Flavorful event benefits local children's literacy programs

Culinary delights await those attending the Jefferson County Library Foundation's "Rare and Novel Experience," an annual charity event benefiting Jefferson County Public Library children's literacy programs. T he event is at 6 p.m., Thursday, May 24, at the Belmar Event Center in Lakewood. Presenting sponsors are Wells Fargo Bank, Gay and Lesbian Fund for Colorado and Maverick Press.

The highlight of the evening for attendees is a sit-down dinner personally prepared by one of several participating chefs from some of Jefferson County's favorite restaurants. A reception and silent auction will start off the evening where more than 70 items will give bidders many opportunities to take home exciting items, trips and even a chance to race at Bandimere Speedway.

"If you have never experienced the excitement of having a chef create a meal just for you, this will be the evening," said Tami Shrader, Chair of the Foundation Board of Directors. "Each $100 ticket provides our guests hors d'oeuvres, wine, and a multi-course meal, served by one of Jefferson County's best chefs - with all the proceeds of the night going to the Jefferson County Library Foundation for its support of children's literacy efforts."

The evening's impressive list of Jefferson County restaurants includes 240 Union, ABRUSCI'S, Belmar Center Catering, Carino's Italian Grill, Chart House, Gaslamp Grill, Pasta's, Simms Landing, Thai Bistro, Valente's and one lucky table will have their meal prepared by County Librarian, chef Bill Knott, with the support of Susan Stevens, owner of The Seasoned Chef Cooking School.

Call the Jefferson County Library Foundation at 303.275.2240 to check if reservations are still available, or e-mail your request to kmeeker@jefferson.lib.co.us.