There are quite a few businesses that opened in our area during the pandemic. While it sounds like a crazy thing to do, to open a business in the middle of a pandemic, many seem to have succeeded. One southeast Minnesota brewery had so much success that they're giving back to their community and to others around the world.

As you know, I love breweries. As you probably guessed, yes I have been to this brewery that I'm talking about. Sadly I've only made the trip once though, my husband and I need to go again soon. South x Southeast (SXSE) in Pine Island is a woman-owned brewery that saw huge success despite opening in the middle of the pandemic.

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Owners Anne and Tessa opened SXSE in September of 2020. KTTC writes that the brewery then had to shut down because of COVID restrictions that were put in place. Despite not being able to serve customers face-to-face they changed their plans for the time being and started making more crowlers, growlers, and distributing to liquor stores. That saw a lot of success and when they were able to re-open people were excited to be able to visit the brewery.

Credit: South by Southeast Brewing Company via Facebook
Credit: South by Southeast Brewing Company via Facebook
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They're working on expanding their brewing area, according to KTTC, which is super exciting. But they're also paying it forward in different ways. They've helped raise money for a local motorcycle group, Steel Horse Militia, that does fundraising for different charities.

Currently, SXSE is helping the people of Ukraine! A portion of all proceeds from their Freedom Scotch Ale goes to help Ukraine. They're also selling a honey hibiscus wheat beer called Magical Unicorn. A portion of all proceeds from that beer is going to Pink Boots Society which supports educating women brewers.

So a big shout-out to Anne and Tessa at SXSE! I'm thinking I need to go and get both the Freedom Scotch Ale and the Magical Unicorn soon, they both sound good and support good causes.

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