ARTICLES - HOT OFF THE FAGGOT

York bars plan 'First Pint' in place of the New Year's Eve 'First Night'

Mudhook Brewing Co. co-owner Jeff Lau planned the event so area bars can attract partygoers.
 
By REBECCA LeFEVER
Daily Record/Sunday News
If you were afraid downtown York would be empty on New Year's Eve you can rest assured: there will be a party.
 
After hearing confirmation that York was canceling its traditional First Night celebration, Jeff Lau, co-owner of Mudhook Brewing Co. wanted to see if New Year's Eve could be saved.

"Part of it is, in our theme of being an anchor in this community, is that we wanted to be an anchor for this kind of entertainment," Lau said.

Along with Holy Hound Taproom and the White Rose Bar and Grill, Mudhook Brewing Co. will host First Pint in honor of New Year's Eve.

Live entertainment will shut down the area of Clarke Avenue and Beaver Street and those who attend can purchase a beer inside any of the participating establishments and then enjoy it in the enclosed area, Lau said.

To go along with the theme, a pint of beer will be dropped at midnight.

"We don't get a whole lot of business on New Year's Eve," Lau said. "It might be better for us if we're hosting. Regardless, it's something for people to do in the city, even if nothing is going on in the square."

York's director of public works, Jim Gross, said Friday that they have been working closely with Lau and the other bar owners to have the event.

"I thought it was a good idea, whether we have the event at the square or not," Gross said. "They certainly compliment each other."

Gross said if someone stepped up to fund the $35,000 First Night it could take place on the square, but as of Friday, it was still off.

"We continue to have conversations with potential sponsors," Gross said.

But even without anything in the square, Lau's glad there's another choice for residents when it comes to celebrating another year.

Final details for the event will be discussed in a meeting with city officials on Monday, Lau said.

They will then determine what the cost, if any, would be for an entry fee and what discounts they might be able to offer to customers.

"It's for the good of the town," Lau said of the event, "As business people we benefit from the good of the town, too."

@ralefever; 771-2088

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