The folks of Benzie are simple, untainted, super friendly and down-to-earth. It's everything you think of when you think "small town." I felt like I was at a family reunion on steroids rather than a charity event. There's no doubt in my mind that GrowBenzie's first annual fundraiser would have been a HUGE success; however, it doesn't hurt to know people.
Dave Query, owner of The Big Red F Restaurant Group in Boulder, has deep roots in Benzie. He's committed to their efforts for a healthier more educated community: growing a better Benzie. He brought in an all-star team from his home town of Boulder,CO to give Benzie an event they'll never forget. Hosea Rosenberg, Season 5 winner of Top Chef, was on hand to wow the 350+ guests with his culinary masterpieces. The food was out of this world! I just wish I took a doggie bag!
Early estimates suggest GrowBenzie raised approx. $70,000! Go Benzie! I am so thrilled that I was able to be a part of something so special and important. I met so many wonderful people that I will take with me on the rest of my adventure. It was even great to see "old" faces! While I was bussing one of the tables, a girl yells out "Diana?". Who the heck knows me in Benzie, MI?! It was none other than the yoga instructor from Studio on Main in Frankfort! Pretty funny. She was a pretty shocked to see me cleaning her table. I'm certain I was the LAST person she expected to see! It was a funny moment.
GROWBENZIE: Growing Healthy Children. Fostering SELF-RELIANCE through education in Nutrition, Agriculture, Life & Job Skills!
Currently, I'm sitting by a lake in Mackinaw City typing on my computer while Lu is shading herself in her kennel. Out of nowhere a chipmunk just ran across my blanket right in front of Lulu! Haha Poor Lu nearly had a heart attack. I think she just lost a few years off of her life. Lulu might need therapy after this trip (or during)!
CLICK HERE TO VIEW MORE PICTURES! (I only wish I took more! I was too busy chopping broccoli to be the true paparazzi I wanted to be! I'll have to see if they can send me some! – I was actually chopping peppers not broccoli). :)
Monday, July 26, 2010 at 12:32PM
Reader Comments (2)
Belated welcome to Benzie! Thank you for all you did to help on this awesome event and our community! While I wasn't able to be there in person, the evidence was found in 35 patchwork tablecloths which a couple volunteers and one devoted MaryAnn helped me to make! You might have seen my work in the sewing studio, if you had a chance to venture down there. I hope to meet you next time you are at Grow Benzie!
I did see the sewing studio! I put lulu down there in her kennel during the event! I couldn't help but admire all your work!! I'll be there next year for sure! I really do love Benzie and I am happy I was able to help!! Look forward to meeting you! :)