Unleashing Flavor: How Garlic-Infused Vodka is Revolutionizing Savory Cocktails
Vodka, naturally nearly tasteless, serves as an ideal base for infusing flavors such as garlic. Historically, this practice has been quite common in Russia and Poland, where vodka has been flavored with a variety of herbs, vegetables, and botanicals for centuries. Among the popular variants, Russian bison grass vodka is particularly noted for its distinctive vegetal taste and potential health benefits. Despite the availability of Flavored vodkas in stores, creating your custom infusion at home is simple. For garlic lovers, preparing garlic-infused vodka can offer a delightful new twist to be enjoyed neat or in a flavorful cocktail. A good guideline is to add a whole head of garlic per liter of vodka. You have two main methods to choose from, both yielding delicious results.
Firstly, select a high-quality, smooth premium vodka. For the initial method, start by peeling and slightly crushing each clove of garlic. Insert these cloves into your vodka bottle, secure the cap, and shake well. Store this in a cool, dark environment for a minimum of two days, shaking the bottle daily. After two days, taste the infusion and decide if the garlic flavor meets your preference. For a more intense flavor, continue the infusion process for a couple more days, tasting daily until satisfied. Once perfect, strain the vodka using cheese cloth into a jar, discard the garlic cloves, and return the vodka to its original bottle.
Explore more at 13 Liquors Your Home Bar Should Have
The second method involves pouring vodka into a Mason jar and adding sliced garlic. Allow the garlic to infuse for 24 hours before straining the mixture with a coffee filter to remove the solids and returning the vodka to its bottle. If the flavor is too mild, allow it to infuse longer until it achieves the desired intensity. For those who find raw garlic too overpowering, roasting the garlic before infusing can yield a milder, sweeter result. After perfecting garlic vodka, consider experimenting with other flavors like basil, ginger, rosemary, or even habanero for a spicy kick.
Once you’ve crafted your “vampire defense” vodka, consider the best cocktails to pair it with. A savory direction seems fitting. This garlic-infused vodka will certainly spice up a classic Bloody Mary and its Canadian relative, the Bloody Caesar. Swapping in garlic vodka in place of regular vodka could also turn the James Bond-inspired Vesper Martini into something extraordinary. Given that garlic is a typical ingredient in dill pickles, it’s an intriguing idea to create a Pickle Martini using garlic vodka. A Dirty Martini, which can be made with either gin or vodka, would taste great with the addition of garlic-infused vodka, enhancing its blend with olive juice.
Read the original article on Tasting Table.
Unlocking Flavor: How Garlic-Infused Vodka is Revolutionizing Savory Cocktails
Vodka, known for its almost neutral flavor, is the ideal base for garlic infusion. The tradition of infusing vodka with various ingredients such as herbs, vegetables, and botanicals goes back centuries in Russia and Poland. In particular, Russian bison grass vodka is celebrated among mixologists for its unique vegetal taste and potential health benefits. While commercially available Flavored vodkas are common, creating your garlic-infused version can be a delightful project. Garlic enthusiasts will appreciate using one whole head of garlic per liter of vodka and can choose from two effective infusion methods.
For optimal results, start with a high-quality premium vodka. One approach involves peeling the garlic cloves, lightly crushing them, and then inserting them into a vodka bottle. After sealing and shaking the bottle, store it in a dark, cool space. Shake it daily for at least two days. Test the flavor after two days and extend the infusion for more robust garlic flavor if needed. Finally, strain the vodka using a cheesecloth and remove all garlic solids before pouring the vodka back into its bottle.
Discover more: 13 Liquors Your Home Bar Should Have
An alternative method involves placing vodka and sliced garlic in a Mason jar, allowing them to sit for 24 hours. Strain the mixture with a coffee filter to remove the solids then taste and adjust the infusion time as necessary for a stronger flavor. Toasting the garlic beforehand can mitigate its intensity, giving a milder and sweeter result. Once proficient with garlic, experimenting with other ingredients like basil, ginger, rosemary, or even habanero could provide exciting new flavors.
Now that you’ve made your “vampire defense” vodka, what are the best cocktails for it? Savory is probably the way to go. The garlic-infused vodka would definitely give a kick to a classic Bloody Mary and its Canadian “cousin,” a Bloody Caesar. Substituting the plain vodka for garlic vodka would also make the James Bond-inspired Vesper Martini a killer. Garlic is often used in dill pickles, so it seems a natural extension to make a Pickle Martini with garlic vodka. The Dirty Martini can be made with either gin or vodka, and pairing the cocktail’s olive juice with garlic vodka would be delicious.
