By the Numbers – Sept. 2015

A few performing arts figures worth noting

ThinkstockPhotos-932597321,933 – The seating capacity of the Gershwin Theatre in New York. Taking up almost six stories, this is the largest Broadway theater.

11,447 – The number of times The Phantom of the Opera has been performed on Broadway since its opening night in 1988, making it the longest-running Broadway show to date.

5,732 – The approximate number of times The Beach Boys have performed since their first concert in 1961.

ThinkstockPhotos-4623936733,500,000 – The number of people in attendance for a performance by French composer Jean Michel Jarre in 1997, tying Rod Stewart’s 1994 performance in Rio de Janeiro for the all-time highest attendance at a concert.

 

1581 – The year the first ballet was performed. Titled Le Ballet Comique de la Reine (The Queen’s Ballet Company), the performance was staged by Balthazar de Beaujoyeux in Paris.

F.Y.I. – Sept. 2015

FYI

Things worth knowing

Finding Hope Through Art
Local artist opens gallery in LOMA

After the passing of her husband of 32 years, local artist Eunice LaFate was compelled to open a gallery exhibiting her art as a way to cope with her loss. Despite her siblings’ suggestions to move to New York City, where most artists flourish, LaFate chose to remain in Wilmington.

“I told them I love Wilmington, and wanted to stay here,” she says.
LaFate Gallery, featuring the artist’s unique, inspiring work, will open on Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 227 N. Market St., Wilmington.

Biking Through Amish Country
Tour welcomes cyclists of all ages, abilities

Experienced cyclist or absolute beginner, the Amish Country Bike Tour invites you. Set for Saturday, Sept. 12, in Dover, the ride includes several stops, including an Amish schoolhouse where locally-baked pies will be served. The cost to register is $60 for adults, $30 for ages 5-16, and free for children under 5. Admission includes a fully-catered barbecue meal, map and up to four food and rest stops.

Wilmington Chorus Performs in Germany
47 kids spend week with host families

As part of a cultural exchange program, the Wilmington Children’s Chorus spent the first week of August performing in Fulda, Germany, combining with the town’s youth orchestra. The singing ambassadors of the City of Wilmington were welcomed by an official delegation in the town’s center of local government, the Lord Mayor’s great marble hall. During their stay, the 47 high school-aged members lived with host families and rehearsed for their performance at the Klosterkirche am Frauenberg, a Baroque church at a monastery that dates to the Middle Ages.

ThinkstockPhotos-489907937Run for Fun and Charity
Ninth annual Nun Run 5K is Sept. 12

The Little Sisters of the Poor invite runners and walkers of all ages to compete in one of the area’s largest 5k races—the Nun Run—on Saturday, Sept. 12. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m. at the Jeanne Jugan Residence in Newark. Cost is $25. Runners can park directly across the street at Christiana High School. Trophies will be awarded to the fastest male and female runners, as well as walkers in open and masters divisions. After the race, enjoy live music, food, cold beer and goody bags. All proceeds will aid the Little Sisters of the Poor in their efforts to purchase a new refrigerator to help feed the hungry.

High Praise for an Area Favorite
WXPN wins Station of the Year

Last month, the member-supported radio station WXPN won “Station of the Year” at the annual Friday Morning Quarterback Triple A Conference in Denver, Colo. Since 2010, this conference has honored the best in Triple A Radio, as chosen by radio executives, record company executives and artist management companies. The station’s associate general manager, Bruce Warren, was also named Program Director of the Year.

Modern-Day Fairy Tale
Local author publishes fourth novel

After spending the last 24 years in law enforcement and social work, Lisa Burdziejko began shifting her focus to another passion: writing fiction. This resulted in the release of her first book in 2007. Since then, she has published three more novels. Her most recent, Kissing Frogs, centers on a single mom’s experience in getting back into the dating world for the first time in years. Kissing Frogs is a modern-day, fractured fairy tale that captures the excitement, anxiety and laughable moments of the protagonist, Ethel, as she learns she must kiss many frogs before finding her prince. The book is available online at Amazon and Barnes and Noble on Sept. 3.

