On Tap

Dave Hamme, founder of Lost Worlds Brewing, and Jim Warren, executive director of The Raptor Center.

Below: A demonstration at the first community event at the brewery in April.

Brews New Partnership takes flight between Carolina Raptor Center and & Birds by Lara Tumer | photos courtesy of Lost Worlds Brewing local brewery The Lost Worlds Brewing Brand is founded on the notion of protecting the environment, enjoying nature, getting outside, and exploring, which is why a partnership with the Carolina Raptor Center felt like a natural fit. During their first event, Dave Hamme, owner of Lost Worlds Brewing, explains that this is a partnership he’s been focused on for some time. Hamme sat on the board of the Raptor Center a number of years ago and is thrilled to be taking this passion of his to the next level. Jim Warren, the Executive Director of the Carolina Raptor Center, echoes the same sentiment stating that this is a partnership that “just makes sense.”

The year-old brewery, located in Cornelius, plans to support the Raptor Center by hosting fundraising events at the brewery, promoting the center and their events, and collaborating on a special release beer in the near future—their true passion.

The first partnered event took place in late April on the Lost Worlds Brewing outdoor patio. In addition to a enjoying a sunny spring Sunday, guests were able to meet Estrella, an owl native to Costa Rica and an ambassador of the Raptor Center. While learning all about her origin in an up close and person “nose to beak” experience, event attendees were able to sit and sip on their favorite flights of craft beer. The family-friendly event was ideal for people of all ages to enjoy, with kids engaged and asking questions of the Raptor Center’s Wildlife Educator, McKenna.

Lost Worlds’ brews will be available for enjoyment at Quest, the newest joint facility between Latta Nature Center and Carolina Raptor Center. The facility is very near completion and will be the newest home for environmental education, recreation, raptors, and now, local brewed beer. In addition to a 23-acre raptor trail and a number of indoor classrooms, Quest will house a catering kitchen, food truck pads, and an expanded gift shop. These added amenities are not only ideal for special events but for a full day-long outing.