What a first month we have had so far as a new executive in this CAMRA Community. We have had a few events happen, a new liquor reform and some new initiatives that I am very excited to share with you all. But first, I invite you to take part in our annual survey. As an executive we want to know how you feel about CAMRA Vancouver and what you would like to see! So please take five minutes to answer just a few questions.
First, Ciderwise. What an amazing turnout we had for this event! 
We had 8 different food and beverage vendors and about 250 delighted attendees. The cider was phenomenal, the food was great and the energy was intoxicating. I know I speak on behalf of every member of the CAMRA Vancouver Executive when I say thank you to everyone for making this event a tremendous success. I know that personally, I had the opportunity to speak to many people from all walks of the beer community and got to know so many of you! If you missed me, look for me at the next CAMRA Vancouver event – I’ll most likely be wearing my sparkly silver top hat again.
Last month, we had the BC government announce its latest province-wide liquor reform. This was released with fanfare about transparency and care for the consumer. Unfortunately, the vast majority of the changes were brought forward in opaque fashion, and directly and indirectly affect the consumer in a less than positive way. Vice-President Kerry and I had the chance to meet with NDP MLA David Eby, the government’s liquor reform critic and gained some valuable insight into the inner workings of parliamentary procedure. Once the reforms were released, Kerry worked diligently to make sense of all the bureaucratic double-talk and was able to boil the liquor reform down to the basics. Click here to read our update on what we know
Lastly, as recently as last week Dan Helmer – of Moody Ales –
organized the first ever Tri-Cities Cask Festival. With about 100 attendees, it is safe to say it was a resounding success! Some of the CAMRA Vancouver executive was present at the event pouring casks and networking with the community. Our booth was well attended and we signed up many new members. One of the highlights for us, however, was the “Meet The Brewers” event that CAMRA Vancouver organized beforehand. Attendees were encouraged to show up an hour and a half before the festival for an informal meet-and-greet with some of the community’s brewers. About 45 people showed up to meet some of the people behind the beer from Dageraad, Steel & Oak, Yellow Dog, and Moody Ales. We were overjoyed by the genuine community engagement we were met with at this event, and are thrilled by the potential of the craft beer drinking community in the Tri-Cities!
Amidst all this, the executive has been hard at work hammering out budgets, planning the year, and enthusiastically moving forward! As always, if you have anything you would like to see this year, all you have to do is reach out to us! Until next time, take care, everyone!
David Perry
CAMRA BC – Vancouver Branch President
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