Laketown Township Approves Liquor License for Guardian Brewing Company

PRESS RELEASE: September 13, 2017 – Holland, Michigan – The Laketown Township Board of Trustees unanimously supported a liquor license request from Guardian Brewing Company, LLC. The liquor license is a key component to bringing a future restaurant, brewery, and event center to Laketown Township. A brief presentation was shared by beverage industry attorney, William H. Franks, on behalf of the entire brewing company team and was well received by the Township Board and attending residents.

Located at 3657 63rd St., Saugatuck, Michigan, Guardian Brewing Company plans to finalize the purchase of the historic Red Barn Theater and continue the tradition of providing a space for entertainment and community fellowship. The issuance of the liquor license allows the applicant to offer patrons the opportunity to choose their beverage during their visit.

With plans to fully open in Fall 2018, the year-round establishment focuses on providing a unique destination to enjoy delicious food and quality craft beer. Owner and head brewer, Kim Collins, expressed her excitement and gratitude about moving the project forward. “We are grateful to have found a home for our brewery in Laketown Township and are very much looking forward to building out the beautiful, historical Red Barn property. Thanks to Al Meshkin for providing guidance during this process and thanks to the Township Board for understanding our vision clearly and approving our license.”

Information about Guardian Brewing Company and its progress over the next year can be found at https://guardianbrewingco.com/

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Dr. Catharine F. Bishop, General Manager, Guardian Brewing Company guardianbrewingco@gmail.com

 

We’re moving to Michigan!

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After 19 months of searching through 100 properties near Saugatuck, MI, we’re excited to announce that we finally are under contract on a property (details TBA) in Saugatuck, MI and will be moving there to make our brewpub dreams come true in June. We have a strong team helping us work through surveys and zoning for our property and we look forward to sharing our progress as it happens.

Why Michigan you may ask? With our roots being in the Midwest and having spent weekends of our childhood playing in the Great Lakes, we knew it would be a great destination. Then, coupled with Michigan’s phenomenal craft beer scene, we knew our unique project had its home.

Thanks so much for being fans of Guardian so early on in our progress and we will be in touch so we can meet at the taproom for a pint when we’re open.

Slainte and Cheers to all. More about this awesome update and our progress soon. ~Kim

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Why Does Guardian Brewing Want to Sell A Crowler To You?

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Mock up of one of our Crowler label designs

What is a Crowler™?

Crowlers™ are 32 ounce (1 liter), fully sealed, aluminum cans, just like the high quality ones used in the craft beer industry now.

Why will Guardian sell Crowlers?

We believe in providing an exceptional craft beer experience for all our customers. Dixie Canner explains how Crowlers can do this better than other containers.

  • Crowlers are dependable. Properly seamed Crowlers keep out taste-destroying light and oxygen, and the water-based polymer interior coating means no metal tang to disturb the unique flavors of your brew.
  • Crowlers are portable. Welcome where glass containers are not, aluminum Crowlers are lightweight, shatterproof, and pack easily in coolers. They’re perfect for camping, fishing, concerts, tailgates, and other outdoor activities.
  • Crowlers are sustainable. Crowlers are made from a majority of recycled material and are fully recyclable themselves. Just toss empty Crowlers into the recycling bin, no deposit or sterilization required.

Will Guardian still fill my 64-ounce Growler or 32-ounce Growlette?

Of course we will! We also want to offer another package for visitors wanting to purchase a beer that is totally sealed (will lat longer in the fridge than Growlers) and more affordable that traditional Growlers (if you don’t bring your own bottle). We will have all of the beer choices and prices available at the bar, no matter what container you will use.

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Where did Crowlers come from?

The Crowler was co-developed by Oskar Blues and Ball Canning, in Longmont, Colorado. Since its debut, the Crowler has been seen on sandy beaches, packed for outdoor adventures, and brought home in suitcases from the beer nerds around the USA. Get yours at Guardian Brewing in the future and try it out on your own adventure.

How does a Crowler Machine work?

