President’s Message – July 2013
MASHers,
It seems like ages since we last gathered at the Summer Solstice Party. (Thanks again to Matt & Marie for hosting!) A fabulous time was had by all.
Our next meeting will take place tonight, Thursday, July 25th, at the American Legion Post in South Miami. (Check our website if you need directions.) The festivities will begin at 7:00 p.m.
Following the Solstice Party, I, along with MASH Members Bob & Rachel Billany, Danny Argudin and Scott & Denise Graham, attended the AHA National Homebrewers Conference in Philadelphia. The conference set an attendance record with 3,400 homebrewers converging on the City of Brotherly Love for three days of seminars, sampling and good times with like-minded folk. And there were many brushes with beer royalty. (Ask Danny to share his photos with Charlie Papazian, Sam Calagione and Jamil Zainasheff!) I left the conference a bit hungover, but incredibly energized about our little hobby.
Prior to the conference, the AHA hosted a BJCP Tasting Exam with a record-breaking number of participants – including our very own Bob Billany and Danny Argudin. Upon receipt of their passing scores, we will have 7 members who have achieved BJCP certification. I encourage you all to consider pursuing this designation. This course of study has changed the way I think about beer and vastly improved my brewing.
Speaking of beer education – this month’s educational session will focus on meads. The discussion and sampling will be led by Scott & Denise Graham. (Meads will also be featured in this month’s BOTY competition.)
Unfortunately, I will not be able to join you tonight as I will be jetting to Western Massachusetts with my family for some vacation time. Our Vice-President, Bob Billany, will be conducting the meeting. However, my flight does not leave until 9:45 p.m. Perhaps we can break new ground by simulcasting the meeting via Skype? Miami International Airport is wi-fi enabled!
Have a great time tonight. Bring a friend. Invite your neighbor who is curious about homebrewing. Let’s keep the momentum going.
Cheers!
Dave