The Wine Around the World for Taylor series continued with a French event, which took place on February 11 in an intimate setting at the Rosewood Community Room in Charlotte. Featuring wines of the Rhone and Loire regions, the tasting was led by Phil Murray of Tryon Distributors. Special guest Suzan Becker of Shop France led a French-themed trivia session and donated a gift basket for a raffle. Early on, guests enjoyed champagne aperitif and indigenous cheeses; the evening wrapped up with port wine paired with chocolate truffles. 

All proceeds from Wine Around the World: France will support Batten disease research in 2010-2011. Thank you to Tryon Distributors, Becker, the event organizers and everyone who attended for making the evening a success!

Six piano teachers organized a playathon to benefit Taylor's Tale on Sunday, February 28 from 1 to 6 p.m. The event took place at Ruggero Piano in Raleigh, N.C. and featured about 40 students ranging in age from early elementary to high school. Guests enjoyed nonstop music, from classical pieces to modern favorites. One older student was joined by his friend, a cellist; the two played a Taylor Swift song in honor of one of the musical artist's biggest fans - our namesake, Taylor, who was in attendance for much of the afternoon. Another student played the flute in addition to the piano. Light refreshments, including purple-themed treats such as glittery cupcakes and M&Ms, and coffee donated by It's A Grind were served. 

Thanks to all of the teachers, students, parents and other guests who made the afternoon one to remember, as well as the event's gracious host, Ruggero Piano.

The Pizza Peel donated a portion of its proceeds from the ACC men's basketball tournament weekend of March 12-14 to Taylor's Tale. A special viewing party on Saturday afternoon included a beer bracket, and specials ran throughout the weekend.

The Pizza Peel is located on Colwick Rd. in the Cotswold area of Charlotte. Thanks to the restaurant and to everyone who dined there over the weekend to support the search for a cure for Batten disease!