Sips – August 2015

Here’s what’s pouring

West Coast Favorite Comes to Delaware

On Aug. 31, NKS Distributors will introduce Firestone Walker Brewery to the Delaware markets. Founded in 1996 by Adam Firestone and David Walker in Paso Robles, Calif., Firestone Walker began as a small brewery with roots in wine country on California’s Central Coast. Firestone is renowned for its award-winning IPA and has produced more than 50 varieties of beer.

Celebrating a Legacy

On July 10, Delaware beer historian John Medkeff released his novel Delaware: A Beer Story, cataloging the development of Delaware’s close relationship with beer and the brewing arts. The novel’s release was paired with “Four Centuries of Brewing in Delaware,” an event featuring 12 local Delaware breweries, as well as a local distillery and a meadery. All proceeds, including book sales, were and will continue to be donated to the Delaware Historical Society and the Friends of Historical Riverview Cemetery.

Historic Odessa Hosts Craft Beer Celebration

At last year’s inaugural brewfest, up to 47 craft breweries and more than 1,400 beer lovers came to Odessa. This year, on Saturday, Sept. 12, the Historic Odessa Foundation and Cantwell’s Tavern have once again joined forces to bring the second installation, featuring even more beer, food, music and fun. From noon-6p.m., general admission is $50, while VIP admission is $70 and includes an early tasting at noon, a food voucher and access to limited-quantity beers. All proceeds go to the Historic Odessa Foundation—a non-profit organization focused on preserving the history of the town for future generations.

National Brewfest Come to Riverfront

America on Tap is the first nationally-integrated entertainment series focused specifically on specialty and craft breweries from around the world. On Saturday, Aug. 15, this year’s festival is on the Riverfront, offering more than 100 releases from some of America’s best craft breweries. Complete with live music, great vendors, and delicious, local food, America on Tap is a unique experience designed to bind communities together with their love of beer. The event takes place from 2:30-6 p.m. in Tubman-Garrett Park in Wilmington, tickets are $55 at the door. Guests must be 21 years or older to attend.

Twice the Fun at River Towns Festival

The historic river towns of Delaware City and New Castle will team up once again to present the third annual River Towns Ride & Festival on Saturday, Oct. 3 (11:30am-5pm). The festivities kick off in the morning with a competitive time trial for professional and amateur cyclists, followed by a recreational ride for all ability levels at noon. Festivals in both towns open to the general public beginning at 11:30 a.m., featuring 16 craft breweries, live music, food trucks, kids rides and other family attractions. Visit rivertownsfestival.com.

Grilled Cheese & Craft Beer

World Cafe Live at The Queen takes two of the best things on earth—grilled cheese and craft beer—and pairs them in unexpected and delicious ways. Using locally-sourced ingredients, and imports from around the world, the Grilled Cheese & Craft Beer events will resume 0n Sept. 26 and continue monthly. At each event a different brewery will be featured, with a representative on hand to speak and offer giveaways. In September, Yards Brewing Company will be there with its Pynk brew, raising awareness for breast cancer. October will include Stone Brewing Company, and Mispillion Brewing Company will be on hand in November. Events start at 6 p.m., and tickets are $40.

By the Numbers – Aug 2015

A few sports figures worth noting

1406 – The number of bases stolen by major league baseball great Rickey Henderson.

336 – The number of dimples on the average golf ball.

4 – The number of goals scored by Carli Lloyd during the championship game of the Women’s World Cup.

38, 387 – The number of points scored by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the NBA’s highest scoring player of all time.

55 – The percent of Americans who watch sports from home, as of January 2014.

3.3 – The average length, in years, of an NFL career.

F.Y.I. – Aug 2015

FYI

Things worth knowing

Get Festive!
Artists, crafters will take part in Brandywine Arts Fest

More than 200 artists will exhibit their work through a variety of mediums at the Brandywine Arts Festival on Sept. 12. Held in Josephine Gardens in Brandywine Park, the annual two-day event features live music, numerous activities for children and local food vendors. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 12, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 13. Admission is $5. Children 12 and under accompanied by an adult are admitted free.

