South Milwaukee bar offers free pizza, beer to federal workers

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Tap Room in South Milwaukee offered free pizza and beer to federal employees going without pay Tuesday. 

A member of the U.S. Coast Guard stationed in Milwaukee says the good deed goes a long way. 

"It's really warming to feel that people are out there really helping us, for like the Coast Guard not getting paychecks and other agencies not getting paychecks, it's...we're thankful. We're more than thankful really," said Coast Guard employee Steven Kelley. 

"We're a big proponent of supporting the community and when the idea came up, my partner and I were all about helping the people that help us, you know. They protect the country," The Tap Room owner Ryan Gajevic said. "We just want to have them come out, have a great time, and not have to worry about anything for a night. 

Doc's Smokehouse is also offering free meals to federal employees hurt by the shutdown. 

The Tap Room's promotion ended at 10:00 p.m. Tuesday.