Wherever and whenever possible -- through Les Amis du Vin, Wine Enthusiast and FarmHands-CityHands, at home and when traveling -- this meant seeking out and celebrating local food, wine and farmers and frequenting stores and restaurants that did the same. For me, it was a simple but profound way to connect more deeply with nature, self and others and to the everyday acts of shopping, cooking, eating and drinking.

In the aftermath of 9.11, this personal commitment took on new meaning. Starting in October 2001 and continuing still, beginning at Ground Zero and fanning out from there, Dining to Make a Difference has hosted happy hours, dinners and events at many of downtown's hardest hit restaurants. In the process, an ever-growing group of NYC residents and visitors has done much to strengthen community, rebuild downtown's economy and restaurant industry and raise awareness and funds for selected charities.

Now, even as our downtown efforts continue, Dining to Make a Difference returns to its roots! We are proud to partner with and promote A Growing Concern -- The Baum Forum’s October 5 - 6 weekend of activities and festivities designed to inspire action and to raise awareness about key food and farming issues.

For every good reason, we hope that you will attend A Growing Concern’s October 5 - 6 conference and that you will join us in supporting the restaurants that support local growers.

And we THANK YOU for the differences you make daily.

Warmly and looking forward,
wendy@vergant.com