A Roaring Good Time
Fun with animals, crafts & more at Brandywine Zoo

This month, the Brandywine Zoo in Wilmington offers you the chance to get up close and personal with some slithery snakes, lizards and maybe a turtle or two. This unusual meet and greet is held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 2-3 p.m. On Thursdays, starting at 10:30 a.m., families can enjoy a day of story-telling, crafts and live animal presentation. The event takes place in the Otter Circle. For youths, ages 3-17, and seniors, ages 62 and older, tickets are $5. Adults, ages 18-61, pay $7. Members and children under 3 enter for free.

Music for a Cause
Sept. 18 fundraiser features Elaine Kwon

On Friday, Sept. 18, a fundraising event featuring award-winning concert pianist Elaine Kwon will be held at Arsht Hall in Wilmington. Short music selections will be paired with wine tastings based on the moods, origins and other aspects of each piece. All proceeds will benefit A Better Chance for Our Children, a foster care and adoptions organization.

A Reason to Dance
6th annual fundraiser benefits LiveStrong

When CORE Fitness owner Arianne Missimer’s brother passed away from cancer at the age of 29, she devoted herself to one mission: to share the joy of dancing with others while helping to find a cure for cancer. This year, the fight became even more personal when she was diagnosed with stage three sarcoma. Determined to keep up the fight, she will hold this year’s DanceStrong on Saturday, Sept. 12, at the BlueBallroom Dance Studio in Wilmington.

Starting at 6 p.m., attendees can enjoy appetizers, raffles and a cash bar. The main entertainment begins at 7 p.m., with a showcase of dance performances by several professionals and amateurs. Throughout the evening, cancer patients and survivors will share their story, maintaining the focus of the night. Finally, at 8 p.m., there will be a general dance lesson for interested members of the audience. Tickets are $25 with all proceeds benefiting the LiveStrong Foundation.

Chris Cotter Premieres Film
Refugee: The Eritrean Exodus shows are Aug. 8 & 9

Sykes Theatre in West Chester, Pa., will premier TribeSound Productions and Tailor Made Media’s Refugee: The Eritrean Exodus, a documentary centering on American traveler Chris Cotter, as he explores the plight of Eritrean refugees migrating through Ethiopia to safe havens. The film features gripping stories of oppression and survival from the refugees. Showings are 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9.

Summer Jams
Jonathan Whitney continues Summer Concert Series

On Sunday, Aug. 2, from 4-5:30 p.m., renowned percussionist Jonathan Whitney will return with his band, performing at the rear plaza of the Hercules Building in Wilmington as part of Old Brandywine Village’s Summer Concert Series. Expect an exciting repertoire, including jazz originals and arrangements of standards from artists like The Beatles, Cole Porter and Stevie Wonder.

A Tasty Tradition

12th annual Newark Food & Brew Fest set for July 25

For more than a decade, the Downtown Newark Partnership and Out & About Magazine have worked together to make the Newark Food & Brew Festival one of the area’s top summer traditions. Featuring 16 restaurants, more than 40 craft and imported beers, live music and outdoor activities, the festival binds together the Newark community and lifts up local businesses.

“There’s an attraction to a genuine downtown that’s organically grown over the years,” says Ricky Nietubicz, an administrator of the Downtown Newark Partnership. “You can build 100,000 square feet and fill it with restaurants, but it doesn’t have the same feel and the same look as our restaurant community.”

The festivities will be held on Saturday, July 25, from 2-9 p.m. and will showcase prominent area brewing companies such as Dogfish Head, 16 Mile, Tröegs, Heavy Seas and Victory. A unique aspect of this festival is that it takes place at the restaurants and allows guests to travel from each location sampling beers, tasting dishes and enjoying the atmosphere. Guests can partake in a variety of food pairings from restaurants that include Ali Baba, Caffé Gelato, Deer Park Tavern and The Greene Turtle.

