WILLIAMSBURG— BlitzMyBiz, a new local initiative aimed at supporting small businesses, has teamed up with Alewerks Brewing Co. to support Rocco’s Smokehouse.
Alewerks, which used Rocco’s kitchen for years to roast pumpkin seeds for its pumpkin beer, was saddened to learn about a devastating fire that interrupted the smokehouse’s operations last summer. Looking for a way to help while also driving business to the brewery, Alewerks decided to bring Rocco’s on as its food vendor for the BlitzMyBiz event.
“When Rocco’s had a fire last summer, Alewerks and the Williamsburg Area Restaurant Association wanted to do something for them,” said Jenna Weinstein, Alewerks taproom manager. “We did a big fundraiser over the summer for them.”
As Rocco’s continues to get back on its feet, Alewerks has stepped in to provide additional support.
“We have such a small food menu. I knew we needed to tag-team this blitz,” Weinstein said. “I said, ‘Let’s do food and beer,’ which are the two best things in the world. It really made sense for us to support another local business.”
The Alewerks Blitz will take place Feb. 18 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the brewery’s Ewell Road location. Those who sign up through Blitz My Biz will receive $1 off pints throughout the night, and Rocco’s Smokehouse will be on site serving food.
Weinstein said community involvement has always been central to Alewerks’ mission.
“Alewerks has always been very community-focused,” she said. “Anytime there is an opportunity for us to participate in a community event or support a community effort, we’re always there. This is coming full circle, and it’s what Alewerks is all about.”
According to Pete Spadaro, founder of BlitzMyBiz, that sense of collaboration is the heart of the initiative.
“This is what it’s about — businesses helping businesses, people helping businesses,” Spadaro said.
The event will also include music, photo opportunities with props, and other activities.
Registration is free, but attendees must sign up online through the BlitzMyBiz website.