Anyone a member of the American Homebrewers Association?

TravelBastard · 11-02-2008, 05:11 PM

I was thinking about joining the AHA and was wondering if anyone else is a member. Is it worth it to join? I'm always wary about joining associations like this because in my experience you have ones that are either very useful or completely useless. I'm hoping it's option number 1. Any input is appreciated, thanks

**Yuri_Rage** · 11-02-2008, 05:17 PM

I'm not a member because there are no AHA functions or supported breweries/stores in my area. The only reason I would become a member is to attend the AHA National Homebrew Conference, which, so I understand, is well worth the time and travel.

Zymurgrafi · 11-02-2008, 05:30 PM

I have not joined yet but, I plan to. AHA works to promote homebrewing and keep it legal. It is really in all of our best interests to suppost their efforts. There are still states where homebrewing is illegal and there are many opponents (neo-prohibitionists, tea-totalers and other grumpy folks

) that would like to see it outlawed/restricted everywhere.

The benefits are nice too (like Zymurgy magazine as well) but I see the work they do to promote and protect Homebrewing as the real reason.

littlehop · 11-02-2008, 05:35 PM

I am a member, Im located in washington state and its not really beneficial because my state doesnt allow the discount program. There are some occasional gettogethers that could be cool to go to like tasting but they are few and far between. The magazine is excellant and I do enjoy it.

PseudoChef · 11-02-2008, 05:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yuri_Rage

I'm not a member because there are no AHA functions or supported breweries/stores in my area. The only reason I would become a member is to attend the AHA National Homebrew Conference, which, so I understand, is well worth the time and travel.

You could become a member to support legislative efforts in the states where homebrewing is still illegal.

**eddie** · 11-02-2008, 05:42 PM

I'm a member but the only brewery in the state I know of that has any kind of benefit is Sebago Brewing Co. down in Portland. Mostly, my membership is for the magazine and to support the organization efforts.

TravelBastard · 11-02-2008, 05:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by littlehop

I am a member, Im located in washington state and its not really beneficial because my state doesnt allow the discount program. There are some occasional gettogethers that could be cool to go to like tasting but they are few and far between. The magazine is excellant and I do enjoy it.

Where are you at in Washington? I grew up in Auburn and my parents now live in Friday Harbor. That's actually why I started brewing beer. In Washington you can't get away from microbreweries and in LA you can't find one to save your life.

I have one issue of the magazine and it seemed to be pretty good, it came with my brewing starter kit and had some really good info. I'm thinking it may be worth it for that alone.

**BigKahuna** · 11-02-2008, 05:48 PM

I saved $9.00 on dinner last night because of the AHA discount at the Rock Bottom! Gave the waitress 1/2 of that, so I left with $4.50 in my pocket that I would not have had without the AHA membership. Also, it is just in my nature to support those groups that support the things I do.

**Yuri_Rage** · 11-02-2008, 05:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PseudoChef

You could become a member to support legislative efforts in the states where homebrewing is still illegal.

I could, but my budget is a little tight, so I'd like to see some real benefit other than something fairly intangible for me.

EDIT: Not saying it's not a noble cause, but since AHA has no presence here and brewing is legal in my state, there's no tangible benefit to me. So, with a limited budget, AHA is not a priority.

carnevoodoo · 11-02-2008, 06:06 PM

I get 10% off at my LHBS. Also, I think it is worth supporting an organization like that. Plus, you get a magazine.