Joe Short likes to party, and he’s got a lot to celebrate. The brewery he opened in an old hardware store in Bellaire, Michigan is turning 21 on April 26.
“I’m pretty much the luckiest person on the planet,” stated Short, “I get to love where I live and love what I do everyday.”
And what does Joe do everyday? The short answer is a lot. After 21 years, he’s still involved in all aspects of his namesake business. From the brewery to maintenance to customer service to checking out new talent for their live music lineup to starring in content for social media—he’s a busy guy.
Short’s is a true family operation, with Joe’s wife Leah is behind the scenes at the Pub and their two boys (13 & 15) filling in where they’re needed; stacking cases with the production crew or making pizzas at the Pub. They’re budding entrepreneurs too, running their own popcorn business over summer break.
“I love the idea of handing down the business to the boys, if they want it.” Joe said, “but that’s down the road.”
Right now Joe is working on planning their 21st Anniversary Party—an all-day celebration and the unofficial first day of spring in Bellaire. On deck: live music from twelve bands on two stages, and a showcase of Short’s brews on draft—from flagships Local’s Light, Huma Lupa Licious, and Soft Parade to some more new creations like Mele Kalikimaka, Spicy Queen, and What Grows Together Goes Together. Old favorites like Spruce Pils, Snake Juice, and Village Reserve will be on draft too. Joe’s band, Braxton Hicks & the Contractions and local teen sensations, Shortstop, are slated to play the pre-party which starts Friday, April 25 at 7:30pm. And if their incredible Ween-inspired food menu is on your mind, the Pub team is also working on a throwback food menu with features that will start on Tuesday, April 22.
“Our Anniversary is one of my favorite days of the year. I can really feel the love and support of our community, friends, families, and our incredible staff—we wouldn’t be here without you. It’s going to be great, the more the merrier.”.
Short’s Anniversary Party is free for all ages. No tickets required, rain or shine. And while you’re at it, you might as well save the date for their annual summer kickoff party, Short’s Fest, on June 7 in Elk Rapids.
Can’t make it Up North? The brewery is releasing their most favorite, most requested Anni Ale—blood orange wheatwine brewed with green peppercorns—in six packs and on draft on Friday, April 11th.
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