Church serves up chili for Chile

On Saturday, March 19, the First Congregational Church of West Brookfield, at 36 N. Main St., will host a benefit "Simple Supper" to raise funds for Tony Hall's trip to Chile. Tony is traveling to Chile this July with the United Church of Christ Mission Partnership Youth Exchange Choir to promote peace and understanding through music. The choir is made up of students from UCC churches throughout Massachusetts. A simple soup, chili, bread, salad and outrageous desserts are on the menu, and a donation of $4.50 for adults and $2.50 for children is requested. Tony and other choir members will provide light entertainment after the supper. Call 508-867-7078 for more information.

Asparagus Festival seeks exhibitors

The “2005 Asparagus & Flower Heritage Festival” committee is currently looking for exhibitors and vendors interested in participating in this year’s event. Join your neighbors, local growers, artisans and businesses on the West Brookfield Common on Saturday, May 21 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (rain date: Sunday, May 22) to help celebrate spring, Mother Nature and our Heritage. Vendors and exhibitors are required to have nature- or heritage-related products or displays.
Applications and more information can be obtained by contacting Amy Dugas at 508-867-5428. Spaces are limited. Deadline for applications will be April 1, and vendors and exhibitors will be notified of their acceptance by April 14.

Salem Cross dinner series covers ABC’s of cooking

Discover the art of cooking with maple as a new dinner series kicks off at the Historic Salem Cross Inn. On Friday, March 11, as part of the Sturbridge Area Maple Days Celebration, Salem Cross chefs share their expertise with guests at the first of four special event dinners. The ABC’s of Cooking & Wine will be an “adventure” for beginners and expert cooks. A wine connoisseur will recommend wines appropriate to each course. A demonstration by the chef, similar to those offered at the Summer Herb Sampler Dinners, will be included. Bring your sense of adventure, enthusiasm and your appetite. Return each week for a new cooking and wine adventure with the chefs at Salem Cross Inn!

Friday, March 11: Cooking with Maple—Scallops
Friday, April 1: Fireplace Cooking—Chicken
Friday, April 8: Using Winter Herbs—Tenderloin of Beef
Friday, April 22: John White’s Game Dinner—Venison Loin