I love Catherine Rampell's work!

Do I need to be accompanied by actual trick-or-treaters?

Everyone thinks they're a marketing expert, but when they share their "expertise," it's usually: "I am the archetypal customer and therefore everyone wants what I want."

Nice work, Dave (and everyone). Well deserved.

Where can I find this? I'll drive a long way for Pliny vibes.

Fwiw, another tile in the mosaic? In the early 80s every state raised their drinking age from 18 to 21 under threat of losing federal highway funds. At the time, I found it a little unexpected from the "government is the problem" administration, but then, maybe it was part of a long-term pattern.

I call 'em like I see 'em.

I would humbly (or f**k it, not so humbly) suggest myself. But then I have to concede it might be moot given that my posts have been almost non-existent lately. I'll start up again soon, I promise.

You appear to be in the vicinity of the J. Leinenkugel's Barrel Yard. How is it? I haven't been there since it was a T.G.I.Fridays.

Stop by the First Key Consulting booth (4717). I’d love to meet.

Anything by John Gurda. But don’t just read his books, see if you can talk to him (though he doesn’t seem to be on social media). But he’s a Milwaukee treasure.

I can relate!

All true. Craft brewers must and will act more like a traditional business including being more risk-averse. For those who loved craft because it's independent/local, the vibe is pretty much the same. For those, like me, who loved the experimentation and creativity, it feels fundamentally different.

Unfortunately, if I had to guess, I'd guess you won't be done reporting on acquisitions and closings for the rest of the year. But nice work, both writing and pulling this all together.

This one was really unexpected.

I have no real claim to style expertise, but I had always assumed the former (deferring to what seemed to be the view of those more knowledgeable). But your question made me realize that for decades I’ve been unconsciously assuming (or at least wondering about) the latter.