Beer has been shared across many cultures over the past 13,000 years. Given that, I feel it’s pretty safe to say it is here to stay, despite production declining over the past decade. It is not just about the grain bill, flavor profile, and ABV. Although this is important, it represents so much more. Sharing a pint socially creates bonds, is a way to celebrate, and serves as a reward at the end of a work week. It is also the American pastime drink while watching sports. This pair of lasting passions brings people together, creating camaraderie. I am about to tell you what baseball, books, and beer have in common.
I met James D.Sullivan at a bar while having a local craft beer within earshot, as a conversation began over beer, books, and baseball. Sullivan told me he was born and raised in Bristol. He describes himself as “a true Bristolian” with “shared rights, values and beliefs.” He has a doctorate in Business Administration and is an insurance adjuster and instructor. He has taught classes at Roger Williams University in accordance with CVS Workforce Initiatives and the NRI Educational Program, which incorporates individuals back into the workforce by offering free career training programs.
Being a polymathic professional, he is also the author of a new book, The Bristol Bombers. It is a story written from his experience. Sullivan noted that, “The book is about a bunch of guys who were very dear to me, and the way we matured from late adolescence into adulthood, sharing our common passion for baseball. The story focuses on the fun relationships between the first and third base lines and all the ball-busting, antics, shenanigans, and banter during a season of baseball.” It recounts, “This group of misfits enjoying the later years of adolescence who are in their mid-20s, chasing skirts, drinking beer, and trying to find our way in life.” He shared that he put the reader into the story by naming the streets, the music that was playing, the town landmarks, the people who were present, and the places visited. He clarified, “It’s been made into a fictional tale to protect the identities of those I grew up with, whom I was able to share some of the best times of my life with.”
Sullivan is no stranger when it comes to local craft beer. As he explained,“I enjoy trying local beers. I especially like hearing the story behind the beer and what went into the processes and preparation. I think that is where the spirit of beer drinking really lies. Bristol, RI, is the home of many breweries and some of the best beers I have tried.” Not really having a favorite, he is a fan of Motif’s RI Drink Awards’ fifth-consecutive-year-favorite DIPA, Captain’s Daughter from Grey Sail Brewing. “Whether it’s Vigilant Brewing, Pivotal Brewing,
Trágmar Ale Works, or The Guild, they all provide a comfortable, friendly, and relaxing place to visit. Being a reader, writer, and someone who enjoys the social aspects of visiting a brewhouse, they all provide a great place to either read and relax with a good book and a cold pint, or a place to engage in a friendly chat and share a pint while exchanging ideas. The brewpubs also provide a place to kick back and enjoy a baseball game on the various TV screens that are scattered throughout the locales.”
Writing allows an author to express, reminisce, learn, and convey something meaningful. Often it is something of wise counsel. Sullivan’s message is something we can all live by.
“The message I would like the readers to get from my book is that life is short and it is so important to make sure you have a plan for the future and take all the necessary steps to ensure that you’re successful financially, educationally, and socially in the future, but also remember when you’re living your life that you have to live life to the fullest and make the most of every moment, because once the day is gone there’s no getting it back. The reason we’re put on this planet is far greater! As I’ve gotten older, I realize that one of the greatest acts we can do, and one I try to practice in my daily life, is helping others when we can.”
A great book and a well-crafted beer both involve artistry and inspiration from their creators. They both serve as a source of relaxation and storytelling. Hope you can find a book you love to get caught up in while enjoying a local craft pint.