One of my favorite things is spending the evening with a favorite friend, enjoying a sense of decadent decor in a beautiful old hotel, and participating in a cause that was very worthy. I recently went to the annual MS After Dark Beer Tasting, at the Biltmore Hotel in Providence, to support research and development for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis and had a great time.

My “drinking buddy” Lois Ronn and I arrived at the Biltmore shortly after 6, looking forward to sampling some of the wonderful varieties of beer, (and checking out the men, too). We sampled seasonal beers, flavored beers, bountiful beers, and even colored beers. Many of the distributors that were participating in the event, volunteered their time, services and most of all, their beer samples! In all, forty-seven distributors participated.

Food was catered by an outside provider, where chefs demonstrated their expertise at slicing a scrumptious side of beef, savory pasta dishes, delicate tiny loaves of exquisite bread, and delectable pastries. Most of the participants seemed to be enjoying themselves immensely, delighting in each glass of beer, which required a hearty rinsing, before sampling the next glass.

The decor of the Biltmore enhanced the atmosphere greatly. Elegant chandeliers, gilded ceilings, and plush velvet drapes added a sense of demure, to the beer tasting event. I started gathering information, as to what types of people sampled certain beers more than the other did (and naturally, scouting the area for eligible bachelors during the interview). Milder versions seemed to be a favorite of the "business type" man/woman. Bolder beers were left to the riskier crowd, and the beers with the “creative“ sounding names, were a favorite to people with a sense of originality.

After sampling numerous beers (and being the designated driver, limiting myself also), my friend and I decided that we should depart, since reality would soon be upon us, as we needed to return home to our families (and get a little sober, in the meantime). I was very enthralled by the whole experience, as I delighted in the fact that people were able to move beyond their sense of self, and participate in an event that would benefit someone else.

Ms Emily Holly coordinated this event with the assistance of Nina Scott, director of programs, and Given Reeve. Sponsors included 95.5 WBRU, Town Wine and Spirits, and the Providence Journal. The event has been known to raise over $15,000 -- 40% which goes directly to the research of Multiple Sclerosis. Even their slogan "Raise a glass to raise a cure" inspired me to drink some beer, (even though I don't normally drink beer)!

All photos by Linda Eagleson.

She adds this final note: "Women, yes, this is a social event to meet a NICE guy, one who can afford the price of admission and who also enjoys a good beer, as stated by three women that I interviewed, Susan Demice, Louisa Realejo and Kristin Demice. So, sign up early for next year, or they all me be taken (by me)!"

About the author, Linda Eagleson: Linda Eagleson has been a writer for as long as she can remember. She has been published in local papers, anthologies, and columns, and participates in poetry slams throughout the state.

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