In our cover story this week, Seth Jovaag introduces us to "preppers," folks who are preparing for an apocalyptic event, should it happen. The folks who inhabit his story, "The End of the World as We Know It," may seem extreme to many of us. But, you know, if something bad happens, they'll be having the last laugh.
So why not do a little preparing of your own and get in a good time before it's too late? What I have in mind is a visit to the Isthmus Food & Wine Festival on Oct. 18 and 19 at the Alliant Energy Exhibition Hall. Find out about the finer points of dining and drinking before that knowledge is lost to humanity during the next ice age, which is sure to follow global warming.
To tell you what you would be missing should you decline our invitation, we have prepared a 12-page program for the event that accompanies your Isthmus this week. This is the second year for IFWF, as we call it around the office, and while last year's event was deemed a success by those who experienced it, we learned a lot from it, and that has made this iteration all the better. For one thing, there will be a lot more wine, thanks to the involvement of Steve's Wine, Beer & Spirits, Star Liquor and the folks at Left Bank, a wine distributor.
The supplement contains a schedule of attractions at each session, as well as a floor map of exhibitors. There's a list of exhibitors with a description of each and the lineup of chefs who will be showing you how to put together some distinctive dishes. I'd advise you not to eat before you come. There will be samples.
The fest happens in two sessions: 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday and 2 to 6 p.m. on Saturday. You can save considerable money by buying your tickets in advance at the Isthmus office, Steve's Wine, Beer & Spirits, or Star Liquor; or online at IsthmusFoodandWine.com. Single or two-day passes are available. Bon appetit!
