Cortland Community SPCA: First Sip and Snack Spooktacular Fundraiser

First Sip and Snack Spooktacular Fundraiser.(Kaitlyn Hession/Cortland Voice).

Guests at the Finger Lakes Tasting and Tap Room in Cortland came together for the first Sip and Snack Spooktacular Fundraiser that was held at 6pm-9pm on September 13th by the Cortland Community SPCA.

At the event, many wine lovers and more enjoyed wine tastings, beer tastings, vodka tastings, and even some chocolate, cheese, and honey samples that were all made by local companies around the area. As guests enjoyed their drinks and snacks, they talked to different vendors and even got a drink and sat down with a couple friends to chat. Everyone was having a good time and for a good cause as well.

The Cortland Community SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) teamed up with the Tap Room for their fundraising event as not much fundraising had been going on for the organization recently. As the idea of bringing back the old-fashioned Wine and Cheese tasting event was introduced, the organization contacted the Tasting and Tap room to help with the event. The event became a smash within its first hour and a half block (6pm-7:30pm) and as the second block started (7:30pm-9pm), more and more people came in. It was mentioned that if the event is successful, then they may have a second annual next year.

“We try to be a good service to the communities we serve in the county and are grateful for the public support” said Vice President of the Cortland SPCA board Robert Bittner, “I can’t wait to serve more in the future!”

The proceeds made by this event will be given to the Cortland Community SPCA.

With the sample beverages came the companies they came from as many breweries and companies were there to witness each guest tasting their creations. Breweries like Bright Leaf Winery, Hopshire, 1911, and more participated including Cortland’s own Simply Sweets!

Newcomers to the Finger Lakes Tasting and Tap Room not only sampled wines during the fundraiser, but also browsed the types of wine they had in the shop along with other products that were available. The Tap Room has all New York State products including over 140 wines, 30-40 different beers and ciders, and more!

“The tasting is great!” mentioned Lansing resident Sharron Tancing, “The wine was good, the fudge and cheeses were amazing and I even got my own glass!”

First Sip and Snack Spooktacular Fundraiser.(Kaitlyn Hession/Cortland Voice).

The SPCA will be holding another event on Saturday September 21st titled “The Woof Walk”, where dog owners are encouraged to bring their four-legged friends on a walk or a run. Registration starts the 9:30am and the race will begin at 10am at the J.M. McDonald Sports Complex.