Read the original article on Tasting Table.
Tech Meets Tradition: The Revolutionary Journey of ‘The World’s First Spirits Brand’ to Embrace Accessible QR Codes
Ketel One is putting accessible QR codes on the packaging of its products.
It turns out, food labels can be accessible too.
Vodka maker Ketel One on Monday announced it’s “the world’s first spirits brand” to incorporate accessible QR codes onto its packaging. The company said this endeavor is rooted in inclusivity, noting it makes its vodka more accessible to people who are Blind and low vision. The products are scheduled to be on store shelves later this month.
Notably, the New York-based Ketel One said in its press release the accessible QR codes are detectable by so-called “class-leading accessibility apps” such as Microsoft’s Seeing AI and Be My Eyes. The codes were created by mixed reality company Zappar in collaboration with Britain’s Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).
In an exclusive interview prior to the recent announcement, Zappar’s marketing chief, Dave Mather, shared that his company is focused on enhancing the way people interact with food packaging. He expressed the belief that everyone should have equal access to such information, deeming it a fundamental right. According to Mather, the project started approximately three years ago when Unilever and RNIB began exploring ways to make QR codes more accessible for individuals with disabilities, as Unilever was incorporating them into food labels by the billions. He noted the challenges due to limited space on labels and highlighted Zappar’s role in using their expertise in color schemes and scalable scanning technologies. Mather mentioned in reference to a press release by Ketel One that Zappar’s technology allows QR codes to be scanned from a distance, enabling accessibility tools on smartphones to vocalize the content encoded within the QR code. He credited RNIB for playing a crucial role by offering specialized advice and conducting research to understand not just the technological challenges but also how to present information in a way that is easily understood.
Mather emphasized the growing trend of QR codes and the importance of making them accessible. He discussed the collaborative efforts between Ketel One, Zappar, RNIB, and others as a realization of this need.
Mather added, “There’s a movement towards QR codes on products. By aligning with purpose-driven brands and legislative changes, and working with innovators like Ketel One and Diageo, we have the chance to drive significant impact. Opportunities like this don’t come often… it’s an exhilarating time. This is just the beginning. There’s much more to do, but the prospects are promising.”
Sam Salameh, the Vice President of vodka at Diageo North America, shared Mather’s sentiments.
“At Diageo, we’ve always been driven by innovation and a desire to elevate every consumer’s experience,” he said in a statement provided to me. “When the Nolet family came across this incredible technology over two years ago, we knew it could be a game-changer. By adding AQR technology, we’re not just enhancing the convenience and premium quality of our cocktails, but we’re also working to make them more accessible to everyone. It’s a natural next step in our commitment to delivering exceptional products that cater to all consumers of legal drinking age.”
Salameh continued: “We believe that our products have the power to bring people together, whether it’s for special moments or everyday enjoyment. Implementing AQR technology into Ketel One was an easy decision for us—it allows us to offer a more inclusive shopping experience for consumers who are blind or have low vision. It’s about creating a world where everyone can interact with and enjoy our premium brands.”
When asked about feedback, Mather told me the response to these accessible QR codes because “we’re moving the needle at all.” He acknowledged that viewpoint is a low bar, as it represents a sad state of affairs for inclusivity—but it’s notable nonetheless. People in the blind and low vision community, he said, are ecstatic because the technology enables them to shop with agency and autonomy and live independently.
“I think that sense of empowerment and access that information is incredibly compelling,” Mather said. “We know that to be true. I think that’s a really interesting thing as well.”
Looking towards the future, Mather said the retail environment is ripe for disruption in terms of how to make them more accessible to the disability community. Common tasks like moving about different aisles, he said, can be augmented with the kind of technology used to build the QR codes. Mather was cagey about an in-progress partnership around this idea, but was enthused about what he and team are working on. As to accessibility generally, Mather said it’s an area that Zappar is “extremely passionate about” and that the company is fortunate to work with partners like Unilever and Diageo who are similarly impassioned. The plan long-term. Is to keep engaging with the disability community with the mission of serving them to the best of their abilities, because Mather reiterated the notion that access to technology is a fundamental human right. QR codes may seem like small details to the masses, but making them accessible turns the profundity meter up significantly.
“If enough people do enough meaningful things in the world, then change can happen,” Mather said.
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Revealed: The Top Bourbon from the 2024 IWSC American Whiskey Judging
Two glasses of bourbon clink together in celebration. At the recent IWSC American whisky Judging, four American whiskeys captured Gold Outstanding medals.
