Cheers to area rescue pets

Raffaldini Vineyard, located in Ronda (an hour-plus north of Charlotte), is holding a photo competition of rescue dogs and cats through April 30.

The winners will be featured on the wine labels of the fifth bottling of Pino Vino starting June 11. An equal number of bottles will feature the winning dog picture and the winning cat photo. The labels on the four previous Pino Vino bottlings have featured rescue dogs, most recently, Jake, a boxer mix from Charlotte.

Owner Jay Raffaldini said the goal of the competition is to raise awareness of the needs and compassion “that all rescued animals deserve.” A portion of Pino Vino proceeds will benefit local rescue shelters.

In addition to a digital photo, pet owners should include their name, contact information, pet’s name and a story about their dog or cat in 50 words or less. The winners will be announced May 10, and Pino Vino V will be released June 11. To enter: info@raffaldini.com.

Aspire open house at CPCC

Central Piedmont Community College’s Aspire Bakery & Bistro will hold an open house 4-7:30 p.m. Feb. 28 in the Harris I Building Atrium, CPCC Harris Campus, 3210 Harris Campus Dr. This free event will feature a variety of appetizers and desserts made by Baking and Pastry Arts students. Public parking will be available in the Harris Campus parking lot. Event details: 704-330-4759.

Aspire Bakery & Bistro is the self-supporting, student-run eatery that helps build business leadership that benefits student activities, scholarships and other resources. During the fall and spring semesters, soups, salads, sandwiches, baked goods and more are available for sale 9 a.m.- 7 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fridays. Details: bit.ly/VEYBA9.

Beef recipe contest prize: $25,000

The National Beef Cook-Off is accepting entries through April 15 as part of its annual recipe competition. This year’s theme is “Making the most of MyPlate,” a nod to the USDA nutrition initiative. This year’s competition features four categories: “Belt-tightening Beef Recipes”; “Semi-homemade Beef Recipes”; “Real-worldly, Real Simple Beef & Potato Recipes” and “Craveable Fresh Beef And Fresh California Avocado Recipes.”

Contestants are asked to submit original beef-focused recipes that incorporate “broadly appealing ingredients” from the fruit and vegetable, grain and dairy groups. The contest winner will receive $25,000 and a trip to the Metropolitan Cooking & Entertaining show in Washington, D.C. Details: www.beefcookoff.org.

The flavors of Irish whiskey

The Scotch Society of Ballantyne will explore the flavors of Irish whiskey including Midleton, Redbreast and Jameson Gold 6-8 p.m. March 16, 10000 Ballantyne Commons Parkway. This event is limited to 20 people; RSVP is required. Cost is $40 per person. Details and to register: 704-248-4100; htapper@theballantynehotel.com.

Hilary Trenda

Submissions:

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