[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 72 (Thursday, June 8, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1088]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   COMMENDING AMERICAN CRAFT BREWERS

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                               speech of

                         HON. PETER A. DeFAZIO

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 6, 2006

  Mr. DeFAZIO. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of America's craft 
brewers. Our culture, our economy, and our communities have all 
benefited from the contributions craft brewers have made. The craft 
beer segment includes more than 1,300 small, traditional and 
independent breweries.
  We have seen a boost in sales and growth for these small business 
entrepreneurs in recent years. This consumer appeal has created 
thousands of quality jobs in our country, helped stimulate a demand for 
American beer exports, and promoted our agricultural economy.
  In recent years, breweries and brew pubs have flourished across the 
Nation. And, as the Representative from Oregon's fourth district, I 
have enjoyed seeing the diversity that craft brewery has fueled across 
the Nation. They bring with their craft a healthy dose of friendly 
competition and a loyal clientele base that appreciates their craft-
made lagers and ales.
  The pioneering spirit of Oregon lives on with its craft brewers. 
Oregon continues to enjoy more breweries per capita than any other 
State in the Nation. Even with Oregon having only 1 percent of the 
Nation's population, it is home to 7 percent of America's breweries and 
brew pubs. Five of those breweries are among the 50 biggest in the 
Nation.
  In addition to their sales success, many of these small businesses 
support innumerable community-based charities, public institutions, 
local events and charities. Small craft brewers successfully balance 
that dedication between the quality of their beer and the quality of 
their community.
  I urge my colleagues to support H. Res. 753 in recognition of 
America's Craft Brewers.

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