On Sunday, April 28, Northeast Opportunities for Wellness, Inc. (NOW) held the 8th Annual A Taste for NOW in Memory of Nick Haines at Anya Restaurant in Thompson, CT with 225+ people in attendance. The event, which raises funds to support youth wellness programs and scholarships in Northeast Connecticut.  This event was a celebration of the life of longtime supporter, Nick Haines.  The event is expected to have raise $12,000 – $15,000.

Established in 2012, the annual A Taste for NOW – A Taste for Life was created as a partnership between Friendly Spirits of Danielson and NOW. Serving as the major event sponsor, Friendly Spirits works with beverage distributors to donate beer and wine pairings each year, making the event a unique experience for guests and participating food establishments, alike. As a local business run by owners Rusty, Nick & Judy Haines, Friendly Spirits has proven to be a valued partner, sponsor, and friend to NOW since the organization’s inception in 2011.

The Taste for NOW remains a collaborative event, with local restaurants, bakeries, and caterers donating food that is paired with handpicked beer & wine selections from Friendly Spirits. For the 2018 event, The Black Dog Bar & Grille, Connecticut National Golf Club, The Courthouse Bar & Grille, The G Seven Catering Company, Inn at Woodstock Hill, The Lunchbox Catering Company, Renee’s Working Girl Catering, 85 Main, Raceway Restaurant, The Crossings Restaurant and Brew Pub, Grill 37, Sherwood’s Restaurant, Anya, Jessica’s Bake Shop, Our Father’s Table, and Victoria Station Café participated. In addition, Tito’s Handmade Vodka signed on as a second-time sponsor and provided cocktail samples featuring the beverage company’s award-winning vodka. The evening also featured a cash bar by Anya and raffle items donated by a variety of local businesses.The 2018 Taste for NOW offered live music by the Straight Up Jazz Band  for guests to enjoy throughout the evening, sponsored by The Stomping Ground.  .

NOW Executive Director reflected on the event, “It is hard to believe that this is the eighth year that we have held this event and we are proud that this event will serve as an annual memorial event celebrating the life of Nick Haines. We are so appreciative of the support we receive from Friendly Spirits and the many restaurants, caterers, and bakeries who return year-after-year to donate their talents and time to NOW. Likewise, we were thrilled to partner with Anya Restaurant as the host the Taste for NOW.  It was a beautiful venue! 

Northeast Opportunities for Wellness is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of Quiet Corner children by ensuring each child’s access to wellness, including fitness, nutrition, and athletics. Serving the 10-town area of Northeast Connecticut, NOW partners with other local youth organizations to provide scholarships to children ages 3-14 who otherwise may not be able to afford such opportunities.