An impressive fare that could be called “A Taste of WashingtonWilkes” will include a menu entirely made up of homemade and donated items from exclusively local cooks and chefs. From beginning to end, the sumptious treats are sure to tempt and delight those who attend and support the February 11 “From the Heart” Valentine benefit sponsored by the Wills Memorial Hospital Foundation and the Washington Wilkes Humane Shelter Association.

As described by those have planned the event, patrons will begin the evening at six o’clock with delicious hors d’oeuvres of mushroom tartlets, smoked tuna in cherry tomatoes, mini Southern ham biscuits, cucumber cream canapés and other delicious appetizers prepared by some of the best “domestic chefs” in Wilkes County. After that, they will feast on Brian Henderson’s famous salad and shrimp-and-grits buffet around seven o’clock with comfortable seating at beautifully decorated tables. Diners will end the repast with coffee and a stroll through the dessert room, where tables laden with homemade treats such as truffles, meringues, and éclairs, to name a few, will await.

Guests are invited to socialize throughout the evening with easy listening music and enjoy three entertaining performances by Debbie McLeod, a local favorite with great talent.

The event will honor the memory of Mary Fortson Darby, a lifetime member of the Wills Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and a strong supporter of the humane shelter. The purpose of the benefit is to raise funds for improvements and enhancements at the hospital and to complete the funding for the cat facility at the shelter, according to Debbie Bennett, coordinator.

“From the Heart” will take place at the Washington-Wilkes Country Club from 6 to 9 p.m. Individual reservations are $50 each; benefactors will receive four reservations for a $500 contribution; and sponsors will receive six reservations for a $1,000 contribution.

Checks should be made to the Wills Memorial Hospital Foundation, but both organizations will equally share the proceeds. Reservations may be made at Tena’s Jewelry and Gifs or mailed to the Foundation at P.O. Box 176, Washington 30673.

Individual reservations, benefactor contributions, sponsorships, and donations are tax deductible.