Fall at the KIB

When we last filled you in, the dogs were coming with the Erie Co. Humane Society, and they sure did. Pooches of all sizes and shapes came to the first annual "Brunch with Your Pooch" at the Kelleys Island Brewery. The talent show was a hit as was the raffles and the food. Thank you all for your support and be sure to sign up early for next year. It is sure to be a sellout.

Thanks to the well-wishers, customers and guests for the wedding of a lifetime. It was our honor to produce the wedding the bride and groom (Brett and Coleen from Medina) envisioned and shared with us here on the island. We began the work the Sunday before, dismantling the fence posts to make way for the tents. After 30 tables, 3 tents and 3 crews of guys were in place, it was ready for the decorations. By Saturday, it was all workers on deck. Fresh feta salad, veggie trays and gourmet cheese were served with flat breads and hand-made meatballs with a stroganoff sauce that was made by Doug. Grilled Chicken, Prime Rib, Pasta Alfredo and fresh squash was served on a double buffet line while the Dj spun tunes for the large dance floor. These guests were all about dancing and the love around the room. The bartenders (THANK YOU SO MUCH LADIES) kept the guests happy until the couple had a quiet fire at the beach.

We just want to thank everyone that continues to help us make this our dream. We have felt so blessed to be a part of this destination wedding. The people that work these events inspire me to be a better manager, a better owner and remember why the service business is so important to our family.

It was summer in October when Oktoberfest came off without a hitch, just kidding. Our famous Tuba player, Ed Spayd was out with pneumonia. The crowd loved the heat and the sing-alongs but missed the German Flair. Groups told us they came to the island because they thought it was island-wide Octoberfest. I told them we were working on it. Let's get a group event with all the bars next year. Anyone interested, give me a call. I've got mine posted for Oct 4th.

Our nieces had such a great year and were such a help. We look forward to them working more at the family business next year.

Our 8th annual Chili Cook Off brought new winners again!! We had 13 entrants--all were well done and I thought, original. We have some signed up for next year (Oct 11th) already, so get your entry early. The winners this year were:

Judges
Best: Bob Gruly's No Bean
Honorable Mention: Robin Benivito (#13)

Popular Vote
Best: Mark Volz's Eagles Nest
Original: Stacey Rebraca
Most Authentic: Kurt Stocker Public Enema

Our Halloween party was fun and a little sad. We always must say farewell at the end of the season, which is difficult. It is also part of the luxury in life of living on this beautiful island. The winter brings promise of new friends and visits from all of those who have moved away.

The hottest news on the island is the resort hotel that is being built next to the Brewery. We look forward to sharing our menus and beers with the new visitors that will come and stay at the luxurious resort that Ray and his brother Paul have planned. It has been a treat to watch a project of such magnitude and importance be created so close to our home.

On November 10th, Doug and I will be traveling to Findlay, OH again to do a beer tasting at Wolfie's Gourmet Nut Store. We will be selling our beer by the six pack and the case, and everything in between. There will be live music and a remote from the local radio station. Let us know if you need any bottled beer for your Holiday Happenings. Beer and nuts can be delivered to your door for your family celebrations. Remember to Feel the Love.

I will be talking to my boss and setting the date for the Parrot Key Luncheon. It looks like the second Monday of March should be it. But I do have to check with him. If anyone wants to do a cookie exchange on November 17th, let me know. We are setting up our off island accounts for the winter.

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