Despite the Downpour, The Brewfest was a Huge Success
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The weather may not have cooperated the way organizers may have liked, but there is no doubt that this year's version of the Friends of the Pool and Park Foundation Annual Brewfest was another huge success. The Brewfest has been well attended each year and despite the weather, this year was no exception, "Everything turned out as good as could be expected, especially with the rain and all. I think everyone on the Board was happy with how it all turned out. We had over 320 people attend that purchased the Mugs, most got the unlimited, it was very popular, but many did just stop for a drink and just got a couple," said Foundation President Heather DePriest.
One of the highlights of the Brewfest is being able to enjoy a cold beverage, some good food and of course great conversation with friends', family, and maybe even a new acquaintance. The reasons for people coming out and supporting the Brewfest vary from person to person, but they all share in their support for the Foundations ultimate goal, to repair and improve the City Pool and Park. "The Brewfest, I like it because it's for a fantastic cause, raising money for something that's really important," said Jana Hauer. "The Sugarbeet Festival is great. I like to be able to see everyone and there has been a great turnout this year. It's fun because it's for all ages."
"It's even fun in the rain, we like to socialize and visit with everyone and it's a great cause, but we are here for the beer! We got the unlimited mug," stated Michelene Edwards. The theme of everyone coming together and supporting each other was common everywhere Saturday and the Brewfest was a great way to cap the day off.
The Brewfest included a Silent Auction with more than 40 items up for bid, "The Silent Auction was well supported, a lot of last minute donations came in right at the end so that was nice," said DePriest. "The weather didn't dampen the spirit, it's Montana. Next year we will look into collaborating with some other local people to get more tents to be able to get more set up in case of inclement weather, help cover silent auction items and things like that."
The Brewfest organizers made the guarantee that they would NOT run out of beer, and they didn't. A number of craft beers, ciders, wine and fresh brewed non-alcoholic Root Beer and Cream Soda were on hand for guests to enjoy. The Blaine County Wildlife Museum provided a barbecue, and the Blaine County DUI Task Force provided free rides.
All proceeds from the Brewfest will go directly towards the Friends of the Pool and Park Foundations primary goal of raising funds to repair the Ensign Sweet Park and the City of Chinook Swimming Pool. Having a pool and park that is up to date, functional and safe for all of the community as well as visitors is something that can only benefit small rural communities like Chinook.
The Foundation was thrilled with all the support they were shown start to finish, "We had a ton of people come out of the woodworks and volunteer help. We were happy with the results even though the weather was kind of nasty," concluded DePriest.
