New festival aids Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association
Submitted by NISRA
Sample an array of wines and craft beers, listen to live entertainment, and taste a variety of foods offered at A Taste of the Red, White & Brew Festival, a new festival benefiting the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association.
Presented by STAR 105.5, the festival will be Sunday, June 23, at Veteran’s Memorial Park, 3400 Pearl St. in McHenry.
From noon to 5 p.m., guests can soak in the sights and sounds of summer while savoring the tastes of more than 40 fine wines from six regions and approximately 10 craft beers.
Festival retailer 31 North Banquet & Conference Center will have wine available for purchase.
The festival also features live music, performances by NISRA participants, artwork by NISRA artists, a silent auction and raffles.
Cary resident Breanna Bogucki, winner of the Special Talents America, will be performing between 2 and 3 p.m.
Bogucki had her own song written by Lisa McClowry and recorded by singer and songwriter Jim Peterik in his studio. The former Survivor band member also gave her the stage name “Breanna Alyssa.” Her song, “I Was Born Yesterday,” is now available on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby.
Bogucki was featured at the Special Olympics Illinois State Games June 14-16 in Normal in front of approximately 10,000 people. Opening ceremonies included a slideshow and audio of her song, which she then will sing live at the closing ceremonies. She also has been performing at some smaller events and fundraisers.
Thanks to the sponsorship and support of STAR 105.5, 31 North Banquet & Conference Center, the City of McHenry, and Chas. Herdrich and Son, proceeds will benefit NISRA’s year-round cultural arts programs for local children and adults with disabilities.
Adult wine tasting tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the gate, and include admission, 10 tasting tickets, light snacks, and live entertainment. Designated Driver tickets, which include nonalcoholic drink tickets, are $10. Advance tickets may be purchased by calling (815) 459-0737, ext. 231, by Friday, June 21.
NISRA, a cooperative of 13 park districts and towns in McHenry County and portions of Lake, Cook and Kane counties, provides community recreation, including local Special Olympics training, for residents with disabilities. Visit www.nisra.org.