By: Skip Sheffield
Look for the sponsor’s BMWs and Mini-Coopers parked out front. PROPEL (People Reaching Out to Provide Education and Leadership) will host its third annual spring fundraiser, “Fine Wine and Canines,” from 5:30 to 8 p.m. p.m. Wednesday, April 18 at the Monument Plaza of Royal Palm Place at the southwest corner at Mizner Boulevard and Federal Highway in Boca Raton, under the large statue of Addison Mizner.
“Fine Wine and Canines” is family-oriented event that combines the best in gourmet dining, a variety of fine wines, live music and the appreciation and judging of dogs of all sizes and varieties, all al fresco. The restaurants of Royal Palm Place and other areas will offer their most popular items in appealing bite-sized portions. Participating restaurants include Anatolia, Biergarten, Café Auribeau, Chops, Caruso’s, Cyprus Mediterranean Grill, Estia Greek Taverna, 4th Generation Market, Funky Biscuit, Fusionaire, Jake’s Stone Crab, Kin Noodle Bar, Lemongrass Asian, Nino’s of Boca II, Raffaele, Spicy Ginger, Super Dave’s Diner, Tucci’s, Yakitori Sake Bar and more. The food will be complemented by red, rose and white wines from top vineyards, provided by Opici. In addition Blue Martini is providing spirits.
“We are looking forward to the best Fine Wine and Canines event yet,” commented co-chair and PROPEL board member Elizabeth Hevert. “We have reduced the price this year to just $25 advance or $30 at the door so more people can enjoy food, wine and dogs and benefit children who deserve a helping hand.”
This year’s chief judge is Jeffrey Pepper of the Westminster Kennel Dog Show and President of Palm Beach Dog Club. Hosting the event is comedian Max Dolcelli. Musical entertainment is by singer Angel Curras. Curras has toured with Nestor Torres, Roscoe Martinez, Louis Canales and Cimarron. His eclectic mix of genres includes Afro-beat, Latin and Trance.
PROPEL was founded by Marta and James Batmasian in 2003 as a 501 (c) non-profit organization. PROPEL aims to improve the quality of life for economically disadvantaged and at-risk youth in Palm Beach and Broward Counties. PROPEL locates teachers, mentors and role models who care about our area’s youth to volunteer and share their expertise and life experiences first-hand with youth ages 8 to 24. PROPEL focuses primarily on the all-important middle school years. No child is turned away.
PROPEL has enlisted a network of 50 or more businesses willing to assist in practical hands-on training and advice. Programs include basic educational tutoring, fitness, life skills, music education, higher education and job and college placement.
PROPEL also provides fun and friendship for youths in a safe, organized atmosphere. Dog lovers are encouraged to bring their leashed, well-behaved dogs to “Fine Wines and Canines” whether you want your dog judged or not. However dog ownership is not required.
“Fine Wines and K-9s” offers the opportunity the sample the varied cuisine of Boca Raton in a single evening. The all-inclusive price is just $25 advance or $30 the day of the event at the gate, tax-deductable. PROPEL representatives will be on the premises to offer further information.
For more information, call director Tolliver Miller at 561-955-8553, or visit the web site at www.propelyourfuture.com.