The official opening of Philly Beer Week began on March 7, 2008 at the Marketplace at East Falls. Among the produce stands were twenty brewers sampling their beers and Don Russell was signing copies of his new book, Joe Sixpack’s Philly Beer Guide: A Reporter’s Notes on the Best Beer-Drinking City in America. The Mayor of Philadelphia was scheduled to open the festivities by tapping a keg in grand Oktoberfest fashion.

The ceremonial keg was on display, waiting patiently to be tapped.

The three founders of Philly Beer Week, Bruce Nichols, Don Russell and Tom Peters.

New and old friends. Dave Gemmell with Reading Brewing Co. in which Legacy Brewing in my hometown has resurrected a long dead local beer, and Bill Moore (who I’ve known since his days with Independence Brewing) who’s now the production manager at Lancaster Brewing.

Me and my friend and colleague, Don Russell (a.k.a. Joe Sixpack).

More unexpected friends. Mark Edelson from Iron Hill Brewery (center) flanked by Carol and Ed Stout from Stoudt’s Brewing.

Once the mayor arrived, Don Russell said a few words.

Then turned the mic over to Mayor Michael Nutter.

After tapping the keg, Tom Kehoe from Yards (who brewed the beer) filled the mayor’s glass.

Then Mayor Nutter and Tom Kehoe handed out glasses of the ceremonial beer to the assembled crowd.

Afterwards, the mayor posed with people attending the ceremonies, such as famed Ben Franklin impersonator Ralph Archbold. Note the bemused, smug mayoral staffer, trenchcoat collar up, holding his boss’ jacket.

Me and Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter. Notice again the staffer looks bored. He looks this way in every photo I have of him. I’m going to guess the mayor attended this even over his protests.

The official Philly “beer” sculpture, playing with the city’s famous love statue by Robert Indiana that resides in John F. Kennedy Plaza, near City Hall, though the plaza is better known as Love Park.

Later we went for dinner the London Grill on Fairmount Avenue.

Which is near the Art Museum. They had a terrific beer list and menu.

Naturally, I gravitated toward their delicious frittes.