United States Bartenders’ Guild Rhode Island (USBG RI) chapter members gathered at the newly opened Durk’s Bar-B-Q on Thayer Street in Providence on February 6. USBG RI members talked chapter-related activities and celebrated its new state “challenge coin” designed in collaboration with Narraganset Beer. The coins are a Guild play on the military tradition of coins representing missions, which were then used in Officers’ Clubs.The USBG coins are used with other chapter members of the Guild to recognize membership and to pay for a round of drinks. Chris Almeida, past USBG RI chapter president, provided the design and Narraganset Beer sponsored its production. Rhode Island bar and industry professionals interested in joining the local chapter can visit www.drinkwellri.com or the national website at usbg.org to learn more.

Laura Kanzler, Horizon Beverage Company/Origin Beverage Co. Division; Elizabeth Sawtelle, USBG RI Secretary; Jonathan Pogash, USBG New England Vice President; Katie Masterson, Boom Box; Jen Davis, USBG RI President; and Kristine Dunphy, Bacaro.

USBG RI launched its new challenge coin, which is sponsored by Narragansett Beer.