This season, we’re raising a glass for someone who will always be part of Blackbird Brewery’s story—our friend and former bartender, Kari Hoover.
Kari was more than just part of our team—she was family. Her warmth, kindness, and unstoppable energy lit up the taproom and left an impact on everyone who walked through our doors.
For seven years, Kari faced breast cancer with remarkable strength, and even in the hardest times, she continued to uplift those around her with her vibrant spirit. Though we lost her in 2024, her legacy remains woven into the fabric of our community.
Kari never got the chance to brew her staff beer, but she always said she wanted it to be pink. This season, we’re making that dream a reality.
Skrt! Skrt!: A Pour With Purpose
In Kari’s honor, we’re brewing Skrt! Skrt!—a special pink fruited sour for Breast Cancer Awareness. Crafted with passionfruit, guava and pineapple, this brew gets its color from hibiscus steeped in the kettle. The brew carries a vibrant pink hue that reflects Kari’s kind and joyful personality.
This release isn’t just about flavor—it’s about purpose. A portion of proceeds will be donated to Pretty in Pink Foundation in Raleigh, NC, helping support their mission of providing financial assistance to uninsured and under-insured breast cancer patients.
Fruit beers are always popular in our taproom, but this one is especially close to our hearts. Every pour is a reminder of Kari’s spirit—resilient, radiant, and unforgettable. By drinking pink this season, you’re not only enjoying a beautiful fruited sour, you’re also helping us honor Kari and support others fighting the same battle she faced with such courage.
When to Raise Your Glass
Skrt! Skrt! will make its debut in the beginning of November. We invite you to come out, share a pint, and join us in celebrating Kari’s life and legacy.
We’re also hosting a Pretty in Pink Pop-Up on November 8th from 4:30–7:30 during our monthly farmers market with The Family Bee’s-ness LLC. Stop by to learn more, donate, or simply show your support. Every contribution brings hope and healing to local breast cancer patients, just like Kari brought hope and joy to everyone around her.
Always Part of Blackbird Brewery
Kari will always be part of who we are at Blackbird Brewery. With Skrt! Skrt!, we’re proud to keep her spirit alive in the place she helped shape, surrounded by the community she loved.
Let’s raise a glass together—to Kari, to Breast Cancer Awareness, and to the strength and love that continues to inspire us all.
