Tag Archives: Proof

Free food, wine and live music to kick off Civic Music Association’s 2011-2012 season

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Civic Music Association will kick off their 87th season with a bash at Jasper Winery on September 7, 2011 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. The free happy hour-style event will feature live music by the Belin Quartet and the Ian Copland Trio, food from Proof and wine/beer from Jasper Winery.

Guests will be able to preview the Civic Music Association’s upcoming season, network, learn more about the Civic Music Association and participate in a raffle, which will include the opportunity to eat at La Mie with season artist, Karrin Allyson, two season subscriptions to Civic Music Association and gifts from Jasper Winery.

After the season is “kicked off” at Jasper Winery, the 2011-2012 concert series will begin with a jazzy season opener on September 23 featuring the Preservation Hall Jazz Band from New Orleans.

“In addition to the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, our season will feature the world-renowned Emerson String Quartet, the Oasis Quartet, Jazz Singer Karrin Allyson, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and Latin Jazz wonder, Poncho Sanchez and his Latin Jazz Band,” said Carrie Clogg, Executive Director with the Civic Music Association.

Belin Quartet.

Since its inception in 1925, the Civic Music Association has been an asset to the arts and culture scene in Des Moines. The Civic Music Association is not only building awareness, understanding and respect for classical, world and jazz artistry, but they’re bringing world-class musical experiences to Des Moines.

“We have a fabulous concert going experience,” said Clogg. “All of our concerts are held in the intimate atmosphere of Drake University‘s Sheslow Auditorium guaranteeing each patron an up close and personal view of the concert.  In addition, we offer complimentary coffee from Zanzibar’s at intermission and many of our concerts have “Meet the Artist” receptions after the concert with complimentary food, wine and music!”

If you’d like to get more involved with the Civic Music Association, check out their new website, purchase tickets to their upcoming season, attend the “Kick-Off Party,” like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.

Local chef nominated for “People’s Best New Chef for 2011″

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Since 1988, Food & Wine magazine has been searching the country for innovative chefs that create delectable dishes…and Des Moines own Carly Groben, owner of both Proof and Flour Pizza, has been named one of ten nominees in the Midwest for the “People’s Best New Chef for 2011.” Not only is she the only Des Moinesian nominated, she’s also the only female nominated from our region.

From February 15, 2011 through March 1, 2011, we the foodies and restaurant goers of Des Moines have a chance to promote Carly – and the vivid flavors that she brings to Des Moines – to the top! Click here to support Carly by voting for her as the “People’s Best New Chef for 2011.” This is the first time in the contest’s history that audiences have been able to vote on the winner of this contest.

Why does Carly’s food stand out? At Proof, Carly has been creating Northern African and Mediterranean flavors by blending spices, cooking methods and fresh ingredients to create a simple, yet flavorful menu. Carly’s ingredients are fresh, her food is mouth-watering and her dishes are reasonably priced. Where else can you get feta tabbouli, a lamb burger or salmon with a risotto cake for lunch?

Where does the name “Proof” come from? The restaurant’s name refers to the baking term for rising dough. According to BakingBites.com:

“The verb ‘to proof’ is a baking term that describes the action of yeast. Primarily, it is the act of dissolving active dry yeast in water (or another liquid) before incorporating it into dough to ensure that the yeast is alive and kicking…It is also the act of letting a complete dough (or a dough starter) rise for any period of time.”

Proof is open during the week for lunch Monday – Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and for dinner on Fridays from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The lunch menu includes: flatbread sandwiches, soups, salads, grain dishes and even a few tasty desserts to please your sweet tooth. Friday night’s prix fixe menu changes weekly and features Mediterranean food, which often includes local produce and seasonal ingredients.