It's nice having neighbors like Matt Lincecum.
He cares about his neighborhood (and the rest of the planet for that matter). He produces a product (beer) that brings people together. And, he runs his shop in a friendly, open way that makes people feel like they have a stake in its success.
Lincecum owns and runs the Fremont Brewing Co. , a family-owned sustainable microbrewery that opened last year just down the block from my apartment. He uses organic and local ingredients when it makes sense, but refuses to sacrifice the quality of his craftmanship brew just to attain an "organic" tag. In fact, his slogan is "Because Beer Matters."
Lincecum also sublets part of his building to a green energy company called Blue Marble Energy , which is also doing wonderful things. Tonight I had a chance to meet Devin Elliot, chief operations officer for Blue Marble. I had heard a little bit about his company before, but he filled me in on all the details. In short, they use spent grain (mash) from Lincecum and two other local microbreweries and turn them into energy.
Anyway, back to Fremont Brewing Co. The thing I like best about my little neighborhood brewery is that it isn't a dark, dank pub where people gather to get sloshed and sit in front of a TV showing Sportscenter on mute. This brewery has serious potential to be a true "third place " for the people of Fremont, Wallingford, Queen Anne and maybe Ballard.
When you walk in, there aren't any unsavory characters or rowdy revelers. The place is always filled with interesting neighbors just enjoying excellent beer and interesting conversation. If I didn't know any better, I might mistake this place for a community center.
The brewery is just getting started, so it's not open every day yet. If you feel like checking it out, please do. It's open Thursdays and Fridays from 4 to 8 p.m. and now also on Saturdays from noon to 4. Give it a try, I'm sure you'll like it.
Also, for those more interested in the beer than the environment, you won't be disappointed. And it's also available at a couple dozen area establishments .
