picking monthly meetings

[Primary Fermenters]

It's currently being discussed whether or not we want to have members pick monthly meetings to host, or whether we want to go to more of a regular day/night to meet every month.
Or we could do both on a every other month basis.
I want this club to be less about me planning all the events and more about everyone contributing some ideas. Thoughts?
Amanda

[kylesisco]

I would like to host what I think I can safely assume will be the first PF brewing of a Cascadian Dark Ale, currently named by the American Brewers Association, an American Style India Black Ale. It does not yet exist as a BJCP category. Think a black IPA, but mashed with Carafa II, which is a highly kilned but dehusked malt, so it's easy on the bitterness. American hops to compliment.

There's a lot of debate about the role of this beer's style in the brewing world right now. We might as well show them how it's done, right?

As far as Tap's question, my two cents is to have members help out with the monthly meetings.

[ajkutzke]

Here are some ideas in case anyone wants to take the lead on any of these ideas. Of course you can always get creative and plan something new.....

Lift Bridge Brewery is getting equipment in their brewery at the end of the month. If they stay on schedule, Dan Schwartz has said he may be interested in giving us an inaugural/trial run tour of the facility. It should be ready by mid October and could be planned as an October event. It will take some coordination with Lift Bridge...

Rahr Malting facility tour

Dave's Brewfarm Hop harvest: may take some coordination and may end up being last minute depending on how the hops mature. I talked with Dave & Pam and they are interested but we should get them locked in so we can start planning and figure out when he anticipates harvest.

Intro to BJCP styles/World of Beer Styles event: I picture some type of style representative sampling with some discussion of the style paramaters and notable characteristics. Maybe combine a few related styles and do multiple sessions.

I'm sure Surlyfest will be a go again this year...

Tours of any local breweries and vineyards

Grape harvest at Winehaven: This has been discussed with the folks at Winehaven, but we need to confirm the possibility of making this happen.

Granite City Beer release parties

Additional Big Brews

Winter Beer Fest

Beer release parties at bars

Beer or wine & food pairings/dinners

Pedal Pub

Beerfests

much much more.....let us know if you have ideas and want us to make them happen for you.