Some breweries across the U.S. are reconsidering their policies on children due to safety concerns and incidents, with some banning children under 16 or implementing adults-only hours, while others continue to cater to families with play areas and kid-friendly amenities, reflecting a shift in how breweries position themselves as community spaces.
Anheuser-Busch and the Teamsters union reached a tentative five-year agreement just before the expiration of the contract covering 5,000 employees at 12 U.S. breweries. The deal includes significant job security, wage increases, bonuses, improved benefits, and an end to two-tier health care coverage. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the agreement, with Anheuser-Busch emphasizing its commitment to its employees and the union highlighting the benefits secured for its members. Voting on the agreement is expected to take place next week.
Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation into law to substantially increase the number of available liquor licenses in New Jersey, easing restrictions on breweries and distilleries for the first time since Prohibition. The new law addresses inactive and pocket licenses, potentially injecting 1,356 licenses back into the market, and establishes new licenses for food and beverage establishments in shopping malls. It also permanently eases restrictions on breweries, allowing them to offer snacks, collaborate with outside vendors, and host events, while increasing the number of barrels that may be manufactured per year.
Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation overhauling New Jersey's liquor license laws for the first time in nearly a century, injecting nearly 1,500 licenses back into the market, easing restrictions on breweries and distilleries, and creating new opportunities for small businesses. The new law addresses inactive/pocket licenses, establishes new mall licenses, and permanently eases restrictions on breweries, distilleries, cideries, and meaderies, aiming to boost economic activity and revitalize downtown areas.
A couple who moved from New York City to Asheville, North Carolina, found surprises in their new home, including friendly neighbors, challenging driving conditions, and strict liquor laws. They also discovered a thriving vegan food scene and a plethora of craft breweries. However, they were surprised to find that the cost of living in Asheville is still high, and the rental market is competitive. Despite this, they enjoy the slower pace of life and easy access to nature in their new city.
Michigan has been ranked as the No. 1 state for beer lovers according to a survey by GreatLakesStakes.com, which took into account quality, quantity, and affordability rankings. The state's betting company reported that over 65,000 Michiganders work in the beer industry, and in 2022, six Michigan breweries won seven medals at the World Beer Cup. The state has close to 500 breweries, with Frankenmuth Brewery being the oldest. Michigan's Liquor Control Board reported that on average, Michiganders drink up to 23 gallons of beer a year.
Springfield, Illinois has been named the best city in the state for beer lovers, according to Move.org. The rankings were based on the highest capita of breweries within city limits for municipalities with populations over 100,000. Springfield has six breweries, contact brewers and microbreweries, including Obed and Isaac's Microbrewery, which has the most beers of all breweries in the city. The average price for a pint of beer in Springfield is $5.00.
Tucson has been named one of the "world's greatest places" by TIME Magazine, alongside cities like Barcelona, Kyoto, Yosemite National Park, and Budapest. The recognition was due to Tucson's restaurants, breweries, and historical locations available for tours and sightseeing. TIME solicited nominations from its international network of correspondents and contributors for the list.
TIME Magazine has named Tucson as one of the "world's greatest places" out of a list of 50 places in the world. Tucson was recognized for its restaurants, breweries, history, and locations available for tours and sightseeing. Other places on the list include Barcelona, Kyoto, Yosemite National Park, and Budapest.