It’s hard to believe our humble little competition is just a little week away. The medals have been ordered, just about all the sponsors have been recruited and many of the judges are ready to go.

Even though we have some volunteers for our event, we can really use some more help at both ABC and Hotbreak. As the old adage goes, “Without the enthusiasm and dedication of our volunteers there wouldn’t be an event”. This indeed holds true for the ABC. Areas in need are judges and stewards. Bear in mind if you plan on writing the BJCP exam sometime in the future or if you are already a member of the BJCP, your experience points earned from volunteering at competitions such as ours will be added to your membership profile. Whether you can volunteer for one day or two hours your help is greatly appreciated and will be utilized efficiently.

By now I hope you have selected your entries for our competition. We are striving to surpass the 300-entry level this year. Given Regina’s overwhelming success, I believe we can achieve our 300-entry goal - in fact I know we can. We’ve had great support from our sponsors - so much that we have over $1000 in prizes to dish out. Please thank them by supporting their businesses. During the competition we will be raising funds for the club by selling raffle tickets for a beer fridge equipped with a programmable thermostat courtesy of club members Bruce Sample and Mark Nesdoly. The draw will be during the Hot Break Conference.

Any last minute information pertaining to the Aurora Brewing Challenge can be found on our website www.ehg.ca or send me an email if you have any other concerns. Besides the fill-able entry forms on the website, you will find them attached to the end of this issue.

I look forward to seeing you ABC and Hotbreak 2004.