Chandler, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/30/2012 -- The Kyrene Schools Community Foundation will host two Taste of Kyrene fundraising events in support of the Kyrene School District. The first, a VIP kick-off party, will be held at Fired Up Bar & Grill in Phoenix on Friday, February 10, 2012 from 6-8 p.m. The Main Event will be held at The Castle at Ashley Manor in Chandler on Thursday, March 1, 2012 from 6-10 p.m.

Proceeds raised by both events will benefit the Kyrene Foundation and directly impact 25 Kyrene schools through the Family Resource Center, teacher mini-grants, and student scholarships.

This year’s Taste of Kyrene VIP party, an intimate celebration to honor key donors and community supporters, will be hosted by Pedro Gomez, ESPN reporter and Kyrene parent. The $100.00 ticket includes complimentary appetizers along with a beverage, a gift bag, and a ticket to the Taste of Kyrene Main Event.

Entertainment during the VIP party will be provided by funny woman Jill Bryan, proud graduate of Corona del Sol High School and the mother of two students at Waggoner Elementary School in Kyrene.  Bryan can also be found hosting the Comedy Fiesta on Tuesday nights at Dos Gringo's in Tempe, AZ.

The intimate VIP event is open to the public but limited to 50 attendees, so advance purchase is recommended.

At Taste of Kyrene’s Main Event, guests are invited to sample savory fare featured by scores of chef stations from local venues, bid for a generous selection of silent auction items, plus, enjoy live entertainment provided by Lil’ Debbie Band.

The Main Event tickets are $50.00 for advance purchase and $70.00 at the door. To purchase, visit: http://www.tasteofkyrene.org