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  1. sbrof

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    Aug 9th 2007, 12:40

    This is a great event for the central terminal, the east side and all of buffalo and has really became something that people look forward to each year. The token thing is kind of unnerving to me because it seems like there is now a system to ratchet down how much, the event organizers or others who have influence, think we should be allowed to drink. yes 20 tokens is probably more than enough for most people, but then again you only get a sip or two per token and what about next year? only 15 tokens, then 10... I don't like it when we take responsibility out of the hands of people and into those who think they know best... yes it happens all the time in America.. but that doesn't mean we should accept it or like it. Although if I get drunk and do something stupid I now might be able to sue them for letting me have too much to drink...

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  2. AdamFIx

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    Aug 9th 2007, 12:53

    sbrof, Good point, but you have to admit that with the pace the event is growing, its getting more difficult for the organizers to keep a handle on everything. I think the token system is a wide-spread practice because it works. It is, after all, a beer tasting, not a guzzling (unfortunately, eh??). After speaking with some of the people in charge of organizing the event, it became clear that they are doing it for the right reasons, and heard the token complaints loud and clear. Still, all the proceeds are going to the Central Terminal Restoration Corp and Buffalo Hearing&Speech, so if you have to buy a few extra, don't feel too bad about it. You're still getting 60 oz of premium beer included with admission.

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  3. BuffaloSoldier

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    Aug 9th 2007, 13:16

    See you there !

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  4. eac

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    Aug 9th 2007, 15:00

    sbrof-

    a token system is how the big boys do it, like Montreal's Mondial de la Bier, and I'd like to see Buffalo's Brewfest achieve that level of reputability, so I'm all for it. It certainly helps the brewers in that it allows them to more accurately gauge how much brew they need to bring- there'll be less running out, perhaps. I'd add that a sample every 12 min isn't unreasonable, when you include cueing times, bathroom breaks, food breaks and the like. And as Adam points out, you certainly can drink more, you must just donate more as well.

    I know the limiting of our freedoms is a huge political concern right now, what with cameras being installed and all, but this is just a beerfest.

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  5. icecreamsub

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    Aug 9th 2007, 23:25

    a shuttle bus might not be a bad idea for an event like this. driving home drunk is no joke and biking it could get hairy

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  6. Hospitable

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    Aug 10th 2007, 18:25

    This event seems to be really taking off....I should make it next year, pretty excited!!.

    Icecreamsub...there used to be rail service at the central terminal... gosh how perfect it would be if we still had it now for events like this. 2-3 lines max even... one headed back downtown... one to cheektowaga.. one to amherst..majority take the train.. fewer drunk drivers.. couple of shuttles.. everybody wins!!

    But short term yes... a shuttle would make perfect sense.. different suburban and downtown locations... take em and take them out.. wouldn't have to worry about a stolen car either!!

    I could really see the central terminal taking off as an event center someday... my notions are only reinforced by events like the brewfest. see ya next year

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  7. beerguy

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    Jul 8th 2008, 12:29

    Hi Beer Fans,

    The token system for the Fest is a New York State Liquor Authority item. They want Festival organizers to "evaluate" Festival goers from time to time; just like ordering a drink from a bartender. As far as limiting a Festival goers volume; more tokens can be purchased. The organizers only ask that you be responsible about getting home safely.

    The Fest will be in the HSBC Arena atrium (lots of elbow room, lots of light, lots of restrooms), so A/C is available.

    In the responsible transportation department, the Metro will be running, so train and bus are good options. Cabs will also be available. No excuses-- safe to the Arena and safe home.

    We are not abandoning the Terminal, we just outgrew it. We are planning a "replacement event" in the Blues and BBQ Fest on August 9th. More fun things to do.

    Cheers! Beerguy

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