More than 500 craft beer fans celebrated American Craft Beer Week last night along with
Powers Distributing and the event’s dedicated partners by attending the first Craft Beer Expo, held at
Canterbury Village in Lake Orion.
With 17 participating breweries, six from Michigan,
the Craft Beer Expo was deemed a success in its first year. All
attendees received beer samples, enjoyed a strolling dinner and
contributed a portion from each ticket to Rock Star (Sustainable
Talent And Retention) Warriors. The Michigan nonprofit provides jobs
for Michigan’s veterans.
More than $3,500 was raised to support Rock Star Warrior’s mission.
“We were proud to partner with such fantastic organizations as Canterbury Village, Rock Star Warriors,
WCSX 94.7, Yelp and all the amazing breweries,” said Dan Bryant,
general manager, Craft and Specialty Division, Powers Distributing.
“We’re so pleased with the turnout in this our first year. We look
forward to bringing the event back again next year.”
Gary Thompson, chief operating officer of Powers
Distributing, said Rock Star Warriors was chosen as the beneficiary
because of their efforts and the work they do for our veterans. The
contributions of all who attended last night “celebrate
the service and return of those who have given the most for our safety,
and those that make it possible for us to pursue our passions here at
home,” he said.
Participating breweries at the Craft Beer Expo
included: Cheboygan Brewing Company, Dragonmead Brewing Company,
Kuhnhenn Brewing Company, North Peak Brewing Company, Saugatuck Brewing
Company, Uncle John's Cider, Oskar Blues Brewery, Blue
Moon Brewing Company, Tenth & Blake Beer Company, Samuel Adams –
The Boston Beer Company, Magic Hat Brewing Company, Vermont Hard Cider
Company (Woodchuck), Brooklyn Brewery, Boulder Beer Company,
Tommyknocker Brewing Company, Spoetzl Brewery (Shiner), and
Anchor Brewing Company.