The Deschutes Brewery Sagebrush Classic yesterday announced its line-up of celebrity chefs who will participate in this summer’s Classic Feast, the highlight of the popular two-day celebration which benefits the Deschutes Children’s Foundation. The Sagebrush Classic, which typically sells out, is a favorite among the star chef crowd, many who return summer after summer.

“The Sagebrush Classic is just that for me – a classic event with national notoriety that is a must on my calendar year after year. I have cooked all over the world and feel the event is world class.” said Mark Kiffin, owner of The Compound Restaurant in Santa Fe New Mexico, and James Beard Award Winner as one of America’s Best Chefs. “The event always puts together a great line-up of chefs, the outdoor event is spectacular in the Oregon high desert, and they pair our cuisine with BEER! Chefs LOVE beer, locally produced in Bend from Deschutes Brewery – truly the best of times!”

Indeed, an invitation to participate in the Classic Feast is regarded as a high honor in the chef community.

The all-star chef line-up for 2009 Sagebrush Classic Feast includes:

• Jose Andres, Café Atlantico, Mini Bar, Jaleo, Zaytinya, Oyamel – Washington, D.C.
• Mark Kiffin, The Compound – Santa Fe, NM
• Jennifer Jasinski, Rioja – Denver, CO
• Roberto Donna, Galileo – Washington, D.C.
• Michael Smith, Michael Smith & Extra Virgin – Kansas City, MO
• Jackie Lau, Roy’s Restaurants – Honolulu, HI
• Tom Fleming, Preferred Restaurant Services, Dallas
• Ken Frank, La Toque – Napa, CA
• Cathy Whims, Nostrana – Portland, OR
• Gavin McMichael, The Blacksmith – Bend, OR
• Greg & Mary Sonnier, Gabrielle, New Orleans, LA
• Matt Neltner, Deschutes Brewery – Bend
• Mike Mackie, Broken Top Club – Bend
• Scott Neuman, OBA! Restaurante – Portland, OR
• Sonthaya Kaewpradit, The Chedi Hotel – Phuket, Thailand
• John Finger & Terry Sawyer, Hog Island Oysters – Marshall, CA
• Bill Marinelli, Marinelli Shellfish – Multiple locations in WA and CA
• Nigel Viet, Anna Truong & Christina Nguyen, Sheraton Saigon Hotel, Vietnam

Celebrating its 21st year this summer, the Deschutes Brewery Sagebrush Classic had humble beginnings. It started in 1989 when Gary Fish, Deschutes Brewery founder and president, organized a golf tournament for the pub’s customers, employees and vendors. That was followed by a barbeque in the alley behind the pub on Bond Street, and it benefited the Deschutes Children’s Foundation. In 1994 a gourmet dinner was added that involved some of the top chefs in the country. Today the Classic Feast showcases the culinary artistry of national and international star chefs, and has evolved into a must-attend event for chefs and party-goers alike. In total, the Sagebrush Classic has generated more than $2 million for Deschutes Children’s Foundation, which each year serves more than 45,000 local children and families.

This year’s event begins on Friday, July 17, 2009 at Broken Top’s Golf Course. Fifty-two foursomes will compete for prizes and bragging rights in a friendly but fierce best ball competition.

The party continues on Saturday, July 18, with the Sagebrush Classic Feast, considered by many to be Central Oregon’s hottest night of the year. In the Broken Top Meadow, 1000 or more guests will dine on small-plate samplings of cuisine that has been carefully paired with award-winning craft beers from Deschutes Brewery. The gourmet grazing is followed by dancing to live music under the summer sky. This year’s entertainment features Portland’s concert rock violinist Aaron Meyer, and Los Angeles’ AM/FM, a 70’s rock show sensation.

Whereas many of the restaurants represented by these chefs have months-long waiting lists for reservations, the Sagebrush Classic allows guests to meet the chefs personally and enjoy their gourmet creations. Its unique setting draws those who want to treat special clients or just to enjoy a fun and special time with family and friends.

The price of individual tickets for the Classic Feast has been lowered to $200 in light of the current economic situation. Pricing and detailed information for golf teams, tables and sponsorships are listed at www.sagebrush.org. In addition to ticket and sponsorship proceeds, the event raises funds via a much-anticipated silent auction.

Major Cash Sponsors of The Deschutes Brewery Sagebrush Classic include Broken Top Club, Broken Top Community Association, Smolich Motors/Volvo, Wells Fargo, Columbia Distributing and Starview Foundation. Supporting Sponsors include The Bulletin, Combined Communications, Cutter & Buck, Food Services of America, KOHD-TV, tbd Advertising, NW Palate Magazine, and Alpine Internet Solutions.

About Deschutes Children’s Foundation
The Deschutes Children’s Foundation (DCF) is the primary beneficiary of the Sagebrush Classic. For information about the DCF and about specific programs and charities this event supports, visit http://www.deschuteschildrensfoundation.org.

About the Deschutes Brewery Sagebrush Classic
The Deschutes Brewery Sagebrush Classic is a golf tournament and culinary celebration held each summer in the spectacular mountain town of Bend, Oregon. The primary beneficiary of the event is the Deschutes Children’s Foundation, which works to assist families and children in need in Central Oregon.