Brews After Five: Networking with an Oktoberfest Twist

They say application is the best way to learn, so what better way to become a beer expert than by sampling some imported and craft beer as you learn about each one?

No, this isn't an elective college course — it's a networking event with an Oktoberfest twist, presented by the , with the support and cooperation of . The only prerequisite for this event is you must be 21 years old.

This is the second year for and, as always, the goal is to make it better than the first.

Last year tickets were $25, which included several beer samples and an endless buffet. 

"This year we decided to make the entry fee more affordable, so if someone simply wants to stop in and taste a few beers and be on their way, they can do that," said , .

"This way they’re not making a commitment to be there for the entire event. However, we hope that they have a fantastic time and decide to stay."

"Additionally, we are really reaching out to the community this year.  We’ve assembled a 19-member host committee for the event in an effort to reach some new people who may not have previously attended a chamber event," Weyrick-Cooper said.

(Patch contributor and owner and North Canton Patch Editor are on the host committee for Brews After 5.)

Doug Lane, president of the North Canton Chamber, likes the fact that attendees this year will have more flexibility, he said.

"The music of Dolson takes us in a different direction as well, allowing us to cater to two distinct audiences between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.," Lane said. "One for networking early in the evening and one for music enjoyment later. Of course, we will encourage the early arrivals to stay and enjoy the entertainment."

Dolson is a piano rock band from the Akron/Canton area. The band has been compared to artists such as Ben Folds, The Fray and Coldplay.

The credit for booking the band goes to the event's entertainment sponsor, , Weyrick-Cooper said.

Brews After Five will take place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 5 at Hoover Park. Esber Beverage Company will supply a wide variety of beers (primarily imports but a few domestics as well). Reps from Esber will be on site providing information about the beers available.

Tickets are $5, which includes entrance to the event, live music and one beer sample. Additional beer will be available at additional costs ranging from $1.50 (sample) to $4-$6 for a full glass, bottle or can.

The , also a sponsor of the event, will provide food available for purchase. The menu will include bratwurst with sauerkraut and sweet apple mustard, German potato salad, homemade strudel and possibly some root veggie stew.

The funds raised through this event help the Chamber to continue bringing the North Canton community together.

"I can’t think of any reason why someone wouldn’t want to come to the event," Weyrick-Cooper said. "Honestly, it’s a very accessible ticket price, it’s right here in our city, it’s beer (and soda and water), good food, fun music and a chance to meet up with friends and colleagues and to do a little networking, too."

Tickets are available at the door, from the North Canton Chamber or from the committee.

Editor's Note: Check back next week for a Q&A with Dolson's lead singer.