“When going to dinner in Downtown Newark, often the biggest problem is figuring out which of the numerous very good restaurants to choose from,” says Nietubicz. “The nice thing about Food & Brew Fest is you don’t have to choose—you can graze from one end of Main Street to the other.”

Founded in 2003, the festival was the first Newark event to embrace craft beer as a central element. It also helped foster a spirit of cooperation among local businesses as well as provide a boost to business during the slower summer months.

“We definitely sell more beer on Food & Brew day than other days of the year,” says Ryan German, owner and operator of Caffé Gelato.

The first 2,500 guests will receive a commemorative five-ounce tasting mug. Tickets are not required; just pay as you go and bring your ID for beer tastings. Guests can sample one of the restaurant’s featured brews for $1.

A day-of-event program will be available at restaurants and information booths will be located on the Academy Lawn and at The Greene Turtle on South Main Street.

Strolling musicians and balloon decorations will line the street. O&A Magazine will be there, hosting a root beer tasting stand for kids on the Academy Lawn until 6 p.m. or until supplies run out.

“Newark is a dining destination,” says German, “Having so many restaurants together in a walkable distance, with so many good beers, is what I like about the festival.”

The menu and details are posted on newarkfoodandbrewfest.com. Municipal parking lots are conveniently located throughout downtown, and the University of Delaware’s parking garage will make spaces available. A complimentary air-conditioned shuttle will run from 4-8:30 p.m. to take guests to spots near the participating restaurants.

Crafty Hoppenings

Here, for your summer and fall planning guide, are some of the best craft beer events in the area. They include flight clubs, community events, charity functions, beer dinners, beer festivals, and more. Most, as noted, are open to all ages. For others, you must be 21 or older. Enjoy!

Ongoing

Chelsea Tavern Flight Club
Every Tuesday, 5:30pm
Chelsea Tavern, Wilmington
chelseatavern.com

The first rule of Flight Club is that you do not have to be a member. But a membership does entitle you to specials such as a Flight Club mug, as well as 20 percent off monthly beer dinners and beer with mugs. This month members will also enjoy several perks like a dinner with Ian Wallace of Yards Brewing Company, free raffles/giveaways and a night of flights on the patio of the Ernest & Scott Taproom. Each beer and food pairing is meticulously chosen, based on seasonality, geographic location, style and many other factors. Meeting weekly in the historic Chelsea Tavern, Flight Club is a friendly and thriving community of food and craft beer lovers. Your first flight is only $10.

Beer Dinners
Monthly at 6:30pm. See website for dates.
Two Stones Pub, Newark, Wilmington & Kennett Square, Pa.
twostonespub.com

Pairing award-winning beer with phenomenal food, Two Stones provides dinners in an intimate, relaxed atmosphere, seating no more than 30. Each dinner meets monthly at the Newark, Wilmington and Kennett Square locations and features carefully chosen food and craft beer selections. Tickets are $72 and include a six-course meal and six beers.

Grilled Cheese & Craft Beer
Monthly, resuming in September
World Cafe Live at The Queen, Wilmington
queen.worldcafelive.com

For years The Queen has taken the two best things on earth—grilled cheese and craft beer—and paired them in unexpected and delicious ways. Yet there is no American cheese and Wonder Bread in sight. Instead, they use high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients, in addition to rare imports from around the world. Although they are taking a break for the summer, dinners will resume in September and continue monthly on a day to be determined, which will be announced on the website. For each meal, a different brewery will be featured, with a representative on hand to speak and offer giveaways. In September, Yards Brewing Company will be on hand with its Pynk brew, raising awareness for breast cancer. October will feature Stone Brewing Company, and Mispillion will appear in November. Tickets are $40.

July

Winterthur Beer Garden
Fridays, July 17 & 24, Aug. 14 & 21. 4-9pm
Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library
winterthur.org

Enjoy local craft beers, Pennsylvania/German-inspired food and live music in a calming, picturesque atmosphere. This year’s event includes selections from Delaware’s own 16 Mile, Fordham & Dominion, Twin Lakes, Dogfish Head and 3rd Wave. Tickets or reservations are not needed and it’s $6 for any 12-oz. beer served in mugs. This event is open to all ages.

