Assemblyman Mike Fitzpatrick (R,C,I – Smithtown) recently welcomed the secretary of the New York State Brewers Association, Rich Vandenburgh, to Albany for the association’s annual “Albany Hill Climb” to discuss current issues with state legislators. Mr. Vandenburgh is also the co-founder of Greenport Harbor Brewing Company on Long Island.

“Long Island, and all of New York State, is very proud of the New York State Brewers Association and the more than 200 breweries statewide,” said Fitzpatrick. “By using New York products and resources, these hardworking individuals create jobs and provide a vital boost to our economy all while producing exceptional product. We need to pass legislation that incentivizes more small businesses, like Mr. Vandenburgh’s brewery, to come to Long Island and other regions of New York to help grow our economy.”

Ten New York State brewers have recently combined their resources to create what is being called the first statewide ale. Statewide Pale Ale was made solely with New York products and created as a fundraiser for the brewers association.