Get Better Bill! (Updated)
Last night, local beer author Bill Brand was struck by a MUNI train while leaving a SF Beer Week event. He’s currently in critical condition at SF General Hospital. Bill is an excellent author, as well as a very talented palate, and is always a pleasure to run into at local beer events.
At last night’s dinner he was furiously scribbling notes on the food and beer, and as you can see above, clearing every plate (making for a very happy Homebrew Chef.) In fact, I didn’t take any notes, and instead struck a deal with Bill: pictures in exchange for notes after the event. Bill, don’t think this changes anything – i”m waiting on your tasting notes on the Monk’s Blood beer. Plus, you promised me a beer braised brisket recipe too.
Bill is always a big proponent of responsible alcohol consumption, and last night was no exception. He made ample use of the dump bucket on our table, and was the model of imbibing responsibility. He was clearheaded and lucid when he stepped back into the San Francisco rain after dinner.
Bill was so excited about San Francisco Beer Week, and would be mortified to learn that he was causing people to holdback from celebrating the local culture he has spent his professional life documenting and promoting. Everyone involved in San Francisco Beer Week wishes Bill a full and speedy recovery. They’re collecting notes of well wishes for him and his family on his blog, “What’s on Tap” and I’d encourage you to leave a few words.
In addition, tonight, at 7pm, there will be a communal toast for Bill at all SF Beer Week events, as well as in the homes of beer lovers everywhere. So pick out what Bill would call “a stunner, **** Stars” and raise it for him tonight.
Get well soon Bill!
Update: According to Jay, “Bill has apparently had surgery to relieve pressure in his brain. He has a broken bone in his neck but no others were broken. His lungs are struggling, still somewhat critical I’m afraid, but he’s stable all the same.”
February 9th, 2009 at 9:02 pm
I just added a note to his “What’s on tap?” blog….. I’m kind of devastated by this news, as I’m sure you are too! Keep us up on any news!
February 9th, 2009 at 9:13 pm
Great photo, splendid post. I’m especially glad you pointed out his disciplined approach to moderation and self-control, and to being a responsible evaluator and respectable voice for beer. Personal conversations on the side have lead me to worry that the circumstances around the accident could lead people to some very incorrect assumptions, so your talking about last night here should help to dispel those assumptions should they arise. Back to focusing on what’s important – the health and well-being of Mr. Brand and the support of his family through this.
February 9th, 2009 at 10:00 pm
Am poised and ready to toast to Bill at 7 this evening and then in person again, sooner than later… My thoughts, prayers, love and well wishes are with Bill and his family…
February 9th, 2009 at 11:01 pm
[...] others in the city. In fact, minutes before the accident he was photographed by Jesse Friedman of Beer and Nosh and took pages of notes from the dinner prepared by Sean Paxton, DRAFT contributor and Homebrew [...]
February 9th, 2009 at 11:05 pm
I heard the news last night about the accident and I really hope he’s ok…I wouldn’t wish a streetcar crash on anyone…I’ve seen too many of these kinds of accidents lately and each time I feel so bad for the person who gets hurt…the N Judah Chronicles wishes him a speedy and full recovery.
February 10th, 2009 at 12:22 am
[...] was hit by an N Judah Muni train last night. I know us at Beer At Joe’s and the bay area beer community are praying for him. I have talked to Bill at a few events – but I mostly know him through his [...]
February 10th, 2009 at 4:21 am
Really really unfortunate news! Here’s hoping he gets well soon!
February 10th, 2009 at 6:56 am
[...] « Get Better Bill! [...]