This Sunday, Eat at the One Picnic That Will Both Satisfy Your Own Discerning Tastes and Feed Local Families in Need

How is that possible? you may be wondering. Organizers describe it as “a picnic with a purpose,” but it’s formally called Grillin’ 2018. Scheduled for Sunday, June 10 from 3:00pm to 8:00pm (rain or shine) at the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, here are some admittedly unfairly tempting details about what’s in store for you. [1,2]

Feast on gourmet grilled sausages, delectable side dishes and desserts from more than 30 favorite local food purveyors including Zingerman’s, Grange Kitchen & Bar, Frita Batidos, The Earle, Café Zola and more. Choose from a unique selection of regional microbrews like Short’s or Lagunitas or sip a glass of wine …. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options will be available, too. [3,4,5,6,7,8,9]

Local bands will create an eclectic soundtrack for the event: Blues and rock beats by George Bedard and the Kingpins; the acoustic hip hop/indie folk by Nadim Azzam; jazz, folk and contemporary tunes for ukulele by singer Magdalen Fossom; plus Dan and the Harmony Grits. ann arbor’s 107one will broadcast the event live with Grillin’s Master of Ceremonies, Martin Bandyke. [10,11,12,13]

Bring kids to activities hosted by the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, a free photo booth, lawn games, and face painting. [14]

Here’s how this event gets even better: “This is the marque fundraiser for Food Gatherers,” Jamail Aikens told Saline Journal. Moreover, prior to when he became Executive Director of Saline Area Social Service (SASS) four years ago, “Food Gatherers was our major provider.” A Food Gatherers truck delivers to SASS every Monday morning. [15,16]

“In fiscal year 2017, we provided Saline Area Social Service with more than 74,000 pounds of food, which is the equivalent of 62,000 meals. This service estimated value exceeds $124,000,” added Eileen Spring, President and CEO of Food Gatherers.

Grillin’ 2018 tickets can be purchased locally in advance at Saline Picture Frame, priced at $75.00 for adults, $10.00 for children aged 3 to 13 (children under 3 are admitted free of charge). Each ticket gives you access to the buffet, dessert, and, of course, all entertainment. At the gate on Sunday, it’s $85.00 for adults and all other pricing remains the same. [17]

Amazingly, in addition to satisfying your own appetite here, each adult ticket sold provides 150 meals, each child ticket provides fifteen meals to people who need food. This means adults, seniors, and children in this very community who are stuggling with to make ends meet. Talk about satisfying!

With all that on the menu, it’s hard to imagine you could get a better eating experience anywhere else this Sunday.

References

1. “Grillin’ 2018: Superheroes Fight Hunger” Sara McDonnell (May 14, 2018) Food Gatherers.
2. Washtenaw Farm Council (Facebook Page).
3. Zingerman’s (home page).
4. Grange Kitchen & Bar (home page).
5. Frita Batidos (home page).
6. The Earle (home page).
7. Café Zola (home page).
8. Short’s Brewing Company (home page).
9. Lagunitas Brewing Company (home page).
10. George Bedard Musician (home page).
11. Nadim Azzam (home page).
12. ann arbor’s 107 one fm (home page).
13. Martin Bandyke (home page).
14. Ann Arbor Hand’s On Museum (home page).
15. Saline Area Social Service (home page).
16. Food Gatherers (home page).
17. Saline Picture Frame (store page)