Previously: 40 Years in Beer (Book II), Part 62: Rich O’s expands, and we gain an affinity for Rogue Ales (1995).
The Fermenters of Special Southern Indiana Libations Society (F.O.S.S.I.L.S.) turned five years old in 1995. Arguably our local homebrewing and beer appreciation club was approaching its peak, with membership and participation levels high, and an annual calendar firmly set.
Most regular club meetings were held late on Sunday afternoon at Rich O’s Public House, which otherwise was the pub’s customary Ruhetag (in German, “rest day”). Obviously it couldn’t be a genuine day of rest if Amy and I unlocked the doors for the club meetings, but the members also were regular customers, as well as our friends. ‘Nuff said.
We always sold a few pints; besides, all I’d have done anyway was drink alone, and drinking was more fun with friends.
Club dues remained a dollar a month, which paid for Walking the Dog newsletter expenses, including at least two annual double issues (the membership guide and Travel Dog). Members donated items for monthly raffles, which were responsible for the remainder of the club’s operating revenues. These made for a...Read more