Birdies & Brews
Thursday, July 23. 5-7pm
Deerfield Tennis and Golf Club, Newark
dmvc.org/bb

Hosted by the Boy Scouts of America Del-Mar-Va Council, The Birdies & Brews fest combines two great things: golf and craft beer. Enjoy craft brews, sodas, spirits, as well as street food fare, live entertainment and an auction. Tickets are $50 and include a commemorative tasting glass that you can use for unlimited tastings. Featured breweries include regional favorites such as Dogfish Head, Twin Lakes, Iron Hill and many others. All proceeds benefit your local BSA troop. This event is open to all ages.

Newark Food & Brew Festival
Saturday, July 25. 2-9pm
Downtown Newark
newarkfoodandbrewfest.com

The 12th annual Newark Food & Brew Festival features craft and imported beers, creative cuisine, live music and sidewalk performers. This event showcases more than 40 craft and imported beers paired with food from 17 of downtown Newark’s finest restaurants. Walk from restaurant to restaurant as musicians and balloon decorations line the street, making this one of Delaware’s most beloved summer traditions. Out & About Magazine will be there, hosting a root beer tasting stand for kids on the Academy Lawn until 6 p.m. or until supplies run out. There is no admission fee and a complimentary shuttle service will be provided. The first 2,500 to attend will receive a free sampling mug. This event is open to all ages.

Stewart’s Brewing Co. 20th anniversary Outdoor Beer Fest
Saturday, July 25. 4-8pm
Stewart’s Brewing Company, Bear
stewartsbrewingcompany.com

Enjoy a full day of great food and craft beer from some of the region’s best breweries, including Iron Hill, Dogfish Head, Fordham & Dominion, Flying Fish, 3rd Wave, 16 Mile, Mispillion, Agrilla, Twin Lakes, Sly Fox, Yards and Stewart’s. Held at New Castle County’s first brewpub, this event is open to all ages.

August

7th Annual BrewBQ
Saturday, Aug. 1. 12-4pm
Plantation Field, Unionville, Pa.
victorybeer.com/brewbq

This year, Victory Brewing Company will host its 7th annual BrewBQ competition. The competition will feature a two-category BBQ cook-off. Each team will compete to see who can make the best chicken and ribs, as decided by the judges. Enjoy a variety of restaurants and vendors, live music, the Victory Beer Garden, tournament style games and a play area designated for kids. Attendees also will be able to taste and vote on the People’s Pork award for the restaurants’ best vendors. This event is free and open to all ages.

Delaware State Fair’s Craft Beer Festival
Saturday, Aug. 1. 6-9pm
M&T Bank Grand Stand, Delaware State Fair, Harrington
delawarestatefair.com

Closing out the fair this year will be a three-hour concert and craft beer event featuring Grand Funk Railroad and more than 50 craft and domestic releases from breweries from across the country. Attendees can sample beers and order from several food trucks on the track of the M&T Bank Grandstand while enjoying music from Grand Funk and Delaware’s own lower case blues. Tickets for the concert plus a craft beer tasting package are $35. This event is open to all ages.

Battle of the Brews
Home Brew Contest Judging
Saturday, Aug. 1. 9am-12pm
Entertainment Tent, Delaware State Fair, Harrington
delawarestatefair.com

The Delaware Department of Agriculture is presenting the fourth annual Battle of the Brews Home Brew Contest, in which competitors showcase their best brews in hopes of becoming the Delaware Homebrew Champion. Local breweries will be there with beer samples for fairgoers. This event is open to all ages.

America on Tap
Saturday, Aug. 15. 2:30-6pm
Tubman-Garrett Park, Wilmington
americaontap.com/delaware-on-tap

America on Tap is the first nationally integrated entertainment series focused specifically on craft breweries from around the world. This year’s festival is on the Riverfront, offering more than 100 releases from some of America’s best craft breweries. Complete with live music, great vendors, and delicious, local food, America on Tap is a unique experience designed to bind communities together with their love of beer. Tickets are $35 online, $45 after July 15 and $55 at the door.

