501c Wednesdays Start At The Rubicon Brewing Company

Sacramento, Ca – On Wednesday, June 2^nd 2010,  the Rubicon Brewing Company will hold the premiere “501c Wednesday.” This weekly event was created to benefit local 501(c), non-profit organizations by donating a portion of the day’s profits. On this first “501(c) Wednesday”, Rubicon Brewing Company will be donating to The California Small Brewers Association (CSBA).

The California Small Brewers Association is a 501(c)6 non-profit trade association protecting the political and legal rights of the California craft brewing industry. The association was formed in 1989 and is the oldest state craft brewers’ trade association in the country.

Craft brewers operate within a highly regulated alcohol beverage industry; which has entered a new era of rapidly changing industry dynamics. Due to recent court cases and legislative actions, competing interests in the industry are re-positioning themselves favorably with attempts to reshape state regulations. Current rights that have allowed small brewers to survive are subject to change through legislative action by these competing entities. Additionally, there have been repeated attempts to dramatically increase taxes on beer in California, even though brewers already pay an excise tax on their products and licensing fees. Currently, 45% of the cost of a beer goes to taxes!

The primary role of the CSBA is to monitor these issues at the state Capitol and to employ our industry’s voice as needed. The CSBA acts as one coherent and powerful voice for all small brewers in California.

In addition to legislative work, the association offers a broad realm of services and support for the small brewers of California. The Association has addressed many critical business and supply issues by conducting work shops around the state and regularly communicates to its membership. We also hold various events and meetings that help foster communication and education among the family of craft brewers.

Please plan to enjoy a meal and a brew at the Rubicon Brewing Company on June 2^nd, 2010 to help support this worthwhile organization. Rubicon brewery tours will be held, and Tom McCormick, a CSBA Executive Director, will be available to answer questions about beer and current legislative issues and how private citizens can become beer activists and support the craft beer industry.

The Rubicon Brewing Company is a favorite Midtown Sacramento institution that is committed to its community. For over 20 years the Rubicon has provided handcrafted beers and great food, served in a casual, friendly atmosphere.