September 9, 2010
Redlands, California—The first Redlands Forum event in the 2010–2011 series will feature Riverside, California, native Ben Cook, who will speak about starting a business in the midst of a recession and enjoying incredible success during the first two years. The presentation, What's Working in Redlands—Hangar 24 Craft Brewery Taps into Startup Success, will take place in Redlands at the Esri Conference Center, 380 New York Street, on Wednesday, September 15, at 5:30 p.m. Admission is free.
Hangar 24 has its roots in Cook's passion for flying and appreciation of good beer (in that order), as well as his appreciation for the company of friends. The idea for his microbrewery was born in a Redlands Municipal Airport hangar where Cook and his friends enjoyed good times together. In preparation, Cook pursued a Master Brewer title at the University of California at Davis and established his company within sight of the airport in 2008. The successful microbrewery now distributes its hand-crafted beer in seven counties. Cook received the Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year accolade at the 2009 Cal State San Bernardino Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards.
"Some people say that beer is recession proof, but making great beer, working in a community that supports local business, and having a great staff is really the key to my success," says Cook.
Cook's business plan includes giving back to the community through participation in local charity events and the purchase of local ingredients. With specialty beer named Orange Wheat, made with oranges purchased through the Inland Orange Conservancy, and Belgian Caramel Apple, made with apples from the nearby community of Oak Glen, how could he go wrong?
Stay tuned for an exciting lineup of Redlands Forum events coming this fall. Presentations are sponsored by Esri and the University of Redlands through the university's Town & Gown organization. To guarantee seating, attendees should register via the Internet at www.esri.com/culturalseries or by calling 909-748-8011.
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Susan Harp, Esri
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