Beer-tasting event to help local arts center

Sure, it's easy enough to buy a case of your regular cold ones for football season. But this weekend offers an event where you can take your taste buds for a stroll and give them some new options.

For $20, visitors to this year's Beer Tasting and Auction Friday at the Brewery Arts Center can sample all the latest brews including special Oktoberfest beers and some malt-alternatives, said Steve Hotho, sales manager at Capital Beverages, a sponsor of the event.

Capital Beverages will also have Michelob Ultra on hand, a popular new beer that is low in carbohydrates and calories, for those concerned about keeping their waistlines intact while watching the big screen.

The event benefits the Brewery Arts Center and will offer a silent auction of donated gift certificates, handmade necklaces and artwork by local artisans, wine and other interesting items.

"There's some really neat stuff," said Phil Caterino, executive director of the center. "It's a great chance for people to really score on some art and help out the community at the same time."

So far, the center has collected a variety of items, including a handmade clay necklace adorned with an American Indian petroglyph and clay beads. Also donated are original watercolor paintings, handmade men's ties, a wooden desk clock, handmade soaps, gourds, wines, a brie baker and a wooden walking stick. For those into more hands-on items, Sears has donated a $59 cordless hand drill.

Several area merchants have offered gift certificates, including two $50 certificates for Adele's, and some for local nurseries, bakeries, skiing and other restaurants.

In its 11th year, the event will also offer non-alcoholic selections, music and food. The band Back Forty will play and German sausage and pizza will be available for purchase.

The event starts at 5:30 p.m. Friday.

"The money goes into our operating fund so we can have the kids theater and keep everything going," Caterino said. The center offers a resident children's theater, year-round classes, theater and music performances.

Attendees will also get a chance to walk through the Artisan's Gallery where they can find original works of art by local artists.

"We have such great things in the gallery," Caterino said. "The quality is really high and people are so impressed."

IF YOU GO

What: 11th Annual Beer Tasting and Auction

When: 5:30 p.m. Friday

Where: Brewery Arts Center, 449 W. King, Carson City