USA, PA: Rough Edges Brewing almost ready to open in Waynesboro

The beer is almost ready to flow at the former News Agency location in downtown Waynesboro, the Waynesboro Record Herald reported on January 18.

Currently brewing a few batches, owners Wes Phebus and Casey Frost-Phebus are planning a soft opening for Rough Edges Brewing on Saturday, Feb. 1 at noon, offering limited selections to the public. From there, hours of operation will be determined, with a grand opening expected in the spring.

All licensing and permits have been obtained, so variables such as product and turnout will dictate when normal hours of Thursday through Sunday will begin. After Feb. 1, Rough Edges does hope to be open at least on Saturdays from noon to 10 p.m.

“We’re going to open to the public on Feb. 1 as kind of a sneak peek,” Casey said. “We’ll see how it goes that day and go from there. We might not open again until the next weekend, but those are things we’ll figure out.”

Started as a small home brewery, Rough Edges quickly gained momentum, pushing the couple — both in their early 30s — to pursue a larger business.

After purchasing the property at 91 W. Main St. last year, a significant facelift was needed to turn the vision into a reality. Countless hours have been spent bringing the interior back to life while adding the necessary equipment to consistently brew craft beer.

Throughout the nearly eight-month process, it was important for the two graduates of Waynesboro Area Senior High School to maintain the vintage feel of the News Agency, finding new and creative ways to refurbish aspects of the building.

Boards from a small bowling alley found in the back are now tables with the walls revealing a classic look. Patrons will also find original booths and a mirror with beer listings near the ceiling. Outside, the signature News Agency neon sign will be lit, sparking memories.

“I’m excited, anxious, a little bit of everything,” said Wes, a brewmaster and 2004 graduate of WASHS. “I know everybody is ready and we’ve put the work in.”

Rough Edges intends to serve an ever-changing rotation of at least six craft beers once fully operational, including IPAs, stouts, porters, sours, saisons and brown ales, among others. Collaborations with local businesses are also in the works, such as The Candy Kitchen to make a chocolate beer.

“We want to keep a variety on tap,” Wes explained. “I don’t want to make the same thing all the time. If everyone comes in and wants the same beer, we’ll keep making it. But I like mixing things up.”

The brewery is family-friendly with kids welcome. It is also non-smoking and light finger foods will be available. There are plans for occasional food trucks while patrons will be encouraged to eat at nearby restaurants.

“It only made sense for us to do it here,” said Casey, a 2005 WASHS graduate. “We’re from here and we have a ton of support. We also want to be a part of growing downtown Waynesboro.”

In addition to craft beer, wine will be on the drink menu along with discussions for a partnership with Lake House Distillery, which just opened to the public in Waynesboro.

Parking is always a bit of a concern downtown, but the location is close to the Trinity and Rotary public parking lots.

“We’re confident in our beer, so we think people will find a way to park and walk a little if they have to,” Casey said.

There may be private events ahead of opening to the public on Feb. 1, should residents see activity inside.

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