The Second Annual Bancroft Beerfest has 144 people in attendance at the Country Pub in Bancroft. There were two beer contests- the best Nebraska brewed beer and the Peoples Choice best overall beer. The best Nebraska brewed beer was judged by a panel of experts. These “Official” judges were Chuck Muller (Chairman of the Bancroft Village Board), former state Senator Matt Connealy from Decatur, Dr. Hoelting from Pender, Tim Anderson (University of Nebraska journalism professor), and Sheryl Schmeckpeper of Norfolk. The judges choice for best Nebraska brewed beer went to a beer from Gottleib Brewery of Columbus Nebraska.
All in attendance were asked to vote on the People's Choice for best overall beer. Pastor Phil Hale of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Bancroft won for his Vienna Ale. Pastor Hale also demonstrated his beer-making techniques.
Paul Hammel (reporter for the Omaha World Herald) organized the Beerfest event and also was the auctioneer for the live auction of beer paraphernalia and other items donated by breweries and distributers.
Special thanks to the Cuming County Visitors Bureau for $350 to advertise the Beerfest. The event is expected to bring in over $3000 for the John G. Neihardt Foundation Board of Directors.