The International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC) bestowed Gold Outstanding medals on four American whiskeys, while 23 others received Gold medals during the North American whiskey judging. This event, taking place in Kentucky during the week of September 9th, was the first of its kind to be held in North America by the IWSC. Over 300 whiskey expressions earned medals, with the four top medalists each scoring notable 98/100 points.
The standout bourbon, and sole recipient of a Gold Outstanding medal, was Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company, Toasted Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, No-Age Statement, 55.5% ABV, 750 ml.
According to the official IWSC Judging Panel, this whisky was rated as “outstanding,” highlighting its exceptional qualities.
… opens with captivating aromas of rich oak integrated with vibrant orchard fruit and warm cinnamon. The palate reveals layers of caramel, delicate nuttiness, and a hint of pepper, all enveloped in a creamy embrace. A wonderfully extended finish with complex notes of both grain and barrel.
These results supplement an earlier judging of American whiskies in June in the United Kingdom.
The top American rye whisky was Bulleit Frontier Whiskey, Bulleit Rye 10 YO American Straight Rye Whiskey, 45.6% ABV, 750 ml.
The IWSC Judging Panel described the whiskey as featuring aromas of:
rich caramel and warm leather with whispers of green tea and lively cinnamon spice. A velvety mouthfeel reveals layers of dark cherry and blackcurrant, leading to a bright, chocolate-orange finish and delightful rye spice.
The top-ranked blended whisky was Coors Spirits Co., Five Trail Barrel Proof Batch 003 Blended American Whiskey, 58.1% ABV, 750 ml. Coors Spirits, a subsidiary of the Colorado-based beer titan, has been steadily winning awards in international spirits competitions.
The IWSC Judging Panel described the whisky as featuring:
Big enticing aromas of malted cereal, sweet creamy milk chocolate and crisp red berries. The deliciously silky palate drips with the flavors of candied spiced nuts. A gorgeous mouthfeel that boasts a satisfyingly velvety finish.
The top American Single Malt was Virginia Distilling Company, Cabernet Cask Select American Single Malt Whiskey, 46.5% ABV, 750 ml.
The IWSC Judging Panel described the whisky as:
Solid, well-crafted, and well balanced. The nose reveals a captivating medley of savoury herbs and subtle vegetal notes, inviting exploration. On the palate, vibrant red grape and raisin harmonize beautifully, culminating in a smooth, well-integrated finish that lingers delightfully.
Fourteen bourbon expressions won Gold medals. The list of winners included familiar names and newer craft distillers, with several unexpected victors among the Gold medal recipients.
Ammunition Wine & Whiskey, Ammunition Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Garrard County Distilling Company, All Nations Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company, One Cask Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Heaven Hill Distillery, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C923 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Nelson’s Green Briar Distillery, Reserve Bourbon; 15 Stars, Triple Cask II Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; and Luxco – Ross & Squibb Distillery, Remus Gatsby Reserve 15 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey;
Elgin Distillery, Arizona Straight Bourbon [Rye 24%], was one of the few non-Kentucky or Tennessee-based distillers to win a Gold medal, as was TX Whiskey, TX Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
Also winning a Gold medal was Peg Lake Porker Spirits, Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey White Label; Blue Run Spirits, Blue Run Reflection II Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; Blanton Distilling Company; Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; O. H. Ingram River Aged Whiskey, 2024 Flagship Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey; World Whisky Society, Doc Holiday; and Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co., High Rye Bourbon Kentucky Straight Whiskey.
See the IWSC website for a complete listing of all of the medalists.
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Exclusive Release: Special Fynoderee Rum Edition Set for Removal from Tower of Refuge
11 barrels of ‘Refuge Manx Rum’ have been securely stored at the iconic monument for nearly a year
Recently, a team from The Fynoderee Distillery welcomed Lieutenant Governor, His Excellency Lieutenant General Sir John Lorimer, Lady Lorimer, and their guests at Conister Rock to examine the 11 barrels of Fynoderee’s maturing Refuge Manx Rum, placed within the Tower of Refuge last September.
The Refuge Manx Rum represents the peak of a fundraising collaboration Fynoderee launched with the RNLI to honor the Isle of Man’s significant contribution to establishing the lifesaving organization by Sir William Hillary 200 years ago.
The visitors at the Tower sampled the new rum directly from the barrels, (which at 45% ABV certainly warmed the bones), and were briefed on the intricate process involved in crafting this unique rum at Fynoderee’s distillery in Ramsey.
