On Thu, 19 Dec 2002 12:01:41 -0600 "Rolstad, David" <DRolstad(a)mjsk.com> writes: Winterfest who >are introducing the product to the community in what would appear to be some >good old fashion marketing. That is exactly the reason that we started the festivals. Getting an owner to spend money on advertising is like pulling teeth, and even if you do take out an ad, it is impossible to determine if it was cost effective. The Guild took money in the form of dues, and used that to market all the places. It seems to be helping a bit. Yes and no. You don't want to overload on festivals, and you need to make sure you are always putting your best foot forward. It's a lot of work to organize the ABR, and those of us who organize it already have full-time jobs. We start planning in January for next year. Hopefully the Food and Wine show will also be beneficial for our members. Believe me, the pavillion was not cheap. But, that's why we formed the Guild--to spend money on promotions. I hope you mean Great Waters instead of WT. Speaking of Winterfest, the tickets are flying out the door. I'd say more than half are sold already. David Berg President, Minnesota Craft Brewer's Guild Head Brewer, Bandana Brewery http://www.mncraftbrew.org