event
TASTING FOR A CAUSE
Cooks & Chords celebrates 10 years of culinary delight in support of Multiple Sclerosis BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
C
ooks & Chords, now in its 10th year, has grown into one of Scottsdale’s premier fall tasting events. The night of culinary creations from the Valley’s top chefs, which raises funds for the Arizona chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society, is unique in that it is hosted in neither a resort ballroom nor a restaurant, but instead in the expansive reception area of the Mayo Clinic. The location allows for something special – face-time with the busy doctors and specialists who are working on the forefront of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) research right in our backyard. “Along with the food and fun, we invite MS researchers to join us to give a speech on the most cutting-edge new treatment options, tests and medicines to
If You Go…
What: Cooks & Chords When: Sept. 10, 6-9 p.m. Where: Mayo Clinic, 13400 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale Tickets: $75+ Information: www.arizonams.org
SO SCOTTSDALE! |
SS_80_85Do_Cal_Event_Sept16.indd 84
84
combat the disease,” says Laura Czarzasty, development manager for the Arizona MS Society. “What is happening right here in Scottsdale will change the world.” It’s also a very unique set-up to mix and mingle with top chefs, each of whom will prepare freshly made dishes from their fall and winter menus throughout the evening, pairing them with fantastic spirits, beers and wines. Some of the chefs taking part in the event include chef Adam Allison of United Catering; award-winning chef Joe Aiello who operates Charr Burger, Aiello’s and Isa’s Pizza; chef Paul Czaja of Sierra Bonita Grill and Catering; and chef Scott Varriano, who runs the world-renowned nutrition program for Mayo Clinic itself. Joining the chefs will be representatives from spirited places including Barefoot Bubbly, Roger Clyne’s Mexican Moonshine and Upslope Brewery, a hugely popular regional brewery headquarted in Colorado. Cooks & Chords will also feature live music and both a silent auction and raffle with sports, art and vacation packages donated from across the globe. Since its inception in 2006, the event has raised more than $400,000 toward local MS research and programs. Tickets for the Sept. 15 event include all samplings, seating and entertainment.
| SEPTEMBER 2016
9/2/16 8:03 AM