Uncork Summer Receives State Grant

(Left to right) Dave Fantle, Wisconsin Department of Tourism deputy secretary, presents the $10,000 JEM grant to Door County North coordinator Darcie Pilz, Door County North president Larry Thoreson and Door County North vice president Mary Ellen Sisulak.

Foodies are invited to take a bite of Door County’s best eats at Uncork Summer on June 28, with the help of a $10,000 Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) grant from the Department of Tourism. Located at the Wickman House in Ellison Bay, the event offers small plate dishes from area restaurants, local wine and beer, and local live music. Festival organizers estimate an economic impact of $265,200 from traveler spending at area hotels, restaurants and stores.

“We are excited to support this brand new festival that showcases the phenomenal local dining in Door County,” said Deputy Secretary Dave Fantle. “The area is home to outstanding chefs, vintners and growers that partner to create award-winning and iconic cuisine that you really can’t find anywhere else.”

Goals for the event include attracting more than 1,800 attendees. Grant dollars will fund print, online and outdoor advertising as well as a comprehensive public relations plan.

Door County North Community Coordinator Darcie Pilz said, “We are thrilled that the great state of Wisconsin has helped us to get closer to that goal by granting us monies to help with the Uncork Summer festival, which will showcase our local farm to fork initiative.”

For more information visit uncorksummer.com or industry.travelwisconsin.com.