Marilyn Kunz just can't stay out of the kitchen

She's back.
Longtime Mansion of Golconda owner Marilyn Kuntz has opened Sugar and Spice, a bakery and cooking school at 147 Barkley Drive in Grand Rivers. Previously the home of Patti Tullar, the house is now outfitted with a commercial kitchen suitable for cooking classes. Kuntz plans to offer two courses a month: artisan bread and "Marilyn Does Paula Deen."
A class on artisan bread for July 10 is already filled. The second artisan bread class will be on July 17 at a time to be determined by the participants. "Marilyn Does Paula Deen" will be July 22. Kuntz will do her own take on Deen's Southern cuisine, including her Georgia accent for about 10 minutes.
Kuntz also offers baked goods beginning each morning at 8.
Information: 362-2362.


While in Grand Rivers, remember that Patti's now has outdoor seating available on weekends. No reservations are needed.


Blue Sky Vineyard's Seyval received Best of Class honors in the 2008 Indy International Wine Competition.
"My philosophy on wine making is to let the grapes express themselves in the wine," said Karen Hand, wine maker at Blue Sky Vineyard in Makanda, Ill. "I believe that wines made from southern Illinois grapes can compete with wines all over the world. Receiving high marks in a well-known international wine competition is proof that southern Illinois can and does produce quality wine."
The winery is located at 3150 S. Rocky Comfort Road, Makanda, Ill. Information: 618-995-9463.


Hydrox brand cookies apparently will be back in stores at the end of August, according to a press release from Kellogg's.
To celebrate the return of a beloved cookie classic, the Kellogg Company wants people to tell their stories about the creme-filled chocolate cookie. Participants should list why they're the biggest Hydrox cookie fan in America and send along photos, too. Three winners will receive a grand prize, including a six-month supply of cookies and a trip for two to New York City.
Entries will be accepted through July 14 at Hydroxcookies.com.
In case you didn't know, the Sunshine Biscuit Company introduced Hydrox cookies in 1908. A limited centennial edition will be available later this summer.



When it's too hot for a caffeine jolt, try an iced latte.

Nestle sent this recipe that requires just five minutes prep.

Iced cinnamon
honey latte

1/4 cup instant coffee granules
2 tablespoons cinnamon vanilla creme flavored coffee creamer (powdered)
1/3 cup boiling water
1/3 cup honey
2 cups cold water
3 cups 1 percent or skim milk
Ice cubes

Dissolve coffee granules and creamer in boiling water in a heat-proof pitcher. Stir in honey; mix well. Stir in cold water and milk. Serve over ice.


Leigh Landini Wright, Paducah Sun features editor, can be contacted at 575-8658 or llandini@paducahsun.com.