.com or call, (316) 682-5502. Must be 21 years of age to attend. No strollers. I.D. will be checked at the door. Designated drivers get in for $10!

X

Midwest Beerfest

Guy Bower

2005-09-01 07:39:00

QUESTION:  What's new at Midwest Beerfest 2005?

ANSWER: Midwest Beerfest 2005 allows you to taste more than 250 beers from around the world including microbrews from Kansas, purchase tasty food from local restaurants, and bid on great silent auction items - all while taking a "sip for a scholarship." Join fellow brew-lovers and increase your beer knowledge from 1-5 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 15 at Century II Exhibition Hall, Wichita, KS, for a "big brew" adventure and help celebrate our 5th anniversary. This two-day event begins on Friday, Oct. 14 at the Wichita Airport Hilton, with a spectacular dinner paired with at least eight of the country's finest beers including some outstanding microbrews from Kansas producers. The Hilton's Executive Chef Larry Walkerwill offer a dazzling menu to perfectly complement the chosen beers. Go to http://www.midwestbeerfest.com/ to check out this year's menu. The dinner begins at 7 p.m. and the cost is $50. Reservations available only by calling (316) 682-5502.  On Saturday, grab your ticket and get in line. Doors open at 1 p.m. for the Midwest Beerfest Grand Tasting and Silent Auction. The Beerfest began Sept. 22, 2001, and drew more than 800 attendees; last year's Beerfest had more than 1,800 happy beer lovers sipping and tasting. This year, we expect a record-breaking crowd, so get your tickets early. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at Century II's WichitaTix box office, by calling 219-4TIX or online at wichitatix.com. A convenience fee applies for online and over the phone purchases. Tickets entitle participants to a tasting mug, tasting tickets, program guide and a key to the world of beers!The Midwest Beerfest, sponsored by the American Institute of Wine & Food, Wichita Chapter, features beers, ales, lagers and more from your favorite breweries and microbreweries from all over the world. Monies raised benefit the AIWF, Wichita Chapter's Culinary Scholarship Fund for local culinary or hospitality students, chefs, or those in the food and beverage industry pursing education.In addition to an outstanding sampling of beers, there will be non-beer drinks, a Cigar Veranda, cooking with beer demonstrations, two beer-tasting seminars, and a great array of beer-friendly food, a beer-lover's Silent Auction, and music by Ronda Romero Project.The Silent Auction is a benefit for Starkey, Inc. Founded in 1930, Starkey Inc., is the oldest community-based non-profit organization in Sedgwick County serving adults with mental retardation and developmental disabilities. It currently serves more than 400 individuals through its employment, community living and life enrichment and retirement programs. As part of its mission, Starkey helps these men and women to "live, learn, work and contribute to their communities."The American Institute of Wine & Food, Wichita Chapter is dedicated to understanding and celebrating the pleasures, benefits and traditions of the table! The Wichita Chapter, founded in 1992, is one of more than 28 chapters nationwide, producing more than 300 mission-related programs each year. Educational programming is the core of The AIWF and the vehicle for fulfilling the Institute's mission. It's also lots of FUN! For more info visit: http://www.midwestbeerfest.com/ or call, (316) 682-5502. Attendees must be 21 years of age, and I.D. will be checked at the door. Designated drivers get in for $5! No strollers.Come on, let's get hoppin'!

X

Midwest Beerfest

Guy Bower

2004-09-01 11:07:00

QUESTION: What's going on at this year's Midwest Beerfest?

