1. Guild Activities

Guild Organizes 100 Meetings at Maryland State Capital

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Acacia serves as Brewers Guilds Manager on the Brewers Association Government Affairs team. Acacia's focus is on supporting organizational development of small non-profit U.S. state and regional brewers trade associations (also known as brewers guilds). Currently based out of Missoula, Montana, Acacia’s roles include crisscrossing the country participating in guild member and board meetings, climbing Capitol Hill, contributing to various national and international beer conferences, attending association management and regulatory conferences, and of course, reveling at beer festivals nation-wide.

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On February 3, the Brewers Association of Maryland (BAM) gathered in the state capital to advocate for the Maryland Brewery Modernization Act and to launch the 2nd Annual FeBREWary: Maryland Craft Beer Lovers Month. BAM members gave presentations and had conversations with delegations of over 100 elected officials throughout the day.

Members then gathered at Chesapeake Brewing to celebrate FeBREWary with a toast from Maryland Governor Hogan, Comptroller Peter Franchot, bill sponsor Delegate Barkley, BAM Board Member Hugh Sisson of Heavy Seas Beer and Brewers Association Federal Affair Manager Katie Marisic. During the speech, both the Governor and Comptroller pledged support for the brewing industry and its hallmark legislation, which will provide many new advancements for Maryland breweries.

Making connections with elected officials and engaging in grassroots lobbying continue to be important tools for state brewers associations. These events hosted by the Brewers Association of Maryland will help local breweries for years to come.