Roswell Rotary is about to tap into something truly special. On Thursday, September 4th, we welcome four of Roswell’s finest brewing companies to the stage. The panel includes Pat Rains of Gate City Brewing, Michael Curling of Variant Brewing, Tim Stevens of From the Earth Brewing, and James Rouse of the newly arrived Voodoo Brewing. Moderated by Past District Governor Gordon Owens, this lively discussion will explore everything from the explosion of IPAs to the curious appeal of sour beers. Beyond the pint glass, our guests will share insights into the brewing process, the science behind the hops, and the business of beer, an industry that generated $715 million in Georgia last year alone.

But the fun doesn’t end with the meeting. After the panel, Rotarians are invited to a special Rotary flight at Gate City Brewing at 5pm, followed by a pub crawl to Variant Brewing at 6:30pm, complete with another flight and a food truck. With 181 craft breweries now thriving across Georgia, this event celebrates not just the flavors but the entrepreneurial spirit behind the taps. As Benjamin Franklin (almost) said, “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.” So bring your curiosity, maybe a designated driver, and join us for a night of education, camaraderie, and perfect pours. Cheers to service above self with a little fun along the way.  Read more about our hometown brewers.

Pat Rains

Pat Rains, co-founder of Gate City Brewing Company, is an accomplished entrepreneur with deep roots in the food and beverage industry. A graduate of Oregon State University with a BA in International Business, Pat began his brewing journey after relocating from Portland to Atlanta, driven by a desire to recreate the craft beer styles he grew up enjoying. What started as a homebrewing hobby quickly evolved into a full-fledged business when he teamed up with fellow Rotarian Brian Borngesser. Together, they launched Gate City Brewing, which was named one of the fastest-growing breweries in the U.S. by the Brewers Association in 2017.

Pat’s leadership and commitment to community have earned him recognition as a nominee in Roswell Magazine’s “Top 10 Under 40,” celebrating young professionals making a meaningful impact. Under his guidance, Gate City has become a force for good, supporting local and national charities such as the Drake Foundation, Pitt Hopkins Foundation, and the Children’s Development Academy. Pat also championed the creation of Freedom Fighter IPA, with proceeds benefiting organizations combatting human trafficking in Atlanta.

Known for his collaborative spirit and belief in the “local beverage” movement, Pat continues to champion neighborhood-focused brewing. He’s passionate about creating meaningful connections through craft beer and values the opportunity to engage directly with the community. From small-batch beginnings to large-scale production, Pat’s journey reflects a deep commitment to quality, authenticity, and purpose-driven business.

Tim Stevens

Tim Stevens began his hospitality journey at just 15 years old, waiting tables in Clearwater, Florida. His passion for the industry led him to Atlanta, where he earned a degree in Hospitality Administration from Georgia State University. Tim quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the youngest General Manager at Buckhead Life Restaurant Group and overseeing acclaimed establishments like Nava and Chops Steakhouse. His early career was marked by accolades in wine selection and service excellence, establishing the momentum that would carry through his career.

In 2017, Tim and his wife Lisa opened From the Earth Brewing Company (FTE) in East Roswell, blending craft beer, locally sourced food, and live music into a vibrant community hub. Their innovative approach, especially during the pandemic when they introduced parking lot concerts and offsite beer garden experiences, helped FTE thrive and deepen its roots in Roswell. In 2023, the couple launched Bask Steakhouse next door, a fine-dining concept inspired by Tim’s culinary roots and built with a commitment to premium ingredients, local partnerships, and warm, club-like ambiance.

Beyond the kitchen and brewhouse, Tim’s dedication to community shines through. From supporting local schools and nonprofits to donating spent grain to farmers for livestock feed and compost, his mission has always been to give back. With nearly 30 years in the restaurant industry, Tim Stevens continues to shape Roswell’s dining scene.

Matthew Curling

Matthew Curling is the founder and operator of Variant Brewing Company, a Roswell-based brewery known for its inventive approach to craft beer. After earning his degree in business management in 2012, Matt’s passion for homebrewing quickly evolved into a professional pursuit. He gained early experience at Cherry Street Brewing in Cumming before working as a Business Analyst from 2015 to 2017, all while developing plans for Variant. In late 2017, he opened the brewery on Norcross Street, transforming a bright, industrial space into a welcoming taproom that reflects his hometown roots and creative spirit.

Variant Brewing lives up to its name by embracing experimentation and variety. Matt and his team have crafted over 300 unique beers, constantly exploring new ingredients, techniques, and flavor profiles. Inspired by the complexity of brewing, much like cooking, Matt sees each recipe as an opportunity to innovate. Whether it’s tweaking hop combinations or introducing unexpected adjuncts like herbs and spices, the goal is always the same: deliver quality, consistency, and a memorable experience for every guest who walks through the door.

Outside the brewery, Matt enjoys spending time with his six-year-old son Liam, making hot sauces, running, skiing, reading, and playing video games. He’s also deeply engaged in the Roswell community, supporting local art through the “Art Around Roswell” sculpture tour and recommending favorite spots like Canton Street, Vickery Creek, and East Roswell Park. For Matt, Variant Brewing isn’t just a business, it’s a way to connect, create, and contribute to the place he proudly calls home.

James Rouse

James Rouse is the co-owner of Voodoo Brewing Company in Roswell, Georgia, alongside his wife, Betsy Rouse. Drawing on a professional background in corporate sales, brand licensing, and operations, James transitioned into the hospitality industry with the goal of creating a locally rooted business that combined quality craft beer with a welcoming environment. In 2024, the Rouses opened Voodoo Brewing Roswell, the first Voodoo Brewing franchise in Georgia and the 24th location nationwide.

Located at 1010 Mansell Road, Voodoo Brewing Roswell offers 24 rotating taps of craft beer, beer-infused menu items, and handcrafted cocktails. The brewpub features a distinctive interior design and hosts regular community events, including trivia nights, live music, and fundraisers. The concept is built around creating a “third place”, a social space outside of home and work where guests can relax and connect.

James credits his military service with helping him develop the discipline and adaptability required for entrepreneurship. He and Betsy operate the business based on a three-part philosophy: high-quality beverages (“the liquid”), elevated pub fare (“the food”), and a memorable guest experience (“the atmosphere”). Their approach has helped establish Voodoo Roswell as a popular destination in the local craft beer scene.

The Rouses continue to focus on community engagement and hospitality, guided by the belief that “craft beer without community is just beer.”