THHG Book Club: The Great American Ale Trail.

Author Christian DeBenedetti and Communicator Guy.

Howdy! Artsy Guy here. Uploading some shots from a book signing. We're fancy. Seriously, we're totally diggin' Christian DeBenedetti's new book, The Great American Ale Trail, aren't we, Jimmy the Communicator Guy(TM)?

Ahem! Communicator Guy here, reporting that Artsy Guy takes some great Hipstomatics, and that this event here at NYC's Blind Tiger (one of the Holy Grail beer bars of the entire Universe) is just damn lovely. I've already begun to dive into the book and I'm here to tell you it's awesome. A must-read. What say you, Artsy?

The Great American Ale Trail.

I say "YEA!" Here's a guy who has really suffered for his art, traveling the country to make note of the best places to procure the craft suds. Can you write off your treatments for "barfly elbow", Mr. Christian? I hope so. You deserve it. This is such a resource for the traveling craft beer lover. And Garrett Oliver (brewmaster of Brooklyn Brewery and author of The Brewmaster's Table) seems to agree. Right, Communicator?

Communicator taking notes at The Blind Tiger.

He does indeed. And now Christian is speaking of his first days in NYC as a journalist (he arrived TWO DAYS before 9/11) and relating that were it not for great craft and great craft bars like the Blind Tiger, he would never have found his way as solidly as he has. Craft beer, everyone. It's not about the beer. IT'S ABOUT THE PEOPLE!

Yes! People like Artsy. (Me again.) And folks in communities all over the country: That film industry lawyer I chatted with at Tony's Darts Away in Burbank, CA. The college music professor in Pittsburgh, PA who gives me barleywine recommendations. The owners of Goebel's Liquor and Rob's World of Beers who are introducing Wichita, KS to a world of craft beer goodness. Communicator Guy?...

**wipes away a beautiful, cinematic tear**

Well said, Artsy. Well said. Check out this book, y'all. And, next time you have a chance, buy a great craft beverage for someone, whether it be a good friend, or a total stranger. Make this community, this worldwide group of Good People, even better than it already is. CHEERS!

P.S. That's what's HOPpenin'. (Artsy again.)

Video: Artsy's Backyard - Jazz night at Mona's

Artsy Guy here... again.  In the spirit of finding nifty places to gather with friends, I'd like to offer a fantastic option my friend Lisa brought to my attention.  Mona's in Alphabet City (Avenue B between 13th & 14th Streets) is a classic dive bar where you'll find punk rock on the juke box and a wildly diverse group of regulars.  Various nights feature varied styles of live music.  Mondays feature bluegrass.  I believe Irish tunes are du rigueur.  But the night that will keep me coming back is Tuesday night and the jazz jam (heavy on the 20s and 30s swing)...

The music really didn't get into full swing until after 10 and was still happenin' when I left around 2:30am.  The full bar seemed to get a workout, but there are some options for craft beer folks (Brooklyn and Blue Point on draft, Dogfish Head in bottle).  It's what's HOPpenin' folks!  Cheers!

A few parting shots...

Artsy guy here!  Wow.  What a day it was at Cookout NYC!  Here are a few more photos from the festivities...

People and flames!Mama's making little burgers, and the tunes are jammin'!Lady Liberty.Again, make it a point to get to this event next year.  Truly amazing!  And even beyond this event, Governor's Island is a great place to visit on a summer weekend's day.  The ferry is free.  You can bring a picnic and rent bikes.  Check out their site for their calendar of events.  That's what's HOPpenin', y'all!

Still Cookin'!

Artsy Guy again! Okay, here in the middle of the East River, the first food coma has set in. We've had pork belly, buffalo tongue, and shaved ice with fruity pebbles. Now it's time to pull up a patch o' grass an prep for another raid on the meat lockers. Here are a few shots.