The coronavirus pandemic has changed our everyday life, but it doesn't need to change who we are. So, in addition to our ongoing coverage of the coronavirus, OnMilwaukee will continue to report on cool, fun, inspiring and strange stories from our city and beyond. Stay safe, stay healthy, stay informed and stay joyful. We're all in this together. #InThisTogetherMKE
Too Much Metal's Fred Gillich says that his 414 Lager, brewed by Mike Brenner's Vernacular Brewing, has nearly sold out of its first batch and a new one is coming.
This time, the brew will be released in a series of commemorative cans that Gillich says "honor the American flag and frontline workers" and in Bucks and Brewers themes, too.
"The flag is an abstract interpretation of patriotism," says Gillich. "This is my expression to honor those frontliners, essential workers and all us who are demonstrating great patience and courage throughout these super serious times. "
The first batch came in cans saluting Milwaukee's ethnic heritage with designs embracing the color combinations of German, Mexican and Irish flags.
Both batches also feature cans in the original white, black and gold design.
Look for the new batch in May at The Nomad on Brady Street, Ray's Wine and Spirits in Tosa, both Discount Liquor locations and Siegel's.
Read more about the beer itself here.
Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., where he lived until he was 17, Bobby received his BA-Mass Communications from UWM in 1989 and has lived in Walker's Point, Bay View, Enderis Park, South Milwaukee and on the East Side.
He has published three non-fiction books in Italy – including one about an event in Milwaukee history, which was published in the U.S. in autumn 2010. Four more books, all about Milwaukee, have been published by The History Press.
With his most recent band, The Yell Leaders, Bobby released four LPs and had a songs featured in episodes of TV's "Party of Five" and "Dawson's Creek," and films in Japan, South America and the U.S. The Yell Leaders were named the best unsigned band in their region by VH-1 as part of its Rock Across America 1998 Tour. Most recently, the band contributed tracks to a UK vinyl/CD tribute to the Redskins and collaborated on a track with Italian novelist Enrico Remmert.
He's produced three installments of the "OMCD" series of local music compilations for OnMilwaukee.com and in 2007 produced a CD of Italian music and poetry.
In 2005, he was awarded the City of Asti's (Italy) Journalism Prize for his work focusing on that area. He has also won awards from the Milwaukee Press Club.
He has be heard on 88Nine Radio Milwaukee talking about his "Urban Spelunking" series of stories, in that station's most popular podcast.
