By Carol McCracken (Post # 507)

The large white tent on the grounds of the Ocean Gateway Int’l. Marine Terminal is up and other preparataions are on-going for the 5th annual benefit to fight childhood hunger throughout the State. Dozens of Maine’s best chefs and other “foodies” have joined talents to produce the largest fundraiser to date. The event takes place on Sunday, June 27th from 3 pm (for VIP ticket holders) or 4:30 pm for General Admission ticket holders) until 8 pm. Tickets may be purchased on-line at www.strength.org/portlandme. No tickets will be available at the event.

Beneficiares of this year’s event are: Preble Street Teen Center, Good Shepherd Food Bank, Cultivating Community and East End Kids Katering (PROP). All organizations are committed to ending hunger and poverty among Maine children. This year’s event hopes to raise $100,000 for these four orgaizations. The strength of early sales tickets makes this a possibility.

Twenty-six restaurants from around the state are participating in this year’s Taste of the Nation event. Portland favorites who are participating include Hugo’s, Cinque Terre, Fore Street, Evangeline and Back Bay Grill.

“Our Maine chefs are making national headlines for their talent and dedication to their craft,” noted Maine GovernorJohn Baldacci. “It’s important to remember, though, that so many of them have been known for years for their true sense of philanthropy when it comes to supporting so many important charitable causes throughout our state.”