Rhythm & Wine festival supports Big Brothers Big Sisters of NEPA

WEST WYOMING — The sound of classic rock blared through the speakers, filling the space at the Moonlite Drive-In Saturday as patrons set up tents, blankets and chairs for a fun-filled day — all to benefit a local nonprofit.

The Rhythm & Wine festival, hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of NEPA, brings offerings of live music, vendors, raffles and more while supporting ongoing efforts to continue making one-to-one youth mentor matches.

“All of our money does stay locally. We are a nonprofit that covers 17 counties in Northeastern Pennsylvania,” said Big Brothers & Big Sisters of NEPA CEO Jennifer Gimble. “Proceeds help with staffing that assists with processing enrollment for ‘bigs’ (adult mentors) and ‘littles’ (youth mentees).”

Soon after opening, Gerry Cole was already busy offering wine samples to a tent full of customers. This was the first time Cole participated in the festival with her business, King Cole Winery.

“We’re from Schuylkill Haven, so this is our first time here at the wine fest,” she said. “We do like to do them, we think it’s for a really good cause and love to help out.”

More than 20 vendors participated in the festival, bringing everything from beer and wine to cannolis, baked goods and even dog treats. Patrons were also able to take a chance on 50/50 raffles, a bucket of cheer and more.

With their blankets laid out on the grass and drinks in hand Candice Berrini, Marcy Petrucci and Jamie Hizynski sat in their chairs and enjoyed the weekend in the sun while listening to M80 play live on the stage.

A West Wyoming resident, Petrucci said she always wanted to come to the festival but had scheduling issues. The festival didn’t disappoint the first time attendee.

“Its wine and good food and a great band and great friends,” Petrucci said. “It’s a nice day out for a good cause. Anything we can do to help them is great.”

Gimble added that there’s more than one way to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of NEPA.

“We have waitlists in every one of our counties, so we always need volunteers that want to be matched with a child in a one-to-one mentor relationship,” she said. “The need is big.”

If people still want support but cannot meet the 1-3 hour per week commitment of a mentor they can consider participating in events such as the festival, or join a volunteer committee.

Learn more by visiting www.bbbsnepa.org .