National Toast To MJ - Our Contribution

Words can not express the importance of Mr. Jackson to the beer community nor do justice to his passing. I learned so much from his writing, but unlike Jeff Alworth, Lew Bryson, Stan Heironymus, (and many others), I never met the man, so I wanted to avoid any sort of trite "me too" post. I've been thinking all week about what I could say that would do justice to the Bard of Beer, and after reading this post on the Beer Hunter blog I realized I have one advantage that most bloggers don't; managing a beer store and bar full of beverages he would have approved of.

Instead of simply writing something I received permission from the boss to take part in the National Toast to Michael Jackson on September 30, 2007. We hope this will give local beer lovers a chance to congregate and share stories and thoughts on Mr. Jackson while sipping on some world-class beer.

More details will follow, but we have a few things in mind including a raffle of donated beer gear (t-shirts, hats, SNOB memberships, etc...), special draughts, and an extra special cask-conditioned keg of one of our most popular beers. ALL the proceeds from the raffle and draught beer will be donated to the National Parkinson's Foundation in honor of Michael. We will also "pass the hat" for those who wish to donate more than they can drink.

Even if you don't feel like participating in the auction we'd like to encourage everyone to come in on the 30th and share their thoughts and memories. The taps will be flowing all day and the official toast will be held at 6pm in conjunction with other bars across the country.


Thank you Mr. Jackson.