"Grand Tasting" Wine Event a Lively Fundraiser for the YMCA

Shannon Deramo, Brigid Ryan & Nicole Hawkins

Featuring wines from local vineyards and vendors (and craft beers as well), the third annual "Grand Tasting" at Newport's Atlantic Beach Club to benefit the Newport County YMCA was bountifully attended, and wildly appreciated. Featuring Over 150 wines, 30 craft Beers, live and silent auctions, and hors d'oeuvres and fruit kebabs by Edible Arrangements, the feast featured live music by the Honky Tonk Knights. (Yes, there was a spot of dancing.)

Sponsored by Bellevue Wine & Spirits, Sardella's Restaurant, and the Atlantic Beach Club, the event brought out Executive Director & CEO
Pete Milinarro and his wife Alina, John and Cheryl Callaghan, the energetic Mike Miller, and former Mayor Richard Sardella. Raffle tickets were sold for Brick Alley Pub dinner, a beach party, and six skating passes.

Cheryl & John Callaghan

According to the eloquent Mr. Milinarro, "One hundred percent of the proceeds from the tasting and silent auction will be earmarked to the Community Support Campaign. This assistance will help youngsters to attend summer camp, middle-school students to participate in our Character Development program, children and adults with special needs to be involved in our adaptive programs and provided funding that allows membership to all." This Grand Tasting raised over $15,000.

Newport Seen caught up with Carolann Brown, Mary and Pat Hayes, Nicole Hawkins, Shannon Deramo, Gerard Galvin, and Lenny Gross among the 250 guests.

The Newport County YMCA has been a part of the Aquidneck Island community for over 130 years. For information on its programs, go to www.newportymca.org