Even though Hurricane Irene attempted to derail our
persistent committee, the fifth Taste of the Valley, a benefit for Tri-Town
Youth Services, was held on September 9, 2011. The event would not have been possible
without the generosity and dedication of our participants who provided amazing,
innovative appetizers and sweet, delicious desserts as well as fantastic
coffee! The attendees of the event awarded Best Overall and the coveted
Taste of the Valley Fork to chef, Hernan Yumbla of The Ivory Restaurant in Deep River for their
latin-inspired menu.
The other winners of the 2011 Taste of the Valley awards
were as follows: Best Appetizer – Gabrielle’s, Best Dessert – Apple Rehab Saybrook, Best Presentation- Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station, Best Ethnic Food
– La Vita Gustosa, Most Creative – Zen Roasters, Best Vegetarian Appetizer – El & Ela’s Fine Foods, and Best Soup – Saybrook Soup & Sandwich Co..
The event would not be possible without our generous
sponsors and contributors including: The Clark Group, The Valley Courier, Reid
Brothers, Essex Savings Bank, Tower Labs, Fio Partners, Tom Alexa, Roses for
Autism, Essex Lions and many other local businesses. Our silent auction, themed “From the Hands of
Our Community”, consisted of so many unique items including artwork, quilts,
jewelry, and experiences. Thank you as
well to our live auction donors including the Old Saybrook Point Inn, Scandinavian
Photography, The Upstairs Kitchen, and Southbound Charters. We also thank all of the local business who
donated gift certificates. And one last thank you to the Shiny Lapel Trio for the great tunes!
Thank you as well to all those joined us at the event. The funds raised will help our organization
to continue to fulfill its mission – to promote the positive growth and development
of youth and families in Chester, Deep River and Essex.
