When I should be thinking about big issues, such as the recession or peace in Iraq, I often find myself wallowing in the small stuff, such as reading beer lists.

The other day for instance I got notice of an upcoming beer and bourbon fest at the Timonium Fairgrounds, Saturday, April 5. I went to this Web site for more information, and scrolled the list of beers trying to remember the flavor of each.

But there was one line of beers, from Erie Brewing, that I had not sampled. I wanted some. It is the old relative deprivation game.

Does anyone else do this, read beer lists for pleasure and get thirsty?

Has anyone tasted Erie beers?