They were also briefed on the impressive logistical feat of manoeuvring the heavy barrels into position and safely securing them for what has been nearly a year under lock and key inside the iconic monument.
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Fynoderee Distillery’s head mixologist, Ryan Corlett, was present to craft ‘Refuge Rum Old Fashioned’ cocktails, which were savored on the shingle beach facing the tower.
As the tide climbed, Ramsey harpist Arabella Ayen played Manx music for the gathered guests, marking possibly the first time music was performed on Conister Rock.
Fynoderee co-founder Tiffany Kerruish expressed: ‘We are very grateful to His Excellency and Lady Lorimer for their enthusiasm and backing of this venture, thus we were thrilled to host them on this outing, enabled by Jason Flemming and Phil Adams of Sea Eagle Rib Charters.’
“What began as Paul’s quirky concept has, thanks to the cooperation of numerous contributors, advanced to the point where we now relish the outcomes of our hard work.”
“As anticipated, spending a year in the Tower’s moist, saline-rich stonework has endowed the dormant spirit with a rich, historic nautical essence, creating an exceptional and savory golden Manx rum characterized by notes of toasted oak, vanilla, salted caramel, and bourbon.”
“We are nearing the announcement of the pre-sale for our historic, limited edition ‘Refuge Manx Rum’. We encourage everyone interested to subscribe to our newsletter to receive early notifications.”
Paul Kerruish further noted, “The forthcoming tasks remain daunting – what was stored in the Tower must now be removed, and we have plans to extract the barrels in the next few weeks.”
‘They will be brought back to the distillery in Ramsey for disgorging, cutting to a bottling strength of 45% abv, bottling, and then labelling.
‘We are going to be presenting Refuge Manx Rum in bespoke individual wooden crates with a commemorative booklet.
‘20% of all sales will be donated by Fynoderee to the RNLI so we really hope that the public will get behind us and make Refuge Manx Rum the Christmas present of choice for 2024.’
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Nationwide Beer Shortage Looms: Price of a Pint Expected to Soar Due to Grim Weather Conditions
It is feared farmers will only be able to supply around a fifth of their usual turnover this autumn, potentially causing a price increase for beer drinkers as a result of one of the worst harvests in decades.
The price of a pint of beer is expected to rise significantly due to a disappointing summer affecting crucial crop yields.
The UK is anticipated to record one of its most disappointing harvests, with a lack of sunshine leading to poor yields of wheat. Farmers may achieve only about 20% of their standard autumn turnover. Experts suggest that England might experience one of its three worst harvests since records started in 1983.
The acreage planted with wheat has decreased by almost 10%, and two-thirds of British farmers report financial losses. During the winter and spring, excessive rainfall waterlogged many fields, destroying sown crops and preventing further planting. Mike Wilkins, a Wiltshire arable farmer who lost about half of his yield, spoke to the BBC, stating, “We have lost thousands and thousands of pounds this year, it has been catastrophic.”
According to Farmers Weekly, UK cereal output is anticipated to decline by more than 3 million tonnes compared to the five-year average this season, marking 2024 as one of the poorest harvests in recent decades. New analysis of government data illustrates the significant impact that prolonged periods of heavy rainfall had on the planting and growth phases, resulting in an estimated 13% decrease in yields for crops like wheat, winter and spring barley, oats, and oilseed rape.
This situation is also affecting brewers, leading to increased production costs for beer, which are likely to be passed on to consumers. This, coupled with ongoing inflation, is expected to drive up the average cost of a pint once more. The Morning Advertiser, a publication dedicated to the pub trade, reported these trends after conducting a reader survey. It noted that the current average price of a lager in London stands at £5.59, which is 80p more than the national average.
The data also highlights a distinct North-South price divide within the UK. There exists a mid-country “belt” that generally offers more affordable lager prices. In areas like the Midlands and Wales, the average price is noted at £4.74, which is less expensive compared to the southern regions, the North West, and Scotland. However, the most cost-effective pints are found in the North East, where the average cost is £4.56.
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Pennsylvania Now Allows Grocery Stores and Gas Stations to Sell High Noon and Other Ready-to-Drink Cocktails
By Lauren Linder
September 16, 2024 / 4:41 AM EDT / CBS Pittsburgh
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — Starting today, businesses in Pennsylvania that sell alcohol will be able to sell canned cocktails like High Noon and Surfside, which were previously only able to be purchased at state-run liquor stores.
