I knew when I wrote the note that the beer drinkers would check in. There is no problem with people enjoying a beer if they are not an alcoholic and can control their drinking. However to make it a center piece of any event is to encourage drinking including among the youth and I wonder how many would look at it as an innocent pass time if their children or spouse were addicted to alcohol?
We have family members who are Therapists for addictions and see the terrible affects it has on families and friends. It should be treated, like any other drug as a "drug" and not encouraged to be a good outlet for youth To make it the "fun" thing at a White House discussion where the subject is already discord between a couple of people is inexcuseable. So now the youth believe if they are going to have a fun get together lets make beer the focal point. In some cases it is the gateway drug for stronger alcohol.
Like I said I am not a nut that believe drinking should be outlawed. But I do believe it should not be encouraged as a way to escape when there are serious discussions, and not made to be a need to have fun and relax.