The air is alive with the tantalizing aromas of sizzling meats, fragrant herbs, and savory sauces, wafting from tables where chefs meticulously prepare their culinary creations. Soft music drifts through the air, mingling with the hum of animated conversations and the clinking of glasses, creating a lively backdrop for a memorable evening. As you take in the sights, smells, and sounds, you feel a sense of anticipation, knowing that tonight’s celebration is not only a feast for the senses. It’s a heartwarming opportunity to support a worthy cause.
This is Let’s Get Cookin’, a culinary showdown dedicated to supporting the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City. Dozens of professional and amateur chefs gather to share their culinary talents and guests get to sample it all, plus receive a beautifully curated recipe book as a memento of the evening. Exciting raffle baskets and exclusive auction items offer ample opportunities for guests to win fabulous prizes.
The cause – the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City – is one that is near and dear to many. This organization helps local youth build great futures and its impact is far-reaching. Programs include STEAM and robotics, drones, science, music, art, recreation, and wellness. Hot meals and snacks are served daily by a dedicated staff that also instructs older members in kitchen safety. The clubs offer a 21st Century academic enrichment program, hospitality and workforce tracks, and college and career programming. Leadership skills are built through opportunities to lead and mentor, develop positive relationships, and make a difference in our community.
“Let’s Get Cookin’ is what the Showboat Resort mission is all about: bringing the community together, supporting Atlantic City, and offering exciting entertainment for all,” says Bart Blatstein, Tower Investments CEO and Showboat owner. “The Boys & Girls Club is a cornerstone of this city and giving back to this local organization will help pave the way for a brighter future for the next generation of community leaders.”
Showboat General Manager Anthony Faranca will be on hand to represent the property. The event will welcome back favorite local restaurant Chefs Kevin Kelly from Steve & Cookies by the Bay in Margate and Stephan Johnson from Dock’s Oyster House in Atlantic City and new Chefs like Chad Rosenthal from Philadelphia and Alison Brita from Hammonton with her Mama Bella Cello. There will be other recognizable names among the amateur chefs: George Goldhoff, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City; Tony Coppola of the Smithville Inn; Ken Calemmo of Cooper Levenson Attorneys at Law; nutritionist Nancy Adler; journalist Scott Cronick; and Faten Dib, board of directors for AtlantiCare.
“Let’s Get Cookin’ isn’t just about food; it’s about nourishing futures,” said Dr. Charles A. Wallace II, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City. “We’re investing in the potential of our youth, providing them with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive. Together, we’re cooking up a recipe for success that benefits us all.”
The fundraiser is truly a community effort. Larry Sieg of Visit Atlantic City, and Sharon Franz of Steel Pier, head a committee of dedicated volunteers working alongside ACBGC staff. Sponsors include Showboat Atlantic City, CRDA, Cooper Levenson Attorneys at Law, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Merrill, A Bank of America Company, Shaun Reilly Photography, Shore Local, Visit Atlantic City, and 95.1 WAYV.
Let’s Get Cookin’ is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21, at the Showboat Resort in Atlantic City from 6-8 p.m. General admission tickets are $100. VIP tickets are $150 and offer early entry at 5 p.m. and access to the VIP lounge. For tickets, visit https://www.acbgc.org/letsgetcookin/. To sign up for the Weekly Connection newsletter, visit https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/pJp5q0s.
Photo credit: Shaun Reilly Photography
