The Dinner

On May 4, 2014, SEAM hosted its second participatory-grant dinner. Open to all emerging entrepreneurs in the High Country, the call for proposals prompted 9 diverse project submissions. Each proposed project was innovative and held a strong commitment toward sustainability. From the submissions, a panel of small business leaders chose three projects based upon the creativity, feasibility, readiness, and sustainability of the projects. 

On the night of the dinner, over 38 people gathered at Basil's Fresh Pasta & Deli to support luthier Chris Capazzoli farmer Caroline Hampton of Octopus Garden, and Susan Wright of Shady Grove Gardens and Nursery. The event raised $1,205 in ticket sales. From this, SEAM connected the entrepreneurs with $868.91, which supported Octopus Garden’s purchase of a seed germination chamber; Shady Grove’s purchase of an SLR camera; and, luthier Chris Capazzoli’s purchase of a duplicating machine.

This dinner also served as the capstone event for Watauga County's first Greening My Plate Week, where over a dozen community events took place from April 27th – May 4th, 2014, celebrating spring and our community's growing season.

Opened in 2013, Basil's Fresh Pasta and Deli makes fresh pasta, ravioli, and sauces from scratch that can be taken home and cooked, or enjoyed on location. They also offer deli sandwiches, soups, salads, spreads, 6 different craft beers on tap, a wine selection that compliments the food, and plenty of room to relax and visit. 

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The Menu

Bread & Oil Course
provided by
Stickboy & Art of Oil

Baby Spring Green Salad (GF, VG) 
Seasonal Vegetables, Honey Ginger Vinaigrette

Basil’s Goat Cheese and Pea Pesto Lasagna (V) -or- Risotto (V,GF)
Beet Beurre Rouge, Chive Oil

Semolina Shortcake (V, GF)  - (VG w/o ‘Mousse’)
Ricotta ‘Mousse’, Local Citrus Compote