By Lenn Thompson, Executive Editor

We've added several writers to the NYCR team over the years, but today we welcome Mark Grimaldi to the website as our director of marketing and events — with his focus set squarely on events.

With our New York Beverage Artisan Dinners off to a great start — with the next one set to be announced soon — Mark will no doubt be busy coordinating with winemakers, brewers and distillers from across the the state.

Mark is also a driving force in our "DRINK LONG ISLAND WINE" sticker program (more on that soon).

Many in the Long Island and Finger Lakes wine communities already know Mark — he has a connection to both.

Though born and raised in White Plains, NY, he moved to the North Fork in 2008 and then met his now-wife Olivia — who hails from the Finger Lakes — not long after. A definite wine geek, he has quickly immersed himself in both wine regions.

Mark has worked for Michael Skurnik Wines for the past six years with roles ranging from wine marketing and label design to now sales and consulting.With this industry experience, Mark will also contribute editorial content as well on occasion.

Join me in welcoming Mark to the team — a team that he really endeared himself to in January when he blind tasted us on a 2006 White Zinfandel-Chardonnay blend the night before our Wines of the Year tasting.