Food Network Duo to Talk Cocktails at Frankfort Library

The Hearty Boys will demonstrate how to craft the perfect vintage drink just in time for the holidays.

Former Food Network stars Steve McDonagh and Dan Smith, also known as The Hearty Boys, will teach Frankfort party hosts how to add vintage charm to their cocktails this holiday season at an event Thursday evening at the Frankfort Public Library. The local authors and partners will demonstrate how to execute classic cocktails and snacks from their new book, “The New Old Bar: Classic Cocktails and Salty Snacks from The Hearty Boys.” The event will focus on teaching technique and exploring the history behind the featured food and drink. And, of course, no cooking demonstration would be complete without a few samples. “It’ll be a lot of fun,” said Melissa Rice, who is the head of adult services for the library. Thursday’s appearance is one of …

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Sweet Dreams Hires Former Food Network Challenge Contestant

Miguel Garcia has appeared on the Food Network several times in recent years.

Frankfort bakery Sweet Dreams Cakes recently hired former Food Network champion Miguel Garcia as its new decorator. Garcia appeared as an assistant on 11 episodes of Food Network Challenge between 2007-2011, five of which his team won. He also competed on season two of Last Cake Standing. In his many Food Network appearances, Garcia was featured assisting Chicago baker and cake decorator Orlando Serrano. Garcia was working as a carpenter when he met Serrano through a chance encounter at a bar. At the time, Serrano was looking for an assistant to accompany him on the Food Network shoot. Two weeks later, Garcia was on set at the Food Network, filming his first appearance with Serrano. Garcia says his experience filming was initially nerve-…

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Announcement Roundup

UPDATE: On Your Mark: Fourth Annual Do the Griff Race Set for Weekend

Plus, Joliet Junior College wins Food Network Challenge

Drs. J. Aaron Wolfe and Bradley Katzmann of Sports and Spine Chiropracticalong with Flexeon Rehabilitation, both in Frankfort, will host the fourth annual Do the Griff 4-mile community run Sunday, May 1. Proceeds from the event go to Lincoln-Way High School District 210, Frankfort School District 157-C and Mokena School District 159. The race, which starts at 8:30 a.m., runs through Frankfort's Butternut subdivision, which is adjacent to Lincoln-Way East High School, and begins at the corner of Bankview Drive and Colorado Avenue. The final lap will be run around the L-W East school track. Walkers are welcome to participate. The event also includes three free kids’ races, for age groups of 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12.  Registration is $40 and …

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