Ozarks Public Television (OPT), Brown Derby International Wine Center and Andy’s Frozen Custard are teaming up once again for the Friday Night TV Dinner and Wine and Food Celebration Nov. 6-8. The weekend is a celebration of exquisite wine and fine foods with all proceeds benefiting OPT children’s programming.

The Friday Night TV Dinner event will take place at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 6. A change from previous years, this year’s event will be held at Zan Nightclub located downtown at the corner of Patton Avenue and McDaniel Street.  The cocktail party setting will feature fine wines, hors d’oeuvres catered by Touch Restaurant, live and silent auctions and dancing.

“After six years of doing the Friday Night TV dinner at the same venue, we thought it was time to mix things up a bit. We try to bring something new and fresh to the event every year, and this year, a venue change seemed appropriate,” said Hannah Combs, special events coordinator. “Although the event has a new twist, it still supports the same great cause—educational kids programming,” Combs said.  “Children are an important part of our community and their education is a priceless investment.”

Tickets to the event are $75 for individuals, $500 for a table of four and $750 for a table of six. With the purchase of an individual TV Dinner ticket, guests may attend the Wine and Food Celebration for half price.

On Nov. 8, the 22nd annual Wine and Food Celebration will take place at the University Plaza Convention Center from 2-5 p.m. More than 30 of the area’s best restaurants will offer samples of their food while more than 100 wines from all over the world will be on hand to taste.

“For years, Brown Derby International Wine Center has partnered with Ozarks Public Television to bring these two outstanding events to the Ozarks,” said Brad Feuerbacher, director of operations and event committee co-chair. “We are very excited about this year’s new changes and pleased to continue a Springfield tradition that benefits area children while showcasing wines from around the world.”

Tickets for the Wine and Food Celebration are $30 in advance and $35 at the door and can be purchased at Brown Derby International Wine Center or Springfield Andy’s Frozen Custard locations. For more information, contact Combs at 836-8894.

OPT is an affiliate of Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) and is dedicated to producing quality programs from national, regional and local sources. Each weekday, OPT provides 10 hours of educational children’s programming, viewed by over 50,000 kids each week. OPT spends over $600,000 a year on children’s programming—more than a quarter of its annual operating budget.

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