Wilmington Burger Battle
Saturday, Aug. 29. 12-3:30pm
Cauffiel House, Bellevue State Park, Wilmington
deburgerbattle.com

The fourth annual Delaware Burger Battle brings together the best chefs of Delaware to challenge each other for burger supremacy—all to raise money to fight hunger. Each restaurant will put its best burger forward for your judgment in the People’s Choice Winner, while a panel of experts will select the Critic’s Choice Winner. All Burger Battle attendees enjoy all-you-can-eat burger samples; beer and wine are included in the ticket price for adults, while soft drinks are available for children and designated drivers. Early bird tickets are available online, and are, $44 through July 29, and $49 through Aug. 28. Tickets will be $60 at the door. For designated drivers and teens (ages 11-20), tickets are $17, and tickets for children 10 and under are $7. This event is open to all ages.

September

Odessa Brewfest
Saturday, Sept. 12. 12-6pm
Cantwell’s Tavern, Odessa
odessabrewfest.com

At last year’s inaugural brewfest, up to 47 craft breweries and more than 1,400 beer lovers came to Odessa. This year, the Historic Odessa Foundation and Cantwell’s Tavern have once again joined to bring the second installation, featuring even more beer, food, music, and fun. General admission is $50, while VIP admission is $70 and includes an early tasting at noon, a food voucher and access to limited-quantity beers. All proceeds go to the Historic Odessa Foundation—a non-profit organization focused on preserving the history of the town for future generations.

Delaware Saengerbund Oktoberfest
Friday-Sunday, Sept. 18-21
Delaware Saengerbund and Library, Newark
delawaresaengerbund.org

This annual tradition opens on Friday with a parade and an ode to the city of Munich as the Delaware Saengerbund’s Bavarian dance group Enzian Volkstanzgruppe entertains at intervals throughout the festival. This year, a wide range of beer and German cuisine will be offered, including grilled bratwurst (pork sausage), weisswuurst (veal sausage), frankfurters, BBQ chicken, pretzels and rollmops, a marinated herring served with rye bread. Potato salad and sauerkraut are made in the Delaware Saengerbund kitchen by the Ladies Organization. A variety of torten and traditional plum cake also will be offered. Tickets are $8 and include unlimited amusement rides and the event is open to all ages.

Brew at the Zoo (and Wine Too)
Friday, Sept 25, 5:30-9pm
Brandywine Zoo, Wilmington
brandywinezoo.org

Party animals unite when local breweries and craft-beer-and-wine distributors pair up with area restaurants at arguably one of the wildest outdoor locations around. Event is rain or shine. Tickets are $45 per person in advance; $35 per zoo member; $50 at the door; and $30 for designated drivers. Must be 21 or older to attend. Event benefits the Brandywine Zoo.

Taste of Trolley Square
Saturday, Sept. 26. 1-7pm
Trolley Square, Wilmington
tasteoftrolley.com

Sample craft beer, wine and cuisine at more than 15 Trolley Square eateries. Live music, street entertainers, sidewalk sales and more will be featured. This event is open to all ages.

Great Pumpkin Debate & Hayride
Saturday, Sept. 26, 6-10pm
Figure 8 Barn, Bellevue State Park
pecosliquors.com

In its 5th Annual year, guests are invited to sample from a collection of unique pumpkin beers while also enjoying other autumn pleasures such as hayrides, smoked BBQ, seasonal games and a bonfire. Vote for your and help chose the winner of the 2015 Great Pumpkin Debate. Must be 21 or older to attend.

October

Red Shoe and Brew
Saturday, October 3, 2-6pm
Twin Lakes Brewery, Greenville
rmhde.org/special-events/red-shoe-and-brew

This benefit event features an afternoon of barbeque, craft beer, live music (provided by Last Resort), along with lawn games, silent auction and more. This outdoor event raises funds for the Ronald McDonald House of Delaware. Tickets are $55 in advance, and $60 at the door.

