SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., – “A Wine and Bean Pairing? What’s that?” you ask.

“It’s a wonderful way to demonstrate that western Nebraska’s dry edible beans are a healthy and delicious food choice, with wine or any beverage,” said Marcia Bauer, RD, CDE, LMNT, a dietitian with Regional West Physicians Clinic in Scottsbluff, Neb. “In addition, it’s a fun way to raise money for Life Change Connection, a new diabetes foundation organized by Neal Blomenkamp, owner of the local Runza Restaurants.”

“Research shows that beans offer great nutritional benefits for diabetes patients. Our goal is to let people taste and see for themselves what a delicious addition bean dishes are to a meal,” said Bauer.

The unique culinary event will be held Friday, November 2, from 6 to 9 p.m., at The Powerhouse, 1721 Broadway, Scottsbluff, Neb.

Bauer, a certified diabetes educator, organized the event to promote the health benefits of adding bean dishes to diabetic diets and named it “Diminishing Diabetes Deliciously.”

The wine and bean pairing will explore the numerous options for cooking and entertaining with beans and legumes. It will feature various bean recipes paired with wines chosen by Sam and Robin Sebastiani.

The major sponsor of the “Diminishing Diabetes Deliciously” is Kelley Bean Co., the nation’s largest originator of dry edible beans. Additional sponsors are Regional West Medical Center and Regional West Physicians Clinic, with support from Tablet Creative Group.

Tickets for “Diminishing Diabetes Deliciously” are $75 per person. Proceeds from wine and bean pairing will benefit the Diabetes Foundation, Life Change Connection.

Tickets are on sale now at Kelley Bean Co., 2407 Circle Drive; Runza Restaurants in Scottsbluff and Gering; Racks Wine & Spirit; and Kelley’s Liquor Cabinet, both in Scottsbluff.

For more information, call Bryce Kelley at 308-635-6438 or email: marcia.bauer@rwmc.net. Please type “Solutions” in the subject line of your email.

Regional West Health Services is the parent company for Regional West Medical Center and Regional West Physicians Clinic. These organizations, with over 1,800 employees, provide comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people and communities of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota and Wyoming. With over 110 active physicians, 95 percent of whom are board certified or board eligible, plus an additional 25 consulting specialists, the Regional West family of health care organizations offers care that spans more than 30 medical specialties.