Group Brew-In

by Roger St.Denis

The May meeting was held at Bob Jones’ house in Alamo after our National Homebrew Day Group Brew-In (story details in inside article.) Thanks, Bob and Loretta!

The members attending were Ken Koupal, Bruce Brazil, Bob Jones, Harry & Kim Graham, John Pyles and I, with a prospective new member visiting for the first time.

John Pyles brought a back-log of the Club’s Beer Across America beers. Nine 6-packs were all tasted (well, "opened") and judged average to poor with only one judged as interesting. This prompted discussion as to the need to continue the membership. Bob and Harry suggested allocating these funds for someone to go to "Beverages And More" and select beers more appropriate for the club at specific club events. We unanimously voted to discontinue Beer Across America. John Pyles will take care of the paperwork.

There was discussion about changing the June and July meeting dates because some members have conflicting plans. Consensus was that conflicts arise for all members from time to time. Also the club has been making efforts to attract new members through advertising and word of mouth. We felt sticking to the advertised meeting schedule was important. The summer meetings will be June 8 and July 13.

Much discussion was held about the picnic in July. Location suggestions ranged from the park in Livermore to John Pyles’ house again. This year's picnic will be at Harry and Kim Graham's. The Grahams’ home owners’ association has a pool and a pond surrounded by lots of grassy lawn area. The amenities include convenient bathrooms, kitchen and grilling facilities. Should we, God forbid, run out of beers the LaQuebrada Brewery with 6 beers on tap is a short walk away. Bring volleyball, badminton or other appropriate sporting equipment. John Pyles will get salmon, like last year. Bruce Brazil will get sausages and rolls.

It was proposed to modify last year’s pot luck assignments (see below) for this year’s picnic. Be prepared to discuss changes at the next meeting. If no changes are made, then the assignments stand as:

A-F Salad/Bread

G-L Entree

M-R Dessert

S-Z Appetizer

Directions and the final potluck assignment list will follow in the July newsletter. Thank you Harry and Kim.