This has been the first summer in 14 years that Georgieno Hennager, and his wife, Annie, have not served the community with their food business Georgieno's Italian BBQ.
A fall last December left Georgieno with serious injuries, and the Hennager family with financial hardship. Georgieno, 51, started 2023 unable to work, walk or function by himself. Having to care for Georgieno as he recovers, Annie says the business was forced to temporarily close.
The mounting medical bills have added up to nearly $200,000, so far. It's made things even more challenging than just the recovery for Georgieno. Wanting to get better so he can get back to barbeque, Annie says their business is more than just a money maker, it's the couple's passion.
To help the Hennager family, a kayak poker run benefit for Georgieno will be this Saturday, September 9, at the VFW Auxiliary Post 1343, 1703 Federal Dr in Rochester. The kayak poker run event starts at 1p.m., with registration beginning at 11a.m. and also includes activities like a cornhole tournament that starts at 3p.m. Open to the public for anyone 21 years and older, live music will be provided from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m by One Way Out Band.
The event also gives Annie a chance to get back into the kitchen this year, providing some of their famous dishes and sides that she'll begin serving at 1 p.m. until the food runs out.
Moving to the Rochester area six-years-ago, Annie says she is grateful for the small community that's reached out to help the family since Georgieno's fall. The family still has hopes of reopening their business once Georgieno recovers. In the meantime, they are taking things day-by-day.