ANSWER: The Mid-west Beerfest Grand Tasting & Auction will take place from 1-5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9 and will feature more than 200 beers, educational seminars, cooking with beer demonstration, a Special Beer Seminar with featured guest Lew Bryson, a great array of Beer Friendly food, live music by Big Dave & The Monotones, and the famous beer-lovers Silent Auction, a benefit for Starkey, Inc. Tickets for The Grand Tasting & Auction are $17.50 in advance and $20 the day of the event. Tickets available through Select-a-Seat outlets: (316) 755-SEAT & Century II at the door. Tickets go on sale September 8, 2004. Proceeds benefit the American Institute of Wine & Food-Wichita Chapter's Culinary Scholarship Fund.This year's Midwest Beerfest begins with the World Beer Dinner, Friday, Oct. 8, at the Wichita Marriott. Guests will enjoy a spectacular dinner paired with eight of the world's finest beers. The Marriott's Executive Chef Peter Moretti (last year's winner of the AIWF-Wichita Chapter's Culinary Scholarship) will offer a dazzling and delicious menu to perfectly compliment the chosen beers. Special guest speaker Lew Bryson, "The Beer Fly," will host this year's dinner. Lew, from Pennsylvania, has authored and published two travel guidebooks: New York Breweries, and Pennsylvania Breweries, and writes full-time about beer and spirits. He has written articles on beer topics for various newspapers including the Philadelphia Inquirer and Chicago Tribune and works as the Managing Editor of Malt Advocate.  The World Beer Dinner starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $50 and must be purchased in advance, as seating is limited. Tickets available by calling 682-5502. Reservations must be made by noon, Oct. 6. See midwest-beerfest.com for updates. Although the Menu for 2004 is still in the planning stages, below is the 2003 menu.

X

Midwest Beerfest

Guy Bower

2003-10-01 11:23:00

QUESTION: Can you tell me more about beer and its origins?

ANSWER: I am an avid beer enthusiast, and as such, I feel fortunate to have come of age during the American beer revolution. In the late 1800’s there were more than 3,000 breweries in the U.S. Then Prohibition hit and the number dwindled with little chance of recovery. Afterward, the mega-breweries took over and by the 1970’s, there were only about 50 breweries in America.   But a revolution was on the horizon. Since this revolution started, there has been a dramatic increase in small producers brewing big flavors. Now, there are more than 1,500 beer producers in the U.S. alone.   While I call it a revolution, it's really a return to a grassroots production of handcrafted, creative and flavorful brews. If sales are an indication, this move is a winner with consumers. These sales prompted even giant Anheuser-Busch to come up with a great line of "crafted" brews. For beer lovers, it's a "win-win" situation.   If you haven't joined in the flavor explosion available, now is the time. It's easier to select the brews you like if you have some taste profiles and the vocabulary to help in your selection. Here are a few taste tools to help in your quest for big flavor.  Maltiness - Malt is derived from grains, generally wheat and barley, and is the part of the beer that is fermented. There are several varieties of malt, with varying flavors. Many people find a malty flavor to be somewhat sweet.Hoppiness - Hops are a plant that is also added to beer, and it's what gives beer a bitter flavor. Pale ales are generally the hoppiest beers available in the U.S.Fruitiness - Most ales have some degree of fruity flavor present, even though there is no actual fruit in the beer. The fruity flavor is a by-product of the yeast fermentation in the brewing process.   There are two basic categories of beer styles: top-fermenting beer and bottom-fermenting beer. Generally speaking, top-fermenting beers - ales - are more complex with fruity characteristics and include wheat beer, stout, porter and ale. Bottom-fermenting beers - lagers - possess a cleaner finish and include bock, Oktoberfest, pilsner, American lager and malt liquor.   In America, most of the beer consumed is of the bottom-fermenting lager style, but top-fermenting beers have gained popularity in recent years. It's a craze that continues to grow, and if you haven't joined in the fun now is a great time to start.   Beer is best when enjoyed with food. Some of the most familiar pairings include pizza, hot dogs, brats, chili and all variety of salty snacks. But try it with more complex dishes that you may initially think of pairing with wine. How about a thick, rich Porter, with a juicy steak? Where do you think they got the name "Porterhouse Steak?" Nothing goes better with spicy food than a cold refreshing brew. Mexican, Caribbean, Chinese and Thai food beg for the palate-cleansing effervescence of beer.   There are no hard and fast rules to beer enjoyment. Gather some friends, have everyone bring their favorite brew, fix food you like and relax. Or better yet, mark your calendar for the 3rd Annual Midwest Beerfest, Oct. 17 & 18.     Friday, Oct. 17, is the World Beer Dinner at the Hyatt Regency Wichita featuring guest speaker Don Russell, otherwise known as "Joe Sixpack" - the award-winning beer writer from the Philadelphia Daily News.   Saturday, Oct. 18 is the biggest beer event in Kansas. Join other beer lovers from 1-5 p.m. at the Grand Tasting, Century II, Wichita, with more than 250 beers, a silent auction with proceeds benefitting Starkey Inc., live music, great beer-friendly food, seminars, cooking demonstrations and so much more.   As they say, so many beers, so little time … hope to see you at the Beerfest!

