Oct. 12, 2018

As Election Day approaches, Fernson Brewing Co. is one of 77 breweries nationwide participating in the People Power beer initiative in an effort to raise money for the American Civil Liberties Union.

The project was started by Threes Brewing of Brooklyn, N.Y., and calls for craft breweries to brew their own People Power beer to be released before Election Day on Nov. 6. All participating breweries will donate at least 10 percent of People Power sales to the ACLU.

“For as long as we’ve made beer, we’ve cared about the stories that surround it, as well as beer’s ability to bring people together,” said Joel Thompson, CEO of Fernson.

“Throughout the U.S., breweries are pillars in local communities and gathering places in our neighborhoods. As we are uniquely positioned to raise awareness and bolster civic engagement, we feel that playing our part in this initiative with the ACLU will encourage people to have important conversations and ultimately vote in the upcoming elections.”

The People Power beer from Fernson is a dry-hopped pale ale that will be served on tap at Fernson on 8th. It’s citrusy and delicate with an easy, juicy flavor, according to Fernson.

“People enjoy sharing ideas and collaborating over a good brew,” said Heather Smith, executive director of the ACLU of South Dakota. “There is instantly a more relaxed, level playing field to engage in discussion. That’s why we’re so excited about the People Power beer. Change happens in our communities when we talk to each other and share our stories.”

A launch party will be held at 6 p.m. today at Fernson on 8th, 201 N. Weber Ave., with music from Doug Collins at 7:30 p.m.