Earlier this year, Governor Josh Shapiro signed a bill into law that expanded where ‘ready-to-drink’ cocktails could be sold.
Previously, only state-run Fine Wine and Good Spirits stores could sell cocktails that included spirits such as vodka, gin, and tequila. Hard seltzers like White Claw and Truly were already available in stores as they are made from alcohol derived from fermented sugar, not distilled spirits.
Late last month, venues such as restaurants, hotels, grocery stores, and convenience stores began the process of applying for permits to sell canned cocktails.
As of today, approved stores can start selling these cocktails, which have an alcohol content ranging from 0.5% to 12.5%, in containers no larger than 16 ounces.
Each transaction is limited to selling no more than 192 ounces of these products, equivalent to a 12-pack of 16-ounce cans.
New legislation went into effect on Friday that allows bars and restaurants to extend the amount of time that they can offer happy hours, increasing from 14 to 24 hours per week.
The new law also allows establishments with a liquor license to offer food and drink combinations and allows them to include up to two drinks in the cost of a ticket for a self-sponsored event.
© 2024 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Capturing the Spirit of Celebration: A Photo Essay from the Maryland Wine Festival
Pictures from the Maryland Wine Festival on the grounds of the Carroll County Farm Museum on Saturday, Sept. 14.
Celebrating 40 Years of ‘Miami Vice’: Top Spots to Enjoy Themed Cocktails
A Miami Vice in honor of Miami Vice’s 40th anniversary
Miami is a city that embraces its unique characteristics: from its perpetual summer ambiance and dynamic culinary scene to its history during the “cocaine cowboy” era, and being famously depicted in the beloved TV series Miami Vice.
The groundbreaking crime drama starred Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas as undercover detectives. It was pivotal in integrating pop culture, fashion, and music, significantly shaping how Miami is perceived. The series premiered on NBC on September 16, 1984, lasting five seasons and ending with a notable celebration at Mac’s Club Deuce, the oldest bar in Miami.
With the 40th anniversary of this iconic show upon us, commemorating the occasion with a classic Miami Vice cocktail is the perfect way to enjoy the continuing hot summer weather.
Though unrelated to the famed television series, the Miami Vice cocktail has become a nostalgic way to mark 40 years since the show’s debut. This delightful drink combines elements of a piña colada with a strawberry daiquiri, a concoction believed to have originated in Miami, hence its name. This cocktail is a staple at many beachside and poolside bars, and more recently, many cocktail bars and restaurants offer a non-frozen, sophisticated version that still captivates the essence of the original.
Mrs Pink at Eating House
An example of an innovative take on the traditional Miami Vice can be found at Eating House, where it’s considered a sort of secret item. According to Giorgio Rapicavoli, co-owner and chef at Eating House, the bar manager, Jordan Nance, was inspired by their Mr. Pink cocktail and created the Mrs. Pink. This variant features Havana Club Rum, lime juice, coconut cordial, and a unique wild strawberry liqueur called Fragola.
For those preferring the classic variety, The Clevelander hotel offers the original Miami Vice drink as one of its most popular poolside beverages. In celebration of the show’s anniversary, you can enjoy the Miami Vice Frozen at a special price of $10.
Miami Vice Negroni at Santa Diabla
Visit Santa Diabla, the hidden bar within Chela’s Cocteleria in Miami Lakes, to experience a unique take on the classic cocktail with their Miami Vice Negroni. It includes a mix of pineapple infused Canaima Gin, Campari-soaked strawberry preserve, and coconut fat-washed sweet vermouth di Torino. This intriguing drink is featured at the tiki style pop-up, Diabla’s Cove.
Miami Vice at Night Swim
For a traditional Miami Vice, head to Night Swim. This rooftop venue serves a perfectly blended icy treat combining layers of piña colada and strawberry daiquiri. Indulge in this cocktail while enjoying panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline.
Miami Vice cocktail at Dom’s
Enjoy a unique take on the classic Miami Vice at Dom’s, crafted with Havana Club Añejo Classico Blanco, strawberry, pineapple juice, and coconut water. This refreshing and light concoction is perfect for starting your evening.
Miami Vice cocktails at Monty’s
Explore a South Florida variant of the frozen Miami Vice at Monty’s Raw Bar. Deviating from the traditional piña colada and strawberry daiquiri, this version features a Rum Runner replacing the daiquiri, adding a local touch. Originating from Islamorada’s Tiki Bar in the Florida Keys, the Rum Runner includes both light and dark rum, blackberry and banana liqueur, and fresh pineapple and orange juice, finished with 151 proof rum, all blended with the frozen piña colada.
