As she has done annually for many years, Chef-Owner Sharon Hage will once again open the doors of York Street for an extraordinary fundraising dinner benefiting the American Institute of Wine and Food’s (aiwf.org) Days of Taste Program. I’ve attended this dinner before and believe me, it truly is extraordinary. Not at all surprising from acclaimed Chef Hage and her wonderful staff. THANK YOU! www.yorkstreetdallas.com

I have had the honor of directing the Days of Taste program in Dallas for the last 5 years. Without a doubt, this is the most rewarding program I have ever been a part of-ever. The basis of the program is simple: It’s a discovery-based program teaching fourth- and fifth-graders how food weaves its way through daily life from the farm to the table. Teams of chefs, food professionals, farmers, nutritionists and teachers collaborate to guide children through an exploration of taste that culminates with a homemade lunch fresh from the Dallas Farmer’s Market. I can tell you from personal experience that the kids leave with much, much more than what is described above. Here is what I see:

• Pride in kids faces after preparing and serving their own meal
• Improved self esteem from having the tools and knowledge to make good food decisions for themselves
• Sense of teamwork as they work side by side with their classmates to prepare a healthy and nutritious lunch
• An excitement-that they profess-that they’ve never felt before about food
• And a lot more intangible rewards that are too many to list

To be a part of this incredible program, email me. I’ll bring you on board for the time of your life! www.aiwf.org/dallasftworth

Details for the York Street Dinner

• Monday, March 2nd, at 7:00PM
• A special seasonal, four-course menu paired with wines from small vineyards will be offered along with a Champagne reception
• AIWF members $125 Guests $150.
• It’s just a phone call (214-696-2493) or www.aiwf.org/dallasftworth