In July 2005, the Rev. James B. Butler was selected to fill the position of Executive Director of the California Coalition Against Gambling Expansion (CCAGE), and affiliated associations, Alcohol-Narcotic Education Foundation (ANEF), and the California Council on Alcohol Problems (CalCAP).  These Sacramento-based organizations are statewide, faith-based groups that address the California Legislature and raise public awareness.  They use research, education, advocacy, and lobbying to help prevent the moral, economic, scientific and social problems caused by alcohol and gambling.

Rev. Butler, a United Methodist Minister of 33 years, has served churches in the Southern California communities of Fullerton, Santa Barbara, Sun Valley, Santa Paula and Lompoc.  He has also been actively involved in various community organizations such as a Member and President of various Ministerial Associations, Chaplain of a Volunteer Fire Department, Member and President of a local Housing Authority and Member and President of a United Way Chapter.

While CalCAP continues to take an active and leading role in addressing the problems of alcohol in general and of underage drinking specifically, utilizing both the legislative process and the legal system, ANEF compiles research on alcohol and other drugs and conducts presentations across the state.   CCAGE is engaged in both research and lobbying efforts related to gambling issues and, when possible, assists local community organizations in their battles against gambling expansion.

Rev. Butler has provided information on the issues and concerns of these organizations on radio and television, as well as speaking at the annual meeting of the American Council on Alcohol Problems, and numerous churches and community organizations.