Cheers! Salut! Prst! Kampai! Whatever way you say it, say it to benefit the children of Sandhills Children's Center at the 8th Annual Run for the Roses Wine Tasting, Friday, May 4, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Fair Barn in the Village of Pinehurst.

"Indulge your taste buds with an assortment of selections from various California and European wineries provided by Sam Zahran and Sons Inc. and hosted by Sandhills Children's Center, as you enjoy delicious foods amongst the equestrian beauty of the historical Fair Barn at Pinehurst's Harness Track," says a spokesman.

Local chefs from Ashten's, Chef Warren's, Coachlight Caf, Elliott's on Linden, Forest Creek Golf Club, Ironwood Caf, Little River Golf Resort, Pinehurst Resort, Pinewild Country Club, The JFR Barn and Sweet Fi's, will be on hand to serve their scrumptious specialties.

An exciting addition to this year's event is the "Run for the Roses" keepsake gift package that each guest will receive at the wine tasting.

"Our first time ever champion sponsor, Wachovia Securities of Turnberry Wood, Pinehurst, will provide the commemorative wine glass, corkscrew and Koozie wine tote champion gifts that all who attend can take home with them," says the spokesman.

There will be a raffle with items donated by local businesses as well as Sam Zahran and Sons.

In addition, Robyn James and The Wine Cellar and Tasting Room will be on hand to offer participants the opportunity to take advantage of special incentives on wines ordered that evening only. Again, they have promised to donate a portion of the proceeds from the evening's sales back to the Center.

The entire evening is just $50 per person from which proceeds will benefit Sandhills Children's Center, a private non-profit developmental day school for children ages birth to five, with and without special needs.

With the community's volunteer and financial support, the Center provides physical, speech and occupational therapy, class instruction by state certified teachers, transportation, meals, and an abundance of love and nurturing to more than 250 children, 12 months of the year.

For additional information regarding tickets and sponsorships, contact Teresa Copper or Kathy Desmond at Sandhills Children's Center at 692-3323.