In an effort to support local area high school seniors in their pursuit of higher education in the food service and hospitality industries, the Taste of Buffalo is now accepting applications for its annual scholarships. Five scholarship winners will each receive $1,000 to be applied toward their further education.

To be eligible, students must be residents of Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Wyoming, Genesee, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus or Allegany counties and enrolling in a foodservice or hospitality curriculum at an accredited two or four year school this coming fall. The scholarship winners will be selected on the basis of academic achievement, experience, recommendations, community involvement, goal objectives and overall interest in the industry. For additional information and to download an application, visit www.tasteofbuffalo.com. The completed application, current transcript and letters of recommendation must be received by March 6, 2009.

Since the scholarship fund began in 1997, more than $40,000 has been awarded to help Western New York students attending a two or four year school in the fall.

The Taste of Buffalo is the nation's second largest food festival, attracting more than 450,000 people during its two-day run in downtown Buffalo. The 2009 Taste of Buffalo, presented by Tops Markets, is set for July 11 and July 12 along Delaware Avenue and Niagara Square in downtown Buffalo. Click here for more information on how to apply or click here to view last years scholarship winners!