Cheesetoberfest: Pros vs. Joes
Saturday, Oct. 10. 12:30-5pm
Fordham & Dominion Brewery, Dover
cheesetoberfest.com

Cheesetoberfest is an all-out, no-holds-barred, grilled cheese competition that puts professionals from area restaurants against local amateur chefs. Held at Fordham & Dominion Brewing Company, the event features 20 Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and Pennsylvania restaurants and 20 average joes creating various grilled cheese and mac n’ cheese dishes. In keeping with the cheesiness of the event, an oompah band will provide live music while brewery staff and volunteers pour award-winning Octoberfest brew, Spiced Harvest Ale, Oak Barrel Stout, Rams Head IPA, Copperhead Ale, and Helles Lager. Tickets are $30 and include two beers, food samples and a commemorative stein. This event is open to all ages.

Kennett Brewfest
Saturday, Oct. 10. 12-6pm
Downtown Kennett Square, Pa.
kennettbrewfest.com

The Kennett Brewfest is a fundraising event to benefit Historic Kennett Square—a non-profit organization that works to keep Kennett Square a regional economic and cultural center. The event features sample beers from more than 90 local, regional and craft breweries, accompanied by great food and music. All attendees have access to food and merchandise vendors, live bands, sponsor tables and more.

Delaware Wine and Beer Festival
Saturday, Oct. 17. 12-5pm
Delaware Agriculture Museum & Village, Dover
delawarewineandbeerfestival.com

Held in the scenic 19th century Loockerman Village, the sixth annual Delaware Wine and Beer Festival offers a unique array of offerings from some of the state’s best restaurants, wineries, and breweries. Delaware delicacies such as seafood, barbecue, and gourmet sandwiches will be provided. Bring blankets and lawn chairs and stake out a spot to enjoy a delicious meal, delectable libations, and great live music. Advanced admission is $35; tickets at the gate are $40. This event is open to all ages.

The Ultimate Tailgate
Thursday, Oct. 22. 6-9pm
Sheraton Hotel, Wilmington
mealsonwheelsde.org/ultimate-tailgate

Whether your perfect tailgate is high-end picnicking at the Derby or grilling in the parking lot at the big game, this event is for you. The Ultimate Tailgate features area restaurants serving unique interpretations of tailgate food, wine, spirits, and a thriving beer garden, curated by Two Stone Pub. Tickets are $55.

November

Wilmington Beer Week
Nov. 7-14
Greater Wilmington Area
wilmingtonbeerweek.com

Celebrating its fifth year this fall, Wilmington Beer Week features the premier craft beer venues of New Castle County. In addition to focusing on Delaware’s respected homegrown breweries—Dogfish Head, 16 Mile, Twin Lakes and Fordham & Dominion—Wilmington Beer Week also highlights some of the most prominent craft breweries in the region, including Yards, Victory, Tröegs, Brooklyn and Heavy Seas. This event is open to all ages.

Giving on Tap
Friday, Nov. 13. 6:30-8:30pm
2SP Brewing Company, Aston, Pa
mealsonwheelsde.org /giving-on-tap

Held at 2SP Brewing Company in Aston, Pa., the event is a night of great food and beer from a regional favorite, and one of the latest additions to the craft beer community. All proceeds go to Meals on Wheels of Delaware.

Sips

Here’s what’s pouring

New Kid on the Brew
Fordham and Dominion adds another brewer

Randal Denver is the newest brewer at Dover’s Fordham and Dominion. Denver has been working for regional wineries and breweries for the past five years, refining his skills and knowledge of the industry. He has been a wine maker as well as the assistant vineyard manager for Terrapin Station Winery in Elkton, Md. Prior to that, he worked with Philadelphia’s Yards Brewing Company, starting in the packaging department and eventually becoming a shift brewer.

“We are very fortunate to have Randal join our talented brewing team,” says Jim Lutz, CEO and “head forklift driver” at Fordham and Dominion.