Makin’ Noise: A Pussy Riot Beer Collaboration in Denver

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On January 4, 2017, Black Sky Brewery, Guardian Brewing Company and a host of other beer friends brewed a collaboration beer for the upcoming Inauguration Day on January 20, 2017. The recipe was developed by Lila Mackey (Black Sky Brewery) and Kim Collins (Guardian Brewing Company) and is a Black Belgian Saison with Peppercorns and Belgian Saison yeast.

I chose to have Guardian Brewing participate in this collaboration project because the initial call out felt like a friend asking for help. This friend has a heart of gold and wants to help all types of people in need. We have no idea what the next four years or the future will bring, but we can try harder to help others, especially strangers. We will probably never meet the people receiving our donations, but that does not mean that we are not connected more from this day on. We are choosing to step up to our future, as well as our community, and meet it with a smile and a purpose.

What is “Makin’ Noise” A Pussy Riot Beer”?

The beer is named after Pussy Riot, the Russian punk band and political activist performance group that spawned a movement that has gained new fans in the United States.

“The goal is to effect change through art with whatever tools you have. We are brewers, so our tool is beer.” (Bess Dougherty)

logosOur Mission Statement:

We believe in an America that celebrates its diversity, an America that protects and supports anyone regardless of sexual orientation, gender, identity, race, religious views or immigration status. We condemn the hate that has always existed against marginalized groups and we will not stand for the new strong wave hitting our country. We felt it necessary to take action and decided to use our art to make our voices heard.

We are coming out in support of those most at risk in our community and doing what we can to stand together as a united voice against hate and intolerance. This beer works to combat the hate and oppression while also lending support and solidarity to the fight for equality.

We believe in this beautiful community and we feel it is necessary to work together to protect it.

We are asking that at least $1.00 from every pint sold at each participating brewery will go towards a charity that supports those most at risk in our community. We are also working with our partners for tap takeovers to ensure that proceeds from those events also go towards the proposed charities.

“Despite a kneejerk reaction to assume that an inauguration day release insinuates a protest to Trump. However, our only desire for this beer to to insight a larger sense of community and to stand up against injustice.” (Kelissa Hieber, Goldspot Brewing)

Five breweries chose to host brew days for the Pussy Riot Beer Series and they chose to support:

In addition, the Colorado Plus Brew Pub in Wheat Ridge plans to tap all five beers a week later, on January 28, and donate at least $1 per beer sale to a fifth charity. Join us any of the five host breweries or at C+ for some delicious beer and make a difference for another in need.

Read the entire story about “Makin’ Noise: A Pussy Riot Beer” collaboration here:

  • Denver Westword – original article about the first brewing collaboration and project mission
  • Porch Drinking – article about all breweries participating in collaboration as well as thoughtful discussion about women in beer, naming beers, and activism through beer

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Brew Day Photos from Black Sky and Guardian Brewing Collaboration

Brew Day Photos from Lady Justice Brewing

Official Event Media

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Guardian Brewing Company’s Head Brewer won the PSU Business of Craft Beer Scholarship for 2017

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With a heart full of gratitude for the thoughtful women at the Pink Boots Society, and with so much excitement, Kim just found out that she was awarded the Portland State University “Business of Craft Brewing Certificate Scholarship,” beginning in January! (Click here to learn more about Kim and the scholarship.)

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Guardian Brewing Company In The News

2024

“Winter Beer Festival,” written by Chuck Marshall at Life In Michigan, February 29, 2024.

“Things to Do, Places to Go – COSY Radio.” Written by West Michigan Tourism Association, February 9, 2024.

“Guardian Brewing announces closing date of Michigan brewery before move to Indiana.” Written by Amber Ainsworth, Fox 2 Detroit, January 2024.

2023

“Add A Hoppy Twist To Your Holiday Dinner,” Saugatuck/Douglas Area CVB, December 2023.

“Guardian Brewing Company leaving MI, property up for sale.” Madalyn Buursma, Wood TV 8, Grand Rapids. October 2023.

