Minutes from Bull Falls Brewers Meeting November 13, 2003

Minutes from Bull Falls Brewers Meeting November 13, 2003

From the President:

WEB SITE

Many thanks, hat off and kudos to Mike Roman for the labor intensive work he has done putting together the Bull Falls Brewers Brewers web site. It looks awesome! Check it out at

http://www.bullfalls-homebrewers.org/

It's loaded with great information about the club as well as useful information and links.
For example:
    - See the pictures and results from September's brewfest.
    - See the club's history including the frog picture!
    - Get the recipe for Pocahontas' Pumpkin Pleaser.
    - Find links for numerous area home-brew clubs, home-brew magazines, the AHA and home-brew suppliers.
    - And much more.

We are hoping to be able to use the web site to bring in some $$$$. We are hoping to be able to sell some banner space or other ad space for the club. We could use this for events or to lower our dues.

Thanks again Mike for all of your hard work on this very worthwhile endeavor.

BROCHURE

Thanks also go out to all those who worked on our club's brochure. (Mike Roman, Matt and Jen Seliger, Bob and myself. Id I missed anyone, let me know) Much of the info is on the web site (http://www.bullfalls-homebrewers.org/). We will soon have it printed and get it our to local suppliers and restaurants. I feel really confident we will attract many new members who brew, but have no idea who or where we are.

DECEMBER'S MEETING / EXTRACT BREW

Since H&H is so full in December with holiday parties and the like, we (those at the meeting) decided to brew at the next meeting. Jeff Berens is graciously hosting us. A map and directions will follow. We considered a large group brew, but decided rather that we'll do individual brews. Our hope is to educate as well as have fun. Due to lack of time, these will be extract brews. So bring a friend to show them how easy it is to get into the hobby. And for those who have more brews under our belts (some of us have them hanging over our belts) we can share tips and ideas. If you want to brew, you will have to bring a cooker, other materials and supplies.
This will be fun. Mark your calendars now!

BEER JUDGING CERTIFICATION

All those interested in becoming a certified beer judge can get information at bjcp.org or on the club web page (http://www.bullfalls-homebrewers.org/) under links and Beer Judge Certification Program. It is a great opportunity for the club members. It would also be great for the club at any home-brew festivals.

HOME-BREW FESTIVAL AND CONTEST

The committee working on the festival is still working on some of the details. They are looking at a festival in April. A location is a sticking point at the moment. H&H would be ideal, but might be out of our financial reach. The committee is looking at other centrally located places (Marathon Park, for example). The idea of having a local group do some fund-raising on food was also mentioned. Time is becoming crucial. If you have ideas or want to be part of the committee contact me (mstrehlow@airrun.net) or Bill or Mike on the list-serv.

Bill has contacted many suppliers who are interested in donating for the festival or setting up table displays. Hopefully we can get some $$$ for those tables. Thanks Bill.

We discussed focusing on British styles (pale ales, stouts, porters) for this festival. Most home brewers brew something in these styles and it makes it manageable for the judges. We also talked about a Golden Growler Award for the brew club who brought the best beer, voted by those attending the fest.

SPRUCING UP THE MEETINGS

We talked about how to make the meetings more informative and attractive. Since table dancers aren't sanctioned by H&H, we discussed other ways.
    - Bringing in guest speakers.
    - Having an annual brewing book discussion meeting.
    - Brew meetings (like we are going to have for December).
    - Having members present information about brewing their favorite styles, techniques or hardware.

If you have other ideas, please shoot them to the listserv.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Although we haven't heard anything yet, plan on the Ice Cold Beer Festival the second Saturday in January at the Minoqua Brewing Company. The Bull Falls Brewers have always been well represented there and we have gotten raves about our beers. Remember the response to Bob's Orgasmic Orange? Please plan ahead in your brewing. All proceeds go to Dr. Kate's Home Hospice, a vital service to many in the Northwoods. It has always been a great time. I have the number and am going to call to get more information.

Take care and see you at Jeff's for the next meeting.

Mark