I am very supportive of our local firefighters and all that they do for the community. In addition to keeping the residents safe, our volunteer fire companies (Radnor, Berwyn and Paoli) also engage in year-round fundraising efforts. I’m happy to publicize an upcoming fundraiser for Paoli Fire Company – the community is invited to attend and show their support.

On Tuesday, June 8, 6-10 PM, at TJ’s Restaurant & Drinkery in Paoli, the community is invited to show their support of our Paoli firefighters with a firkin. TJ’s is participating in Philly Beer Week 2010, June 4 – 13 and on Tuesday night will be showing their support with proceeds going to the Paoli Fire Company. Firkins will be coming from Flying Fish, Sly Fox, Dock Street, Stoudts, Troegs, and Yards. Firkins will be tapped at 4 PM; brewers, reps and the Paoli firefighters will arrive at 6 PM.

Not understanding the world of beer-making, I admit that I did not have a clue about firkins. Firkin? What is Firkin? I did a bit of research and found that a firkin is a type of keg that contains “real ale,” also known as “cask-conditioned ale.” So what’s that? Cask-conditioned ale is beer that is naturally carbonated, because the beer is put in the sealed cask, or firkin, before fermentation is complete. The gas produced by the fermentation is then absorbed in the beer. That produces a gentle, natural carbonation. Carbonation in standard kegged and bottled beer is produced by adding carbon dioxide (Co2), or sometimes nitrogen, after fermentation. That’s what gives most beer its fizz.

I may not completely understand the process of a firkin, but I do understand the importance of supporting our firefighters . . . hope to see you Tuesday night at TJ’s!

There are hundreds of events scheduled throughout the city and suburbs for Philly Beer Week 2010. For a full list of participating venues, click here.