Cork and Community

Everyone knows that I am a proud supporter of The Boulder Valley Humane Society.  Here is a picture of Phil and Renee Shires who hosted a dinner at The Cork this past week which was purchased at auction at last year’s “Puttin” on a Leash event.  The Cat’s and Dog’s Menu featured delicious food, great wine and new friends.

Here is another picture of me just completing the baking of 140 Yukon gold cinnamon rolls which The Cork donated Monday to Holes of Hope benefit for The Stephen Tebo Cancer Center at Lake Valley Golf Course.

Humane Society Benefit Dinner
The Humane Society Benefit Dinner, celebrating Jim Smailer’s 30 year anniversary as Executive Chef the was a huge success at the Boulder Cork on March 8, 2012. With many thanks to those who attended or donated to the dinner, the sold-out event raised over $5,000 for the local Humane Society. Pictured are (l-r) Don Shires, Sabrina Shires, Kate Smailer, Jim Smailer and Lisa Pederson.

Herb Garden

Lavender & HerbsKate and I just returned from the Caribbean and WOW did my herb garden take off while away!  The garden supplies the Cork with fresh herbs and edible flowers from mid May through late October.  I grow lovage, basil, sage, oregano, chives, borage, lavender, rosemary, parsley, sorrel, thyme, fennel, epazote, and several varieties of mint and grapes.

As a chef it is great to be able to walk out my back door to pick these wonderful fresh herbs which we use in recipes and plate garnishes.