'Gansett beer marks 120 years
By. Jon Baker
PAWTUCKET - If you like the new Narragansett beer, there's no way you'll want to miss this. On Wednesday, Dec. 29, 'Gansett officials - including Rumford native and company President/CEO/Owner Mark Hellendrung - will celebrate the old Rhode Island favorite's 120th anniversary with a "Blow-out Bash" at The Met, 1005 Main St. (otherwise known as the Hope Artiste Village).
It was 120 years ago on that date that the original brewery opened in Cranston and officials want to conclude this milestone year - which has included hosting a bevy events at historic restaurants and taverns - in style. The doors will open at 7 p.m., with a concert featuring several area bands beginning at 8 p.m.
Ducats are only $10 per person, and may be purchased at the door, The Met box office or on-line at www.narragansettbeer.com. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the local arts community.
Among those musical performers: Steve Smith & The Nakeds, Sharks Come Cruisin', The 'Mericans, The Tower And The Fool and Michelle Lewis.
Featured guests also include the Narragansett Team, former New England Patriot "Mr. Everything" Troy Brown, mascots "Clammy" and "Tallboy and the famous "'Gansett Girls," who will be on hand for personal photos and to autograph their official 2011 pin-up calendar. A raffle will offer lucky patrons a chance to win free calendars and/or Narragansett beer for a year.
Likewise, the first 120 people through the doors will receiv either a free beer or 'Gansett gear.
"Rich Lupo (The Met's owner) has always been a great supporter of Narragansett beer, and he's a legend for sure," Hellendrung said. "'Gansett's legendary, and - for anyone who hasn't been to The Met - man, they're missin' out>
"The place is just awesome, with great music and a great venue," he added. "It's in Pawtucket, and, obviously, a lot of people in the city and surrounding towns drink 'Gansetts. We're inviting everyone down to it. It should be a great time."
Narragansett - a straight-forward, quality beer - has been brewed since 1890, and remains a New England tradition. Producing a classic family of award-winning American lagers and ales. 'Gansett now is made at a top-rated brewery in Rochester, N.Y.. With their craft brews produced in both Providence and Pawcatuck, Conn.
Narragansett lager is available for purchase in local restaurants, bars and liquor stores not just here but throughout New England, Florida, eastern Pennsylvania and western North Carolina.
Hellendring decided back in 2003 to "re-invent" Narragansett - with help from about 100 other investors - and now provides the beer a 'Hi Neighbor!" to those who enjoy its flavor and choose to purchase it.