Heavy Seas Adds a Twist
New seasonal has characteristics of wine

The “Uncharted Waters” Series by Baltimore’s Heavy Seas Brewing Company has added a third new beer of 2015—Red Sky at Morning. This is a unique version of a previous seasonal, Red Sky at Night. Starting this month, the new addition will be available for a limited time in all 18 states where Heavy Seas is distributed.

Brewed with authentic Belgian candi sugar and finished in chardonnay barrels, Red Sky at Morning has a complex dry finish, working as a balance between the common characteristics of wine and beer.

“We wanted to explore,” says Brewmaster Christopher Leonard. “We have never done a white wine barrel-aged beer before.”

Blue Rocks Redefine Thursday Happy Hours
With the help of Dogfish Head

This summer, Dogfish Head and the Wilmington Blue Rocks are working together to create a new kind of happy hour experience. At each Thursday home game, from 5:30-7 p.m., fans can enjoy craft beers on the Dogfish Off-Centered Fan Deck, located in the first-base picnic area. Selections include 60 Minute IPA drafts for $3, 90 Minute IPA bottles for $3, and domestics and wines for $2 each. There will also be a different Dogfish Head seasonal or specialty ale featured on specific Thursdays.

Mispillion Heading to Maryland
Milford brewer signs with three distributors

Since the Milford-based brewing company first opened in 2013, craft beer lovers could only enjoy the unique taste of Mispillion River’s brews in the state of Delaware. Now, thanks to an agreement recently signed with Sentman Distributing, Kelly Distributing and Eastern Shore Distributing, that has changed. These three family-run distributorships have worked for years to expand the availability of prominent regional craft brands such as Victory, Tröegs and Devil’s Backbone.

“We have been looking to bring our beers to our fans in Maryland for some time,” says Eric Williams, Mispillion president and co-founder. “And Sentman, Kelly, and Eastern Shore set themselves apart with their passion for selling local beers.”

F.Y.I.

FYI

Things worth knowing

Take on Summer
YMCA program offers free teen memberships

This summer, the YMCA of Delaware is offering free memberships for underserved teens of Wilmington, ages 13-18. The Take On Summer program will be available at the Central and Walnut Street YMCAs through Aug. 31. A schedule of activities and special events will include access to workout facilities, basketball, art, a free lunchtime meal, swim lessons and more.

Zipcar Comes to Wilmington
It’s the world’s largest car sharing service

Last month, Mayor Dennis Williams joined members of the City Council and the local business community to cut the ribbon and celebrate the grand opening of Zipcar in Wilmington. With more than 900,000 members and offering nearly 10,000 vehicles throughout the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and many other locations, Zipcar is the world’s most prominent car sharing service.

For Wilmington, residents will be able to reserve cars with Zipcar’s mobile app, online or by phone at any time, immediately or up to a year in advance.

Delaware Student Takes His Show on the Road
17-year-old Sam Wernerd to tour with the 2015 School of Rock AllStars

Last month, Sam Wernerd, a 17-year-old keyboard player and student at the Wilmington School of Rock, was selected to be a member of the 2015 School of Rock AllStars. Wernerd will tour with the group this summer, performing at major festivals such as Lollapalooza in Chicago, and Gathering of the Vibes in Bridgeport, Conn.

Since joining the School of Rock at age 10, Wernerd stood out among his classmates. He was chosen from thousands of students from more than 150 School of Rock locations worldwide to represent the top 1 percent in the music education program.

Second Saturday Poets Set for July 11
Monthly literary event is at Jackson Inn

The monthly Second Saturday Poets get-together will take place on July 11 at the Jackson Inn on Lancaster Pike, Wilmington. Featured readers will be Greg Wright and Richard Peabody.

Wright, who bases much of his work on Rudyard Kipling’s form and style, is retired, and reads at open mic and other poetry venues in Delaware, the Florida Keys, Hawaii and “ports unknown.” Peabody is the founder and co-editor of Gargoyle Magazine and editor or co-editor of 23 anthologies. A native of Washington, D.C., he taught fiction writing at Johns Hopkins University for 15 years.

All poets and writers are invited to participate in the open mic portion of the evening. The program begins at 5 p.m. and ends at about 7.