What’s better than a poolside frozen cocktail?
This might seem obvious, but just in case: if you’re hanging out at one of Miami’s many hotel pools and you see there’s a piña colada and a strawberry daiquiri on the menu then you can absolutely treat yourself to a Miami Vice. Some of these hotels include Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Loews Miami Beach, Kimpton Epic, Faena Miami Beach, and The Gates Hotel — just to name a few.
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Omaha Sports Commission Hosts Exciting Tournament Featuring Cornhole, Beer, and Football in Blackstone
A tournament Saturday in Omaha’s Blackstone District transformed Farnam Street into a competitive cornhole arena.
Duo teams competed in the Omaha Sports Commission’s second annual Cornhole Classic, which was enhanced by the presence of beer, a DJ, and screens broadcasting college football games.
Following a brief explanation of the rules, the games commenced at around 11 a.m. with teams aligning themselves along the cornhole boards arrayed across Farnam Street, which was cordoned off between 39th and 40th Streets for the occasion.
Teams took part Saturday in the Omaha Sports Commission’s second annual Cornhole Classic on Farnam Street in the Blackstone District.
Throughout the day, Blackstone was buzzing with live music and various celebrations as a part of its Second Saturday events.
The champions of the event’s double-elimination cornhole tournament were poised to receive $200 worth of gift cards for local shops in Blackstone, along with a new set of cornhole boards. The entry cost for each team was $45, which included two drink tickets.
Larissa Buster and Marisa Mathews, colleagues from the College of St. Mary, formed a team named “Is(s)a Squad.” Their involvement in cornhole stretches beyond this event; they have also participated in a recent league as hobbyists.
Buster mentioned her fondness for the simplicity of cornhole and looked forward to competing with Mathews to see how well they would perform in this particular Saturday’s tournament.
“It’s a nice summer and early fall game,” she said. “It’s a beautiful day out for it.”
Mathews said she’s gotten more into playing cornhole in the last few years.
“I’m originally from California and never had played it before I came to the Midwest,” she said. “It’s pretty fun.”
Amir Parikh of Chicago tosses a beanbag during the Cornhole Classic tournament on Saturday.
The atmosphere of the event created a jovial environment, according to Buster.
“It feels like a neighborhood celebration for Blackstone,” she commented. “It’s an extremely enjoyable event.”
Varnica Bajaj chose to bring Amir Parikh, who was visiting from Chicago, to the tournament for an engaging Saturday activity. They warmed up while waiting for their initial match.
“It appeared to be a fantastic chance to connect with the Blackstone community,” Bajaj remarked.
Creighton’s Norah Sis spikes the ball past USC’s Mia Tuaniga in a college volleyball match at Sokol Arena in Omaha on Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024.
Creighton’s Kiara Reinhardt, left, embraces Kendra Wait as they celebrate a point against USC in a college volleyball match at Sokol Arena in Omaha on Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024.
Creighton’s Kendra Wait, left, and Elise Goetzinger try to block the ball against USC in a college volleyball match at Sokol Arena in Omaha on Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024.
Craig Dykers, a Snøhetta architect, discusses the exterior of The Phillip G. Schrager Collection at The Joslyn in Omaha on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024.
Sunlight pierces through the windows inside The Joslyn on a bright Friday morning, September 6, 2024.
During an intense first set at the Devaney Center in Lincoln on Thursday, September 5, 2024, Nebraska volleyball players Bergen Reilly (2) and Andi Jackson (15) attempt to block a shot from Citadel’s Ali Ruffin (18).
Leah Robinson of Elkhorn North competes energetically in the Platte River Rumble held at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park in Ashland on Thursday, September 12, 2024.
A tightly packed group of runners kick off the Large School Varsity boys 5k at the commencement of the Platte River Rumble, located at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park in Ashland, on Thursday, September 12, 2024.
A large cluster of runners starts close together at the start of the Large School Varsity Boys 5k in the Platte River Rumble at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park in Ashland on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024.
Liana Pendley, of Plattsmouth, Neb., carries red balloons prior to a college football game between the Nebraska Huskers and the Colorado Buffaloes in Lincoln, on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024.
The Nebraska Cornhusker Marching Band line up before a college football game between the Nebraska Huskers and the Colorado Buffaloes in Lincoln, on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024.
Nebraska’s Dante Dowdell (23) jumps over Colorado’s Shilo Sanders (21) with the ball during the first half of a college football game at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024.
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