Johnny Brenda’s, a Philadelphia Pub with an old time, historic “feel” of the authentic. This is the real deal. Add sizzle to this legendary Philly icon, and the heat seems all the sweeter.

In Webster’s 1968 New World Dictionary, a “Geek” was described as a madman…a fool…most often a Carney performer whose grotesque acts highlighted such wild or untamed drama as biting the head off a live snake.

As I approached the Independence Visitor Center at 6th and Market Streets in Philadelphia, the clarity of the air added a crisp edge that announced this 4th Annual Brewers’ Plate as an exhilarating food and beer event – a marvel in motion.

A steady caravan of women filed along the street. It was mid-afternoon, and one-by-one, they seemed to disappear through Belgian-esque colors of red, yellow and black. Some arrived, wearing wide-brimmed hats and afternoon dresses.

I wondered if such a bizarre dream would be considered blasphemy with a strange twist of impropriety. Was it Michael Jackson’s reminder to me from the “other side” that his birthday was imminent?

The Beer Fox says, “Although chili is claimed as the official dish of the state of Texas, it is actually a dish, made with peppers and meat, with its etymology derived from the Spanish "chile con carne."

He danced around the words, asking me about the 1st Annual Philly Beer Geek Finals Competition being held on Thursday, March 13, 2008 at Johnny Brenda’s in Philadelphia. What was a Philly Beer Geek?

Spinnerstown Hotel owners John and Susan Dale are the epitome of the perfect host and hostess. They have developed this vintage gathering house into a Mecca for Beer Enthusiasts. On March 5, 2008, Spinnerstown opens its doors for a very special event, The Great Tastes of Unibroue from Canada.

When I raise conversation about the Beerdrinker of the Year Competition held by Wynkoop Brewing Company in Denver, Colorado, I am often met with one-liners and guffaws from those who are unfamiliar with this esteemed contest.

You enter the room, and the smell of malt, hops and food titillate your nose. As your eyes adjust to the softened light of the room, you notice the young lady talking passionately about good beer.