Christmas Greetings - MHBA

Brewers, Gentlemen, Ladies, and Friends. Greetings from the Minnesota Homebrewers Association. I hope your Christmas or Holiday celebration is enjoyable, relaxing, and fun. Possibly you will get or give that new brewing gadget. Maybe it will be some special beer under the tree. Whatever it is, remember that all beer is brewed by a brewer with a smile on his or her face. The smile is a requirement; not an option. As I reflect back on 2004, I would like to thank the official staff of the MHBA for their participation with events, meetings, and fun stuff. It truly takes a bunch of work to keep a club together and functioning and I would like to make a toast to Jonathan and Dave for doing such a great job. Looking forward to 2005, it is always a good thing to think about change and responsibilities. Unfortunately, what usually happens is one of the board members asks the membership for assistance and no one responds. Sometimes, someone sort of responds and we twist their arm into submission but all kidding aside, your club needs you. It is time for you to ask what you can do for your club. Let me give you a hint ok? 1. Volunteer to organize a meeting by picking the location, date, and topics. Find someone in the club willing to participate or talk (can't think of many that would fit that bill). 2. Schedule a BBQ in your back yard. These events are always welcomed in most neighborhoods and unless you are hosting Mick Sterling, the events can go quite late. Best months are May to September. 3. Volunteer to be an officer for a year. The election process is fairly simple and we are always happy to include multiple names on the ballot! 4. Volunteer to coordinate a visit. This isn't very demanding but requires that you know someone in the industry. Basically, you get someone to stop at a meeting to give away free stuff and talk about a beer related subject. Simple, fairly easy, and free stuff! 5. Tell Jokes. Nothing goes further than a funny story or joke especially after a few beers. 6. Bring beer to meetings. Another popular activity that gets you noticed. Please bring your choice stuff and not the swill or the dregs. 7. Just show up. Meetings are great especially when people attend. You know that song about the tree in the forest that nobody hears. Sort of goes along with a meeting that nobody attends. So not that we have your attention, don't be shy. Send message, give us a call, e-mail Jonathan or Dave Cox. Have a great holiday and a safe New Years. See you, er,...............do we have a January meeting set up yet? Rick Oftel MHBA member at large