X

Midwest Beerfest

Guy Bower

0000-00-00 00:00:00

Q: What event allows you to taste more than 350 beers and beer products from around the world including microbrews from Kansas, purchase tasty food from local restaurants, and bid on great silent auction items, all while taking a “sip for a scholarship?”

A: This year’s “The next 10 and counting Midwest Beerfest 2011!” Become a part of a very special event as the American Institute of Wine & Food celebrates the 11th Annual Midwest Beerfest, from 1-4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 15 at Century II Exhibition Hall, Wichita. Join fellow brew-lovers as you increase your beer knowledge, try some of the more than 350 beers and help us celebrate our 11th anniversary. This two-day event begins on Friday, Oct. 14 with your choice of attending one of three outstanding beer dinners at venues around town. Venues and beers represented include Summit Brewing Company at Larkspur Bistro and Cafe with food prepared by Executive Chef/Owner Ty Issa; Odell Brewing Company at Tallgrass Country Club with food prepared by Banquet Manager Ben George, and Breckenridge Brewery with food prepared by Executive Chef Peter Moretti at the Wichita Marriott. Some of the finest regional beers will be paired with spectacular food selected to celebrate and enhance the flavors of these outstanding beers. The menus are available at www.midwestbeerfest.com. The dinners begin at 7 p.m. and the cost is $55 per person. Reservations are available only by calling (316) 682-5502. Seating is limited, so call now. On Saturday, grab your ticket and get in line. Doors open at 1 p. m. for the Midwest Beerfest Grand Tasting and Silent Auction. The Beerfest began Sept. 22, 2001, and drew more than 800 attendees; Last year’s Beerfest had more than 1,800 happy beer lovers sipping and tasting. This year, we expect a record-breaking crowd, and attendance may be limited so get your tickets early. Tickets are $35 (inclusive of the convenience fee) and can be purchased at Century II’s WichitaTix box office, by calling (316) 219-4TIX or online at www.wichitatix.com. Tickets entitle participants to a tasting mug, program guide and a key to the world of beers. In addition to an outstanding sampling of beers, this year is the 2nd annual “Midwest Chickenfest” a Chicken Wing Cookoff contest featuring chicken wings prepared local restaurants and foodies. Admission to the tasting is $5 and all of the money raised will go to Children’s Miracle Network. For your cost, you will get to sample a number of different wings from local vendors and vote for your “People’s Choice.” Also look for non-beer drinks, a beer seminar, an array of beer-friendly food, a brew-lover’s Silent Auction with the opportunity to win lots of great prizes, and music. The Silent Auction is a benefit for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals at Via Christi Health. CMN helps children throughout Kansas (primarily western and south central Kansas) without regard to illness, ability to pay or physician’s hospital affiliation. Families connect with CMN resources through a network of six regional hospitals serving more than 50,000 children each year in 64 counties. Since 1984, CMN in Kansas has raised more than $17 million — 100 percent stays here in Kansas — to help children in need. The Midwest Beerfest, sponsored by the American Institute of Wine & Food, Wichita Chapter, features beers, ales, lagers and more from your favorite breweries and microbreweries from around the world. Monies raised benefit the AIWF-Wichita Chapter’s Terry Palmer Memorial Culinary Scholarship Fund for local culinary or hospitality students, chefs, or those in the food and beverage industry pursuing further education. Last year, more than $16,000 in scholarships was given to students at Kansas State University and The Art Institutes National-Kansas City. Two continuing education scholarships were also given to local professionals in the beverage industry. The American Institute of Wine & Food’s mission is to “enhance quality of life through education about what we eat and drink.” The Wichita chapter, founded in 1992, is one of more than 26 chapters nationwide, producing more than 300 mission-related programs each year. Scholarships, Days of Taste® programs and educational programming are core elements of The AIWF and the vehicle for fulfilling the Institute’s mission. It’s also lots of FUN! For more information on the Midwest Beerfest visit: www.midwestbeerfest.com or call, (316) 682-5502. Must be 21 years of age to attend. No strollers. I.D. will be checked at the door. Designated drivers get in for $12!