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For Immediate Release: June 9, 2025
Stevensville, Michigan – What started as a bold idea shared over a table at Honor Credit Union nearly a decade ago has grown into one of Michigan’s most beloved breweries. This summer, Watermark Brewing Co. is throwing its biggest party yet to celebrate nine years of craft, community, and creativity—with presenting sponsor Honor Credit Union, the brewery’s original lender and a proud longtime supporter.
Back in 2015, founders David Cockell, Justin Schaul, and Chris Mason pitched their dream to build a brewery in downtown Stevensville to Honor Credit Union CEO Scott McFarland over lunch at Coach’s Bar & Grill. The Village was looking to breathe new life into its downtown corridor, and Honor’s belief in the trio’s vision made the impossible possible. The loan closed on November 6, 2015, and construction began the very next day. Watermark officially opened its doors on July 16, 2016.
Since then, Watermark has grown from a modest taproom with a handful of beers and a whole lot of grit into a vibrant regional destination. It’s now known for its boundary-pushing beverages, including craft beer and hard slushes, as well as an ever-expanding lineup of events like White Elephant Bingo, Crowd Elimination Karaoke, and Pedals to Pints. The growth has been fueled by a dedicated team that has been on staff since day one, as well as the steady leadership of Taproom Manager and now partner Juice, who joined the ownership team in 2021.
Much like Watermark’s impact on the Stevensville community, Honor Credit Union continues to redefine what it means to be a community credit union. As a member-owned financial institution, Honor focuses on delivering value directly to its members, reinvesting in the people, places, and dreams that make Southwest Michigan thrive.
“When you drink a beer brewed in your community, you’re investing in your neighbors. When you bank with Honor Credit Union, your dollar stays here and works for the community too,” said co-founder Chris Mason.
“What he said,” added Scott McFarland, CEO of Honor Credit Union.
Watermark’s 9th Anniversary Party, presented by Honor Credit Union, promises to be a celebration worthy of the journey—with live music headlined by nationally renowned artist Neal Francis, plus a stacked lineup of supporting acts throughout the day, new beer releases, pirate-themed shenanigans, and plenty of surprises.
The party takes place on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Watermark Brewing Co. in downtown Stevensville. Tickets are $15 and available via will call. Full event details can be found at www.watermarkbrewing.com/anniversary.
Join us in raising a glass to nine years of beer, friendship, and community—and to the next chapter of Watermark’s story.
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