Greg Walden and Peter DeFazio have been ripping into each other lately over timber payments, but they're united across party lines in their appreciation of a good beer.
The Republican from Eastern Oregon and the Democrat from Eugene are co-chairs of the recently created House Small Brewers Caucus, which according to its website was created "to provide a forum in which members and staff can learn about the science and art of craft beer and brewing as well as the relevant business, regulatory and societal issues."
"America's 1,300 small brewers (those producing less than 2 million barrels of beer annually) face all the very real challenges any small business must overcome to succeed," the site says. "They also must operate in one of the most highly regulated business sectors. In spite of this, they are important economic generators in their local communities, avid promoters of our agricultural economy, and tireless in communicating the history and traditions of brewing and the message of responsible enjoyment of their craft-made lagers and ales."
Besides Walden and DeFazio the caucus has 33 members, including the rest of the Oregon House delegation. Its modest website, which is maintained by Walden's office, includes sections about "The Brewing Process," "The Business," "Beer With Food" and "Responsibility."
