Distributor Locations: Lakeshore Beverage (IL)
Every year for Black History Month, we read stories of leaders from our past, and how their actions impacted the present. We learn how they fought to change voting rights, bridging gaps, unifying classrooms, ending segregation, and creating opportunities for others to thrive in industries they once were never allowed. We learn about how these leaders paved the way for young black children to become whatever they want, even President of the United States.
At Lakeshore Beverage, we are taking time to introduce you to one such person that grew up in the Chicagoland Area – Sam Ross. Sam grew up in Harvey, IL to two loving parents that taught him that community and where he came from should always be celebrated. They taught him hard work could lead him in the right direction to fulfill all of his dreams.
He had no idea growing up that the beer industry was where his path would lead him, mostly because he didn’t even start drinking until 2015. He worked many different jobs throughout his life, even trying college but nothing seemed to fit. It wasn’t until he took a job at Whole Foods as a stacker that he found what he was passionate about in life, craft beer. With a little help from Lakeshore Beverage’s very own, Adam Lovinggood, he learned more about the beer industry and went from working at Whole Foods, eventually collaborating with Haymarket Brewery for Harold’s 83 Honey Ale.
January marks the beginning of a new year. We hear it all too often – this is our year – I’m going to become a completely different person – say goodbye to the old me, say hello to the new me.
Obviously this rarely happens. You create some vague arbitrary goal that you don’t really have a plan for or set waypoints to follow along that journey. One of the biggest New Year’s goals is to “be healthy”. That is such a large all-encompassing goal, that it’s hard even thinking where to start. We here at Lakeshore Beverage are composed of all different kinds of people, and plenty of us have thought about drinking things that are “better for you”.
What is “Better For You”? Well, that too is an all-encompassing label. But in reality, it breaks up into several different things. For Lakeshore Beverage, “Better For You” could mean beverages that are lighter in carbohydrates and calories, it could mean real, minimal, and non-processed ingredients, lower alcohol content, or no alcohol content at all. You might be looking at some, or all of these things.
“Better For You” is really up to the person making the journey, and we here at Lakeshore Beverage want to help by providing you options and information to help you along.
And hey, even though this only covers the beverage part of your health, you can take the momentum and apply it to other parts of your journey.
So, let’s get started, shall we?
We’re midway through the festival season here in Chicago and I’m willing to bet that you’ve already been to two or three. Whether they’re the small neighborhood fests or the larger City of Chicago-produced events, outdoor events are the lifeblood of Chicago culture. Walking around and eating food, listening to music, buying independent crafts and art, and just enjoying the fresh summer air – Chicago’s large and diverse neighborhoods celebrate their uniqueness by throwing large block parties that are open to all ages and provide endless amounts of fun for the entire family.
I feel like since we have so many of them, it becomes hard to understand and appreciate what goes on in the background to make the magic happen. It struck me while I was at Lakeview PrideFest last month with a friend.
It’s past 11:30pm on a Saturday night at Haymarket Pub & Brewery. You can hear Chicago house music blaring from the outside, and the inside is what you can imagine. People are standing around, some dancing, some just vibing, but they’re all having a great time.
It’s the start of a brand new year. A chance to begin anew, create new resolutions to become a healthier, better you. It is time to turn over a new leaf and-
Wait, how many times have you heard this before? A lot, probably.
And for good reason – most people give up on their “better for you” resolutions within a month or so. Why? Because they’re not specific enough in their goals. “Becoming healthier” is such a broad term. It could very well mean anything. Consuming fewer calories or carbs, working out more, drinking less alcohol. It’s endless.
Well, your friends at Lakeshore Beverage can help you out with your New Years’ goals. We compiled a list of healthier choices for drinks. Whether you want to drink fewer carbs, or maybe add some probiotics to your diet, we have something to help you out in your health journey, whether it’s January 1st or June 17th, because it’s never a wrong time to start drinking better.
Are you celebrating New Year’s Eve at home? Might we suggest a simple yet effective cheese and charcuterie board with beer pairings?
Building a cheese and charcuterie board can be daunting if it’s your first time; there are thousands of options, but we’re here to help with three cheese and beer recommendations that you can customize with your favorite meats and accouterments. You should find the cheeses at most independent cheese shops and select grocers and the beers at most stores that sell craft beer.