Combine flour, salt, paprika & pepper in a large, shallow bowl or food storage bag.

Toss Beef cubes in flour mixture to coat thoroughly.

Place onions,bacon, & abouthalf of the mushrooms in a crock-pot.

Add Beef & remaining ingrediants.

Combine Beer, sugar, vinegar, thyme, & bayleaf: pour over beef.

Cover & cook 8-10 hours on LOW.

Serve with rice of egg noodles.

If desired make gravy from juices. Strain cooking liquids into a sauce pan & simmer for about 5 min.  to reduce slightly. Combine 2 Tsp of flour with about 3-4 Tblsp of water to make a smooth paste. Pour into a beef juice mixture, & simmer until desired consistency.