“Guardian Brewing Company closing Saugatuck brewery due to family members health.” Fox 2 Detroit, October 2023.

“Last Call! Is Guardian Brewing in Saugatuck MI Really Closing?“. WKFR 103.3, October 2023.

“Life & Work With Kim Collins.” Voyage Michigan, October 2023.

“Things to Do, Places to Go”- 103.7 COSY FM.” West Michigan Tourist Association, September 2023.

“These 11 Awesome Michigan Breweries & Distilleries Are Run by Women.” The Gander: Michigan’s Newsroom. Written by Lisa Green, August 31, 2023.

“Culinary Conversations: LGBTQ+ Voices in West Michigan Food & Beverage.” June 14, 2023.

“Things to Do, Places to Go – 103.7 COSY FM.” West Michigan Tourist Association, June 2023.

“Local DE&I Resources, Opportunities, and News.” Article by the Michigan Craft Beer Collective, April 2023.

“PorchDrinking’s Comprehensive 2023 Beer Release Calendar Roundup.” Article by Mathew Powers, Porch Drinking, March 2023.

“Guardian Brewing Company: everyone’s welcomed for craft beer, pub grub, and camaraderie .” Article by Elizabeth Granger, Urban Street Magazine, March 2023.

“Enjoy Michigan Craft Beers at LMCU Ballpark.” Article by Jessica Jurczak from Wood TV 8, February 2023.

“New Michigan Beer Labels (February 2023).” Article by Ed Norton from Better on Draft, January 2023.

“New Michigan Beer Labels (January 2023).” Article by Ed Norton from Better on Draft, January 2023.

“Meet the Michigan Brewers Guild 2023 Board of Directors,” by Chris Crowell, January 2023, from Craft Brewing Business.

2022

“#Drew’s Brews – Guardian Brewing Company in Saugatuck Michigan.” September 2022, by Drew Walker at US*99.

“The Next Generation of Michigan Beer Leaders.” August 2022, by John Liberty of West Michigan Beer Tours and Millcraft.

“A Deliciously Sour Michigan Summer Beer Festival.” July 2022, by Brenda Sodt Marshall from Life in Michigan.

“The List – 20 Beers You Need to Try at Michigan’s Summer Beer Fest (2022).” June 2022, by Ed Norton from Better On Draft.

“Daily Inspiration: Meet Kim Collins.” June 2022, by Jessica Ramirez from VoyageMichigan.

“Guardian Brewing Co. is Michigan’s first LGBTQ, women-owned brewery, but wishes it weren’t.” June 2022, by Brian Manzullo from Detroit Free Press.

“West Michigan breweries create beer to benefit Grand Rapids Pride Center.” June 2022, by Brian McVicar from MLive News Grand Rapids.

“47 Queer-Led and Queer-Supporting Breweries to Champion Right Now.” May 2022 from HopCulture.

“200+ Women/Non-Binary-Owned Breweries to Support Across the Country.” April 2022, from PorchDrinking.

“This small Midwest town should be your next weekend getaway.” March 2022, by Melissa Nicholson from Gaycities.com.

“Queer-Owned Breweries in the US.” March 2022, from Vacationer.

“The List – 20 Beers You Need to Try at the Winter Beer Festival (2022).” February 2022, by Ed Norton from Better On Draft.

“Love and a frosty mug: Meet more dynamic Michigan craft brewery couples.” February 2022, by Amy Sherman from Midland Daily News.

2021

“Sip & Savor Michigan’s Best at Holland Michigan.” November 2021, from Awesome Mitten Team.

“Hikers Flock to Saugatuck Souglas Laketown for Trail Scramble.” June 2021, from News Channel 3.

“Full of Hops and Dreams.” June 2021, from Saugatuck Douglas Area CVB.

“This Tiny Michigan Town Is One of America’s Best LGBTQ+ Destinations.” June 2021, from Thrilist Magazine.

