By Peter Lyons Hall
On Tuesday, August 6, 2024, members of the Pine Island Chamber of Commerce will bring tables arranged Tuscan style to the famous Black Dirt region where more than 200 guests will sit under a huge tent while enjoying a sumptuous alfresco meal paired with fine wines when the 14th Annual Black Dirt Feast gets underway.
The Feast began over a decade ago to celebrate the beauty and bounty of the Black Dirt Region, by inviting local chefs to use local ingredients in the preparation of a multi-course dinner as a fund-raising event for local food pantries and community beautification efforts. The event was a success from the start and soon a scholarship program was added for students who could demonstrate a commitment to and involvement in community volunteer service or community work experience.
“The menu is traditionally based upon the available produce and livestock farms in the region,” said Chamber President, Susan McCosker. “Guests will enjoy cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres as part of a tasting menu that includes dessert, all from prominent local chefs who donate their time and staff,” continued Susan. Vegetarian dishes will also be available to attendees.
Nancy Scheinert, Chamber Vice President, recruits Middle School and High School students who volunteer at the Feast as wait staff, food runners, as well as setup and cleanup. They can earn hours of community service, a school district requirement for graduation. Students who need community service hours are encouraged to email the Chamber at chamber@pineislandny.com to get on the list of available participants.
Live music is another important ingredient to the event. Local musicians, many of whom are nationally renowned recording artists, together with chamber ensembles, jazz quartets, and choruses, have performed during the Feast.
This year’s Feast will be held on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 from 6 to 9 pm at Social Island, 939 Pulaski Highway in the Town of Goshen. Tickets are $150.00 per person and will be available starting June 10 on the Pine Island Chamber website, www.pineislandny.com Seating is limited.
To learn more about the Black Dirt Region, The Drowned Lands Historical Society, The Pine Island NY Chamber, the Florida NY Historical Society, and the Warwick Historical Society all have lots of valuable reference materials that will not disappoint curious minds eager to explore this fascinating land that is among the richest soil regions in the United States.
