Alcohol substitute in development

From the UK Telegraph:
An alcohol substitute that mimics its pleasant buzz without leading to drunkenness and hangovers is being developed by scientists.
The new alcohol is being developed by a team at Imperial College London
The new substance could have the added bonus of being "switched off" instantaneously with a pill, to allow drinkers to drive home or return to work.
The synthetic alcohol, being developed from chemicals related to Valium, works like alcohol on nerves in the brain that provide a feeling of wellbeing and relaxation.
But unlike alcohol its does not affect other parts of the brain that control mood swings and lead to addiction. It is also much easier to flush out of the body.
Finally because it is much more focused in its effects, it can also be switched off with an antidote, leaving the drinker immediately sober.
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Winter Brew Fest Jan 30

The Brewing Network hosts its first annual Winter Brews Festival, January 30, at Linden Street Brewery-Oakland.

http://www.thebrewingnetwork.com/ontap

SFBW10 Brewfest at the Beach Chalet

Aron Deorsey, Brewmaster at the Beach Chalet Brewery writes;

As you may know SF Beer Week is coming up in February.We were sitting around one day brainstorming on what events to do for SFBW10. At first we planned on doing a beer fest and invite other local breweries. But then one of the owners had a great idea: Instead of inviting other breweries, why not invite local homebrewers to showcase their wares?
The event would feature, but not be limited to:

-Tables of homebrew beer available for tastings

-Homebrewed beer competition

-Homebrewing 101-how-to demonstration

-Some brewing tips and supplies for sale etc.

-BBQ available a la carte

Give him a call if you'd like to get involved!
Aron Deorsey 415.386.8439

Beach Chalet Brewery

1000 Great Hwy

San Francisco, CA 94121

Rick Hendricks

We lost a Malt, an amazing musician and dear friend Rick Hendricks on December 7, 2009. He died after a year long battle with cancer. The news came during a huge gathering of his fellow musicians and friends at the Amnesia Club in San Francisco all gathered to pay tribute to Rick.

Cheers to you Rick, you will be missed.

edit: Here's a video of Rick and clips from the tribute: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2qs7YtsCE_c