“7 LGBTQ+-Owned Small Businesses to Support this Pride Month.” June 2021, from Money Under 30.

“Brewed With Pride.” A Courageous Leader Award and Interview from Gazelle Sports x HOKA. June 2021.

“Craft beverage produces adapt marketing approaches, deal with supply chain headaches as pandemic drags on.” April 2021, from MiBiz.com.

“Boys Are From Märzen Podcast: Kim Collins Guardian Brewing.” April 2021, Porch Drinking.

“Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer COVID-19 Press Conference Transcript January 22.” January 2021, Rev.com Transcripts.

2020

“Michigan’s Great State Beer Podcast: S1E3 – Kim Collins Guardian Brewing Company.” June 2020, Michigan Brewer’s Guild.

“Brewery Vivant celebrates 10 years with new offerings.” March 2020, Grand Rapids Magazine.

2019

“Best of the West Winners,” July 2019, from Revue Magazine.

“Women in craft beer brew up change.” April 2019, Grand Rapids Business Journal.

“Guardian Brewing Company Review,” April 2019, from Southwest Michigan Dining.

“Wickwood Inn Welcomes Guardian Brewing”, March 2019, from WickwoodInn.com.

“Kim Collins: Brewing Up A Lasting Impact,” February 2019, from Revue Magazine (West Michigan’s Art and Entertainment Guide).

“Guardians Of Brewing: A Woman’s Perspective on Opening A Brewery,”  February 2019, by Tom Ayers at Sommbeer.com.

“Brewery in Saugatuck Opens Up In Historic Red Barn,” January 2019, from WZZM 13 On Your Side.

“Guardian Brewing Co. Opens In Old Red Barn Space,” January 2019, The Commercial Record.

2018

“Guardian Brewing Retains History While Renovating Saugatuck’s Famous Red Barn,” November 2018, from The Holland Sentinel.

“Guardian Brewing Company Construction Underway,” July 2018, from The Holland Sentinel.

“Brewery Breaks Ground at Historic Red Barn,” June 2018, from The Commercial Record.

2017

“Beer Is Not Just For Men – Just Ask Professional Brewer Kim Collins.” January 2017, from Grants For Women.

“Brews News.” October 2017, Revue Magazine.

“Guardian Brewing Plans Red Barn Home,” September 2017, from The Commercial Record.

“Brewery Looks To Take Over Saugatuck’s Red Barn Theater,” September 2017, from the Holland Sentinel.

“Brewery Planned for Saugatuck’s Red Barn Theater,” September 2017, from MLive.com.

2017 ICWBD Unite Brew Participants Map

2016

“Women Brewers Create “Makin Noise: A Pussy Riot Beer” for Trump Inauguration Day,” December 2016. shared in the Denver Westword, an original article about the first collaboration and project’s mission.

“Denver’s Pussy Riot Beer Series Set to Make Statement Inauguration Day 2017,” December 2016, shared on PorchDrinking.com, an article about all breweries participating in the collaboration, as well as thoughtful discussion about women in beer, naming beers, and activism through beer.

“Thanksgiving Beer Pairings,” printed in The Denver Post, November 2016.

2015

Article about “Weird Craft Beer”, printed in Fortune Magazine, April 2015.

Interview about Craft Beer Collaborations (spoke with Ska, TRVE, Call To Arms Brewing, New Belgium), printed in Saveur Magazine, March 2015.

Interview with Jeremy Fleming, Colorado Craft Brews Blog, March 2015.

2014

Interview with Darlene Smith, Great American Beer Festival  October 2014.

“Five on Five” Favorite IPA Interview, Craft Beer and Brewing Magazine, February 2014.

Brewing with Sage, An Ancient Tradition, printed in Craft Beer and Brewing Magazine, February 2014.

“Colorado Gains Another Female Head Brewer,”The Denver Post First Drafts Blog, April 2014.

“Barrels & Bottles Releases New Flagship Beers.” July 2014, by Lia Moran.

