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Millbrook's biggest summer party

MILLBROOK — If you haven’t already purchased your tickets to Taste of Millbrook, the annual fundraiser that supports Millbrook’s public schools, you can buy them at the door of the Millbrook Vineyards and Winery on Saturday night, June 12.

Guests will sample wines and food from local restaurants under the big tent set up in front of the Millbrook Winery at 26 Wing Road. The festivities begin at 6 p.m., in time to watch the sun set over the vineyard and the Catskills as the award-winning Millbrook High School Jazz Band plays.

More than 30 area restaurants will donate food from their kitchens. Savor oxtail ragout from Stissing House, traditional arancini rice balls from Aurelia and barbecued beef from the Fireside BBQ and Grill. Chef Serge Madikians of Serevan always waits until the last moment to create a special offering for the evening and Cafe Les Baux usually contributes its homemade country pates.

There will be a table of locally made cheeses reflecting the eco-conscious theme of the evening. The members of Millbrook High School’s National Honor Society dressed in khakis and white shirts will be on duty as waiters and busboys.

The wine selection from the Millbrook Vineyards this year will include Tocai Fruilano, the popular Hunt Country Red and Pinot Noir, as well as New York State Chardonnay.

The silent auction has a green theme. Guests can bid to win a year’s supply of organic eggs, 200 pounds of organic grass fed beef, firewood, a hosta garden or yoga classes.  There are romantic offerings like a hot air balloon ride over the Hudson from Blue Sky Balloons, a weekend in Vermont or dinner for two at the Culinary Institute. Practical services include items like private shooting instruction at Orvis Sandanona, college guidance sessions and estate planning.

Chairman Marlene Weber Garnot, who has run the event for the last four years, hopes to sell 300 tickets and raise more than $35,000 to support Millbrook public school projects like replacing chalk boards with Internet Smartboards, buying a piano for the middle school, special science programs and even landscaping.

“The momentum of this event over the past six years has built steadily,â€� said Weber Garnot, “into a well respected and anticipated event. It is truly the work of dedicated and unwavering supporters of our schools.â€�  

A ticket costs $75 but $50 is tax deductible.

Lakeville Journal

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