It is very good to see that the Brewers Association has finally enlisted the assistance of you and me, the beer drinkers, to lobby on the behalf of breweries. I've been doing it for years, but I'm not always aware of what's happening in the legislature. The BA has created a group to get the word out and mobilize the awaiting enthusiasm of craft beer drinkers: Support Your Local Brewery.I've signed up to receive e-mail alerts when there are issues affecting breweries unde debate in my state legislature. I assume we would also be alerted to national issues. I encourage you to do likewise.
Great work, Brewers Association! Now, if you could just remember that it's not just ales that are made by craft brewers...
12 comments:
you got it, count me in!
Another priority for this new organization should be forcing states to establish a brewer's guild.
http://www.sylb.org/current_releases.html
CT has been without one forever. Let's get a move on already! It would help drum up support for beer in a state where the brewers complain about a lack of love for it, widespread. Don't you think?
"remember that it's not just ales..."
Ahh, jeez. 2 steps forward, one step back.
"Another priority for this new organization should be forcing states to establish a brewer's guild."
"Forcing"? Yow. Strongly encouraging, maybe. Showing them how well it works in other states, maybe? But yeah, a state (or regional) guild is a Good Thing.
Signed up and ready to support.
I was left wondering what exactly a "beer enthusiast club" was. Seems like this could be an opprotunity for the Brewers Assoc to form a US umbrella group for all homebrew clubs, beer enthusiast clubs and the like to come together and show unified support for the BA issues. All they need is an acronym -
the Brewers Association of Beer Activists - BABA
At least the email list is a nice start.
The BA is certainly encouraging the formation of state guilds. I'm looking into revitalizing and running the North Carolina Brewers Guild. As a prospective guild leader, the BA provided me with a discounted fee to the Craft Brewers Guild. I wouldn't have been able to attend otherwise.
The highlight of the conference was a meeting of guild members and leaders. Best practices, war stories, strategies, etc. It was excellent.
But now, here in NC, it's all up to the brewers. NC wine gets all the love here, and I believe that our craft beer industry is just as strong. The brewers are simply too busy to start up a guild right now, even though one is long overdue. I'm hoping to help.
Kirby,
I would assume that a 'beer enthusiast' club wouild be one like the Chicago Beer Society; not a brewing club, but a beer appreciation society. They're an excellent model, and it would be great if similar clubs sprang up.
Sean,
Good on you, man. Someone's got to take the reins, that's how it gets done.
Joined up and ready to serve!
I really like the idea of a 'beer enthusiast' club. Not just for home brewers, although they would/could be an integral part of it, but more all encompassing in the responsible enjoyment of quality craft beer.
Greater Philadelphia Beer Appreciation Society? Southeastern Pennsylvania Guild of Beer Enthusiasts? Hmm....I'm going to have to check out the Chicago Beer Society and see how they are doing it. Thanks Lew!
BA already has a group that coordinates homebrew clubs, it's called the American Homebrewers Association (AHA), so no need for a BABA!
Most homebrew clubs are comprised not only of brewers but enthusiasts, as well. Just ask Lew! He's a BIG fan of homebrewers!!
I bow down to homebrewers, Bob...in their dreams.
Have to be honest, though, Bob-O: I had a GREAT time with homebrewers at the southern California club fest last weekend.
I've signed up too. Back in the early 90s we fought for certain craft brew legislation in Virginia. We went to Richmond to lobby and the legislation got passed. I've also politicked and lobbied for legislation that would affect my business with some success. I routinely write my congressmen and senators if I agree or disagree with their positions on certain issues. Being politically proactive can and does work. I'd urge all of you to become involved. Even if it just means writing that occasional letter / email, I’d recommend signing up. At least do it to keep informed of the issues.
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