The saying “no grit, no pearl” has been touted by inspirational speakers for its symbolism to appreciate the process that results in the finished product/goal. When it comes to traditional anniversary gifts, the pearl gemstone also has been incorporated as a symbolic present for a couple’s 30th anniversary. Given its humble beginnings in 1988, Bend, Ore.-based Deschutes Brewery’s 30th anniversary truly could be dubbed the year of the pearl.
“Gary Fish, founder of Deschutes Brewery, opened the Deschutes Brewery Public House in downtown Bend, Ore., in 1988,” says Michael LaLonde, president and chief executive officer of Deschutes Brewery. “It was a risky venture at the time as the first brewery in a small town of around 20,000 people, but Gary’s vision of bringing people together over a beer proved worthwhile and continues to this day.”