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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1097-E1098]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RECOGNIZING THE 11TH ANNUAL DC BEER WEEK
______
HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON
of the district of columbia
in the house of representatives
Friday, September 6, 2019
Ms. NORTON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 11th annual
``DC Beer Week,'' a week-long series of events celebrating the
independent craft beer industry, local beer culture and the rich
brewing legacy in the District of Columbia. Sponsored by the District
of Columbia Brewers' Guild, DC Beer Week will take place this year from
September 8 through September 15. Many of the District's breweries,
taverns, restaurants and cultural institutions will participate in more
than 30 beer-related events throughout the week to highlight the
successful rebirth of the brewing industry in the District, and the
quality and diversity of craft beer produced in our area and across the
nation.
DC Beer Week not only serves to celebrate the brewing industry. It
also serves as a nod to the rich brewing history we have right here in
the District. The first brewery in D.C. opened in 1796. The District
became home to dozens of breweries in every section of the city, many
right here in the shadow of the Capitol. By the late 1800s, our area
was home to some of the most prosperous breweries and recognizable beer
brands in the nation, such as the Christian Heurich Brewing Company in
the District and the Portner Brewing Company in Alexandria. The
District became especially known for the introduction and production of
quality lagers in the southeast United States. Although most of our
breweries did not survive prohibition, the Heurich Brewing Company
reopened after the repeal of the 18th Amendment in 1933 and remained
operational until 1956. The legacy of Christian Heurich is preserved at
his Victorian mansion--``the Brewmaster's Castle''--in Dupont Circle,
which is operated by the Heurich House Museum.
Of course, DC Beer Week would not be possible without the rebirth of
the brewing industry in our city. After more than a 50-year absence,
over the past decade we have seen the opening of more than a dozen
D.C.-based production breweries and brewpubs. Despite limited
industrial space, production breweries such as DC Brau Brewing Company,
Atlas Brew Works, 3 Stars Brewing Company, Hellbender Brewing Company
and Right Proper Brewing have gained a national reputation for
producing high-quality beer. In addition,
[[Page E1098]]
since the opening of the District Chophouse and Brewery in 1997,
District residents now have several options to enjoy a quality meal
with their locally brewed beer at establishments such as Bluejacket,
Gordon Biersch-Navy Yard, the Public Option, Right Proper Shaw Brewpub
and our newest additions, Red Bear Brewing Company and Valor Brewpub.
These breweries not only provide great craft beer for local consumers,
but also provide hundreds of jobs for local residents, make significant
contributions to our local tax base and serve as anchors for economic
development in neighborhoods throughout the District. Our tight-knit
breweries are outstanding and active citizens of our community and
support various charitable causes and community non-profit
organizations. They are also leaders in supporting diversity and
inclusion in our local business community.
I urge all of my colleagues, constituents and visitors to the
District to come together to raise a glass in support of DC Beer Week
and the local brewing community. There are great events throughout the
week, such as Fun Run on Sunday from Right Proper to Red Bear, the
Kickoff Party at Bluejacket, a Home Brewing Competition hosted by 3
Stars, a Record Fair at Right Proper, a celebration of Women in Beer at
Red Bear and a Sunset Cruise hosted by DC Brau. Taverns such as Roofers
Union, Boundary Stone, Churchkey and Church Hall will be hosting
exciting events featuring beers from multiple local breweries, and
there will be the annual ``Brewers on the Block'' festival at Union
Market. In addition, the Heurich House will be curating an Educational
Events series that will include opportunities to learn about beer
history, culture and the art of brewing. There truly will be something
for everyone.
Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in
recognizing DC Beer Week for its contribution to the District's
historic beer culture and our local economy.
____________________
