NCHF Board of Directors

John Abbot

John got his first home brew kit in 1981 from Rocket Rod in Hawaii.  He has attended every NCHF in Dobbins as well as a couple in Napa. He creates the NCFC pouring sculpture for the Chico Club. He is a BJCP National judge. John is responsible for Club Reps.

Mark Ristow

Home clubs:  I Do Brew Crew and DOZE

 I have been all-grain brewing since late 1999 and attending NCHF since 2001.  I love to make beer, serve beer and drink beer and not necessarily in that order.  Over the years of brewing I have won a couple of NHC medals, built a 8 tap beer trailer, become a beer judge, built a 4ft by 7ft walk-in cooler, and  have brewed professionally. 

So now that things and I are slowing down,  I want the opportunity to give back to the brewing community by serving on the board.  Prost!  Mark

Michael Frenn

Michael has been attending NCHF since 2002 and has been a Board member (including Chairman) for nearly 20 years..  Presently he is responsible for the Club Keg Competition. Michael has been homebrewing since 2000 and owned and managed Old Hangtown Beer Works from 2010 to 2020. Michael is a BJCP Judge (Certified) and actively judges and enters competition.  Most recently he took Best of Show at  the California State Fair with a Biere de Garde. Michael might best be known as the owner of the Ale Camino.  

Mark Smith

Mark has been an avid Homebrewer for in excess of 30 years. His love of Homebrewing has turned from beloved  hobby into a bit of an obsession. This is demonstrated by the over abundance of home brewing equipment in his possession. Mark is a member of the Washie Zephyr Zymergists, the Reno Homebrewer‘s club and the oldest Homebrewer club in Nevada. He has been the Cubs president for more years than he can remember.  He is currently retired and on his second post retirement job. Because he can’t afford to sit around without a job and brew beer all day.  Because that’s what happens. 

Alan Vosper

Alan started homebrewing in the mid 2000s shortly after getting into beer and has been attending NCHF for nearly as long. He even convinced his wonderful wife to finish out their honeymoon in 2012 at the NCHF festival that year. Alan is responsible for organizing the online store.

Jack Weldon

Jack has been going to NCHF since 2008. Home Brewer for more than 35 years. BJCP  Certified Beer and Mead Judge. Current President of the Draught Board Home Brewers Club – The oldest club in Northern California and the 2nd oldest club in the nation. Brew 30+ beers annually. Volunteer at lots of bay area beer festivals.  Avid disc golfer. Jack is responsible for coordinating volunteers at the fest.