Bay Shore Brewery Creates IPA To Support Parkinson’s Disease Research​

BAY SHORE, NY — One Bay Shore brewery is giving back to those affected by Parkinson’s disease in true Long Island fashion — with a cold pint of beer.

Destination Unknown Beer Co., at 1 S. Chicago Ave., will host its first “Release the Tulips Parkinson Fundraiser” at 2 p.m. Sunday, in honor of National Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month and National Parkinson’s Awareness Day on April 11.

The free event will offer food trucks, raffle prizes and a specially crafted IPA, “Release the Tulips.” All proceeds will be donated to the American Parkinson's Disease Association in Staten Island.

John Fraioli, production manager at the brewery and creator of the special beer, spoke with Patch about the personal ties to the event.

Fraioli’s grandfather, father and stepfather were all diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, he said. He is currently his father’s caregiver.

According to the National Institute on Aging, Parkinson’s is a brain disorder that occurs when nerve cells in the basal ganglia, an area of the brain that controls movement, become impaired and/or die. This prevents the production of dopamine, causing movement problems such as stiffness, difficulty walking, balance and coordination.

Symptoms also include depression, difficulty speaking, and urinary and sleep issues. There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease.

“It's an uphill battle of paying attention to what's going on, communicating with the neurologist and the general physician, and honestly, constantly playing around until you find what works,” Fraioli said. “Unfortunately, it’s just a progressive disease.”

Last year, he decided to give back to the Parkinson’s community by creating and selling a special craft beer. He then brought the idea to the brewery, which has a tasting room.

“I'll pay for the entire cost, and then I just want to donate all the money,” Fraioli told his boss.

After hearing his story, management not only agreed to sell the brew during the month of April, but also offered to pay for the production of the beer themselves. All of the proceeds went to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

Fraioli said he admired Michael J. Fox for his activism during a time when the world was unaware of the disease.

“When Michael J. Fox was diagnosed, it (Parkinson’s disease) really came into the forefront of society,” he said.

As he created the recipe for Release the Tulips, Fraioli said he wanted something that was “approachable” for every palate to enjoy. The beer is described as light with soft fruit notes.

The name of the IPA was inspired by the official symbol of Parkinson’s disease, he said, which is a red tulip with a fringe of white.

“This was just an attempt to try and give people hope,” he said.

The brewery successfully raised about $600 toward Parkinson’s awareness. This year, Fraioli told Patch his boss insisted on bringing the beer back.

“They're said, ‘OK, we're going to get that back in the calendar,’” he said. “I was floored and humbled and just very thankful.”

Fraioli said wanted to do something even bigger to support those affected by Parkinson’s disease, and suggested an in-person fundraiser.

“We talk all the time about ‘How do we give back?’” he said. “What can we do for the community at large?”

The Islip Terrace resident reached out to numerous breweries and restaurants on Long Island, which donated gift cards for the raffle. Several city breweries such as Wild East Brewing Co. and Fifth Hammer Brewing Co. also contributed, he said.

Patrons can also expect to see a signed NY Islanders jersey, custom tumblers, and his own published books of poetry in the raffle prizes.

“It’s very fortunate to have great friends in this industry,” he said.

His monetary goal this year, he said, is to reach at least $1,000.

“It was truly humbling, just the outpouring from everybody that I asked for donations and support,” Fraioli said. “Regardless of however much money this makes, I am just very thankful to have this opportunity.”

To learn more about the Release the Tulips Parkinson's Fundraiser, click here.

To learn more about the American Parkinson's Disease Association, click here.