“What Kind of Beer Does Your Mom Drink?”Craft Beer and Brewing Magazine, May 2014.

I am a Certified Cicerone!

Hey, craft beer fans! I wanted to let you know that as of today, I am a Certified Cicerone. This means that I will build thoughtfully executed food and beer pairings for our taproom and keep educating myself to be a better brewer.

What is a Cicerone (“sis-uh-rohn“), you ask? Well, it’s the equivalent of a wine sommelier for beer. According to the Cicerone certifying body,

“Anyone can call themselves an expert on beer. But when consumers want great beer they need help from a server who really knows beer flavors, styles, and service. They also want to buy beer from a place that understands proper storage and serving so the beer they drink will taste the way it should. Too often great beer is harmed by improper handling and service practices.

In the wine world, the word “sommelier” designates those with proven expertise in selecting, acquiring and serving fine wine. At one time, some beer servers adopted the title “beer sommelier” to tie into the credibility of the wine world. But in the years since its founding, the Cicerone® Certification Program has become the industry standard for identifying those with significant knowledge and professional skills in beer sales and service. The Cicerone Certification Program offers independent assessment and certification so that industry professionals—as well as consumers—can be sure of the knowledge and skills possessed by current and prospective beer servers.

The Certified Cicerone exam is a rigorous four-hour examination of beer knowledge. The tasting portion of the exam requires identification of beer styles, flaws and service problems.  The extensive written exam covers knowledge about beer service and draft systems, beer styles, brewing, and pairing beer with food.  Candidates also perform a demonstration involving an aspect of beer service.  A score of 80 is required to pass and candidates often spend several months preparing for the exam. Only about 200 individuals pass this second level certification each year.

Those who pass the Certified Cicerone exam are mature beer professionals who make suitable candidates for on-premises beer program managers, beverage managers, distributor craft/specialty sales personnel and brewery sales and management representatives.”

See you around tasty beer. Yes, it’s obvious, but that’s where you can find me. Cheers!

Thirsty German & Green CO2 To Host FREE Educational Sessions at GABF

Green CO2, with the help of Thirtsy German, is proud to hose the International Pink Boots Society Meeting as well as educational sessions open to the public, FREE of charge!

Are you attending GABF? Put us on your agenda: SEPT 25

  • ROOM 601 – inside the Colorado Convention Center
  • Pink Boots Society – KEYNOTE PRESENTATION BY: Lauren Salazaar, New Belgium Brewing! (tickets needed, info below)
  • Industry panels and presentations throughout the day- these are FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. NO GABF Ticket is required for entry:
  • 2:00 – 2:30p – Denver Fire Dept – New CO2 Regulations!
  • 2:30 – 3:15p – Green CO2, Upslope Brewing, Algae Bloom – Sustainable CO2 Solutions & Algae farms in breweries
  • 3:15 – 4:00p – Joyride Brewing, Epic Brewing, Dry Drock Brewing, Fiction Brewing — All about perfecting FRUIT BEERS!
  • 4:00 – 4:45p – Kent Bailey from Coppertail Brewing + Nicol Winkler from Oktoberfest Tampa – All about Community Collaborations!
  • 5:00 – 5:30p – Ashleigh Carter from Bierstadt Lagerhaus – Lagering!
  • 5:30 – 6:00p – Dev Adams / Miss Lupulin – Cicerone & BJCP tips & guidelines
  • 6:30 – 7:00p – Kim Collins / Guardian Brewing – Training and Management!

Also happening in the same space…

  • CRAFT BEER ART will be on display by Pink Boots Member and uber-talented: Amanda Willshire from AwdArt!
  • MEDIA WELCOME. Email: editor@thirstygerman.com for press info.
  • SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES. Have a brand you want to share and market at our event? Email Nicol: editor@thirstygerman.com

Pink Boots Society Int’l Meeting (event on FB)   w/ link to Tickets (Eventbrite)

The Thirsty German hosts: Green CO2 Hall – Brew Talks  (event on FB)

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(Click to enlarge flyer!)